How to Change The Default Application on Mac

Mac / By / October 30, 2023

Changing the default application on your Mac can be a useful customization option that allows you to set your preferred applications to open specific file types. By default, Macs have pre-determined applications associated with different file types, but you may have your own preferences. Changing the default application can help streamline your workflow and ensure that files open in the programs you prefer.

In this blog post, we will explore various methods to change the default application on your Mac. We will go through step-by-step instructions, pros and cons of each method, and provide additional tips to enhance your Mac experience. So, let’s dive in and discover how to change the default application on a Mac.

Why You Need to Change the Default Application on your Mac

There are several reasons why you might want to change the default application on your Mac. Here are a few key points:

  • Personal preference: You may have alternative applications that you prefer to use instead of the default ones assigned by your Mac.
  • Workflow optimization: Changing default applications can help improve your workflow by ensuring that files automatically open in the programs you use the most.
  • Compatibility: You may have specific applications that are better suited to handle certain file types, offering more features or better performance.
  • Software updates: When you install new applications on your Mac, you may want files of a certain type to automatically open with the newly installed software.

Now that we understand the reasons behind changing default applications, let’s explore different methods to achieve this on your Mac.

Video Tutorial:

Part 1 – Changing Default Applications via Finder

The first method we will explore is changing the default application using the Finder on your Mac. Follow the steps below to accomplish this:

Method:

1. Locate the file of the type you want to change the default application for. Right-click on the file and select "Get Info" from the drop-down menu.
2. In the Info window that appears, locate the "Open with" section.
3. Click on the arrow next to the application name to expand the drop-down menu.
4. Select the desired application from the list or click on "Other" if it is not listed.
5. After selecting the application, click on the "Change All" button below to set the selected application as the default for all files of the same type.

Pros:

  1. Easy and straightforward process to change default applications.
  2. No additional software or technical knowledge required.
  3. Precise control over default applications on a per-file basis.

Cons:

  1. Time-consuming if you have a large number of files to change.
  2. Requires repeating the process for each file type individually.
  3. Possible to accidentally set incorrect applications as default if not careful.

Part 2 – Changing Default Applications via System Preferences

Another method to change default applications on your Mac is through the System Preferences. Here’s how you can do it:

Method:

1. Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences" from the drop-down menu.
2. In the System Preferences window, click on the "General" option.
3. Towards the bottom of the General preferences, you will find the "Default web browser" and "Default email reader" options.
4. Click on the respective drop-down menus next to each option and select your preferred applications for web browsing and email.
5. Close the System Preferences window to apply the changes.

Pros:

  1. Offers a centralized location to change default applications for specific tasks.
  2. Simplifies the process for changing default web browser and email reader.
  3. Can quickly switch between different default applications for web browsing or email.

Cons:

  1. Does not cover all file types or default applications.
  2. Limited to specific tasks like web browsing and email.
  3. Not suitable for changing default applications for individual file types.

Part 3 – Changing Default Applications via Launch Services

For more advanced users, changing the default applications through the Launch Services database can offer greater flexibility and control. Here’s how to do it:

Method:

1. Launch the Terminal application on your Mac. You can find it using Spotlight by pressing Command + Space and typing "Terminal."
2. In the Terminal window, enter the following command and press Enter: defaults write com.apple.LaunchServices LSHandlers -array-add '{LSHandlerContentType=Content Type; LSHandlerRoleAll=Bundle Identifier;}'
3. Replace "Content Type" with the MIME type or UTI of the file type you want to change the default application for. Replace "Bundle Identifier" with the Bundle Identifier of the desired application.
4. After executing the command, you may need to restart your Mac or log out and log back in for the changes to take effect.

Pros:

  1. Offers the most granular control over default applications.
  2. Enables changing default applications for specific MIME types or UTIs.
  3. Allows customization beyond what is available through Finder or System Preferences.

Cons:

  1. Requires using Terminal and executing commands.
  2. Advanced knowledge of MIME types, UTIs, and Bundle Identifiers is necessary.
  3. Mistakes in command execution can lead to unintended consequences or system instability.

Part 4 – Changing Default Applications via Third-Party Apps

If none of the above methods work for you, or if you prefer a more streamlined approach, there are third-party applications available that specialize in managing and changing default applications on Mac. These apps provide user-friendly interfaces and additional features. While there are several options available, some popular choices include "RCDefaultApp" and "Default App."

Pros:

  1. User-friendly interfaces and additional features.
  2. Centralized management of default applications.
  3. Provide more control and customization options than built-in methods.

Cons:

  1. Requires downloading and installing third-party software.
  2. Potential compatibility issues with macOS updates.
  3. Additional cost may be associated with certain third-party apps.

What to Do If You Can’t Change the Default Application

While changing default applications on a Mac is generally straightforward, there may be instances where you encounter difficulties or restrictions. In such cases, here are three alternative solutions you can try:

Solution 1: Open With

If you can’t change the default application, you can still open files with your preferred app on a case-by-case basis. Right-click on the file, select "Open With," and choose the desired application. You can also select the "Always Open With" option to set the chosen app as the default for that specific file.

Solution 2: Export and Import Settings

Some applications allow you to export and import settings to easily transfer your preferences across computers or installations. Check the documentation or preferences of the application you want to use and see if this feature is available. By exporting your settings from one machine and importing them on another, you can replicate your preferred default application setup.

Solution 3: Reinstall the Application

If all else fails, reinstalling the application associated with the file type may reset default settings and allow you to assign it as the default application. Before proceeding with this solution, make sure to back up any important data associated with the application, as reinstalling might result in data loss.

Bonus Tips

Here are three bonus tips to further enhance your experience when changing default applications on your Mac:

  • Regularly review and update your default applications as new software or applications are installed on your Mac.
  • If you have multiple users on your Mac, changing the default application might require administrative privileges.
  • Clearing the Launch Services database can help troubleshoot issues with default applications not working or appearing incorrectly.

The Bottom Line

Changing the default application on your Mac allows you to customize your workflow and streamline your work processes. Whether you opt for built-in methods like using Finder or System Preferences, advanced approaches such as modifying Launch Services, or even third-party apps, there are different ways to achieve your desired default application setup.

Remember to consider the pros and cons of each method, and always proceed with caution, especially when executing commands in Terminal or using third-party applications. By following the instructions outlined in this blog post, you will be able to change the default application on your Mac and enjoy a more personalized Mac experience.

5 FAQs about Changing Default Applications on Mac

Q1: How can I reset the default application for a specific file type?

A: To reset the default application for a specific file type, right-click on the file and select "Get Info." In the Info window, locate the "Open with" section and click on the drop-down menu next to the current application. Choose the desired default application or click on "Other" to select a different one.

Q2: Why are some file types not listed in the "Open with" options?

A: The "Open with" options only display applications that are deemed compatible with the selected file type. If the desired application is not listed, you can click on "Other" to manually browse and select it.

Q3: Can I change the default application for multiple file types at once?

A: Yes, you can change the default application for multiple file types at once by selecting all the files you want to modify, right-clicking, and choosing "Get Info." In the Info windows for all the selected files, follow the steps to change the default application in the "Open with" section.

Q4: How can I revert to the original default application settings?

A: To revert to the original default application settings, you can right-click on the file, select "Get Info," and choose the original application from the drop-down menu in the "Open with" section. Alternatively, you can use the "Always Open With" option to set the original application as the default for that specific file type.

Q5: Are there any risks associated with changing default applications on a Mac?

A: Changing default applications on a Mac is generally safe and easy to do. However, it’s important to be cautious when using third-party apps or executing commands in Terminal. Mistakes or incorrect changes may result in unintended consequences or system instability. Always proceed with caution and ensure you have backups of important data.

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