You downloaded a file that ends in .rar or .7z, double-clicked it, and Windows asked you to buy WinRAR or WinZip, or one of them keeps reminding you that your trial ended weeks ago. You don’t need to pay to open or create compressed files. Free, legal programs handle almost everything, and Windows 11 can now do more on its own than you might think. Here are the best free alternatives to WinRAR and WinZip.
First, check what Windows 11 can already do
Windows has always handled .zip files: right-click a file or folder and choose Compress to > ZIP File, or right-click a ZIP and choose Extract All.
Recent versions of Windows 11 go further. They can open and extract RAR, 7z, TAR and GZ files directly in File Explorer, and newer updates added the option to create 7z and TAR archives from the same Compress to menu. If you only open a compressed file now and then, keeping Windows updated may be all you need.
Where a dedicated program still helps: password-protected archives, splitting large files into parts, faster compression and better control over settings.
The best free alternatives to WinRAR and WinZip
1. 7-Zip
Best overall free option.
7-Zip is free and open source and has been around for more than two decades. It created the 7z format, which often compresses files smaller than ZIP, and it can open RAR, ISO, TAR, GZ and many other formats.
- Pros: completely free with no ads or nag screens, strong AES-256 encryption for 7z and ZIP archives, very light.
- Cons: the interface looks old-fashioned, and its right-click menu hides under Show more options in Windows 11.
2. NanaZip
Best for Windows 11 users who like 7-Zip but want a modern feel.
NanaZip is a free, open-source program based on 7-Zip, rebuilt for Windows 10 and 11. It’s available from the Microsoft Store and adds its options to the modern Windows 11 right-click menu.
- Pros: 7-Zip’s engine with a cleaner look, easy updates through the Microsoft Store.
- Cons: Windows only.
3. PeaZip
Best for handling unusual formats.
PeaZip is free and open source, supports a very long list of archive formats, and includes extras such as secure file deletion, file splitting and archive conversion.
- Pros: friendly interface, many formats and tools, available for Windows and Linux.
- Cons: so many options can feel like a lot at first.
4. Windows File Explorer
Best if you don’t want to install anything.
As explained above, File Explorer in an up-to-date Windows 11 handles ZIP, opens RAR and 7z, and can create 7z and TAR archives. It’s the simplest choice for occasional use.
- Pros: already built in, no installation.
- Cons: no password protection and fewer settings than dedicated programs.
Can free programs create RAR files?
No. RAR is a proprietary format, so only WinRAR (and RAR from the same developer) can create RAR archives. Free tools can open RAR files without problems. If someone asks you for a compressed file, sending a ZIP is the most compatible choice, since every computer can open it.
How to password-protect a file with 7-Zip
- Install 7-Zip from its official website (7-zip.org).
- Right-click the file or folder, choose Show more options > 7-Zip > Add to archive.
- Choose 7z (or ZIP) as the archive format.
- Under Encryption, type a strong password and choose AES-256.
- For 7z archives, tick Encrypt file names so nobody can even see what’s inside without the password.
- Click OK.
Store that password somewhere safe. A password manager is the easiest way; see our picks for the best password managers. There’s no way to recover an encrypted archive if you forget it.
Which one should you choose?
- You just open a compressed file now and then: Windows File Explorer.
- You want the most trusted free tool: 7-Zip.
- You use Windows 11 and want a modern interface: NanaZip.
- You deal with lots of different formats: PeaZip.
Stay safe with compressed files
Compressed files are a common way to hide malware, especially in email attachments and downloads from unknown sites. Don’t open archives you weren’t expecting, be careful with files that contain .exe, .js or .scr files, and keep your security software active. Our guide to the best free antivirus for Windows explains your options. Always download compression tools from their official websites or the Microsoft Store, never from “free WinRAR key” sites.
Looking for more ways to skip paid software? Browse our free alternatives, including our list of free PDF editors.
FAQ
Is WinRAR free to use?
WinRAR is trialware: you can download it free, and it keeps working after the trial period ends, but it shows reminders to buy a license. Free programs like 7-Zip open the same files without reminders.
Can Windows 11 open RAR files without extra software?
Yes, up-to-date versions of Windows 11 can open and extract RAR files directly in File Explorer. Older versions of Windows 10 still need a program like 7-Zip.
Is 7-Zip safe?
Yes. 7-Zip is open source and widely trusted. Download it only from its official website and keep it updated, since updates fix security issues when they’re found.
Which format compresses files the most?
7z usually produces smaller files than ZIP, especially for documents. Photos, videos and music are already compressed, so they barely shrink in any format.
