llm-compress is a simple program that helps shrink the size of prompts and context used with language model APIs. It reduces the number of tokens without losing the meaning of the text. This means you can use large language models more efficiently and save costs or speed up responses, especially if you send many requests.
The tool works with zero dependencies and uses a single C++ header file. It focuses on compression specifically for prompt and context data you send to LLMs (Large Language Models). You do not need background in programming or setting up complex software to use it.
To run llm-compress on Windows, make sure your system meets these basic requirements:
- Windows 10 or later (64-bit recommended)
- 4 GB of free RAM or more
- At least 100 MB of free disk space
- A working internet connection (to download if needed)
llm-compress runs as a simple program without requiring installation of extra software. It does not need an active C++ development environment since an executable file is provided.
To use llm-compress, start by downloading the latest version for Windows.
- Visit the releases page linked above. This page contains all the available versions and files.
- Look for the latest release marked by a version number like
v1.0orv2.1. - Find a file that ends with
.exeor.zipand mentions "Windows" in the name. - Click the file name to begin downloading.
If your download is a .zip file, you will need to extract the contents before running. Windows can open .zip files natively—just right-click and select "Extract All."
llm-compress does not require a traditional installation. You only need to download and run the program. Follow these steps:
- Locate the downloaded file on your computer. If it is zipped, extract it first.
- Double-click the main
.exefile to start the program. - The program will open a simple window or prompt where you can load or paste your prompt text.
- Use the buttons or menu options to compress your input text.
- The output will show the compressed result with fewer tokens but keep the meaning.
- Copy or save the compressed prompt for use with your language model API.
You do not need advanced settings for normal use. The default compression works well for most cases.
- No extra software needed: Runs immediately after download
- Single-file program: Lightweight and easy to move between computers
- Lossless compression: Keeps the original meaning intact while shrinking token length
- Supports large input: Compresses long prompts and large contexts efficiently
- Simple interface: Designed for ease of use with minimal options
- Cross-platform potential: While targeted for Windows, core files support C++ usage elsewhere
Language models count their input text in tokens. More tokens mean higher costs and slower response times from APIs. llm-compress reduces the token count by applying smart compression techniques on your prompt text.
Instead of manually shortening text and risking loss of meaning, llm-compress handles it automatically. It works in the background to:
- Shorten repeated phrases
- Replace common expressions with shorter forms
- Compress context history without losing key details
Using this compression can improve your workflow where repeated or long prompts slow you down or consume extra tokens.
Here are some examples of where llm-compress can help you:
- If you send many similar requests to a language model, compress repeated parts.
- When working with chat histories, compress long conversations before sending to save tokens.
- Developers or hobbyists testing APIs who want to reduce their usage costs.
- Anyone who works with prompt engineering and needs consistent, smaller inputs.
- Open llm-compress by double-clicking the downloaded
.exe. - In the input field, paste the prompt or context text you want to compress.
- Click the Compress button.
- View the compressed text result below.
- Use the Copy button to copy the compressed prompt back into your API tool or application.
You can paste new text at any time to compress another prompt.
- If llm-compress does not open, check your Windows version and ensure it is Windows 10 or newer.
- If antivirus alerts appear, verify you downloaded from the official link listed above.
- For large prompts, allow a few seconds for compression to complete.
- If you get errors, try redownloading the latest release file.
You can find source code, documentation, and development info on the GitHub repository page:
This page includes technical details, issue reporting, and links to related projects.
Click here to visit the releases page and get started: