Icon of program: WinRAR

WinRAR for Mac

By WinrarFreeUser Rating

Key Details of WinRAR

  • An efficient archiving app
  • Last updated on July 18, 2024
  • There have been 6 updates
  • Virus scan status:

    Clean (it's extremely likely that this software program is clean)


Enlarged image for WinRAR
WinRAR 0/1

Editors' Review

Download.com staff
An efficient archiving app

WinRAR is a popular file compression and extraction tool known for its powerful performance and wide range of features. Although it has long been a staple for Windows users, WinRAR is also available for Mac, bringing its efficient archiving capabilities to Apple's platform. This review will provide a comprehensive overview for potential users by examining WinRAR's functions, ease of use, compatibility, and overall performance on macOS.

WinRAR for Mac supports various file formats, including RAR, ZIP, TAR, GZ, and more, providing versatility in handling different types of archives. Its main functionality revolves around compressing files to save space and extracting files from compressed archives. One of its standout features is the ability to create multi-volume archives, which is particularly useful for managing large files. WinRAR also offers strong encryption options, protecting your data with AES-256-bit encryption.

The user interface of WinRAR for Mac is simple and designed to facilitate easy navigation. While not as visually polished as some native macOS apps, it makes up for it with functionality. Users can drag and drop files into the WinRAR window for quick compression or extraction. Menus are logically organized, making finding and using the various features easy. Customization options are somewhat limited, but basic tools are easily accessible.

WinRAR for Mac is compatible with macOS X 10.6 and later, allowing it to run on a wide range of Mac systems. It performs efficiently, handling large archives without significant slowdowns. The software's compression algorithms are optimized to balance speed and reduce file size, making it an effective tool for personal and professional use.

WinRAR works on a trial software model, offering a 40-day trial period. After the trial period, users are encouraged to purchase a license for continued use. Still, the software remains functional with occasional purchase reminders. The licensing model is a one-time purchase, useful for users who prefer to avoid subscription fees. WinRAR can be downloaded directly from above.

Bottom Line

WinRAR for Mac is a reliable and efficient archiving tool that brings the powerful features of its Windows counterpart to macOS. Its support for multiple file formats, strong encryption, and straightforward interface make it valuable to any Mac user's toolkit. Despite its somewhat dated interface, WinRAR's performance and functionality shine through, making it a strong contender in the file compression software category.

What's new in version 7

  • Following bugs fixed:
    • Updating encrypted files in solid archives
    • Switching between folder view
    • Extracting files with the "-ep4" switch
    • Handling symlinks created on Unix systems
    • Displaying error messages correctly
    • Recognizing shortcut commands in self-extracting archives
    • Reconstructing volumes using the "rc" command


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