How To Uninstall Apps On Mac 3 Ways Explained

For instance, if you’ve downloaded it from the App Store, uninstalling it is straightforward, but it gets a little tricky if you’ve installed it from other sources. Some apps come with uninstallers, while others don’t! Read on this step-by-step guide to learn how to uninstall apps on Mac. Note: It is not possible to delete a running app. Ensure you quit the app before uninstalling it.

How to uninstall an app downloaded from Mac App Store

The Launchpad is the most straightforward way to remove apps you’ve downloaded from the App Store. The Delete (X) button only appears on apps you’ve downloaded through the App Store. This means you cannot force delete apps from the Launchpad if you didn’t download them from the App Store; try deleting them through Finder instead. Sometimes, simply removing the app from the Launchpad or Finder doesn’t work, and you find that the deleted app still appears on your Mac. In that case, try the other methods below.

How to uninstall an app you can’t remove via Launchpad

For apps you’ve downloaded through the internet or used the old-school method of installing the app using a disc, you can remove the app using Finder or through the app’s native uninstaller. Note: If you created files using the app, you may be unable to open them again if you decide to open them again. 

Method 1: Uninstall app using the native uninstaller

Some programs come with their own uninstaller to remove the app and all the associated files and settings. Depending on the program, you may be able to find the uninstaller in its dashboard or menu. Others may have an uninstaller in Finder.

Method 2: Uninstall using Trash

If you don’t see an uninstaller, you can simply drag the apps from the Applications folder to the Trash. Note that apps your Mac requires to function (such as those installed by macOS) can’t be deleted through Trash.

Method 3: Uninstall Mac apps using Terminal

If you come across a pretty stubborn app that proves too difficult to get rid of, you can use Terminal to uninstall the app from your Mac.  Note: Using the method incorrectly can delete vital Mac directories, so if you’re not that confident in using this technical method, opt for the app removal techniques mentioned above instead.

How to manually clean up orphan files from deleted Mac apps

Most of the time, removing apps leaves leftover junk or orphan files on your Mac. Note: Be careful when deleting system files. Deleting or removing the wrong ones can affect your Mac. Wrapping up… You could get rid of most of the installed apps on your Mac through the Launchpad or by deleting them directly from the Applications folder in Finder. Some come with their own uninstallers, too. Just make sure you delete the remaining orphan files that could clutter your hard drive over time. Were you able to delete the app? Which method worked best? Share your comments below! Read more:

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