You have received a RAR, ZIP or 7-Zip file and Windows can't open it the way you need. Or you have a pile of files to shrink and send. WinRAR from RARLAB handles both jobs: it packs files into RAR or ZIP archives and unpacks a long list of other formats.
Quick facts
- Current version: 7.23 (a 7.30 beta is also offered)
- Platform: Windows, with 64-bit builds available
- Price: $29.00 for a single-user licence, excluding VAT
- Trial: an evaluation copy is available to download
- Other platforms: the vendor also provides RAR for macOS, Linux, FreeBSD and Android
Key features
Create and open RAR and ZIP archives
WinRAR is built around the RAR and ZIP formats. It also opens CAB, ARJ, LZH, TAR, GZip, UUE, BZIP2, ISO, Z and 7-Zip files, so one tool covers most archives you will meet.
Self-extracting archives without add-ons
You can create SFX (.exe) archives with the default or external SFX modules. The vendor says the licence covers the complete technology, so you don't buy extras for this.
Many language versions
The download page lists WinRAR in dozens of languages, from Arabic and Armenian to Vietnamese, in 64-bit builds.
Who it's for
It suits you if you regularly receive or send compressed files in different formats. It also suits you if you want to build self-extracting packages for people who have no archiver installed. Teams can buy multi-user licences, and the vendor's shop lists volume pricing.
Pros and cons
- Pro: opens a wide range of archive formats.
- Pro: SFX creation is included in the licence.
- Pro: a trial copy lets you test it first.
- Con: it is a paid licence at $29.00 per user, while built-in Windows tools open ZIP files for free.
- Con: the main program is for Windows. Other platforms get the command-line RAR.
FAQs
How much does WinRAR cost?
A single-user licence is $29.00 excluding VAT. Multi-user licences are priced by the number of users.
Can I try it before buying?
Yes. The vendor offers an evaluation copy to download.
Is there a 64-bit version?
Yes. The download page lists 64-bit builds of the current version.
Does it run on macOS or Linux?
The vendor offers RAR for macOS, Linux and FreeBSD. These are separate downloads from the Windows program.