Free alternatives to WinRAR
1 free program that can replace WinRAR, a pairing checked by Radar's AI reviewer or by Radar.
WinRAR is a file archiver for Windows. It compresses files and folders into smaller packages, opens archives in many formats, and is best known for the RAR format. Anyone who downloads compressed files, sends big folders by email or keeps backups in packed form may use it, from home users to office staff. It is commercial software, sold under a licence.
Before switching, check which formats you create and which you only open. Opening RAR files is supported by many tools, but creating them is more limited, so if you need to send RAR archives to other people, confirm that the alternative can do it, or agree on another format such as ZIP or 7z. Look at features you may use without noticing: password protection and encryption, splitting an archive into several parts, repairing damaged archives, self-extracting files and the right-click menu in Windows Explorer. Test with a few old archives before uninstalling anything.
HatchZip is the option listed below. Try it on a copy of your files first.
| Program | Ease | You need | Risk signals | Stars | Downloads this week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HatchZipOpens ZIP, 7z, RAR and tar archives without needing room for the archive and the extracted files at the same time. | Ease Adownload and open · Windows | Nothing extra | Attention · 4 | 2,385+209 in 4 days | 4,552 |
Frequently asked questions
Which free alternative to WinRAR is the easiest to install?
HatchZip is the only option, with ease rating A (download and open · Windows).
Is there a free alternative to WinRAR for Windows, Mac and Linux?
Windows: HatchZip. macOS: HatchZip. Linux: HatchZip.
Are the alternatives to WinRAR really free?
HatchZip is completely free.
How can I tell whether an alternative is trustworthy?
Each card shows the risk signals found, with the evidence. HatchZip has a signal rated attention or high. See also the guide How to find a GitHub project's official repository and avoid fake copies.