How to Uninstall Apps on Mac

How to Uninstall Apps on Mac (Complete Guide)

ByTB-Team

Managing the apps on your Mac is more than just decluttering your desktop. Regularly uninstalling unused programs helps optimise system performance, free up storage, and ensure your machine runs smoothly. Yet, for many Mac users, uninstalling apps completely can be trickier than it appears.

This guide will walk you through several methods to remove apps from your Mac, including step-by-step instructions, tips for managing hidden files, and troubleshooting advice. Whether you’re a seasoned Mac user or a beginner, this blog will equip you with the know-how to keep your Mac in top shape.

Step-by-Step Guide to Uninstalling Apps on Mac

Method 1: Drag-and-Drop Technique

  1. Go to your Applications folder.
Drag & Drop on Mac

You can find it in your Finder sidebar or by pressing `Command + Shift + A`.

  1. Locate the app you want to uninstall.
  2. Drag the app icon directly into the Trash bin on your dock.
  3. Empty your Trash.

Right-click the Trash bin and select “Empty Trash” to complete the removal.

Pros:

  • Easy and quick.
  • Ideal for apps downloaded via the Mac App Store.

Cons:

  • May leave behind associated files in system folders, consuming storage space.
  • Doesn’t work for system apps and built-in apps like Mail.

Note: This method does not delete the leftover files associated with the app. Consider removing them manually (more on this later).

Method 2: Uninstalling from Launchpad

  1. Open Launchpad.

You can either click the Launchpad icon in your dock or use the `F4` function key to access it.

  1. Find the app you want to delete.

If the app isn’t visible, use the search bar at the top of Launchpad.

  1. Click and hold the app’s icon until it starts to jiggle.
  2. Press the “X” button in the top left corner of the app icon.
  3. Confirm when prompted, and the app will be removed.

Pros:

  • Intuitive for users who prefer graphical interfaces.
  • Eliminates app files more thoroughly than the drag-and-drop method.

Cons:

  • Limited to apps downloaded through the Mac App Store.
  • Cannot delete protected or non-App Store software.

Pro Tip: If you can’t see the “X” button, the app wasn’t downloaded from the Mac App Store. Use the drag-and-drop method or a third-party tool instead.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Uninstallers

Third-party uninstallers ensure a deep clean by deleting all associated files, often buried in obscure folders.

Third-Party Uninstallers on mac

Here’s how to use CCleaner:

  1. Download and install CCleaner from its official website.
  2. Open AppCleaner and drag the app you want to uninstall into the CCleaner window.
  3. CCleaner will display all files related to the app.
  4. Click Remove to delete the app and its associated files in one go.

Pros:

  • Ensures complete removal of attached files and folders.
  • User-friendly interfaces with additional system-cleaning features.

Cons:

  • Requires downloading additional software.
  • Some services come at a cost.

Deleting Leftover Files

If you’ve already removed an app using the drag-and-drop or Launchpad methods, you might still have leftover files stored on your Mac. Follow these steps to clear them:

  1. Open the Finder and access the “Go to Folder” option by pressing `Command + Shift + G`.
  2. Enter the following directories one by one to locate leftover files:
  • `~/Library/Application Support/`
  • `~/Library/Preferences/`
  • `~/Library/Caches/`
  1. Look for files or folders associated with the app you just uninstalled.
  2. Drag these files into the Trash and empty it.

Best Practices for App Management

Tidying up your Mac regularly can save you headaches in the long run. Here are a few tips to stay on top of your app management:

  • Perform regular audits of your apps. Delete anything you no longer use or need.
  • Review apps that launch on startup. Use System Settings → Login Items to disable unnecessary ones.
  • Use disk utility tools, like CleanMyMac, to identify large or redundant application files.
  • Backup your Mac frequently so you can restore vital apps and files if needed.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with clear methods, you might encounter roadblocks while uninstalling apps. Here’s how to solve some common issues:

Problem 1: “Can’t Delete Apps from Launchpad”

Some apps don’t display the “X” button in Launchpad. These are likely non-App Store apps. Use the drag-and-drop method or a third-party uninstaller instead.

Problem 2: “Application in Use” Error

If you see this error, the app is running in the background.

Solution:

  1. Open Activity Monitor by searching for it in Spotlight (`Command + Space`).
  2. Search for the app name and force quit the process.
  3. Try deleting the app again.

Problem 3: Built-in System Apps Won’t Delete

Certain Apple apps, like Safari or Mail, cannot be removed as they’re integral to macOS. However, you can disable or hide them in your Dock.

Take Control of Your Mac’s Storage

Maintaining a clean and organised Mac doesn’t have to be a burdensome task. By understanding the different ways to uninstall apps and proactively managing your software, you’ll benefit from increased storage, fewer performance issues, and an overall better experience with your machine.

If you still find the process daunting, check out tools like AppCleaner or CleanMyMac for a one-stop solution to app management. Take control today—your Mac will thank you!

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