If you want to reinstall macOS, create a bootable installer, or fix a Mac that will not boot—but the only computer you have is a Windows PC—then TransMac is one of the most useful tools you can use.
Many technicians and Mac users rely on TransMac because it lets Windows users create macOS bootable USB installers and access Mac-formatted drives without needing a Mac. In this article, we will discuss what TransMac is, what it does, the pros and cons, and how to use it.
What is TransMac?
TransMac is a Windows application developed by Acute Systems that allows users to read, write, and manage macOS file systems and disk formats directly from Windows.
In simple words:
TransMac is a “bridge” that allows Windows to work with Mac files and drives.
What Can TransMac Do?
Here are the main functions of TransMac:
- Create macOS Bootable USB Installer from DMG/ISO files
- Open, extract, and manage DMG files on Windows
- Access Mac-formatted drives (HFS, HFS+, APFS) on Windows
- Burn DMG files directly to USB or external drives
Recover or copy files from Mac drives using a Windows PC
This makes TransMac extremely useful when:
- Your Mac will not boot
- You do not have another Mac
- You need to reinstall macOS
- You work as a technician or IT support
Is TransMac Free?
TransMac is not completely free, but it offers a 15-day free trial, which is usually enough for one-time use such as creating a macOS installer. After that, you need to purchase a license if you want to keep using it.
Where to Download TransMac? (see end of the article)
You should always download TransMac from safe and trusted sources such as:
- Official Website: Acute Systems
- Popular software platforms like TechSpot / MajorGeeks
- Avoid suspicious download sites to reduce the risk of malware.
How to Create macOS Bootable USB Using TransMac
Below is a simple step-by-step guide to using TransMac to create a macOS installer on Windows.
What You Need:
- A Windows PC
- A USB flash drive (minimum 16GB)
- macOS DMG file (example: macOS Ventura, Monterey, Big Sur - for 15.4 version max on High Sierra OS)
Download MacOS High Sierra 10.13
TransMac installed on your PC
Steps to Create Bootable macOS USB in TransMac
- Install and open TransMac (Run as Administrator)
- Insert your USB flash drive
- Right-click your USB drive in TransMac
- Select Format Disk for Mac
- After formatting, right-click USB again
- Select Restore with Disk Image
- Choose your macOS DMG file
- Click OK and wait for the process to finish
The process may take 20–40 minutes depending on your USB speed.
Once done, your USB is ready to be used as a macOS installer.
Pros & Cons of TransMac
Advantages
- Easy to use
- No need for a Mac
- Supports DMG, HFS, HFS+, APFS
- Reliable for bootable USB creation
Disadvantages
- Paid software (only trial available)
- Requires a macOS installer file
- Process can be slow depending on USB speed
When Is TransMac Useful?
TransMac is highly recommended if:
- Your MacBook does not boot
- You do not have access to another Mac
- You are reinstalling macOS
- You are repairing Apple devices
For many users, it is a lifesaver tool.
Final Thoughts
TransMac is one of the most practical tools for Windows users who need to work with macOS systems. Whether you want to create a macOS bootable USB, open DMG files, or access Mac drives, TransMac makes it simple and efficient.
If you need a tutorial on how to install macOS using the USB installer afterward, just let me know—I can help with that too.