Unzipping RAR files may seem complicated, but with the right tools, it’s a simple and free process on both Windows and Mac. Find out how to do it quickly and without complications.
However, many users face the problem of how to extract these files for free and without any complications. Fortunately, there are several methods that allow you to do this easily, without having to pay for specialized software.
In this article, we will explore the best free options for unzipping RAR files on both operating systems. We will also guide you step by step, regardless of your level of experience.
Best Free Tools to Extract RAR Files on Windows
Windows offers a wide range of options for extracting RAR files, and many of them are completely free. These tools are easy to use and will allow you to unzip your files without any hassle.
Popular options include WinRAR , 7-Zip , and PeaZip . WinRAR is a well-known program that, although it offers a paid version, also allows free use with certain limitations.
7-Zip , on the other hand, is completely free and is known for its ability to handle a wide variety of archive formats. PeaZip is another option that, in addition to being free, is open source, meaning it is a great alternative for users looking for a reliable, cost-free solution.
To use any of these tools, simply download and install the software on your computer. Then, right-click on the RAR file you want to extract and select one of the Extract options , depending on where you want to extract the files. The tool will start decompressing the file and within a few seconds you will have access to its contents.
You can also open the RAR document and choose which of the files inside you want to extract, and just click the second mouse button and select Extract.
Windows 11 added native support for RAR files in 2023. However, it cannot create or open password-protected RAR files.
How to Extract RAR Files on Mac for Free
If, on the other hand, you are a Mac user, you also have several free options to unzip RAR files. Although it does not include native support for RAR files, there are third-party applications that can do the job efficiently .
The Unarchiver is one of the most recommended applications . It is free and easy to use. Once installed, it integrates with the system, allowing you to unzip RAR files by just double-clicking on them . Another option is Keka , which is also free and has an intuitive interface, making it a great choice for users of all levels.
To get started, download The Unarchiver or Keka from the Mac App Store or their official websites. Then, open the app and set the preferences to associate with RAR files.
You can then extract a RAR file by simply double-clicking on the file. Unarchiver creates a folder with the same name as the file and then extracts its contents into the new folder. You can also right-click (or Control-click) on the RAR file and then select Open With and choose The Unarchiver to extract the contents of the RAR.
Advanced options: extract split or password protected RAR files.
Sometimes, you will come across RAR files that are split into multiple parts or are protected with a password. Fortunately, the free tools we have mentioned can handle these situations as well .
To extract split RAR files, make sure all the parts are in the same folder and then start the unzipping process with the first part. The software will automatically join the parts and extract the contents. If the file is password protected, you will need to enter the password before the software can extract the contents.
It’s important to remember that while these features are more advanced, free tools like 7-Zip , WinRAR , and The Unarchiver are fully capable of handling them, allowing you to access your files no matter how complex they are.