In that case, the best option is to rely on third-party file compression apps for Windows like WinRAR.
Hence, below, we shared some of the best WinRAR alternatives for compressing or decompressing files.
1.Zipware
If you want a simple and free WinRAR alternative for Windows, look for Zipware.
Zipware is a free zip software for Windows that supports almost all major archive formats.
Not only that, but you’re able to even create a ZIP file.
Zipware also allows users to create password-protected archives.
2.WinZip
Although not as popular as WinRAR, WinZip is a mini-program for archiving and compressing files.
Its also the oldest file compression utility available on the web.
This WinRAR alternative also offers some file management features.
Its most noticeable feature is that it offers a 10% better file compression ratio than any other tool.
Its available for Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11 operating systems.
Compared to WinRAR, 7-Zip is lighter and requires less installation space on a Windows equipment.
Overall, 7-Zip is one of the best and most lightweight archive tools for Windows.
ExtractNow has a pretty neat interface, making the tool extremely easy to use.
However, it can only be used to unpack files.
What makes ExtractNow different is its ability to extract multiple files simultaneously.
It is compatible with every version of Windows, including the latest, Windows 11.
However, jZip adds an ask toolbar while installation, which is considered adware.
So, uncheck the add ask toolbar option during the installation.
Among its features, jZip offers better compression ratios than other tools.
It also supports the RAR, Zip, 7-Zip, TAR, and GZip formats.
6.PeaZip
Apart from compressing and decompressing files, PeaZip allows you to create encrypted zip files.
The interface of PeaZip is also fantastic, and it supports almost all major file compression formats.
In addition, PeaZip offers all the features you look for in an archive tool.
It supports more file formats than other file compression tools.
However, during the installation, B1 Free Archiver attempts to install adware.
So, be careful during the installation.
The tool is free to download and use and offers many advanced features.
What makes BandiZip different from others is that it supports multi-core compression.
With multi-core support, BandiZip can fully use your CPU cores to provide faster compression speed.
10.PowerArchiver
PowerArchiver is the last file compression utility on the list.
It is used mainly by professionals and is an advanced tool that shows progress in the taskbar.
It supports almost all file compression formats, and you’re free to also password-protect your compressed files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a better alternative to WinRAR?
The answer to this question depends on your needs.
WinRAR is the best option if you want an all-in-one RAR management tool.
You also have other options like B1 Free Archiver, PeaZIP, etc.
Why 7-Zip is better than WinRAR?
7-Zip is lighter than WinRAR and can compress files into a wider range of format types.
On the other hand, WinRAR can only compress into ZIP and RAR formats.
However, both tools can decompress a wide variety of format types.
Is ZIP better than RAR?
RAR is slightly better at data compression than the default support for ZIP files.
Both archive file formats were created by different developers.
Is there a free version of WinRAR?
you might download & use WinRAR for free from its official website.
The tool is free for 40 days, after which youre asked to purchase a plan.
However, the trial remains active even after 40 days.
Is 7-Zip OK to use?
Yes, 7-ZIP is generally a safe program to download & install.
However, confirm to download & install 7-Zip from its official website to avoid any security or privacy issues.
These are the best compression tools for your Windows computer.
If you know of other tools like these, yo drop the name in the comment box below.
I hope this article helped you!
hey share it with your friends, too!
