# Create a ZIP archive

> Combine multiple files into a single .zip with DEFLATE compression at a level you choose.

Open the tool: https://yourbrowsercandoit.com/zip-create

Combine files into a .zip archive. Free, no signup. Runs entirely in your browser; files are never uploaded.

## How it works

Drop any number of files. Pick a filename for the archive and a compression level (0 = store only / no compression, 6 = balanced default, 9 = max). The tool uses JSZip in the browser to build the archive. The file list shows total uncompressed size. After the archive builds, you'll see the compressed size and the percentage saving. Compression effectiveness depends on the input: text and code shrink dramatically (often 80%+), already-compressed formats (JPEG, MP4, PDF) shrink very little (5-10%). At level 0 the tool just bundles files without compression, which is faster but no smaller. Output filename is whatever you typed plus .zip.

## How to use it

1. **Drop your files.** Add as many files as you like; the list shows the total uncompressed size.
2. **Name the archive.** Type a filename for the output ZIP.
3. **Pick a compression level.** 6 is a balanced default; 9 is maximum; 0 just bundles without compressing.
4. **Create and download.** JSZip builds the archive locally and shows the compressed size and saving.

## Frequently asked questions

### How do I create a ZIP from multiple files?

Drop them all into the upload area, set a filename, hit Create ZIP. The archive downloads automatically.

### What compression level should I use?

6 is a balanced default. 9 is maximum compression but slower (~2x). 0 stores without compression, useful for bundling already-compressed files.

### Is my data uploaded?

No. JSZip runs in your browser, files are zipped locally.

### What's the file size limit?

Bounded by your device's memory. Tens of small files work effortlessly; many GBs of input may run out of memory.

## Related tools

- [Extract ZIP](https://yourbrowsercandoit.com/zip-extract): Browse and extract files from a .zip.
- [Hash file](https://yourbrowsercandoit.com/hash-file): Compute SHA-256 of any file.
- [Encrypt file](https://yourbrowsercandoit.com/encrypt-file): AES-256 encrypt with a passphrase.
- [QR code](https://yourbrowsercandoit.com/qr-generate): Generate a QR code from any text.
- [Split file](https://yourbrowsercandoit.com/file-splitter): Break a large file into smaller chunks.