How to Unzip Files on Windows 10 [.zip, .rar, .7z & More]

Have you ever downloaded a compressed file—like a .zip, .rar, or .7z—and didn’t know how to open it on Windows 10? While Windows 10 has built-in support for .zip files, it doesn’t natively handle other popular archive formats such as .rar and .7z. This can leave many users stuck when trying to access important files. Don’t worry—this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to unzip files on Windows 10 easily and efficiently. You’ll learn how to use Windows’ built-in tools as well as trusted third-party software to open a variety of archive types. Plus, we’ll cover essential tips on what to do if your archive files are corrupted or accidentally deleted, including reliable recovery options. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, this guide has everything you need to manage compressed files hassle-free on Windows 10.

What Are Compressed Files?

Compressed files (also called archives) reduce file sizes and combine multiple files into one — great for transferring large data sets. Common formats include:

• .zip – Supported natively by Windows.
• .rar – Requires third-party tools.
• .7z – Created with 7-Zip; highly compressed but not natively supported.

To open anything beyond .zip, you’ll need the right tools.

Best Tools to Unzip Files on Windows 10

1. Windows 10 Built-in ZIP Extractor

Windows 10 comes with built-in support for .zip files, allowing you to extract files without installing additional software.

Best for: Beginners handling simple .zip files.

Pros & Cons:

• ✅ Built-in functionality — no need to install anything.
• ✅ Simple to use: right-click a .zip file and choose “Extract All”.
• ✅ Safe and stable — perfect for basic file extractions.
• ❌ Only supports .zip format (no support for .7z, .rar, etc.).
• ❌ No option to open password-protected archives.
• ❌ Cannot repair damaged or incomplete archives.

How to use:

1. Locate the .zip file in File Explorer.
2. Right-click the file and select Extract All… from the menu.
3. Choose the destination folder where you want the files extracted.
4. Click Extract to start the process.

2. 7-Zip (Free, Open Source)

7-Zip is a powerful file archiver with high compression ratios. It’s one of the most trusted open-source tools for opening .7z, .zip, .rar, .tar, and other archive formats.

Best for: Users looking for a robust and free desktop tool that works beyond .zip files.

Pros & Cons:

• ✅ Completely free and open-source.
• ✅ Supports a wide range of formats: .7z, .zip, .rar, .xz, .gzip, .tar, and more.
• ✅ Can extract password-protected files (if the password is known).
• ✅ Fast and lightweight (under 5MB).
• ❌ Interface is basic and outdated.
• ❌ Doesn’t support repairing corrupted files.
• ❌ No native support for MacOS.

How to use:

1. Download and install 7-Zip from 7-zip.org.
2. Right-click your archive file (.7z, .rar, .zip, etc.).
3. Hover over 7-Zip in the context menu.
4. Select Extract Here to unzip in the current folder or Extract to “FolderName” to create a new folder.
5. Wait for extraction to finish, then access your files.

Note: If 7-Zip won’t open your .7z files, check out our guide on How to Open 7z Files When 7-Zip Won’t Work for alternative solutions.

3. WinRAR (Free Trial, Paid License)

WinRAR is a popular compression and decompression tool that excels with .rar and multi-volume archives. It’s often more reliable than 7-Zip when dealing with broken or complex archive structures.

Best for: Intermediate to advanced users needing more advanced archive management and repair tools.

Pros & Cons:

• ✅ Can open .rar, .zip, .7z, and many other formats.
• ✅ Offers an integrated Repair Archive feature — helpful for corrupted files.
• ✅ Supports encrypted, multi-part, and self-extracting archives.
• ✅ Frequently updated with new features.
• ❌ Paid software (after a 40-day free trial, though it remains usable with nags).
• ❌ Cannot create .7z files (only open them).
• ❌ Slightly heavier footprint compared to 7-Zip.

How to use:

1. Download and install WinRAR from rarlab.com.
2. Right-click the archive (.rar, .7z, .zip, etc.) you want to unzip.
3. Select Extract files…, Extract Here, or Extract to FolderName/ depending on your preference.
4. If the file is damaged, open WinRAR, go to Tools > Repair Archive to attempt repair.
5. After extraction, check your files in the destination folder.

What to Do If the Archive Is Corrupted or Missing

Sometimes, the issue isn’t your extraction tool — it’s the file itself.

Try This:
Open in WinRAR and click Tools > Repair Archive

Re-download from the original source

Use a ZIP password recovery tool if applicable 🔗 Corrupted ZIP File Repair Online: 4 Best Tools

If the file has been deleted or is missing entirely, use a file recovery tool like WinfrGUI to recover lost archives.

4. PeaZip (Free, Open Source)

PeaZip is a modern-looking file archiver and extractor that supports over 180 archive formats, including .7z, .rar, .zip, .tar, and .iso. It’s open-source and privacy-friendly.

Best for: Power users who value flexibility, format support, and open-source tools.

Pros & Cons:

• ✅ Supports rare formats and encrypted archives.
• ✅ Available as installable or portable version.
• ✅ Can extract partially damaged archives.
• ✅ Offers checksum, secure delete, and file splitting options.
• ❌ Interface can be overwhelming for first-time users.
• ❌ May require extra steps for non-default settings.
• ❌ Extraction speed slightly slower than 7-Zip.

How to use:

1. Download PeaZip from peazip.github.io.
2. Install and launch PeaZip.
3. Use PeaZip’s file manager to navigate to your archive file.
4. Select the archive and click Extract on the toolbar.
5. Choose your extraction destination folder and confirm.
6. Access your unzipped files once the process completes.

5. Online Archive Extractors (No Installation Required)

Web-based extraction tools like Archive Extractor Online are great for users who want quick results without installing any software.

Best for: Casual users needing a quick solution on shared or restricted devices.

Pros & Cons:

• ✅ Works directly in your browser—just upload the archive and extract.
• ✅ Supports .zip, .rar, .7z, and more.
• ✅ No installation or admin privileges needed.
• ✅ Compatible with any OS (Windows, macOS, ChromeOS).
• ❌ Not suitable for confidential or large files due to upload limits.
• ❌ File size cap (usually 100–200MB).
• ❌ Dependent on internet speed and stability.

How to use:

1. Pick a trusted site: Examples include extract.me, archiveextractor.com, or unzip-online.com.
2. Click Choose file or drag your file onto the page. Most sites support files up to 200-300 MB.
3. The tool will automatically unzip your archive—this can take seconds to minutes depending on size.
4. Download individual files or the entire extracted folder as a new .zip file.

Note: If your archive is password protected, check out this guide on Online Zip File Password Recovery for easy unlocking methods.

6. Mobile Archive Apps (Android & iOS)

If you’ve received a .zip, .rar, or .7z file on your phone, there are mobile apps that can help you extract those files directly from your device.

Best for: Users who need quick archive access on their mobile devices.

📱 On Android: ZArchiver

• ✅ Free and easy to use.
• ✅ Supports extraction and compression for multiple formats.
• ✅ Access files stored locally or in cloud storage.
• ❌ Ads or in-app purchases in some apps.
• ❌ Limited power with corrupted or encrypted files.
• ❌ Less control compared to desktop tools.

How to use:

1. Install ZArchiver from Google Play Store.
2. Open ZArchiver and browse to your archive file.
3. Tap the file, then select Extract here or Extract to… to specify a location.
4. Wait for extraction, then open your files in the selected folder.

📱 On iOS: iZip / Documents by Readdle

• ✅ Free apps available on the App Store.
• ✅ Preview and extract .zip, .rar, and .7z files.
• ✅ Integrates with iCloud, Dropbox, and Google Drive.
• ❌ Ads or in-app purchases in some apps.
• ❌ Limited power with corrupted or encrypted files.
• ❌ Less control compared to desktop tools.

How to use:

1. Download iZip or Documents by Readdle from the App Store.
2. Open the app and navigate to your archive via Files app or cloud storage.
3. Tap the archive to preview or extract.
4. Manage extracted files via the app interface.

Final Thoughts

Opening .7z files can sometimes be tricky, especially when your go-to tool like 7-Zip fails to work. Fortunately, there are plenty of reliable alternatives and solutions—from using versatile software like WinRAR and PeaZip to convenient online extractors. Remember, if your archive is corrupted or missing, tools like WinRAR’s repair feature and recovery software such as WinfrGUI can help you get your files back.

By following the methods outlined here, you’ll be well-equipped to handle almost any situation involving .7z and other compressed files on Windows 10. Whether you’re a casual user or need advanced recovery options, there’s a solution that fits your needs—making file extraction hassle-free and efficient.

Also Read👉How to Open a Zip File on Windows: Free & Quick Methods