7-Zip

7-Zip is a free, open-source archiver for creating and extracting compressed files. It suits users who want broad format support, encryption and command-line tools without a software fee. Its main trade-off is that RAR archives can be opened but not created.

Overview

The 7z format uses LZMA and LZMA2 compression, while the app also creates and extracts several other common formats. AES-256 encryption for 7z and ZIP archives, split archives and a portable version extend its usefulness beyond basic compression. The format coverage is broad, but the boundary between creating and extracting matters: RAR is extract-only.

7-Zip is open-source software. Most of its code is under the GNU LGPL, with some code under BSD licenses and an unRAR license restriction for some parts. The maker says it may be used on any computer, including in a commercial organization, without registration or payment.

For more options in this category, browse File Compression Software.

Key features

Compression, formats and encryption

7-Zip can pack and unpack 7z, XZ, BZIP2, GZIP, TAR, ZIP and WIM files. It can also unpack additional formats including RAR, ISO and VHDX. That makes it useful for both producing familiar archives and opening files received in less common formats, but users who need to create RAR archives will need another tool.

AES-256 encryption is supported for 7z and ZIP formats, and 7-Zip supports split archives. Those options cover password-protected archives and dividing files into parts; encryption does not extend to every format the app handles.

Tools and localization

The Windows version includes Windows Shell integration, a file manager, a command-line version and a FAR Manager plugin. Command-line tools are also listed as a product feature, while the supplied platform builds include a Windows installer and console versions for Linux and macOS. The feature set is therefore most explicitly described for Windows, with console versions covering the other two desktop platforms.

7-Zip is localized in 87 languages, which broadens its reach for users who prefer an interface in a language other than English.

Pricing

7-Zip costs nothing, billed Free. The free plan is the file archiver, with a Windows installer and Linux and macOS console versions; no registration or payment is required. There is no separate paid tier or free-trial period. Its commercial-use permission makes the same no-fee option suitable for organizations as well as personal use.

Platforms

7-Zip supports Windows, Linux and macOS. The Windows package is an installer, while Linux and macOS are represented by console versions. Readers who want the described shell integration, file manager or FAR Manager plugin should choose the Windows version; the listed builds for Linux and macOS are console versions.

Who it's for

7-Zip is a strong fit for individuals and organizations that need a no-cost archiver with broad creation and extraction support, AES-256 for 7z and ZIP, and command-line tools. It is also practical for users who regularly receive RAR, ISO or VHDX archives, since it can extract them. Choose another archiver if creating RAR files is essential, or if you need the Windows-specific tools on Linux or macOS.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Free for personal and commercial use without registration or payment, making it usable across home and workplace computers without a software fee.
• Creates and extracts seven named formats and can extract additional formats such as RAR, ISO and VHDX, reducing the need for a separate extractor for those files.
• AES-256 encryption for 7z and ZIP, plus split archives, supports protected and divided archive workflows.
• Windows-specific shell integration, file manager, command-line version and FAR Manager plugin serve users who want more than a graphical archiver.

Cons

• RAR is extract-only, so it cannot produce RAR archives for recipients who require that format.
• The Windows version has the most specifically described desktop tools; Linux and macOS are supplied as console versions.
• Encryption is supported for 7z and ZIP formats, not every format the software can handle.

Alternatives

B1 Archiver is another free option with personal and commercial use, no registration, and platforms including Android and web as well as desktop systems. Consider it if those platforms matter more than 7-Zip's Windows-specific tools.

Accessibility Test Framework for Android is also a free option across Android, Linux, macOS and Windows; choose it if you need that project rather than a general archive tool.

Bandizip offers a free Standard Edition with ads, limited features and a limited antimalware scan, plus a free trial and macOS and Windows support. It may suit users who prefer that freemium option and accept those limits.

PeaZip is a free, open-source alternative for personal, professional and commercial use across Linux, macOS and Windows. Consider it if you want another cross-platform open-source archiver.

PowerArchiver has a free, non-commercial plan with no expiration for personal use, students and non-profits, and a Business plan priced at $22.95, paid once. It may fit users whose needs match those non-commercial terms or who want its paid business plan.

Ark is a free desktop application for Linux and Windows; consider it as another option on those platforms.

bzip2 is freely available with source code distribution for Linux and Windows, making it an alternative for users looking specifically for that option.

IZArc is a free Windows file compression and archive manager, an alternative for Windows users seeking that type of tool.

Verdict

Choose 7-Zip if you want a capable, no-cost archiver for home or commercial use, especially when broad extraction support, command-line access or AES-256 for 7z and ZIP matters. Look elsewhere if you must create RAR archives or need the Windows-specific tools on Linux or macOS.