Frequently Asked Questions

Smallest.zip is a file compression service specializing in high-quality, size-optimized encoding for images, video, text, and PDF files. Our optimized AV1 encoding produces files that are 33–40% smaller than stock encoders at the same quality setting (VMAF).

We currently support:

• Images — JPEG
• Video — AV1 encoding (MP4 container)
• Text / Log files — Coming soon
• PDF — Coming soon

Our optimized AV1 encoder produces files 33–40% smaller than stock AV1 at the same CRF setting, with a VMAF quality difference of less than 0.7. VMAF differences under 1.0 are imperceptible to the human eye. See our video results page for full benchmarks.

Yes. We offer container images that run entirely within your own infrastructure. Your data never leaves your network. See our Solutions page for details.

Never. We do not sell your personal information, your files, or your usage data to anyone, under any circumstances. See our Privacy Policy for full details.

No. Your files are never used to train AI models, machine learning systems, or any other automated systems. Your files are processed solely to perform compression and are returned to you.

Compressed files stored for download are automatically deleted within 30 days of creation. Your account data (email, compression history) is retained while your account is active. You can request full deletion at any time.

Yes. All data is transmitted over TLS (HTTPS). Files stored on our servers are encrypted at rest. Passwords are hashed using industry-standard algorithms and are never stored in plain text.

Create a free account and your API key is generated automatically. You can find it on your Settings page. You can regenerate it at any time.

The S3-compatible API lets you point your existing S3 PUT calls at smallest.zip/s3/... instead of AWS. We intercept the upload, compress it, and write the compressed result directly to your real S3 bucket using IAM credentials you configure on your Settings page. Your application requires no code changes.

If a compression operation fails for any reason, no credit is deducted. You only pay for successful compressions. The API returns a clear error message with an HTTP 500 status.

The current upload limit is 50 MB per file. If you need to process larger files, contact us — enterprise plans can accommodate larger payloads.

Each successful compression operation consumes one credit. Failed operations do not consume credits. Credits do not expire.

Yes — for unused credits only. If you have credits you haven't used, we'll refund them at the original purchase price. See our Refund Policy for how to request one.

Yes. Every new account receives 3 free credits to try the service with no payment required.