How to Uninstall an App on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide
Mac computers are known for their sleek design, user-friendly interface, and quality performance. However, as with any device, you may find that you need to uninstall an app to free up space, improve performance, or simply because you no longer need it. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of uninstalling an app on Mac.
Method 1: Uninstalling Apps from Launchpad
Launchpad is the app launcher on Mac that displays all your installed apps in a grid-like view. Here’s how to uninstall an app from Launchpad:
- Open Launchpad from the Dock or by pressing F4 on the keyboard.
- Click and hold down on the app you want to uninstall until it starts shaking.
- Click the “X” icon that appears on the app.
- Click “Delete” to confirm the uninstallation.
This method works for most apps installed from the App Store or downloaded from the internet. However, if you’re unable to uninstall an app using this method, move on to the next method.
Method 2: Uninstalling Apps from Finder
Finder is the file manager on Mac that allows you to navigate and manage files and folders. Here’s how to uninstall an app from Finder:
- Open Finder from the Dock or by clicking on the desktop.
- Click on “Applications” in the left sidebar.
- Find the app you want to uninstall and drag it to the Trash icon in the Dock.
- Right-click on the Trash icon and select “Empty Trash” to permanently delete the app.
Note that some apps may leave residual files on your Mac even after they’ve been uninstalled. To ensure a complete uninstallation, you may need to manually delete these files.
Method 3: Uninstalling Apps with Third-Party Uninstaller Apps
If you’re having trouble uninstalling an app using the methods above, or if you want to ensure a complete uninstallation, you can use third-party uninstaller apps. These apps are designed to thoroughly scan your Mac for residual files and delete them along with the app. Here are some popular third-party uninstaller apps for Mac:
- AppCleaner
- CleanMyMac X
- AppZapper
Simply download and install the app, then follow the instructions to uninstall the app you want to remove.
Conclusion
Uninstalling an app on Mac is a simple process that can help free up space and improve performance. Whether you use Launchpad, Finder, or a third-party uninstaller app, be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a complete uninstallation. With this guide, you should be able to easily uninstall any app on your Mac.