For ordinary ZIP archives, the best option on a Chromebook is usually already installed: open the Files app and double-click the ZIP file to browse its contents. You can extract files or create a ZIP there too, so a separate app is not needed for the basic workflow.
Open and extract ZIP files with the Chromebook Files app
Open Files, find the ZIP archive and double-click it. Double-click an individual file inside to open it. To extract a group of ZIP files into one folder, right-click the folder containing them and choose Extract all. Google documents these steps in its Chromebook Files instructions.
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Create a ZIP archive without installing an app
In Files, select the files or folder you want to bundle, right-click the selection and choose Zip. The resulting archive can be stored or shared like other files.
What about RAR files and other archive formats?
Google’s list of file types supported on Chromebooks includes both .zip and .rar (Google’s supported file types). However, Google’s step-by-step instructions describe ZIP opening, extraction and creation; they do not provide an equivalent detailed RAR workflow. If a particular archive will not open as expected, check its format and consider an alternative app only if it supports that format and is available for your Chromebook.
#1 Best Overall
- Intel Celeron N4120: 4 Cores & Threads, 1.1GHz Base Clock, Up to 2.6GHz Boost Clock, 4MB Cache, Intel UHD Graphics 600. The perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value helps your device handle multitasking smoothly and reliably with four processing cores to divide up the work.
When an Android archive app may help
A third-party Android app is a conditional alternative, not a requirement for basic ZIP use. Before choosing one, verify both that your Chromebook can install Android apps and that the specific app is available for your device.
- Check Google Play availability: Google Play is offered on some, not all, Chromebooks. Some Android apps also do not work on certain Chromebook models.
- Check device compatibility: The Chromium Project says app availability depends on the device. Unless a device is otherwise specified, models launched in or after 2019 support Android apps; older supported models are listed individually in its device compatibility information.
- Check management restrictions: A school or workplace administrator may prevent Play Store installation. Google explains these limits in its Android apps on Chromebook help.
If the Play Store is available, search for the app there and confirm it can be installed on your Chromebook before relying on it. Since archive apps can differ in supported formats, extraction and creation features, password handling, and file privacy, check those details in the app’s listing or documentation rather than assuming they are supported.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FOR HOME, WORK, & SCHOOL – With an Intel processor, 14-inch display, custom-tuned stereo speakers, and long battery life, this Chromebook laptop lets you knock out any assignment or binge-watch your favorite shows..Voltage:5.0 volts
- HD DISPLAY, PORTABLE DESIGN – See every bit of detail on this micro-edge, anti-glare, 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (1); easily take this thin and lightweight laptop PC from room to room, on trips, or in a backpack.
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Reliably tackle all your assignments at once with the quad-core, Intel Celeron N4120—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (2).
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (3) (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy a boost to your system’s performance with 4 GB of RAM while saving more of your favorite memories with 64 GB of reliable flash-based eMMC storage (5).
Rank #4
- THE BETTER WAY TO LAPTOP – Imagine a Chromebook that’s as flexible as your day: thin and lightweight with built-in Google apps and stress-free security.
- TAKE HITS KEEP MOVING – Sleek, light, and built to last- the Chromebook 2-in-1 is just 0.69” thick and 3.3lbs. Enjoy long-lasting battery life, fast charging, and military-grade durability for nonstop productivity wherever life takes you.
- PERFORMANCE THAT MATCHES YOUR HUSTLE – Fuel your ideas with an Intel Core processor and 128GB storage. Boot up in under 10 seconds to start the day powerfully efficient.
- FLEX YOUR CREATIVITY ANYWHERE, ANYTIME – Create, work, or unwind your way with a versatile 2-in-1 design. Flip easily between laptop, tent, and tablet modes with a responsive touchscreen built for flexibility.
- BRILLIANT VIEWS AND IMMERSIVE AUDIO – See, hear, and create with awesome clarity. The WUXGA display brings rich detail to your work and play, while audio tuned by Waves MaxxAudio provides immersive, balanced sound.
Rank #3
- Intel Processor Up to 2.80GHz, 4GB DDR4, 128GB Storage
- 15" FHD IPS Display, Intel UHD Graphics
- 1x USB Type C, 1 x USB Type A, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack, HDMI
- Fast WiFi and Bluetooth, Integrated Webcam
- Chrome OS, AC Charger Included, Pastel Silver
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
Which option should you choose?
| Your need | Best starting point | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Open or extract an ordinary ZIP | ChromeOS Files | Google documents browsing ZIP contents and using Extract all. |
| Create a ZIP | ChromeOS Files | Select files or a folder, right-click and choose Zip. |
| Open a RAR or another archive the built-in workflow does not handle | Check an Android archive app, if available | Google lists RAR as a supported compressed file type, but the cited detailed workflow covers ZIP. Confirm the app’s format support and Chromebook compatibility first. |
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