How to Uninstall Apps on Your Mac – A Step-by-Step Guide with Screenshots

Uninstalling apps on a Mac is different from Windows, and many users are often confused about how to completely remove applications. In this article, we’ll walk you through several methods to uninstall apps on your Mac, including removing leftover files for a clean uninstall.

📌 Method 1: Uninstall via Launchpad (For Built-in and Some App Store Apps)

Launchpad is the easiest way to uninstall apps that came with macOS or were downloaded from the Mac App Store.

✅ Steps:

1. Open Launchpad
   Click the Launchpad icon in your Dock or use a four-finger pinch on your trackpad.
2. Enter Edit Mode
   Click and hold any app until all apps begin to jiggle.
3. Click the X Button
   For supported apps, an X button will appear in the top-left corner of the app icon. Click it to uninstall.
4. Confirm Deletion
   A pop-up will ask if you want to delete the app. Click Delete.

🔍 Note: Not all apps have the X button — especially third-party apps.

🗑️ Method 2: Use Finder to Delete Apps (Most Common Method)

This method works for almost all apps installed on your Mac.

✅ Steps:

1. Open Finder
   Click the Finder icon in your Dock.
2. Go to the Applications Folder
   From the top menu bar, go to Go > Applications.
3. Find the App You Want to Remove
4. Drag the App to the Trash
   Drag the app icon to the Trash bin in your Dock.
5. Empty the Trash
   Right-click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

🔍 Method 3: Remove Leftover Files (Optional but Recommended)

Even after deleting an app, some preference files and caches may remain on your system.

✅ Steps:

1. Open Finder
2. From the top menu bar, go to Go > Go to Folder...
3. Enter These Paths One by One:

• ~/Library/Application Support/
• ~/Library/Caches/
• ~/Library/Preferences/

1. Look for folders or files related to the uninstalled app and move them to the Trash. ⚠️ Be careful not to delete files belonging to other apps!
2. Empty the Trash

🛠️ Method 4: Use a Dedicated Uninstaller Tool (Recommended for Power Users)

If you frequently install and uninstall apps, consider using a third-party tool like:

• AppCleaner (Free)
• CleanMyMac X (Paid)
• AppZapper (Paid)

These tools automatically scan for and remove leftover files after you uninstall an app.

Example: Using AppCleaner

1. Download and open AppCleaner.
2. Drag the app you want to uninstall into the window.
3. It will show all related files.
4. Click Delete to remove everything.

✅ Summary Table

💬 Final Thoughts

While macOS makes it easy to install apps, fully removing them sometimes requires a few extra steps. Whether you’re freeing up space or just cleaning house, following these methods ensures your Mac stays fast and clutter-free.

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📌 Tags: Mac, Uninstall Apps, Clean Up Mac, Finder, Launchpad, AppCleaner, macOS Tips