If you are also wondering how to unzip files on Mac then this article lists various methods or techniques that you can try on your device and extract the data from compressed files with ease. 

The archive format is a convenient way to send and back up large files or groups of files. A Zip file is a type of file that is designed to compress and store multiple files within a single file. It is commonly used to reduce the size of large files and conveniently organize related files together. Zip is a widely used compression format for Mac that is particularly popular for emailing and sharing files online. When you receive or download a Zip file. You require a method to extract or unpack it in order to gain access to the files contained within.

In this guide, we will have a look at different methods to unzip different compressed files on Mac. You can try any of these solutions to get the compressed files in an uncompressed form.

Safe and Reliable Method to Unzip Files on Mac

In the coming sections of this tutorial, we will go through all the different techniques that will help you unzip ZIP or unzip RAR on Mac. All the solutions are quite simple to use and do not require any advanced knowledge to undergo them. So, have a look all the methods and then use any to unzip files on Mac.

Basic: Open ZIP Files on Mac

The process to open the files is easier and similar to that to unzip files on Mac ZIP files are a type of archive file format that allows you to compress multiple files into one. The same is true for folders as well. This compression makes it easier and more convenient to transfer the files. Archiving files/folders using this method ensures that no data is lost in the process. The ZIP format provides the ability to compress files at different rates, ensuring efficient storage.

Apart from the feature to unzip files on Mac, it also offers the option to protect files with a password, ensuring their security. Furthermore, ZIP allows users to include comments, providing a convenient way to add additional information or context to the compressed files. In order to view the files within the archive, it is necessary to extract the contents of the archive.

To access the contents of any .zip file, simply double-click it. Your PC will then display the concealed folders/files contained within. ZIP files are typically supported by most OS, such as Windows/macOS, without requiring any extra software. Mac users have the convenience of using Mac Archive Utility to unzip files on Mac. This utility can both compress and decompress.zip files. However, if you require extra features or the ability to extract formats such as RAR, ISO, 7Z, and more, you can consider using third-party applications.

Also Read: Best Free Winrar Alternative

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Method 1: Use a ZIP Extractor for Mac/Zip Reader

If you want centralized control over the compressed files, then using the best RAR file extractor for Mac is your best bet. The tool allows you to open and extract all kinds of compressed files and extensions. This includes ZIP and RAR files, apart from various others. Using an integrated tool for compressing and decompressing files offers a higher level of convenience.

However, Mac’s Archive utility, although user-friendly, has limited functionalities & does not support certain popular formats. It may help you unzip files on Mac but will lack on other fronts. In order to extract files from various archive formats, such as RAR, you will require a specialized unzip application designed for Mac OS. Fortunately, there are several third-party applications available for Mac that provide enhanced features for extracting and compressing files.

These tools have the ability to effortlessly manage various types of archives, including 7Zip, TBZ, ZIP, RAR, TGZ, and more. The software not only allows for decompression of files but also has the capability to pack folders\files into archives. Additionally, tools allow advanced search features. If you wish to safeguard an archive, you have the option to enhance its security by adding a password. These tools provide the capability to copy/move files within and between archives without the need to unpack them, apart from those to unzip files on Mac.

Additionally, they allow users to delete/add files directly within an archive. When you double-click on the archives, you will be able to preview this zipped file and its content. This feature is convenient because it allows you to view the contents of an archive without having to extract it.

How to Use Third-Party Tools to Unzip Files on Mac?

Using these tools, the process to extract the files will be quick and efficient. To successfully unzip RAR files on your Mac, just follow the straightforward steps provided below:

1. Please begin by downloading and launching the extractor and viewer.
2. Please find the specific archive file that you wish to access.
3. To access the contents of the archive, simply double-click on it. This action will open a window displaying a list of the compressed files contained within.
4. To extract the contents of the archive, please follow these steps: right-click on the archive file and then choose the option Extract file.
5. The user’s text is concise and does not provide any additional information. The tool will initiate the process of extracting compressed files in the ZIP format.

If you don’t want to use a third-party tool, then follow the next procedure to open ZIP on Mac.

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Method 2: Unzip RAR Files on Mac with Archive Utility

As previously stated, Archive Utility provides the convenience to unzip files on Mac with a simple double-click action. Additionally, you have the option to launch this file compressor specifically for Mac. This tool will provide you with a wider range of decompression options. To access the preferences for the Archive Utility, please follow the steps below:

1. Open the Archive Utility application.
2. First, locate and choose the Archive Utility application.
3. After that, proceed to access the Preferences settings.
4. Following that, a window will appear displaying several options. Use the options as required to do the necessary task.

If this method also does not work for you, try the next one to unzip RAR files on Mac.

Also Read: Best File Compression Software

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Method 3: Take the Help of a Finder

Lastly, the process to unzip files on Mac is relatively simple. To extract the contents of a Mac ZIP file, you can easily do so by double-clicking on the file either in Finder or on the desktop. This action will automatically extract the contents and place them in the parent folder. To open ZIP files using Finder, follow these steps:

1. To begin, open the Finder application.
2. Locate the specific ZIP archive that you wish to decompress.
3. Perform two rapid clicks on the archive file.
4. After completing the process, the compressed files will be extracted and stored in the designated Finder folder. When there are multiple files in the archive, the process of decompression will result in the creation of a folder. This folder will have the exact same name as the archive.

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Summing Up: How to Extract RAR Files on Mac/ZIP Files on Mac

So, this was all we had to share on how to unzip RAR on Mac. We hope that this tutorial was everything that you were looking for. Once you follow the instructions or methods provided in this guide, you will not face any problems in extracting the information. However, queries may surface.

If you have any questions related to how to unzip files on Mac, then ask the same in the comments below. Our team will get back to you with reliable replies. If you liked this guide, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest. Moreover, you can also subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and tech news.