Kevin’s Picks: 7Zip Alternatives

Windows 11 handles basic compressed files (ZIP, RAR, etc), but a dedicated tool is better if you need more control.

7-Zip has been the go-to for years, but a recent vulnerability highlighted its biggest drawback—no automatic updates. The issue was patched quickly, but users had to update manually. If that’s a concern, consider PeaZip or NanaZip.

PeaZip offers more customization and broad format support. It doesn’t auto-update, but if you use PatchMyPC often, like I do, that’s not a problem.

NanaZip is the better choice for a hands-off approach. It integrates well with Windows 11’s right-click menu, has a modern interface, and updates automatically.

If you prefer control, go with PeaZip. If you want something that keeps itself updated, go with NanaZip.

PeaZip: Great for Power Users Who Don’t Mind Manual Updates

PeaZip is a fantastic choice if you don’t mind using PatchMyPC to keep your apps updated. It supports many formats, has a clean interface, and offers more customization than most archive tools. I use it myself and update my apps almost weekly, so the lack of built-in auto-updates isn’t a big deal for me. If you like having more control over your archive tool, PeaZip is the way to go.

NanaZip: The Set-It-and-Forget-It Option

If you prefer something that updates itself, NanaZip is the better option. It integrates smoothly with Windows 11’s right-click menu—no digging through submenus—and it looks more polished, complete with dark mode support. The best part? It updates automatically, so you never have to think about installing security fixes or new features.

Which One Should You Pick?

Both are solid choices, and it really comes down to how you prefer to handle updates. If you’re fine managing them yourself, go with PeaZip. If you want something hands-off, NanaZip is the way to go. Either way, you get a great alternative to Windows’ built-in archive tools.