Have you ever found yourself running out of storage on your computer and needing to install something new? Many unnecessary programs not only take up space but also slow down your PC by cluttering it. To boost your computer’s performance, it’s essential to know how to delete applications on Mac. We will guide you through the process to do it safely and effectively without risking your computer or other programs.
Earlier we wrote: How to Remove Pages from Word – Step by Step Guide, Different Examples
How to Delete Applications on Mac Using Launchpad
One of the easiest ways to delete apps on a Mac without using third-party software is to use the built-in tool in macOS called Launchpad. It’s straightforward and user-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Click on the Launchpad icon in the Dock or use a gesture on the trackpad.
- Find the app you want to delete. You can scroll through the list or use the search bar at the top.
- Click and hold the app icon until it starts to “wiggle.”
- Click the small “X” in the corner of the app icon.
- Confirm the deletion.
With just five simple steps, your problem is solved. Note that this method only works for software installed from the Mac App Store.
How to Delete Applications on Mac Using Finder
Looking for how to delete applications on mac that weren’t downloaded from the Mac App Store? Or do you prefer more universal methods? Then use Finder. It’s also quite simple:
- Open Finder by clicking its icon in the Dock or using the Command + N shortcut.
- Go to the “Applications” folder by selecting it from the left panel.
- Find the app you want to delete.
- Drag it to the Trash or right-click and select “Move to Trash.”
- Empty the Trash by right-clicking the Trash icon and selecting “Empty Trash.”
This method helps remove most unnecessary apps easily. However, some apps might leave behind residual files that need to be found and deleted separately to avoid cluttering your computer’s memory.
How to Delete Applications on Mac Using Built-in Uninstallers
Many are unaware, but some software includes its own uninstallation tools. These are installed along with other components. To remove unnecessary software, you just need to find the uninstaller and follow a few steps:
- Open Finder and go to the “Applications” folder.
- Find the app you want to delete and look for a file named “Uninstall” or something similar.
- Double-click the uninstaller and follow the on-screen instructions.
This is one of the best ways how to delete applications on Mac because the built-in uninstaller handles the process carefully, safely, and completely. Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, and other major software suites often use this approach for full removal.
How to DeleteApplications on Mac Using Third-party Utilities
For those who want to remove unnecessary software completely and immediately, many convenient utilities are available. They usually offer very simple and useful tools but require installation on your PC.
One of the most popular solutions for deleting apps on a Mac is the CleanMyMac X utility. Download it from the official site and install it. Then open the app, find the “Uninstaller” section, locate the app you want to delete, select it, and click “Uninstall.”
Another convenient utility is AppCleaner. Download and install it, then follow these steps:
- Open AppCleaner.
- Drag the app you want to delete into the AppCleaner window.
- The utility will find all associated files and offer to delete them.
- Confirm the deletion.
Specialized utilities help remove not only the main files of the app but also all residual files, ensuring a clean system.
How to Delete Applications on Mac Using Terminal
This is a good method for experienced users. Here’s how to delete applications on Mac using the command line:
- Open Terminal through Spotlight or the “Utilities” folder in “Applications.”
- Type the command: bash, followed by sudo rm -rf /Applications/ProgramName.app. Replace “ProgramName.app” with the name of the app you need to delete.
- Confirm your decision.
- Enter the administrator password if required.
When using Terminal, be very careful. A mistake could damage system files. Avoid attempting to delete system applications, even if they seem unused or unnecessary.
How to Delete Applications on Mac – Video
To see how to delete applications on Mac and do it correctly, watch this video:
Conclusions
Our tips on how to delete applications on Mac in various ways will surely help solve the problem. Choose the method that’s convenient for you, but be cautious not to damage system files. Be prepared to delete residual files manually or use uninstallers for a thorough cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Delete Applications on Mac
An app may not delete because it is currently running. Check this before attempting to delete apps on a Mac.
You can do this through the app’s menu or via Activity Monitor.
You can do this manually. Open Finder and go to the Library folder, then check the Application Support, Caches, and Preferences folders for any files related to the deleted software.