macOS can compress files and folders into standard ZIP archives without installing anything. A ZIP can bundle multiple files into one attachment and may reduce size depending on the file types.
This guide applies to macOS on any Mac.
Does This Affect You?
Use Finder for normal ZIP files. Use Terminal when you need password protection, scripting, or exclusions such as hidden Mac metadata files.
Compress with Finder
- Open Finder and select the file, folder, or multiple items.
- Use Command-click for separate items or Shift-click for a range.
- Right-click or Control-click the selection.
- Choose Compress, Compress “[name]”, or Compress X Items.
- A ZIP file appears in the same folder. Rename it if needed.
Compress with Terminal
- Open Terminal.
- Move to the folder containing the item, such as
cd ~/Desktop. - Run
zip -r Project.zip Project, replacing the names with your archive name and folder. - The
-roption includes everything inside the folder. - Wait for Terminal to return to the prompt.
ZIP Notes
Add a Password
Finder does not offer ZIP passwords. In Terminal, use zip -er Project.zip Project and enter a password when prompted.
Some Files Barely Shrink
Photos, videos, PDFs, and existing archives are often already compressed. Text-heavy folders and many small files usually shrink more.
Windows Compatibility
Mac ZIP files open on Windows, but may include hidden files such as .DS_Store. Use zip -r Project.zip Project -x "*.DS_Store" if you want to exclude those.
Sources
- Apple Support: Zip and unzip files and folders on Mac
- Apple Support: Use Terminal on Mac