How to Manage Default Applications on Mac

Operating systems make our life easier by detecting the most suitable piece of software to use to open particular file formats. However, what if you do not want to use the default app that Mac offers? This setting is configurable, and below we will teach you how to manage default applications on Mac:

Changing the App Used to Open Particulate File Formats

Let us assume that you no longer wish to open DOCX files via Microsoft Office and, instead, you want to use an alternative software suite. You will need to find a DOCX file, and then right-click it to show the extra menu options. Click on Get Info -> Open With. This will show you a full list of apps that can be used. Select the one you wish to use, and then press Change All. From now on, all DOCX files will be opened by default with the software you chose.

Changing the Default Web Browser

While managing the way to open specific files is easy, what do you do when you want to use a different Web browser to open links? This time, you will need to go to Apple Menu -> System Preferences -> General. Select the dropdown menu next to Default Web Browser to choose your browser.

Changing the Default Mail Client

Let's say you do not want to use the Mac Mail app to manage your inbox. Open Applications -> Mail -> Preferences. Choose your favorite mail client from the Default Mail Reader dropdown menu.