DMG File Extension
Mac OS X Disk Image
- File Type dmg
- Developer Apple
- Popularity
- Application 7-zip
- Category Disk Image Files
- Format Text and Binary
What is a DMG file?
Mac OS X Disk Image, identified by the DMG extension, is a Disk Image Files type and includes 133 files.
Apple, the developer of the Mac OS X Disk Image (DMG), has released file format and 72 programs designed to handle them.
DMG file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS. There are 21 programs available to open a DMG file, including popular tools like 7-zip, Apple Disk Utility and TransMac.
File Signature
HEX code: 78. ASCII code: x.
Programs that support DMG files
How to open a DMG file?
If you are having trouble opening a DMG file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.
When it comes to opening and working with DMG files, 7-zip, Apple Disk Utility and TransMac are the top choices for users. If you need the newest version of 7-zip, just access the Pavlov website. From there you can download the installer compatible with all systems.
After installation, your operating system should automatically open DMG files with 7-zip.
Make 7-zip the default DMG viewer
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click on your DMG file and choose the "Open With" option. Then click "Choose another app" to continue the process;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose 7-zip as the application to associate with your DMG file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired DMG file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Next, at the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu, in which "Recommended Programs" is selected by default;
- In this menu, select "All Programs", then find 7-zip and check the box next to "Always open in the application."
Finding answers to DMG file problems
There are some common issues with DMG files that can be resolved easily by making minor adjustments to your software. Below, you’ll find these issues along with practical troubleshooting tips.
What can lead to sudden 7-zip crashes?
The absence of software updates can cause 7-zip to crash. It is recommended to install the latest available updates for Pavlov products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What is the recommended approach to repair a damaged DMG file?
Start a data recovery program and open the damaged DMG file. Go to the menu and select the "Repair" option to repair the file. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged disk image files.
Are there any symptoms that my DMG file is damaged?
Common indications of damaged DMG disk image files are:
- Opening or processing the file in 7-zip or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- Error dialogs are displayed when interacting with the file;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the DMG file;
- Editing the archive in Apple Disk Utility results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
How to edit a DMG file?
To edit DMG files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the disk image files. Online DMG editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Mac OS X Disk Image.
List of Top DMG editors 2026
Based on these criteria, we have prepared a list of available DMG editors.
| DMG Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Disk Utility | Apple | Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
| DropDMG | C-Command | Mac OS | 4.7 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
| gBurner | gBurner Systems | Windows | 4.4 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| DiscBlaze | Linda Bradford | Mac OS | 4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
Convert to and from DMG
If handling a DMG file is problematic, consider converting it to alternative formats such as ZIP, ISO, NRG, CDR, CDI or other supported types.
Keep in mind that converting a DMG file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.
Several applications, including AnyToISO, DMGConverter and gBurner, can convert DMG files offline without quality loss.