How to Uninstall App on a Mac (Photo + Video)

Got an app you no longer need on your Mac? Whether you’re freeing up space or just decluttering, uninstalling apps is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to remove apps from your Mac completely.

Why Uninstalling Apps Matters

Unused apps take up valuable storage and can clutter your system. Some even run in the background, slowing down your Mac. By uninstalling them, you free up space and improve performance.

Methods to Uninstall Apps on a Mac

1. Using Finder

This is the most common method for uninstalling apps.

1. Quit the app: Ensure the app isn’t running.
2. Open Finder: Click the Finder icon in your Dock.
3. Go to Applications: Navigate to the Applications folder in Finder.
4. Delete the app:
   • Drag the app icon to the Trash.
   • Or, right-click and select “Move to Trash.”
   • Alternatively, select the app and press Command + Delete.
5. Empty the Trash:
   • Right-click on the Trash icon in the Dock and select “Empty Trash.”
   • Confirm when prompted.

Tip: Some apps may require admin credentials to delete.

2. Using Launchpad

For apps downloaded from the App Store, Launchpad offers a quick way to delete them.

1. Open Launchpad from the Dock or by pinching with four fingers on your trackpad.
2. Find the app you want to delete.
3. Click and hold until the icons start jiggling.
4. Click the “X” that appears on the app icon.
5. Confirm by clicking “Delete.”

Note: This method works only for App Store apps.

3. Using Built-in Uninstallers

Some third-party apps come with their own uninstaller.

1. Open Finder and go to Applications.
2. Look for a folder named after the app (e.g., Adobe).
3. Open it and find an uninstaller tool (e.g., “Uninstall [App Name]”).
4. Run the uninstaller and follow on-screen instructions.

4. Removing Leftover Files Manually

Even after uninstalling, some files might remain.

1. Open Finder and press Command + Shift + G to open “Go to Folder.”
2. Check these directories for leftover files:
   • ~/Library/Application Support
   • ~/Library/Caches
   • ~/Library/Preferences
   • ~/Library/Saved Application State
3. Delete files related to the uninstalled app.

Warning: Be cautious when deleting files from these folders as they may affect other apps.

5. Using Third-Party Tools

Apps like AppCleaner can help remove apps and their associated files easily.

1. Download and install AppCleaner.
2. Drag the app you want to uninstall into AppCleaner’s window.
3. Review related files and click “Delete”.

Common Issues When Uninstalling Apps

• Can’t delete system apps: Apps like Safari or Mail are part of macOS and can’t be removed.
• App won’t delete because it’s open: Quit the app or restart your Mac before trying again.
• Leftover files remain: Use manual cleanup or a third-party tool.