Convert RAR to ZI
How to convert RAR archives to ZI files using top software and online tools for easy file sharing.
Convert RAR files online
We don’t have a dedicated online converter for RAR to ZI yet, but you can convert RAR files online to these formats:
How to convert rar to zi file
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Understanding RAR and ZI file formats
RAR is a proprietary archive file format that supports data compression, error recovery, and file spanning. It is commonly used to compress and bundle multiple files into a single, smaller package for easier storage or transfer. ZI files, on the other hand, are essentially ZIP archives with a different file extension. The ZI extension is sometimes used to bypass email filters or for specific software requirements, but the underlying format is the same as ZIP.
Why convert RAR to ZI?
Converting a RAR file to a ZI file is typically done to make the archive more accessible, as ZIP (and thus ZI) files are supported by a wider range of operating systems and applications. Additionally, some platforms or email services may block RAR files but allow ZI or ZIP files.
How to convert RAR to ZI
Since ZI is just a renamed ZIP file, the conversion process involves two main steps: extracting the contents of the RAR archive and then compressing them into a ZIP archive, which you then rename with a .zi extension.
Recommended software for conversion
WinRAR and 7-Zip are two of the best tools for this process:
- WinRAR (Windows):
- Open the RAR file in WinRAR.
- Extract the contents to a folder.
- Select the extracted files, then go to File → Add to archive....
- Choose ZIP as the archive format.
- Save the archive, then rename the resulting .zip file to .zi.
- 7-Zip (Windows, free):
- Right-click the RAR file and select 7-Zip → Extract Here.
- Select the extracted files, right-click, and choose 7-Zip → Add to archive....
- Set the archive format to zip and create the archive.
- Rename the .zip file to .zi.
For Mac users, The Unarchiver (for extraction) and Archive Utility (for compression) can be used, followed by renaming the file extension.
Online converters
Several online services like CloudConvert and Zamzar can convert RAR to ZIP. After downloading the ZIP file, simply rename it to have a .zi extension.
Important notes
- Changing the extension from .zip to .zi does not alter the file's internal structure.
- Ensure the recipient knows to open the .zi file as a ZIP archive.
- Always scan files for malware after downloading from online converters.
Note: This rar to zi conversion record is incomplete, must be verified, and may contain inaccuracies. Please vote below whether you found this information helpful or not.
RAR vs ZI: format comparison
How the RAR and ZI formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.
| Property | .RAR Roshal Archive | .ZI ZIP archive |
|---|---|---|
| Open standard | Partly open | Partly open |
| Compression | Both | Both |
| Typical file size | Small | Small |
| Opens in a web browser | No | No |
| Further editing | Not directly editable | Limited |
| Metadata support | Basic | Basic |
| Plain-text readable | No | No |
| Best used for | Long-term archiving | Long-term archiving |
| Introduced | 1993 | 1989 |
| Developer | WinRAR GmbH / Alexander Roshal | PKWARE |
| MIME type | application/vnd.rar | application/zip |