If you’re looking to free up space or remove the app you no longer use, knowing how to properly uninstall apps is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through multiple ways to uninstall apps on macOS, depending on how the app was installed. So let’s dive right in.
How to Uninstall Apps on your Mac
On macOS, we have different ways to install apps. For example, we can install them using the Apple App Store or by directly downloading and installing apps from official websites. Similarly, we have different uninstallation methods depending on how the apps were installed.
1. Uninstall Apps Using Launchpad
Most apps and games can be uninstalled using Launchpad. This is the simplest way to remove apps installed via the Mac App Store. Here’s how you can uninstall apps using Launchpad:
1. Click the Launchpad icon in your Dock or open it using Spotlight (Cmd + Space, then type Launchpad).
2. Find the app you want to uninstall.
3. Click and hold the app icon until all icons start jiggling, just like on an iPhone or iPad.
4. Click the X, then confirm by clicking Delete/Remove.
Note
Not all apps will have an X icon. Only apps installed from the Mac App Store will show this option.
2. Delete Apps Using Finder
If the above method does not work for you, then you can uninstall apps using Finder. This method works for most apps, including those downloaded from the App Store or directly from the official website.
1. Open Finder.
2. Go to the Applications folder from the sidebar.
3. Locate the app you want to uninstall and drag it to the Trash in your Dock.
4. To fully delete the app, right-click the Trash bin and select Empty Trash. Or, open Trash, right-click the app, choose Delete Immediately, and confirm by clicking Delete.
This method is also helpful if you have accidentally deleted an app. Just open Trash, right-click the app, and click Put Back to restore it.
3. Using System Settings
macOS also lets you remove apps via system settings, which is especially useful for seeing how much space apps take up. Here’s how:
1. Click the Apple menu and select System Settings.
2. Go to General > Storage.
3. Under the Applications section, wait for macOS to calculate space usage. Once done, click the (i) icon next to it.
4. Select the application you want to remove from the list, then choose Delete to uninstall it.
Some apps have their own uninstaller. In this case, you’ll see an Open Uninstaller option instead. Just follow the on-screen instructions to fully remove the app.
Ways to Uninstall Apps on macOS
That’s it! These are the most effective ways to uninstall apps on your Mac. Whether you’re freeing up space or decluttering your system, these methods cover almost every situation.
However, not all apps installed on macOS can be removed – especially default apps and system applications, which are essential for the operating system to function properly.
