Keynote can import PowerPoint presentations. Make it the default for .pptx files if you prefer editing there, while keeping a source copy because imported fonts, animations or layouts may differ.
Method 1: Use Finder
- In Finder, select a sample file such as presentation.pptx.
- Press Command–I, or choose File → Get Info.
- Expand Open with and choose Keynote. If it is missing, choose Other and locate the installed app.
- Click Change All and confirm the macOS prompt.
- Double-click another file of the same type to check the new default.
Method 2: Manage associations with Pahkui
Pahkui lets you browse by app or by format. When setting up an editor for several file types, you can inspect the current defaults and review pending changes in one window. Requires macOS 14 or later.
- Open Pahkui, switch to Format, and search for the extension you need from .pptx.
- Select Keynote. Use Choose another app if it is not listed.
- Review the pending association, click Apply changes, and confirm the new app in the macOS dialog.
The formats in this guide can be configured with Pahkui Free. The manual Finder method does not require a purchase. See pricing
If the default app does not change
- Check slide layout and animation behavior after import before presenting important work.
- Export to PowerPoint format for collaborators who need a .pptx; renaming a .key file does not convert it.
- If Keynote is missing, confirm it is installed and can open the sample directly, then locate it with Other. If an extension is absent from the catalog, add the format in Pahkui. Changing an association does not add format support to the target app.
Common questions
Will PowerPoint-only features always work in Keynote?
Not necessarily. Import compatibility depends on the presentation’s contents; check the imported result.
How do I restore the previous app for .pptx?
Choose the previous app again in Finder or Pahkui and confirm the change. This updates the type association without deleting files. Use the Open With context menu for a one-time exception.