Buzz
A RAR file (short for Roshal Archive Compressed) is one of the most popular compressed file formats, widely used for transferring and sharing large-sized data. Users use this compressed file to reduce file size, compress files and folders into a single RAR file with a smaller size for email transmission or sharing files through other methods. Unzipping RAR files on Windows is quite easy, but Macbook users may encounter difficulties when using this file type.
RAR and ZIP
On Windows, users can download WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract RAR files, both of which are high-speed extraction software. WinRAR is widely used on most machines, while 7-Zip also boasts a considerable user base.
Mac comes with built-in tools for extracting and opening ZIP files, but to extract and open RAR files, third-party software support is required.
Compared to ZIP files, RAR files feature powerful AES-128 encryption and higher compression ratios. For these reasons, many individuals and businesses tend to use RAR files more than other storage formats.
How to Open RAR Files on Macbook
Although macOS and Mac OS X by Apple come with built-in tools to open ZIP files, they do not include tools to open RAR files. Apple's Archive Utility only supports certain file formats like ZIP, TAR, and GZIP, and does not support RAR files.
To extract and open RAR files, you'll need the support of third-party applications or software. Of course, there are plenty of applications and utilities available to open RAR files on Macbook, one of which is The Unarchiver.
The Unarchiver
The Unarchiver is a free, lightweight, and easy-to-use decompression application that can extract various types of compressed files. It's also an open-source program, supporting formats like ZIP, RAR (including v5), 7-zip, Tar, Gzip, and Bzip2.
If you're trying to open some older formats, then Stuffit or DiskDoubler are the applications you need. These applications can even open ISO and BIN files and some Windows.EXE installers.
iOS Support
The Unarchiver also has an app called Archives on the iOS app store. This iOS app can open most compressed files just like The Unarchiver.
Using The Unarchiver to open RAR files on Macbook
Step 1: Download and Install The Unarchiver
You have 2 options. Either download the app through The Unarchiver's official website or download it from the Mac App Store. Typically, developers prefer distributing apps through the official website rather than the Mac App Store because Apple imposes more restrictions, requiring sandboxing and a minimum system requirement of Mac OS X 10.7.
For older Macbook users, you can download the app through The Unarchiver's official website.
Alternatively, you can download The Unarchiver for Macbook and install it here: Download The Unarchiver for Mac
Step 2: Open RAR file
After downloading and installing The Unarchiver, the next step is to use the application to open RAR files.
Simply drag and drop any RAR file into the Unarchiver window or right-click on the RAR file on your Macbook, select Open With =>The Unarchiver, or alternatively double-click on the RAR file.
The Unarchiver extracts the RAR file in the same directory. And you can use the extracted files just like any other files.
Unarchiver Not Working Properly?
If you recently updated to the latest operating system version on your Macbook and found that Unarchiver isn't working properly, try uninstalling the app and then downloading and reinstalling it.
Additionally, Firewall settings could also be causing Unarchiver to malfunction. The solution is to try reinstalling the app and allow Unarchiver access by permitting Firewall to receive connections.
Firewall: Allow Specific Applications
Step 1: Click on System Preferences =>Security (or Security & Privacy) =>Firewall.
Step 2: Click on the padlock icon in the bottom-left corner, then enter your username and admin password when prompted.
Step 3: Select Firewall Options.
Step 4: Click on the Add Application (+) button.
Step 5: In the Applications window, scroll down to find and select The Unarchiver, then click Add.
Step 6: Click on OK to close the menu.
Step 7: Click on the padlock icon to prevent any additional changes.
Step 8: Finally, close System Preferences.
To revoke permission for The Unarchiver, follow similar steps, but in step 4 select the Remove App (-) button.
Alternative Methods to Open RAR Files on Macbook
1. Use Stuffit Expander
Download and install Stuffit Expander. Stuffit Expander is a free RAR file decompression program that can open less commonly used and lesser-known compressed file formats, including KGB, 7Z, ARC, SIT, and SITZ.
Download and install Stuffit Expander here: Download Stuffit Expander for Mac
Step 1: Open StuffIt Expander.
Step 2: Drag and drop the RAR file into the StuffIt Expander application window.
Step 3: Choose the folder where you want to save the extracted files, then click Open.
2. Using RAR Expander
In addition to extracting RAR files, RAR Expander also works with Apple Scripts, in case your scripts involve multiple RAR files at once.
Download RAR Expander for Mac and install it here: Download RAR Expander for Mac
Here's how to use RAR Expander to open RAR files:
Step 1: Open Finder window, then select the RAR file you want to extract.
Step 2: Press and hold the Ctrl key while clicking on the file.
Step 3: Choose Open With =>RAR Expander.
Step 4: In the RAR Expander window, select the folder where you want to save the extracted file, then click Select at the bottom-right corner of the window to complete the process.
3. Using UnRarX
UnRarX is a free program for opening RAR files on Macbook. Additionally, this program can also repair damaged or missing compressed files.
Download UnRarX for Mac and install it here: Download UnRarX for Mac
Open RAR files using UnRarX:
Step 1: Open UnRarX from the Applications folder.
Step 2: To change the file save location, select from the dropdown menu next to Extract To.
Step 3: Drag and drop the RAR file into the application window.
Here are some ways to open RAR files on Macbook. Do you know any other methods to open RAR files on Macbook? Share your thoughts with Mytour.
