How to Extract Files from a RAR Archive on macOS
RAR archives are common for large file downloads, game mods, and multi-part archives. Unlike ZIP, macOS cannot open RAR files natively — you need a third-party tool like Keka or MacPacker to extract them.
The default way to open RAR files on macOS
Tool: Keka or unrar (third-party)
$ unrar x archive.rarSteps
- Install unrar via Homebrew: brew install unrar
- Open Terminal and navigate to the folder containing the .rar file.
- Run: unrar x archive.rar
- Alternatively, install Keka from the App Store and double-click the .rar file.
Extract individual files from a RAR archive
The default macOS tools extract everything — there's no way to pick individual files. MacPacker lets you browse RAR archive contents, preview files, and extract only what you need — without unpacking the entire archive.
A better way: open RAR files with MacPacker
MacPacker is a free, open-source macOS archive manager that supports RAR and 30+ other formats. Unlike the default tools, MacPacker lets you:
- Browse archive contents like a folder
- Preview files with Quick Look without extracting
- Extract individual files via drag and drop
- Navigate nested archives (archives within archives)
- Enjoy a native SwiftUI interface that feels right at home on macOS
Get MacPacker
v0.15.1 · macOS 14+$ brew install --cask macpackerApp Store updates may lag a few days behind direct downloads due to Apple review.
Frequently asked questions
How do I open a RAR file on Mac?
macOS cannot open RAR files natively. Install a free tool like MacPacker or Keka. With MacPacker, simply open the .rar file to browse its contents and extract what you need.
Is there a free RAR extractor for Mac?
Yes. MacPacker is a free, open-source archive manager that supports RAR files. You can also use Keka (free from the developer's site) or install unrar via Homebrew.
Can I extract a single file from a RAR archive on Mac?
With MacPacker, yes — open the .rar file, browse the contents, and drag out only the files you need. With the command line, use: unrar e archive.rar path/to/file
Related formats
ZIP is the most widely used archive format on macOS. It supports lossless compression and is natively handled by Finder and Archive Utility.
7z is an open-source archive format with excellent compression. macOS has no built-in 7z support.
TAR (tape archive) bundles files without compression. Often combined with GZ, BZ2, or XZ for compressed archives. Natively supported via Terminal on macOS.