How to Open RAR Files on Mac OS

RAR files are commonly used for packing multiple files into one, making them easier to send and receive in smaller file sizes. However, unlike ZIP files, RAR files cannot be opened directly on a Mac computer without third-party software.

Method 1: Using The Unarchiver

To open RAR files on your Mac, you can use the free tool called The Unarchiver. Here's how:

* Click the Open With menu and select The Unarchiver.

* Right-click a RAR file on your Mac and select Get Info.

* To set The Unarchiver as the default RAR opener, right-click on a RAR file and choose 'The Unarchive' in the expanded options of Open With.

Once you've set The Unarchiver as the default program, you can simply double-click on a RAR file to extract it immediately into the same folder.

Method 2: Right-Clicking and Selecting The Unarchiver

Alternatively, you can right-click on a RAR file and select 'The Unarchive' in the expanded options of Open With. This will also open the RAR file with The Unarchiver and allow you to extract its contents.

Why Can't Mac Open RAR Files by Default?

RAR files are a proprietary archive format that requires patented decoders, which is why they're not supported by macOS by default. Additionally, RAR files don't have any built-in support for file size limitations, making them a popular choice for packing large files.

In conclusion, while Mac OS doesn't support RAR files by default, you can easily open and extract them using the free tool called The Unarchiver. By following these two easy methods, you'll be able to access the contents of your RAR files in no time.

How to open rar in macos