How To Download Winrar On Mac & Open RAR Files. Need to open RAR files on your Mac? Here’s the 2025 guide on how to download WinRAR for Mac and the best alternatives to extract RAR files easily and safely.
You just downloaded a file — maybe it’s a mod, an old archive, or a large folder from a friend — only to find it ends in .rar. You double-click it… and nothing happens. If you’re on macOS, this is a frustratingly common experience.
Unlike Windows, macOS doesn’t support RAR files out of the box, and unfortunately, WinRAR doesn’t have a full graphical version for Mac. So what do you do?
Don’t worry. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — how to install WinRAR on Mac (CLI version), the best GUI alternatives, and how to open RAR files easily in 2025.
Whether you’re tech-savvy or just looking for a simple click-and-go solution, there’s a method here for you.
Contents Covered Below
🧐 What is a RAR File Anyway?
A RAR file (short for Roshal Archive) is a compressed file format developed by Eugene Roshal. Like ZIP files, it bundles multiple files into one smaller package for easier storage and sharing.
🔗 Learn more: RAR File Format on Wikipedia
The problem? Unlike ZIP files, macOS doesn’t natively support RAR — so you’ll need a third-party tool to extract them.
💡 Can You Get WinRAR on Mac?
Yes… but with a catch.
WinRAR — the software developed by RARLAB — is primarily built for Windows. While they do offer a command-line (CLI) version for Mac, there’s no official graphical user interface (GUI) for macOS as of 2025.
So if you’re comfortable using the Terminal, you can install WinRAR. But for most users, it’s easier to use a Mac-friendly app like The Unarchiver or Keka.
Let’s cover both paths — CLI and GUI — so you can choose the one that suits you best.
🛠️ Method 1: How to Download WinRAR for Mac (Command Line Version)
If you prefer using the Terminal (or don’t mind copying a few commands), here’s how to install the official RAR tools from RARLAB.
Step-by-Step: Installing WinRAR via Terminal
- Download the latest RAR package for macOS
Visit the official site:
🔗 RARLAB Official Download Page
Scroll down to “Command line RAR for macOS” and download the.tar.gzfile. - Extract the archive
Double-click the downloaded file to extract, or run:tar -xzvf rarosx-*.tar.gz - Move the binaries to a usable location
You can move the files to/usr/local/binto use them globally:sudo mv rar unrar /usr/local/bin/ - Test the installation
In Terminal, type:unrarYou should see a list of commands for usingunrar. - Extract a RAR file
To extract:unrar x /path/to/your/file.rar
🎉 Done! You’ve successfully installed the official WinRAR command-line version for Mac.
🖱️ Method 2: Easiest Way to Open RAR Files on Mac (No Terminal Needed)
Not everyone loves Terminal — and that’s okay. For most users, the better option is a graphical app that handles RAR files with a click.
Here are the top tools in 2025 to open RAR files on macOS.
🧰 1. The Unarchiver (Free, Lightweight & Trusted)
The Unarchiver is a free and incredibly popular utility on macOS. It supports RAR, ZIP, 7z, Tar, and dozens of other formats.
- Download: The Unarchiver on Mac App Store
- How to Use:
- Install it from the App Store.
- Open the app once to configure settings.
- Right-click any
.rarfile and choose Open With → The Unarchiver. - It will extract files to the same folder.
✔️ Pros:
- Super easy to use
- No setup required
- Completely free
🧲 2. Keka (Powerful, Open-Source Alternative)
Keka is a modern archiver for macOS, highly customizable and supports creating and extracting RAR, 7z, ZIP, and other archive formats.
- Download: Keka.io
- Available on: Mac App Store (or via direct DMG)
- How to Use:
- Drag your RAR file onto the Keka icon or open it via the app.
💵 Price: Free on website, small fee on App Store to support development.
🗜️ 3. BetterZip (Advanced Tool for Power Users)
If you want to preview, edit, and manage archive contents without extracting them, BetterZip is the tool for you.
- Website: MacItBetter.com
- Ideal for developers or those managing large archives.
🧪 Comparison Table: Best RAR Tools for Mac (2025)
| Tool | Type | Free | Supports RAR | GUI | Power Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WinRAR (CLI) | Command Line | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | 🟡 |
| The Unarchiver | GUI | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | 🔴 |
| Keka | GUI | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | 🟡 |
| BetterZip | GUI (Pro) | ❌ (Trial) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can macOS open RAR files natively?
No. macOS only supports ZIP files natively. You’ll need third-party software for RAR.
Is The Unarchiver safe to use?
Yes. It’s been a trusted Mac app for years, with regular updates and a strong user base.
Can I create RAR files on Mac?
Only with the official WinRAR CLI tool. GUI apps like Keka can extract RARs but not create them due to licensing restrictions.
Is using WinRAR via Terminal hard?
It’s not too difficult if you’re comfortable copying commands. But for most users, a GUI app is much easier.
🔐 Tips for Handling RAR Files on Mac Safely
- Be cautious of password-protected or unknown RAR files. They may contain malware.
- Always scan files using a reputable antivirus like Malwarebytes for Mac.
- Use Keka or The Unarchiver for the safest, easiest experience.
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✅ Conclusion: Choose What Works Best for You
Opening RAR files on Mac doesn’t have to be a tech headache. Whether you prefer a simple drag-and-drop interface or don’t mind running a few Terminal commands, there’s a solution that fits your workflow.
🧭 Quick Recap:
- For simple use: Go with The Unarchiver — it’s free and beginner-friendly.
- For more control: Try Keka or BetterZip.
- For command-line lovers: Install WinRAR CLI from RARLAB.
Got a tricky RAR file or a question about extracting archives on macOS? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to help out!