CompactGUI uses the built-in NTFS compression tools in Windows to reduce the size of game files, while implementing a graphical user interface for easier communication. The program offers four types of compression: three levels of XPRESS (with block sizes 4k, 8k and 16k) and LZX.[1] The program includes an option to skip compressing files with a poor data compression ratio, such as files already compressed via another method.[2][3] CompactGUI also features a watchlist that monitors game updates, allowing new and modified files to be automatically compressed.[4]
When playing the game, the files will be selectively decompressed as they're accessed.[2] Any compression applied to game files is reversible and can be undone if the performance is noticeably affected or the storage gains are deemed insufficient.[3] It is not recommended to use the tool with games that utilize DirectStorage API, due to the decompression method negating the API's function of streaming assets directly from the drive.[4] While the program was made with video game data compression in mind, mostly due to the ever-increasing system requirements of modern games, any applications may be compressed.[5]
Benchmarks
In-app database of popular games and their space savings
CompactGUI features an in-app database of compressed games automatically compiled from various users. Here are some comparisons between various games' original sizes and their compressed forms using LZX, as reported by XDA-Developers:[4]
XDA-Developers praised the app, calling it a "fantastic" choice for gaming handhelds and a "lifeline" for users running out of space.[4] Various sources reported that, with the advancement of CPU technology, the real-time decompression of files has little performance overhead and can actually decrease loading times due to the smaller files being inherently faster to load; this is especially true for slower mechanical hard drives.[1][3][4]
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