To uninstall apps on a Mac, you have several methods depending on how the app was installed and whether you want to remove residual files completely:
1. Using Launchpad (for apps from the App Store)
- Open Launchpad from the Dock (icon with 9 colorful squares).
- Find the app you want to uninstall.
- Click and hold the app icon until it wiggles and shows an "X" at the top-left corner.
- Click the "X" and confirm deletion by clicking Delete.
- Note: This only works for apps installed from the Mac App Store and not for system apps or those installed from other sources
2. Using Finder (Trash method)
- Open Finder (smiley face icon in the Dock).
- Go to the Applications folder in the sidebar.
- Drag the app you want to uninstall to the Trash or right-click the app and select Move to Trash.
- Empty the Trash to complete the uninstallation.
- This method works for most apps regardless of installation source
3. Removing leftover files manually
- After deleting the app, some residual files may remain in your system.
- Open Finder, click Go in the menu bar, then Go to Folder (or press Command+Shift+G).
- Enter
~/Library/and look inside folders like Application Support , Caches , Preferences , and Saved Application State for files related to the deleted app. - Move these files to Trash and empty it to free up space
4. Using third-party uninstallers (optional)
- Apps like AppCleaner or CleanMyMac X can automate the process of uninstalling apps and removing leftover files.
- These tools scan for all related files and delete them in one step, making uninstallation more thorough and easier for non-technical users
Summary
- Use Launchpad for quick removal of App Store apps.
- Use Finder to delete any app by moving it to Trash.
- Manually remove leftover files in the
~/Library/folder to free up space. - Consider third-party uninstallers for a more complete cleanup.
This approach ensures apps are fully uninstalled and your Mac’s storage is optimized
