Crinkler vs Themida

Crinkler is a compressing linker for producing very small 32-bit Windows executables, particularly demoscene intros in 1k, 4k, and 8k sizes. It combines linking and compression; the resulting executable decompresses into memory when run. By default, context modelling compresses code, optional text data, and general data as separate parts. Crinkler can replace the Visual Studio linker and supports its basic options, with configuration through project settings. Its data compressor is also available as a separate library for estimating compressed data size. Crinkler is free and distributed under the zlib license, which permits commercial use subject to its conditions. Version 3.0 requires Windows 10 or later and SSE4.2, including for the executables it produces, although those executables can target older Windows versions. Uncompressed input is limited to 64k per part. The manual warns that tiny-header mode can make decompression prohibitively slow for files significantly larger than 1 KB. The project directs users to GitHub Releases for downloads and links a manual for usage and version history.

Themida is Windows software that protects applications against advanced reverse engineering and cracking. Its SecureEngine technology combines anti-debugger, anti-disassembly, anti-tracing, anti-breakpoint, and anti-memory-patching techniques. Code protection options include virtualization, encryption, mutation, metamorphic scrambling, and random garbage-code insertion. It protects native 32-bit and 64-bit EXE files and dynamic libraries in DLL, OCX, and BPL formats. XBundler can embed DLLs and data files, while custom DLL plugins can be embedded in the protected binary. Integration is available through SDK communication with the protection layer and command-line support. Developers can customize dialog text and icons shown by protected applications. A demo is available for evaluation, but demo versions cannot be registered and have reduced protections, including light virtualization, no string encryption, and a demo splash screen. Licenses are perpetual. Developer License costs €249 as a one-time purchase; Company License costs €499 as a one-time purchase. Renewal plans cost 79.00 EUR or €159 a year for existing customers.