There are myriads of free file compression utilities for Windows. And while free is nice, many of them frankly just don't work that well. Of those that do, they can certainly handle the basic job of compressing files. But some of them have clunky user interfaces. And they lack the broader features that can make Windows file compression an efficient operation.

After all, most of us aren't looking to compress files just for the sake of compressing files. We compress files as part of a bigger task -- to free up space, perhaps, or to email a set of files to someone. The more efficiently we can Zip our files, the better.

That brings us to the Zipping utilities that must be purchased. A handful of contenders have lasted through the years. Some of the ones that have been around awhile include PicoZip(TM), Stuffit®, and PowerArchiver. They offer many of the efficiency gains of their larger competitor. Some of the more common features they generally offer include:

1. An easy-to-use, mostly intuitive interface that makes Zipping files easy.
2. An efficient compression algorithm to compact files.
3. Integration with Windows Explorer to allow Zip operations to be run from the context (right-click) menu.
4. The ability to handle large numbers of files and a large volume of data.
5. Creation of self-extracting archives.
6. Split Zip file capabilities.

Additionally, some of the Zip utilities include a set of advanced features like:

1. Burning Zip files directly to removable media (like CD or DVD).
2. Scheduling an automated task to create a Zip file (useful for backups).
3. Ability to create a Zip file from the command line.

Since most of the purchased Zip utilities have many of the same basic efficiency features, the decision of whether or not to choose an alternative comes down to advanced features and price.

While the base price for each of these utilities run in the $20 to $30 range, WinZip requires you to purchase their pro version to get many of their advanced features. Some of the other utilities offer advanced features in their base price. You may be able to find the advanced features you need without the advanced price by choosing one of these alternative utilities.

So before you decide which Windows file compression utility to buy, compare the features each one offers. If you just need basic efficiency features, any of the purchased Zip products will probably fit your needs. However, if you're looking for advanced features, compare before you buy. You have the possibility of significant savings for the features you need.

PicoZip is a Trademark of Acubix

Stuffit is a Registered Trademark of SmithMicro Software

WinZip is a Registered Trademark of WinZip International LLC

Rob Favero runs the Internet Site GoodStuff411.com, which provides useful information about good stuff on the Internet. To help you decide which Zip utility to buy, read his free report about 12 areas you should consider before you buy.