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Comparison · File encryption software

7-Zip vs Cryptomator: which is better in 2026?

7-ZipvsCryptomator

Cryptomator ranks higher in our list of file encryption software (#2 against #6, score 91.0 against 81.0).

Choose 7-Zip if you want

Password-protected archives on Windows.

Free, open-source archiver with AES-256 encryption for 7z and ZIP files, plus a command-line version. It is listed for Windows only and protects archives rather than a live vault.

Choose Cryptomator if you want

Encrypting files in cloud storage folders.

Encrypts files before they reach Dropbox, Google Drive or OneDrive, under GPL-3.0, with free desktop use for personal users. Mobile apps need a paid upgrade, and the free mobile versions are read-only.

The main differences

  • Only Cryptomator runs on Linux.
  • Only Cryptomator runs on macOS.
  • Only Cryptomator runs on iOS.
  • Only Cryptomator runs on Android.
  • 7-Zip is free and open source; Cryptomator is free plan, paid upgrades.

Side by side

7-ZipCryptomator
Score81.091.0
Rank in list#6 of 6#2 of 6
PriceFree and open sourceFree to use, including in commercial organizationsFree plan, paid upgradesFree for personal use on desktop; paid mobile upgrades
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceYesYes
PlatformsWindowsWindowsWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Made byIgor PavlovSkymatic GmbH
ProtectsArchives in 7z and ZIPFiles in cloud storage folders
InterfaceGraphical app and command lineGraphical app
Best forPassword-protected archives on WindowsEncrypting files in cloud storage folders
Strengths
  • Free and open source under the LGPL
  • High compression ratio in the 7z format
  • Open source under GPL-3.0
  • Encrypts files before they reach cloud storage
  • Free for personal use on desktop with unlimited vaults
Limits
  • Official builds are for Windows only
  • Creates 7z, ZIP, GZIP, TAR, XZ and WIM but not RAR
  • Free mobile versions are read-only
  • Cloud service support varies by platform
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about 7-Zip vs Cryptomator

Is Cryptomator better than 7-Zip?
Cryptomator ranks higher in our list of file encryption software (#2 against #6, score 91.0 against 81.0). 7-Zip is best for: password-protected archives on Windows. Cryptomator is best for: encrypting files in cloud storage folders.
Which is cheaper, 7-Zip or Cryptomator?
7-Zip: Free to use, including in commercial organizations. Cryptomator: Free for personal use on desktop; paid mobile upgrades.
Do 7-Zip and Cryptomator run on the same platforms?
7-Zip supports Windows. Cryptomator supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.