Recommended Free Tools
On a Chromebook, open ZIP files with the built-in Files app: double-click a ZIP to browse it, or use Extract all to save its contents in a folder. Google lists RAR as a supported compressed format, but its Chromebook instructions do not give a specific RAR extraction procedure. For 7z—or if Files cannot handle a RAR archive—RARLAB’s RAR Android app is an option when your Chromebook supports Google Play and app installation is allowed.
Extract a ZIP file with the Chromebook Files app
- Open the Files app and find the ZIP archive. It may be in Downloads, Google Drive, or another location where you saved it.
- Double-click the ZIP file. It appears in the left pane, and you can double-click an item inside to open it. This lets you browse the archive; it does not necessarily save all its contents as ordinary files in a folder.
- To extract a group of zipped files into one folder, right-click the folder and select Extract all. Google documents this action for a group of zipped files; do not assume the same menu command applies to every archive type.
These ZIP steps follow Google’s Chromebook file instructions.
Open RAR files on a Chromebook
Google includes .rar in its list of compressed formats that work on Chromebooks, but its help page does not provide a RAR-specific extraction walkthrough. Try opening the file in Files and use an available open or extract action if it works. If Files cannot unpack it, try a compatible archive utility such as RARLAB’s RAR app.
Google’s format list is not a guarantee that every RAR archive will open. Encryption, damage, multipart archives, or compatibility with the particular app can prevent extraction.
#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.
Extract 7z files with an Android app
Google’s supported compressed-file list does not name 7z, so it does not establish a universal built-in 7z extraction workflow for ChromeOS. RARLAB’s RAR app on Google Play lists unpacking for 7z as well as RAR and ZIP, and its listing shows Chromebook compatibility. That makes it a practical option, not a guarantee that it will work on every Chromebook or account.
Check whether your Chromebook can install the app
- Open Settings and look for the Google Play Store setting. Follow Google’s instructions for installing and using Android apps if the setting is available.
- If the Play Store setting is absent, Google says the Chromebook does not work with Android apps. Older models have device-specific support; Chromium says devices launched in or after 2019 support Android apps unless otherwise specified, while older devices depend on individual rollout and compatibility. Check your model rather than relying on the year alone.
- If this is a school- or work-managed Chromebook, an administrator may block Play Store access or app downloads. Ask the administrator about permitted options.
- If Play Store access is available and allowed, install RARLAB’s RAR app, open the archive with it, and use its extraction controls.
Which method should you use?
| Archive | Built-in Files guidance | Alternative and conditions |
|---|---|---|
| ZIP | Google documents double-clicking to browse and Extract all for a group of zipped files. | Use the built-in workflow first. |
| RAR | Google lists RAR as a supported compressed format, but does not give a specific extraction procedure. | Try Files; if it cannot unpack the archive, RARLAB’s RAR app lists RAR support. Android app availability and administrator policy apply. |
| 7z | Google’s compressed-file list does not name 7z. | RARLAB’s RAR app lists 7z extraction. The Chromebook must support Google Play, and installation must be permitted. |
Troubleshoot common extraction problems
The ZIP opens, but the files are not in a regular folder
Opening a ZIP lets you browse its contents. To save a group of zipped files into one folder, use the documented Extract all action where it is available.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
There is no Play Store setting
Google says a Chromebook without the Play Store setting does not work with Android apps. For older devices, check model-specific compatibility using Chromium’s Android-app support list.
The Chromebook is managed
Schools and employers can restrict adding Android apps. Ask the administrator whether RARLAB’s app or another archive utility is allowed.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →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
The archive is on a USB drive or SD card
ChromeOS supports external storage, but the drive must use a supported filesystem. See Google’s file type and external-device guidance. When finished, safely eject removable storage from the Files app.
The app cannot extract the archive
Format support does not ensure that every individual archive can be unpacked. An encrypted or damaged file, a missing part of a multipart archive, or app compatibility can be the cause. Confirm you have the complete archive and the required password, if applicable, then try an allowed compatible utility.
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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
