Knowing how to open RAR files is a useful skill to have if you frequently download various drives, files, and applications from third-party websites. RAR files, unlike zip files, are not natively supported by Windows, so you'll need to use a program designed specifically for them.
What Exactly is a RAR File?
A RAR file is a data container in which one or more compressed files are stored. RAR files are used by individuals and businesses to compress files to make them smaller. Instead of downloading many files individually, you may do so all at once.
In other words, RAR (short for Roshal Archive) is similar to a regular folder on your computer that you use to manage several folders, documents, photos, and other items. However, what distinguishes a RAR file from any other standard folder on your computer is that it takes special software to access its contents.
The 8 Best Tools to Open RAR Files
Don't know how to open a RAR file? Here are the top file compression and extraction programs that you should use. RAR files are among the most used archive formats. If you're not sure how to open a RAR file or if you've recently received one, this list may be of assistance.
All of these RAR openers are simple to use, effective at compressing files, and are either free or paid, depending on the capabilities you want.
1. 7-Zip
7-Zip is the most common software for opening RAR files after WinRAR. This program is easy to use because of its simple interface with a basic style.
In terms of utility, 7-Zip supports all main archive types and can extract multi-volume files. This free program also has 256-bit AES encryption. The application is currently only available for Windows. It is available for both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows operating systems.
2. WinZip
WinZip is commonly used to open ZIP files, as the name indicates. It can, however, open a variety of additional formats, including RAR, 7z, CAB, and ISO. WinZip's intuitive interface allows you to quickly open RAR files.
In addition to reading RAR and other compressed file formats, WinZip allows you to encrypt files with 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption. Users may also resize images and apply watermarks as an added feature.
You may also quickly share or save your file by email, clipboard, or cloud storage services such as Dropbox or Google Drive. WinZip is available for free download and usage for 21 days. It's just $29.95 after the trial time for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
3. WinRAR
WinRAR is one of the most widely used unarchiving programs. It allows users to extract all major formats such as RAR, CAB, 7Z, and ZIP with ease. Furthermore, the program supports AES encryption with 128-bit and 256-bit keys.
The user interface is simple, and the huge buttons make extracting archives a breeze. WinRAR can also handle multi-volume archives.
If you want a simple tool for opening RAR files that also does a lot more, try WinRAR. You can get it for free and use it for 40 days. If you decide to purchase, WinRAR is currently available for Windows for $29.
4. PeaZip
PeaZip is a free program that supports popular archive formats such as 7Z, CAB, and XAR.
The PeaZip interface is equally straightforward. Simply launch the program, navigate to your RAR file, and either double-click to open it or select the Extract button to extract the files to a new directory.
PeaZip is an amazing free utility for opening RAR files and creating your own. It's also free and open-source, including versions for Windows and Linux.
5. B1 Free Archiver
The most modern-looking archive among those described here is B1 Free Archiver. It supports its native B1 format compression as well as over 20 popular archive formats.
Users may also compress big files, create password-protected archives, and use 256-bit AES encryption. Users can only generate B1 and ZIP archives, which is the sole limitation. The program is compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux,
6. IZArc
IZArc is the holy grail of RAR archivers in low-powered PCs, packed with features and as light as a feather. The features compete with large players like WinRAR while without putting a strain on system performance. The UI is simple and lacks any flashy animations.
IZArc supports disc spanning, self-extracting archives, and adding comments to archives. It also has the typical features of a RAR opener, such as zip encryption, virus scanning, and the ability to create multi-volume archives.
IZArc is currently only available on Windows and iOS. As a result, there is no Mac support.
7. Bandizip
Bandizip is another feature-rich RAR opener available for both Windows and Mac users. It supports all recent compression types and has a simple user interface that makes extraction a pleasure. It supports over 30 formats, including common formats like RAR, RAR5, ZIP, and 7Z.
While the software is originally free, extra features become accessible upon purchase. Among these are an archive repairer and password recovery. Bandizip also includes a password manager, which is useful for a variety of reasons.
Bandizip is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. A single-user license for the paid version costs $30.
8. The Unarchiver
Unarchiver has been around for quite some time. You've undoubtedly heard of it if you own a Mac. The user interface is smooth and simple to use. Furthermore, The Unarchiver supports more archive formats than the default UnRAR program for Mac.
Its distinguishing features include the ability to read non-Latin characters and the fact that it is free to use. Other file formats supported by the Unarchiver include XAR, RPM, and Deb. The Unarchiver is only available for Macintosh operating systems.
How to Open RAR Files on Windows
RAR files may be opened in a variety of apps on Windows. The most popular is WinRAR, which was produced by the same developers that designed the RAR file format and provide full support for RAR files. This implies that WinRAR not only lets you extract RAR files, but it also lets you create them.
However, there is one caveat: WinRAR is not a free application. It is, however, a shareware or try-before-you-buy program. As a result, you may test it for free without providing any financial information. As a result, 7-Zip, an open-source and free application, would be a better choice.
Here’s how you can open RAR files using 7-Zip:
Step 1
7-Zip may be downloaded from the official website. If you're using the most recent version of Windows 10, chances are you want the 64-bit version, but it's a good idea to first identify which version of Windows you're using.
When in the installer, navigate to the utility's desired destination folder and click the Install button in the bottom-right corner of the window. When finished, click the Finish button to launch the program.
Step 2
In Windows File Explorer, locate the RAR file you wish to open, then right-click it and select Open With > 7-Zip.
Step 3
Now that you have the RAR file open, you have several options for what you can do with it. Individual files within the RAR archive may be accessed by double-clicking them, or you can traverse through directories, in the same way, to go further into the RAR file.
If you wish to have easier access to the files in the RAR archive in the future, you can also click the Extract option and choose a safe place. The RAR file is then extracted, revealing all of its component files and directories in the Windows File Explorer.
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