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You can preview a ZIP’s filenames without unpacking it: open it in File Explorer on Windows, or list its contents with a command such as 7z l archive.zip or unzip -l archive.zip. On a Mac, don’t double-click a ZIP when you only want to inspect it—Finder expands it. A file listing shows what’s inside, but it does not prove the archive is intact.
Preview a ZIP in Windows File Explorer
Open the ZIP file in File Explorer to browse its folders and filenames without extracting the entire archive. To extract only one item, Microsoft’s “Zip and unzip files” guidance says: “To unzip a single file or folder, open the zipped folder, then drag the file or folder from the zipped folder to a new location.” Choose Extract All when you want to unpack everything.
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Windows 11 version 24H2 supports ZIP, RAR, 7z, and TAR in File Explorer, according to Microsoft. Its built-in archive support does not operate on encrypted archive files; use a compatible third-party application and the correct password instead. Whether filenames can be seen in an encrypted archive depends on its encryption settings and the tool being used.
List ZIP contents from a command line
A list command prints archive members without asking the tool to extract them. Replace archive.zip with the ZIP’s path or filename.
#1 Best Overall
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
Windows Command Prompt or PowerShell
Windows includes tar. Microsoft’s Windows tar documentation demonstrates listing a .tar.gz archive with tar -tf and includes ZIP among formats supported by the Windows build. For a ZIP, run:
tar -tf archive.zip
7-Zip on Windows
In a terminal where 7-Zip’s command-line executable is available, run:
Rank #2
- 2 in 1: USB C + USB 3.0, 32GB usb c flash drive has dual ports, usb 3.0 port is applied to all devices which have usb 3.0 interface and usb c port is widely used in all Android smartphones with OTG function
- High Speed USB 3.0: Read speed up to 90 MB/s, Write speed up to 30 MB/s, the speed of USB 3.0 interface is faster than USB 2.0, save time to wait, increases work productivity. Note: Speed will be limited if you use the USB key in the USB 2.0 interface
- Large Compatibility: The USB 3.0 Connector is compatible with USB 3.0 & USB 2.0 backward USB 1.1 devices, such as Laptop, Desktop, Car Audio, Tablet, TV, Speakers, Projector. USB-C port is compatible with all Android Smartphones
- Expand Storage: Good performance in storing, transferring and sharing digital data with families, friends, colleagues, customers. It can expand the capacity of smartphone, you can watch movies or share pictures when you go on vacation with your family
- Note: Make sure your smartphone is equipped with OTG function and need to open OTG function in Settings when you plug memory stick, then you can transfer easily data bewteen different devices
7z l archive.zip
The lowercase l lists the archive’s members. 7-Zip describes itself as free software that requires no registration or payment; see its FAQ.
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Finder’s documented action for a ZIP is to double-click it, which expands it into the same folder. To inspect without expanding, use the Info-ZIP command-line option:
Rank #3
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
unzip -l archive.zip
This command is documented in the Info-ZIP unzip manual, mirrored by Linux.org. It is a command-line option, not a Finder preview instruction.
Check whether the ZIP is intact
Seeing a list of filenames does not establish that every file can be read or extracted. 7-Zip notes that an archive may open and display its file list, then report a data or CRC error during extraction or testing; see its FAQ. If integrity matters, run a separate test rather than relying on the listing.
Rank #4
- 2-in-1 Dual Design: Features both USB-C and USB-A connectors, making it compatible with phones, tablets, MacBooks, PCs, and laptops-no adapter needed
- Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with USB A and USB C devices, ensuring reliable file transfers across smartphones, computers, and more
- Ample Storage Options: Available in 16GB/32GB/64GB/128GB providing plenty of space for photos, videos, music, and documents
- Portable & Lightweight: Compact and durable design for travel, school, or daily use-take your files anywhere
- Plug-and-Play Convenience: No software or drivers required; simply insert into USB-C or USB-A ports and start transferring files instantly
- 7-Zip: Use the archive’s Test command.
- Info-ZIP: Run
unzip -tq archive.zip. The Info-ZIP manual documents this test option.
Choose the method that matches your goal
- Browse and selectively extract in Windows: Open the ZIP in File Explorer, then drag out only the files or folders you need.
- See filenames in a terminal: Use
tar -tf archive.zipon Windows,7z l archive.zipwith 7-Zip, orunzip -l archive.zipon macOS where Info-ZIP is available. - Check for errors: Run a test command or use 7-Zip’s Test action; listing and testing answer different questions.
- Handle an encrypted archive: Check that your application supports its format and encryption, and have the password available. Windows 11 version 24H2’s built-in support does not operate on encrypted archives.
Protect sensitive files
Microsoft warns that encrypted files placed in a zipped folder are unencrypted when unzipped. If the files are sensitive, account for that change in protection when extracting or moving them; see Microsoft’s ZIP and unzip guidance.
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Best Value
- USB-C STORAGE ON THE GO: This sleek drive is supported by Samsung NAND flash and is incredibly compact to fit in the palm of your hand; Count on reliable performance and fast transfer speeds while staying compact
- PERFORMANCE WITH SPEED: No need to choose between performance and reliability; Experience a fast, powerful flash drive that transfers 4GB files in just 11 seconds with up to 400MB/s USB 3.2 Gen 1 read speeds and is backward compatible with USB 3.0/2.0
- MODERN MEETS ICONIC: The ultra-sleek USB-C drive looks as good as it performs; Featuring a reversible plug, the Type-C inserts into your devices seamlessly every time; Transfer large files with style and ease
- ALWAYS CONNECTED: USB-C is compatible across devices, including laptops, tablets, phones and cameras, with enough space for 63,730 photos or maximum 12 hours of 4K video; With up to 256GB of storage space, this pocket-sized thumb drive comes in handy wherever you go
- TOUGH & TRUSTED: Files stay secure, no matter the terrain; Samsung's flash memory technology makes the Type-C a trustworthy drive to store your valuable data; It's waterproof, shock-proof, magnet-proof, temperature-proof, and X-ray-proof body, plus it's backed by a 5-year limited warranty
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