How to Open a Rar in Mac

Why macOS Needs Extra Help with RAR Files

Apple includes built-in support for ZIP files but not for RAR archives. RAR remains popular for large file sets and better compression ratios. Without an extractor, double-clicking a .rar file produces no result or an error. The methods below require no paid software and keep all processing local to your machine.

Before starting, make sure your Mac runs macOS Ventura or later for the smoothest experience. You will also need a stable internet connection for the initial download. Both approaches below work on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

How to Open a RAR in Mac with The Unarchiver

1. Install The Unarchiver from the Mac App Store

   Open the App Store on your Mac, search for “The Unarchiver”, and click Get. The app is free and developed by MacPaw. After installation finishes, launch it once from Applications or Spotlight so it registers with the system.

   

2. Set The Unarchiver as the default app for RAR files

   Right-click any .rar file in Finder, choose Get Info, then scroll to the Open with section. Select The Unarchiver from the dropdown menu and click Change All. This ensures future RAR files open automatically with one click.

3. Extract the contents of the RAR archive

   Double-click the RAR file. The Unarchiver creates a new folder with the same name and places the extracted files inside it. You can also right-click the RAR file and choose Open With → The Unarchiver for the same result. Large archives may take several seconds to finish.

   

How to Open a RAR in Mac Using Terminal

If you prefer not to install any apps, use the built-in Terminal with the Homebrew package manager. First install Homebrew by pasting the command from brew.sh into Terminal and following the prompts. Once Homebrew is ready, run brew install unrar. Navigate to the folder containing your RAR file with the cd command, then type unrar x filename.rar. The files extract into the current directory.

Common Issues and Quick Fixes

• Password-protected RAR files prompt for a password in The Unarchiver; enter it exactly as provided.
• If extraction fails, check that the download completed fully—re-download corrupted archives.
• Multi-part RAR files (.r00, .r01, etc.) must all sit in the same folder before extraction begins.
• Apple Silicon users should allow the app in System Settings → Privacy & Security after first launch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open RAR files without installing anything?

Only if you already have Homebrew and the unrar command-line tool installed. Otherwise a free app is required.

Does The Unarchiver work with RAR5 files?

Yes, the current version fully supports RAR5 archives as well as older RAR4 files.

Are there any built-in macOS tools for RAR?

No. Archive Utility only handles ZIP, and third-party apps remain necessary for RAR support.

Conclusion

Both The Unarchiver and the Terminal method let you open a RAR in Mac reliably. Choose the app route for the simplest daily workflow or the command line for a lightweight solution.