Z Converter

Convert Z (Unix compress file) files online, for free, with nothing to install.

Z is a single file compressed with the classic Unix compress program. It has mostly been replaced by gzip. Z files can be saved as ZIP, 7Z, TAR, TAR.GZ, TAR.BZ2, TAR.XZ, RAR, and most of these conversions run right in your browser, so your files stay on your device.

What is a Z file?

Z – Unix compress file. Z is a single file compressed with the classic Unix compress program. It has mostly been replaced by gzip.

How to convert a Z file

  1. Click Select File, or drop your .z files anywhere on this page.
  2. Pick the format you want next to each file, for example ZIP.
  3. Click Convert, then Download when it's done.

Z at a glance

Z
TypeCompressed single file
HoldsOne file
CompressionLZW
EncryptionNone
Created byUnix compress, 1984
Best forOpening old Unix files

Frequently asked questions

What is a Z file?

Z is a single file compressed with the classic Unix compress program. It has mostly been replaced by gzip.

How do I open a Z file?

Archive programs such as 7-Zip open many formats. Without one, open it on our Extract Z Files page to see what's inside and save the files you need, or convert it to ZIP here: Windows, macOS and Linux all open ZIP files by themselves.

Is converting Z files free?

Yes. Everyone gets 25 free credits a day, with no account needed. Conversions on our server use one credit per started minute of work, so most cost a single credit. Credits reset at midnight UTC.

Are my Z files uploaded anywhere?

Files up to 200 MB never leave your device: ConvertKitty runs 7-Zip inside your browser. Only larger files, or formats your browser cannot handle, are sent to our server, over an encrypted connection, and deleted 72 hours after the conversion. The button says "Upload and convert" whenever that happens.

Convert Z to

Just need the files inside?

Other converters

Updated