Best Free Alternatives to WinRAR
Updated 3 October 2026 · 3 programs compared
WinRAR is one of the best-known archive tools, but after its 40-day trial it asks you to buy a licence. These free programs open RAR files, create 7z and ZIP archives and protect them with a password \u2013 on Windows, Linux and Mac.
Quick answer
Comparison at a glance
7-Zip
The classic free archiver: opens RAR (including RAR5 and multi-part archives), ZIP, ISO and more, and creates 7z archives that often compress better than RAR. Free also for business use.
Good
- Excellent compression with 7z
- Opens RAR files
- Free for business use
Keep in mind
- Cannot create RAR archives
- Plain, old-fashioned interface
PeaZip
A free archiver with a clear, modern interface that opens more than 180 formats and adds extras such as strong encryption and secure deletion.
Good
- 180+ formats
- Runs on Windows, Linux and Mac
- No ads
Keep in mind
- Cannot create RAR archives
Keka
The easiest archiver for Mac: drag files to compress them, open RAR files the Mac cannot open on its own, and create 7z, ZIP and DMG archives. Free from the official website.
Good
- Very easy to use
- Opens RAR on Mac
Keep in mind
- Mac only