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Are you looking for a great tool to help you manage your files on Mac? 7-Zip is one of the most powerful open-source file archiving and compression tools, but it isn’t available for Mac.
In this article, you’ll discover the best alternatives for 7-Zip for Mac – programs that allow you to quickly compress and extract files without any hassle.
From command-line solutions to desktop programs, here are some of the best options available so that you can get the most out of your Mac!
But before we look at the alternatives, let us understand what 7-Zip really is.
What Is 7-Zip?
7-Zip is a free open-source file archiver utility program. It was originally created by Ukrainian freelance programmer Igor Pavlov and is now maintained by the 7-Zip project team. The program is designed to be used on Windows 11 and earlier, as well as Linux and macOS via the command line.
It creates archives with 7Z file extensions and offers a range of features including integration with Windows Shell, encryption capabilities, repairing damaged archives, password protection, and the ability to compress files into smaller sizes than other programs.
7-Zip is licensed under the GNU Lesser General Public License which allows for the free sharing and distribution of the software.
It provides users with an alternative to traditional compression tools, offering powerful compression algorithms that can be of great help!
The Six Best 7-Zip Alternatives For Mac
Below we have discussed some of the best 7-Zip alternatives for Mac including PeaZip, Keka, WinRAR, and more. Since 7-Zip is not available for Mac (you can still use 7-Zip on applications like Parallel Desktops for Mac), these Mac-compatible options can be a great help when it comes to effective file management, compression, and more.
1. WinRAR
1. | Pros | Cons |
| • WinRAR supports all major archive formats, such as RAR, ZIP, 7z, ISO, CAB, etc., meaning that it can extract any type of archive format you might encounter.
• It also supports Unicode for international characters like Japanese or Chinese names – helpful if you’re working with foreign languages. • With drag & drop capability and context menu integration (right-click), you can make archives from any folder on your computer very quickly and easily. • It offers encryption within archives to protect sensitive data after they have been compressed. |
• Its user interface appears outdated which users may find off-putting especially compared to other more modern file management tools on the market today.
• It can create only a few types of archives (even though they are the major ones). • The compression speed could be improved. |
The first and the best 7-Zip alternative for Mac is none but the popular WinRAR. WinRAR is an advanced file compression software, designed to create archives. It’s capable of compressing files or groups of files into a single archive with a much smaller size than the original file size.
The main benefits of using this product are the ability to increase disk space and reduce transmission time when sharing files over the network.
Who It’s Best For:
WinRAR is primarily a tool aimed at consumers rather than corporate businesses due to its individual license model, making it suitable for everyday professionals looking for an advanced archiving solution for personal tasks like saving storage space or compressing large files before sending them over email.
It can also be used for methods as attachments from home instead of from office environments where IT teams often have other more robust professional compression and backup programs in place already.
One user for WinRAR says, “I like Winrar because of the possibility of creating profiles.”
Another user for WinRAR mentions, “7-zip had some issues displaying all the files. It’s not the same with WinRAR.”
2. PeaZip
2. | Pros | Cons |
| • Supports all major operating systems (Windows, Linux, MacOS) • Compatible with over 150 different formats including 7z, ZIPX, TAR, GZIP, etc. • Easy to use with a drag-and-drop feature for quickly compressing large files or folders • High level of security features including 256BIT AES cypher for encrypting archives with passwords for extra protection • Offers optional advanced command line usage for those who want more control over their archives |
• Some technical knowledge is needed if you want access to all of its more advanced features.
• Complicated user interface could be overwhelming for beginners. |
PeaZip is one of the most popular and powerful file compression tools on the market. It offers a plethora of features from advanced encryption to powerful file management, as well as supports more archive formats than all other compression software in its class.
Who It’s Best For:
PeaZip is an ideal solution for people who need a powerful tool but don’t care about bells and whistles such as user interfaces or customer service.
The compelling features along with minimalistic UI make this an attractive choice for tech-savvy users who want advanced features without sacrificing ease of use.
Additionally, power users who require multiple compression algorithms would likely benefit from this program since it supports several formats.
It is also great for users who like to maintain privacy across their files. Utilizing strong encryption algorithms such as AES 256-bit or Twofish encryption, users can securely protect their confidential data without worry of attack or prying eyes. Additionally, the password rowing strength indicator helps ensure passwords are secure enough during configuration.
3. Keka
3. | Pros | Cons |
| • Easy User Interface & Design Makes Compression Simple Even Without Knowledge
• Cross-Platform Compatible Meaning You Can Transfer & Decompress Files With Ease • No Cost – Completely Free To Use Forever With No Unwanted Fees Or Subscriptions Required • Reputable Sentry Of High-Security AES 256 Encryption Keeping Your Data Safe • Wide Range Of File Formats Supported Making It Suitable For The Majority Of Requirements |
• Lack of Advanced Features – As mentioned before there are no extra features included in the program making it slightly limited in terms of flexibility & customization options.
• No Multi-Platform Support – Does not currently offer support beyond macOS and iOS |
Keka is a free and open-source macOS file archiver, developed first in September 2011. It works on macOS platforms and provides the user with the ability to create archives of both 7z and Zip formats.
Keka allows the user to open various files, including Rar, Tar, GZip, and BZip2, as well as extract them into other formats.
Additionally, it compresses archives using AES-256 encryption, keeping your important data safely backed up in a secure archive.
In addition to these standard compression functions, Keka also provides several other tools that make managing archived files easier than ever before: advanced volume management allows you to set sizes for individual items within an archive; folder hierarchy reconstruction (shutil) allows you to keep track of directories when unpacking; strong AES encryption keeps your confidential data secure, and more.
Who It’s Best For:
Keka is perfect if you’re looking for a streamlined file archiving experience within macOS devices only especially those running Yosemite OSX, Sierra High, Sierra Mojave, Catalina Big Sur operating systems but bear in mind there is no Windows version existing currently.
It’s best suited for professionals needing access to highly secured text documents, images, videos, music audio, etcetera via quick one-click action methods using GIG safety cipher algorithms. It is also helpful for people who often struggle with managing thousands of large data packages packers folders pieces of information.
4. WinZip
4. WinZip| Pros | Cons |
| • Highly compatible with different versions of macOS
• High degree of security • Easily customizable interface • Various productivity commands • Variety of online storage options |
• Possibility for malicious code injection when unzipping tainted ZIP files
• Advanced features require an upgrade – Additional features such as automatic backups come only with a paid version. |
Every PC user should be familiar with WinZip and learn how to use it to archive files and folders. WinZip is one of the leading programs for file compression, data encryption, and file sharing. In this review, we discuss the major features of WinZip and its pros & cons so you can decide if it’s the right software for you.
WinZip is among the most popular and long-standing archiving software for macOS PCs. It offers an array of powerful tools for file compression, encryption, etc. It supports a wide range of formats such as Zip, 7z, RAR, VHD (virtual hard drive), ISO (disc image file format), etc., also allowing users to open CD/DVD images directly from within WinZip as well as create their own CD/DVD discs or write them onto USB Flash Drives.
Who It’s Best For
Winzip has been created primarily keeping PC users in mind but it is equally suited to business enterprises that must manage huge chunks of data on regular basis.
It makes the same possible due to its robust archiving engine which allows them to encrypt and compress highly confidential data like organizational documents online using the cloud storage feature. This helps minimize the risk associated with physical theft or accidental loss.
Additionally, from small business owners to creative minds, anyone can leverage multiple tools offered by WinZip Pro including splitting larger archives into smaller parts which helps streamline resource management seamlessly away from manual extraction processes at times.
5. Commander One
5. | Pros | Cons |
| • Dual pane functionality
• Remote server connections • Cloud storage integration |
• Comes with expensive premium versions
• Can be confusing for beginners to navigate initially |
Commander One is a dual-pane file manager for Mac that gives you ultimate control over your files and folders.
Commander One’s UI epitomizes simplicity and quick access to commands. It organizes your file system in its two panes, allowing you to select items from either pane and transfer them into one of your other panes quickly with drag-and-drop actions.
You can even set up hotkeys according to your preferences so that you can immediately execute the action you want without having to manually switch between windows or use the mouse.
Glass mode comes with an eye-candy view of wallpapers giving unique look to the interface experience.
It also has Cloud storage integration. This feature allows users to seamlessly sync their data between their cloud accounts such as Dropbox, Box, etc.
Although this feature does consume some of your memory, considering the high speeds at which data syncs between the server & local machine, the trade-off is worth it in most cases.
Moreover, cloud documentation service also incorporates Apple’s iCloud support which lets you easily access documents stored online or attached linked emails directly from within Commander’s left pane ‐ plus, requiring only minimum configuration effort from the user’s end.
Who It’s Best For:
Commander One is best suited for seasoned Mac users who need strong control over files and folders on their systems. It’s also ideal for professionals whose workflows involve connecting with remote servers through secure protocols like FTP/SFTP/FTPS.
6. StuffIt
6. | Pros | Cons |
| • Ability to compress single or multiple files quickly
• Password protects select archives • Drag-and-drop feature available • Can compress multiple types of files including JPEGs, GIFs, and more • Supported by popular webmail services including Yahoo! Mail and Gmail |
• Not too many positive reviews
• More expensive than many others that offer similar features |
StuffIt is a powerful application designed to help users compress and share files quickly and easily. It is an excellent choice for compressing large files or sending multiple files in one package.
StuffIt comes with a host of features that allow users to manage their data with ease, including password protection, compression ratios, and file encryption. In addition, its intuitive user interface makes it easy to navigate the app.
One of the neutral reviews for StuffIt says, “It does the job, but everything seems to take twice as long as other unzippers. With too many windows, it lingers after the job is done…I’d rather use WinRAR if a built-in expander isn’t available.”
Who It’s Best For:
StuffIt is best suited for individual consumers or small businesses who need an effective way to compress large files or send multiple items in one compressed package. It is also great for those who want extra security through password protection.
The most impressive feature of StuffIt is its ability to compress single or multiple files quickly and easily. This saves users time since they won’t have to encrypt each file separately.
Users can also set up their own personal archives which give them the option of compressing audio, video, and image formats separately from all other documents within their archives.
In terms of security, StuffIt takes all necessary measures to ensure your data remains secure through password protection as well as secure deletion options when needed. Additionally, you can trust that StuffIt will reach your intended recipient since it’s supported by popular webmail services like Yahoo! Mail and Gmail.
How Did We Choose The Best 7-Zip Alternatives For Mac?
When it came to choosing the best 7-Zip alternatives, we didn’t just pick random file archivers or compressors. Instead, we choose the best alternatives based on certain parameters which have been discussed below:
Features Available
When ranking the best 7-Zip alternatives for Mac, the features offered by each alternative were an important factor. We looked at how well each program could compress and extract files, as well as what other features it provided.
For example, some programs offer encryption options to protect your data, while others provide advanced compression algorithms that can reduce file sizes even further.
We also considered whether the program was easy to use and had a good user interface.
Cost
Cost is an important metric when ranking the best 7-Zip alternatives for Mac because it can be a deciding factor in which program to choose. Many of the programs available are free, but some offer additional features that may require a paid subscription.
Knowing the cost of each program can help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews and testimonials were an important part of our ranking criteria because they provide insight into how well a program works in real-world scenarios.
Additionally, customer reviews can provide valuable feedback on any issues that may arise when using the program. This helps us determine which programs are reliable and offer the best value for money.
Furthermore, customer reviews can also help us identify any potential problems with the program before making a purchase decision.
Availability Of Data Encryption and Security Measure
Many of the programs available on our list offer encryption options that can protect your data from unauthorized access. This is especially important if you are dealing with sensitive information or need to store confidential files.
Additionally, some programs on our list also offer additional security measures such as two-factor authentication or password protection.
These features can help ensure that only authorized users have access to your data and can help prevent malicious attacks. It was, therefore, important for us to make sure that the program you choose offers these types of security measures so that your data remains safe and secure.
Cloud Storage and Access
Many of the programs on our list offer cloud storage options that allow you to store your files in the cloud and access them from any device with an internet connection. This can be especially useful if you need to share large files with other people or collaborate on projects remotely.
Additionally, some programs also offer advanced features such as file versioning and syncing, which can help ensure that everyone has access to the most up-to-date version of a file.
Final Word
Now that we have looked at some of the best alternatives of 7-Zip available for Mac, we hope you have more clarity on what program/application suits your requirements best.
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