Windows 11's Built-in Archive Tools Still Can't Replace 7-Zip
Windows 11 now natively reads RAR and 7z files and can create 7z archives, leading the author to test if 7-Zip was obsolete. Using a 9GB folder, they found that File Explorer's compression has gaps that 7-Zip still fills. The article highlights the limitations of the native support.
Windows 11's native archive support, introduced with version 23H2, now covers RAR, 7z, and multiple tar variants, eliminating the need for third-party tools for basic extraction. The built-in creation tool goes beyond simple ZIP files, offering seven compression methods including LZMA2, BZip2, and PPMd, plus options to preserve symbolic and hard links—features that previously required dedicated software.
The author's hands-on test using a 9GB folder revealed that while the native tools handle common tasks competently, gaps remain in areas where 7-Zip excels. The article suggests that power users who rely on advanced compression settings, specific method tuning, or broader format compatibility may still find the third-party utility necessary, even as Microsoft continues expanding its built-in capabilities.
This comparison could influence how casual Windows users approach file management, potentially reducing their reliance on third-party utilities for everyday tasks. For average users who rarely need advanced compression options, the native tools may be sufficient, simplifying their software setup. However, professionals handling large archives or specialized formats may still depend on 7-Zip, meaning the practical impact could be limited to a subset of users rather than a broad shift in computing habits.