Quick Overview
- 1#1: VeraCrypt - Creates encrypted virtual disks to securely store and protect files on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- 2#2: Cryptomator - Provides transparent client-side encryption for files stored in any cloud service.
- 3#3: AxCrypt - Encrypts individual files with strong AES encryption directly from the file explorer.
- 4#4: NordLocker - Offers encrypted lockers for local files with optional zero-knowledge cloud syncing.
- 5#5: Boxcryptor - Delivers end-to-end encryption for cloud files with support for team collaboration.
- 6#6: Folder Lock - Locks, encrypts, backs up, and securely deletes sensitive files and folders.
- 7#7: 7-Zip - Compresses files into archives protected by AES-256 encryption for secure storage and sharing.
- 8#8: Gpg4win - Implements OpenPGP encryption for files, emails, and secure communications on Windows.
- 9#9: WinRAR - Archives files with password protection and strong encryption algorithms.
- 10#10: Wise Folder Hider - Hides files and folders with password protection to prevent unauthorized access.
Tools were chosen for robust encryption, ease of use, broad compatibility, and real-world effectiveness, with ranking considering how well they balance these factors while delivering clear value.
Comparison Table
File security is essential for safeguarding sensitive data, and selecting the right software demands understanding of its features, usability, and unique strengths. This comparison table explores top tools like VeraCrypt, Cryptomator, AxCrypt, NordLocker, Boxcryptor, and more, guiding readers to assess options based on encryption capabilities, compatibility, and user experience. By comparing key attributes, users can identify the most suitable solution for their specific security needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | VeraCrypt Creates encrypted virtual disks to securely store and protect files on Windows, macOS, and Linux. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Cryptomator Provides transparent client-side encryption for files stored in any cloud service. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | AxCrypt Encrypts individual files with strong AES encryption directly from the file explorer. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | NordLocker Offers encrypted lockers for local files with optional zero-knowledge cloud syncing. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Boxcryptor Delivers end-to-end encryption for cloud files with support for team collaboration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Folder Lock Locks, encrypts, backs up, and securely deletes sensitive files and folders. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | 7-Zip Compresses files into archives protected by AES-256 encryption for secure storage and sharing. | other | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 10/10 |
| 8 | Gpg4win Implements OpenPGP encryption for files, emails, and secure communications on Windows. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 10/10 |
| 9 | WinRAR Archives files with password protection and strong encryption algorithms. | other | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Wise Folder Hider Hides files and folders with password protection to prevent unauthorized access. | other | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
Creates encrypted virtual disks to securely store and protect files on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Provides transparent client-side encryption for files stored in any cloud service.
Encrypts individual files with strong AES encryption directly from the file explorer.
Offers encrypted lockers for local files with optional zero-knowledge cloud syncing.
Delivers end-to-end encryption for cloud files with support for team collaboration.
Locks, encrypts, backs up, and securely deletes sensitive files and folders.
Compresses files into archives protected by AES-256 encryption for secure storage and sharing.
Implements OpenPGP encryption for files, emails, and secure communications on Windows.
Archives files with password protection and strong encryption algorithms.
Hides files and folders with password protection to prevent unauthorized access.
VeraCrypt
specializedCreates encrypted virtual disks to securely store and protect files on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Hidden volumes that allow creation of a secret encrypted volume within another, providing plausible deniability
VeraCrypt is a free, open-source disk encryption tool forked from TrueCrypt, enabling users to create encrypted volumes as files, partitions, or entire drives for securing sensitive data. It employs industry-standard algorithms like AES, Twofish, and Serpent, often in cascades, with on-the-fly encryption and support for hidden volumes to enable plausible deniability. Cross-platform compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux makes it versatile for protecting files against unauthorized access.
Pros
- Military-grade encryption with multiple algorithms, cascades, and PIM for enhanced security
- Free, open-source, and independently audited for trustworthiness
- Cross-platform support and hidden volumes for plausible deniability
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners due to advanced options
- GUI feels dated and less intuitive compared to commercial alternatives
- Limited mobile support and no built-in cloud integration
Best For
Privacy-conscious users and professionals needing robust, portable file and drive encryption on desktops and laptops.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source with no paid tiers or subscriptions.
Cryptomator
specializedProvides transparent client-side encryption for files stored in any cloud service.
Transparent virtual drive mounting for encrypted access indistinguishable from unencrypted files
Cryptomator is an open-source, client-side encryption tool that enables users to create encrypted vaults for securing files in any cloud storage service like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive. It mounts these vaults as virtual drives, providing transparent encryption and decryption on-the-fly without altering file structures or workflows. Supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, it ensures data privacy even from cloud providers through AES-256 encryption and forward secrecy.
Pros
- Strong client-side AES-256 encryption with perfect forward secrecy
- Seamless integration with any cloud storage service
- Free, open-source, and cross-platform with regular security audits
Cons
- Encrypted filenames can complicate cloud search and previews
- Requires app to mount vaults, no native OS integration
- Limited multi-user collaboration compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Privacy-conscious individuals and small teams securing files across personal cloud storage without switching providers.
Pricing
Free and open-source; optional donations via one-time payments or subscriptions.
AxCrypt
specializedEncrypts individual files with strong AES encryption directly from the file explorer.
Right-click context menu for one-click file encryption directly in File Explorer
AxCrypt is a straightforward file encryption software that protects individual files and folders using AES-256 encryption, with seamless integration into Windows Explorer for right-click encryption and decryption. It supports cross-platform use on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it accessible for personal and small team file security needs. The free version handles basic encryption, while premium unlocks secure sharing, cloud sync, and a password manager.
Pros
- Seamless right-click integration for effortless encryption
- Strong AES-256 encryption with secure key management
- Cross-platform support including mobile apps
Cons
- Limited features in the free version (no sharing or cloud sync)
- No full disk encryption or advanced enterprise controls
- Premium subscription required for key features like password manager
Best For
Individuals or small teams needing simple, quick encryption for sensitive files without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free basic version; Premium at $45/year or $5/month per user.
NordLocker
specializedOffers encrypted lockers for local files with optional zero-knowledge cloud syncing.
Zero-knowledge encrypted cloud storage with automatic syncing across all devices
NordLocker is a user-friendly file encryption tool from the makers of NordVPN, designed to secure files and folders with AES-256 encryption both locally and in the cloud. It features zero-knowledge architecture, ensuring that even Nord cannot access your data, and supports secure sharing via password-protected links. The software syncs encrypted lockers across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices for seamless access.
Pros
- Military-grade AES-256 zero-knowledge encryption
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for creating lockers
- Secure cloud sync and sharing with expiration controls
Cons
- Limited free tier (3GB storage)
- Cloud storage caps on lower plans require upgrades
- Lacks full disk encryption capabilities
Best For
Individuals or small teams seeking simple, cross-platform file encryption with optional secure cloud backup.
Pricing
Free (3GB cloud); Standard €2.99/mo (unlimited local + 500GB cloud); Plus €5.99/mo (unlimited + 2TB cloud + NordPass); annual discounts available.
Boxcryptor
enterpriseDelivers end-to-end encryption for cloud files with support for team collaboration.
Universal compatibility with any cloud storage service via client-side encryption
Boxcryptor is a zero-knowledge file encryption tool that adds end-to-end encryption to files stored in popular cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and more. It creates a transparent encrypted layer, allowing users to access files seamlessly as if they were local while ensuring cloud providers cannot access the data. Supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, it enables secure sharing and team collaboration with granular access controls.
Pros
- Strong AES-256 zero-knowledge encryption
- Seamless integration with multiple cloud providers
- Cross-platform support and intuitive drive mounting
Cons
- Free plan limited to one cloud provider
- Paid plans required for teams and advanced features
- Relies on third-party cloud reliability
Best For
Users already invested in cloud storage who need robust encryption without switching providers.
Pricing
Free for personal use with one provider; Individual €48/year; Business €72/user/year (annual billing).
Folder Lock
otherLocks, encrypts, backs up, and securely deletes sensitive files and folders.
Virtual Lockers that function as encrypted, password-protected containers resembling removable drives
Folder Lock from NewSoftwares.net is a Windows-focused file security software that enables users to password-protect folders, encrypt files with AES 256-bit encryption, and create virtual 'Lockers' for secure storage. It hides, locks, and shields files from unauthorized access, while offering tools for secure deletion, backups, and USB portability. Additional utilities include cloud sync and file shredding to prevent data recovery.
Pros
- Strong AES 256-bit encryption for files and lockers
- User-friendly drag-and-drop interface for quick protection
- Portable lockers for secure USB drive usage
Cons
- Windows-only, no macOS or mobile support
- Trial version is limited; full features require purchase
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Windows users needing simple, reliable folder locking and file encryption for personal sensitive data.
Pricing
One-time purchase from $39.95 (1 PC lifetime) to $99.95 (5 PCs lifetime); 30-day free trial available.
7-Zip
otherCompresses files into archives protected by AES-256 encryption for secure storage and sharing.
AES-256 bit encryption for 7z archives, unmatched in free tools
7-Zip is a free, open-source file archiver that supports multiple formats like 7z, ZIP, and RAR, with a focus on high compression ratios. For file security, it offers AES-256 encryption for password-protected archives, enabling users to secure sensitive data within compressed files. While not a comprehensive security suite, it provides robust encryption capabilities without additional cost.
Pros
- Strong AES-256 encryption for archives
- Completely free and open-source
- High compression ratios reduce file sizes securely
Cons
- Basic, dated user interface
- Primarily Windows-focused with limited native cross-platform support
- Lacks advanced security features like real-time scanning or individual file encryption
Best For
Budget-conscious users needing a simple, reliable way to encrypt and compress files for basic security.
Pricing
100% free with no paid tiers or limitations.
Gpg4win
specializedImplements OpenPGP encryption for files, emails, and secure communications on Windows.
GpgEX shell extension for one-click file encryption and signing directly from Windows Explorer
Gpg4win is a free, open-source suite bringing the powerful GnuPG (GNU Privacy Guard) tools to Windows, enabling users to encrypt, sign, decrypt, and verify files and emails using the OpenPGP standard. It includes user-friendly components like Kleopatra for key management and certificate handling, GpgEX for right-click integration in Windows Explorer, and GpgOL for Outlook support. This makes it a robust solution for securing individual files and communications without relying on proprietary software.
Pros
- Industry-standard OpenPGP encryption with strong cryptographic algorithms
- Deep integration with Windows Explorer and Outlook for seamless workflows
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs or restrictions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to technical concepts like key management
- GUI interfaces feel dated and less intuitive compared to modern commercial tools
- Limited to file and email encryption, not full-disk or container-based solutions
Best For
Technical users and privacy enthusiasts needing reliable, standards-compliant file encryption on Windows.
Pricing
Free (open-source, donations encouraged)
WinRAR
otherArchives files with password protection and strong encryption algorithms.
AES-256 encryption combined with RAR's superior compression for secure, compact archives
WinRAR is a versatile file archiver that enhances file security by creating compressed archives with strong password protection and AES encryption. It supports RAR and other formats, allowing users to encrypt sensitive data to prevent unauthorized access during storage or transfer. While not a full antivirus solution, it includes integrity checks and recovery records to safeguard against corruption.
Pros
- Robust AES-128/256-bit encryption for archives
- Password protection and file integrity verification
- Recovery records to repair damaged files
Cons
- Persistent nag screen in trial version
- Security limited to archiving, no malware scanning
- One-time purchase required to remove limitations
Best For
Users needing secure compression and encryption for file sharing or backups without full antivirus needs.
Pricing
Unlimited free trial with nag screens; $29 one-time license per user.
Wise Folder Hider
otherHides files and folders with password protection to prevent unauthorized access.
Double-password protection requiring both app login and individual item passwords
Wise Folder Hider is a lightweight Windows utility that allows users to hide files and folders from view, protecting personal data from casual access. It employs a double-password system where the app itself requires a master password, and individual hidden items can have secondary passwords. The free version covers basic hiding needs, while the Pro edition adds support for hiding USB drives and secondary password protection for folders.
Pros
- Extremely simple and intuitive interface
- Free version sufficient for basic needs
- Lightweight with minimal system impact
Cons
- Hiding is not true encryption and can be bypassed by advanced tools
- Limited to Windows platform only
- Lacks advanced security features like cloud sync or multi-device support
Best For
Casual Windows users who need a quick, no-frills way to hide personal files from family or roommates.
Pricing
Free version available; Pro upgrade is a one-time $19.95 purchase.
Conclusion
VeraCrypt claims the top spot, renowned for its reliable encrypted virtual disks across multiple platforms, offering comprehensive file protection. Cryptomator and AxCrypt excel as strong alternatives—Cryptomator for transparent cloud encryption, AxCrypt for intuitive file explorer encryption, each tailored to distinct user needs. Collectively, the top tools demonstrate the breadth of effective file security solutions available.
Begin securing your files with VeraCrypt, and consider Cryptomator or AxCrypt if your focus is on cloud collaboration or quick, streamlined encryption.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison