ZipX

CNET Editors' review

by: CNET Staff on February 27, 2009

It may not hold any surprises, but this well-designed file compression tool covers most archive types and has an easy to follow wizard approach.

ZipX has the user in mind with its clean interface and well-labeled toolbar icons. The prominent step by step Wizard option will help new users jump in quickly. It's easy to select the destination of the archive and grab files or folders to add to a new or existing archive. Extracting files from archives is just as easy, and both creating and opening archives can be quickly accomplished using context menu options. The well-written, easy to follow, and comprehensive Help file covers all aspects of the program.

Each time the program opens or when you select an archive, you're prompted to associate ZipX with compressed files, but a quick tick of a checkbox permanently stops that dialog window. ZipX handles 14 archive types, from the well-known ZIP format to JAR and ZOO archives. Easily set preferences gives you plenty of options to customize the program such as adding desktop icons, changing the view, and setting compression levels. It takes only a few extra seconds to create self-extracting files.

There's a standard 30-day limitation, but otherwise no other trial restrictions. ZipX is a good choice for novices, but more experienced users will find all the flexibility and features expected in a file compression tool.