PeaZip: When You Want More Than Just “Extract Here”
What Is PeaZip?
PeaZip is a free and open-source file archiver for Windows and Linux. It’s not as widely known as 7-Zip or WinRAR, but it’s been around for years — and it quietly does its job, with some neat tricks on the side.
It supports pretty much every format you’d expect: ZIP, 7Z, TAR, RAR, and even some obscure ones. But where it gets interesting is its interface and toolset. It gives you full control over compression settings, encryption, hashing, batch file processing, even scripting. It’s a power tool for people who want more than just “extract here.”
What It Does (And Why It’s Useful)
PeaZip is built on top of the 7-Zip backend but adds a friendlier interface, more flexibility, and a lot of built-in extras. You can create multi-volume archives, schedule backup tasks, create self-extracting files, and securely delete files — all from the same interface.
It also includes support for Pea format — its own container with flexible compression/encryption options — though most users just stick with ZIP or 7Z.
And unlike some commercial tools, PeaZip doesn’t nag you about licenses or upgrades.
Core Features
| Feature | What You Can Do With It |
| Format Support | Extract or create over 200 archive types |
| Strong Encryption | AES-256 support for encrypted archives |
| Archive Conversion | Convert between formats (e.g., RAR to 7Z) |
| File Split/Join | Split files into chunks and reassemble |
| Secure Deletion | Wipe files using multiple overwrite passes |
| Custom Scripts | Run CLI-based jobs with PeaZip as a front end |
| Batch Processing | Apply actions to large numbers of files at once |
Installation and Use
1. Download PeaZip
Head to https://peazip.github.io and pick the Windows or Linux version. Portable builds are available too.
2. Install or unzip
Standard installer or no-install portable version — your choice.
3. Use the file explorer
The interface mimics a dual-pane file manager. Drag and drop files in, right-click to compress or extract.
4. Customize actions
Create presets, define output folders, choose encryption and compression level.
Best Use Cases
– Power users who want full control over archive behavior
– IT staff who need automation or custom scripting
– Anyone dealing with legacy or rare archive formats
– Replacing WinRAR without dealing with “trial expired” popups
– Portable use on machines where installing software is restricted
How It Compares
| Tool | Known For | PeaZip’s Strength |
| 7-Zip | Lightweight, solid CLI | PeaZip has better UI and more options |
| WinRAR | Ubiquitous, shareware | PeaZip is free and open source |
| Bandizip | Modern UI, good format support | PeaZip offers better scripting/power use |
| Windows Explorer | Basic ZIP support | PeaZip handles 7Z, TAR, RAR, encryption |
Final Word
If you’re just unzipping the occasional email attachment, PeaZip might be overkill. But if you archive, script, batch process, or manage files professionally — it’s one of the best tools you’re probably not using yet.
