Discovering how to uninstall applications on your Mac is vital to keep your computer running smoothly. Your obligations don’t end once you bring a new computer home. In truth, they begin when you begin using it. But don’t fret; it’s nothing overwhelming, and you don’t need to do anything grand. There are a few simple things you can do to ensure your computer stays in excellent condition and lasts for many years.
Removing apps is an essential part of computer maintenance and vital for maintaining your device’s health. It liberates valuable space that would otherwise be wasted. Besides, it aids in the seamless functioning of your Mac, particularly when dealing with malicious or malfunctioning apps accidentally installed.
The process of uninstalling apps on a Mac is relatively straightforward, though not always apparent. Unlike Windows, which has an “Add or Remove Programs” utility, macOS lacks an equivalent. This guide will illuminate various methods to delete apps on Mac, whether you own a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. Let’s dive in!
Key Points to Remember When Uninstalling Apps on Mac
As you learn how to remove applications from your Mac, there are a few key considerations:
1. When uninstalling apps on macOS, merely deleting them doesn’t completely remove the program. Supporting files need to be located and deleted as well.
2. Most apps store their service files in the Mac’s Library folder, making the uninstallation process as easy as removing the app and deleting its supporting files from there.
3. Some apps scatter their files across different locations, making it challenging to perform a complete deletion. In such cases, a Mac uninstall app can be useful.
4. Be cautious when manually locating and deleting an app and its related files, as deleting necessary macOS files could harm your Mac.
It’s wise to learn multiple methods so that you can choose the most convenient one when needed. For thorough uninstallations, consider using AppCleaner.
Deleting vs. Uninstalling Apps on Mac
Before exploring how to delete applications on a Mac, it’s essential to understand the distinction between deleting and uninstalling apps on Mac computers. On Windows, you typically use an app’s uninstaller program or the add/remove programs utility to delete apps. On macOS, though, deleting an app usually equals uninstalling it. Hence, you can use “delete” and “uninstall” interchangeably on your Mac.
Method 1: Deleting Apps from the Applications Folder
The simplest way to uninstall programs on a Mac is to delete them from your Applications folder through Finder. This method effectively removes all associated files.
Method 2: Uninstall Using Launchpad
Launchpad, resembling iPhone or iPad screens, allows you to uninstall certain apps if they were downloaded from the Mac App Store.
Method 3: Using AppCleaner to Fully Delete Apps
AppCleaner helps uninstall apps and their associated files, offering transparency and ease of use.
Method 4: Using an App’s Dedicated Installer
Some apps come with their own install and uninstall utilities, especially prevalent with Adobe apps. Use the dedicated uninstaller to ensure complete removal.
Method 5: Removing Files Through Your Mac’s Library
This method involves navigating to your Mac’s Library folder to delete preference files and caches, but it can be risky for inexperienced users.
Method 6: Remove Apps Using Terminal
For advanced users, Terminal offers a powerful method to delete apps, but it requires extreme caution to avoid damaging critical system files.
Learn how to get rid of lingering app icons from your Mac menu bar, which can be achieved by removing related plist files.
Concluding Thoughts
These six methods for uninstalling apps on a Mac will help you thoroughly remove any unwanted programs from your system. Regularly maintaining your computer by removing unused apps will free up space and keep your machine operating at its best.
We hope this guide on how to uninstall apps on Mac has assisted you in decluttering your machine. Which method is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
If you’re a new Mac user, don’t miss our list of the best apps you can install on your Mac!