Capable but Limited UWP Zip Tool — Good for Basic Compression Tasks
WinZip Universal brings familiar WinZip functions to the Microsoft Store with easy ZIP creation, extraction, and cloud integration for casual users, but its UWP feature set and performance are more limited than the full desktop WinZip application.
WinZip Universal is a Windows 10 Universal app for compressing, extracting and sharing files across PCs, tablets and phones. It offers the core archive functionality of the desktop product in a touch-friendly interface, with tools for handling large files, cloud storage integration and direct social sharing.
- Formats and compression: Open 26 compressed formats, including .zip, .7z, .rar and .zipx; create .zip or .zipx archives and apply the .zipx compression profile to further reduce file sizes, including optimized handling for JPEGs.
- Security: Password protection and strong AES encryption for encrypted archives before sharing or storage.
- Cloud and sharing: Built-in connectors for Dropbox, Google Drive, Box, OneDrive and CloudMe; direct sharing via email and ZipShare with links for Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter without installing additional apps.
- Usability: Modern, touch-oriented interface adapted for Windows 10 devices that simplifies zipping, unzipping and transferring large folders on the go.
- Licensing: Free 20-day trial followed by an annual subscription (listed at $7.99 USD); the app implements the same compression technology used in the publisher’s desktop product.
The publisher reports a large installed base for its products, and this Universal app focuses on file mobility, cloud connectivity and secure sharing rather than extensive advanced configuration. Its strengths are format compatibility, integrated cloud access and a straightforward, touch-friendly workflow for compressing and distributing files from Windows 10 devices.
Overview
WinZip Universal is a Freeware software in the category Desktop developed by WinZip Computing.
The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked WinZip Universal for updates 31 times during the last month.
The latest version of WinZip Universal is 1.5.13516.0, released on 10/03/2026. It was initially added to our database on 09/26/2026. The most prevalent version is 1.5.13516.0, which is used by 100% of all installations.
WinZip Universal runs on the following operating systems: Windows.
WinZip Universal has not been rated by our users yet.
Pros
- Simple, user-friendly interface optimized for Windows Store/Universal Windows Platform
- Basic zip/unzip functionality makes compressing and extracting files straightforward
- Integration with cloud storage providers (e.g., OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive) for opening and saving archives directly
- Support for common archive formats (ZIP and several others) for typical consumer use cases
- File preview and browse features that let users view archive contents before extracting
- Encryption/password-protection support for securing sensitive archives (typical of WinZip-branded apps)
- Lightweight UWP app suitable for casual users who want an app-store install and automatic updates via Microsoft Store
- Touch- and tablet-friendly UI useful on Surface and other Windows touch devices
Cons
- Microsoft Store “Universal” edition is a feature-limited version compared with the full WinZip desktop product (advanced compression options, deeper format support and specialist tools are typically missing)
- Some features may be behind a paid upgrade or in-app purchase; not all functionality is free
- Performance and reliability may be poorer on very large archives or complex batch operations compared with the desktop WinZip
- Lacks advanced features expected by power users: command-line support, scripting, fine-grained compression tuning, archival management and advanced repair tools
- Occasional compatibility or stability issues reported for some Windows versions or when handling uncommon archive types
- Less frequent feature parity and slower rollout of new capabilities compared to the full WinZip desktop releases
- If you need enterprise deployment or volume licensing features, the Store app may be unsuitable compared with WinZip’s traditional desktop editions
FAQ
What is WinZip Universal by WinZip Computing?
WinZip Universal is a modern Windows app (UWP) for compressing, decompressing and managing archive files. It provides tools to open, create and explore ZIP and other archive formats with an interface designed for Windows 10/11.
Which archive formats does it support?
WinZip Universal supports common formats such as ZIP and ZIPX and can open many other popular archive types. (For full, up-to-date format support, check the app details or product documentation.)
Can I create password-protected archives?
Yes. The app includes options for encrypting archives using industry-standard AES encryption for password protection of ZIP files (premium features may be required to access advanced encryption options).
Is WinZip Universal free?
The app is typically available from the Microsoft Store with a free/basic mode and optional in-app purchase or upgrade to unlock premium features. Exact pricing and trial terms are shown on the app’s Microsoft Store page.
What Windows versions and devices are supported?
WinZip Universal is a UWP app built for Windows 10 and later (including Windows 11) and runs on supported PC and tablet devices. Check the Store listing on your device for precise compatibility and system requirement details.
How do I install and activate the app?
Install directly from the Microsoft Store by selecting Get/Install. If there is a premium upgrade, follow the in-app prompts to purchase or activate the premium features using your Microsoft account. Restarting the app may be required after activation.
How do I open or extract files from an archive?
Open the app, browse to the archive using the app’s file browser or via the Windows context menu (if integrated), then choose Extract or Extract All to select a destination folder and unpack the contents.
Can I create new ZIP archives and add files to them?
Yes. Use the Create New or Add/Compress commands in the app to build ZIP archives. You can select files/folders to include and configure compression level and password/encryption if needed.
Where can I get help or report issues?
If you need help, use the support/contact information shown on the Microsoft Store listing or consult WinZip Computing’s official support resources. The app page also contains links to developer contact details and app-specific help.
Are there any limitations compared to the desktop WinZip application?
WinZip Universal focuses on core compression and extraction tasks and provides a streamlined UWP experience. Some advanced features available in the full WinZip desktop application may be limited or unavailable in the Universal app; check the product descriptions for feature differences.
Peter Salakani
I'm Peter, a software reviews author at UpdateStar and content specialist with a keen focus on usability and performance. With a background in both software development and content creation, I bring a unique perspective to evaluating and discussing general software topics. When I'm not reviewing software, I enjoy staying updated on the latest tech trends, experimenting with new applications, and finding innovative solutions to everyday tech challenges.
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