Creating ZIP files saves space on Mac, decreases upload time, and lets you send large files via email with a breeze. If you use one of the latest Macs, you don’t need to rely on third-party solutions to create a ZIP file on Mac. The functionality is built right into the system. Whether you want to compress and organize a bunch of vacation photos or important files, simply follow the steps below to complete the job in no time.
The trick below works on most macOS versions, including the latest macOS Sonoma .
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How to create a ZIP file on a Mac
When you want to create a ZIP file, you can either do it to an individual file or a folder containing multiple files. Either way, the process is the same.
- Launch the built-in Finder app.
- Navigate to the file or folder you want to compress.
- You can use a mouse or trackpad to draw a box around the files you want to zip. You can also hold the Command button and select multiple files and folders. Right-click with your mouse or tap with two fingers on your trackpad on the file/folder.
- Click on Compress.
- That’s all! Your file/folder will then turn into a ZIP file. The time it takes for the zipping process to conclude depends on your Mac CPU and the size of the file/folder you’re compressing.
Your existing files remain intact. The system creates a ZIP file with Archive name. Right-click on it and select rename to enter the relevant name of your choice.
How to unzip an archive on macOS
Conversely, to unzip a ZIP file, just navigate to its location in the Finder app and double-click on it. This will extract its contents on the spot. Similarly, though, the time it takes for the unzipping process to conclude also depends on the size of the archive.
Alternatively, you can right-click on a ZIP file, expand Open Withand select Archive Utility to unzip it.
Why zipping files matters
As you can see, creating a ZIP file on a Mac isn’t rocket science. Just locate what you want to compress, then you’re on the way there! Zipping can come in handy when you’re sharing a large amount of files and folders with someone. You can turn them all into a single ZIP file, and the person will then unzip and view them in their original states. If your disk is getting full, it’s also an effective way to shrink the size of certain documents until you need to extract them again. If you are still running low on storage, check other ways to free up space on Mac.