How to Set Default File Type Program on Mac
Setting a default file type program on your Mac can greatly enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. By associating specific file types with their respective applications, you can open files with a single click, saving you time and effort. In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the process of setting default file type programs on your Mac, covering various methods and scenarios.
Using the Finder
The Finder is the default file manager on your Mac, and it provides a straightforward way to set default file type programs. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Finder and navigate to the file you want to set a default program for.
- Right-click on the file and select “Get Info” from the context menu.
- In the Info window, click on the “Open with” dropdown menu.
- Select the desired application from the list of available programs.
- Click “Change All” if you want to set this application as the default for all files of this type.
- Close the Info window.
This method is useful for setting default programs for individual files or for a specific file type. However, it may not be practical if you have many files to change or if you want to set default programs for all files of a particular type across your entire Mac.
Using the Terminal
The Terminal is a powerful command-line tool that allows you to set default file type programs for your entire Mac. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Terminal application, which is located in the /Applications/Utilities/ folder.
- Enter the following command, replacing “com.example.app” with the bundle identifier of the application you want to set as the default for the file type:
- sudo defaults write com.apple.LaunchServices LSHandlerRank -array-add { “LSHandlerRankDefault” “com.example.app” }
- Press Enter and enter your administrator password when prompted.
- Close the Terminal.
This method is useful for setting default programs for all files of a particular type across your entire Mac. However, it requires some technical knowledge and may not be suitable for all users.
Using a Third-Party Application
There are several third-party applications available that can help you set default file type programs on your Mac. Some popular options include:
- DefaultApp: This free application allows you to set default file type programs for individual files or for all files of a particular type.
- File Association Changer: This paid application provides a user-friendly interface for setting default file type programs and offers additional features, such as batch processing.
- FilePicker: This free application allows you to set default file type programs and offers a convenient way to open files with a single click.
These applications can save you time and effort, especially if you have many files to change or if you want to set default programs for all files of a particular type across your entire Mac.
Considerations and Best Practices
When setting default file type programs on your Mac, consider the following tips:
- Choose the right application: Make sure the application you select is compatible with the file type and meets your needs.
- Test the association: After setting a default program, test it to ensure that it opens the file correctly.
- Backup your files: Before making any changes, it’s always a good idea to backup your files to prevent data loss.
- Use the appropriate method: Choose the method that best suits your needs and technical expertise.
By following these tips and using the methods outlined in this guide, you can easily set default file type programs on your Mac and improve your overall productivity.
Table: Comparison of Methods
| Method | Use Case | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finder | Individual files or specific file types | Easy to use, no
|
