Uninstalling apps on a Mac sounds simple—but if you’ve ever noticed apps still taking up storage after deletion, you’re not alone. Whether you’re using a MacBook Pro, running macOS Tahoe, or testing macOS 26, removing apps the right way matters.
In this guide, you’ll learn every working method to uninstall apps on Mac—App Store apps, internet-downloaded apps, system apps, and even stubborn software that won’t delete.
Quick Answer (Featured Snippet)
To uninstall apps on Mac:
- Drag the app from Applications to Trash, or
- Use System Settings → General → Storage → Applications for a clean uninstall, or
- Delete leftover files manually for complete removal.
Let’s break it down step by step 👇
Method 1: How to Uninstall Apps on Mac from Applications Folder
This is the most common method and works for most apps.
Steps:
- Open Finder
- Click Applications
- Drag the app to Trash
- Empty Trash
✅ Works best for apps downloaded from the internet
❌ May leave cache or support files behind
📌 If an app refuses to open or uninstall, this guide may help:
👉 Logi Options Not Opening on Mac – Let’s Fix It Fast & Easy
https://multicaretechnical.com/logi-options-not-opening-on-mac-lets-fix-it-fast-easy
Method 2: How to Uninstall Apps on Mac from Settings (Best Way)
This is the cleanest method and recommended for macOS Tahoe and macOS 26.
Steps:
- Open System Settings
- Go to General → Storage
- Click Applications
- Select the app
- Click Delete
✔ Removes app data properly
✔ Ideal for MacBook Pro users
✔ Works great on macOS 26
🔎 This answers the query:
how to uninstall apps on mac from settings
Method 3: How to Uninstall Apps on Mac from App Store
Apps installed via the App Store can be removed directly from Launchpad.
Steps:
- Open Launchpad
- Press and hold the Option (⌥) key
- Click the X on the app
- Confirm delete
✔ Best for App Store apps
❌ X won’t appear for non-App Store apps
🔍 Keyword covered:
how to uninstall apps on mac from app store
Method 4: How to Uninstall Apps on Mac Downloaded from Internet
Apps downloaded from browsers often leave hidden files.
Do This:
- Delete app from Applications
- Open Finder → Go → Go to Folder
- Paste each path and delete related files:
~/Library/Application Support ~/Library/Preferences ~/Library/Caches
⚠ Be careful not to delete system files.
Method 5: How to Uninstall Apps on MacBook Pro (Intel & Apple Silicon)
MacBook Pro users (Intel, M1, M2, M3) can follow any method above, but for best results:
✔ Use System Settings → Storage
✔ Restart Mac after uninstall
✔ Remove leftover files manually
This prevents performance drops and storage bloat.
Method 6: Can You Uninstall Built-in Mac Apps?
Some Apple apps cannot be removed (Safari, Messages, Mail).
You can:
- Disable them
- Remove from Dock
- Restrict via Screen Time
Need system control help?
👉 How to Change Screen Timeout on Mac & Windows
https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-change-screen-timeout-windows-11-10-mac-complete-guide
Common Uninstall Problems (Quick Fix Table)
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| App won’t delete | Quit app → Restart Mac |
| No delete option | Use Storage Settings |
| App still taking space | Delete Library files |
| Mac running slow | Clean unused apps |
Related Mac Troubleshooting Guides
If you’re cleaning your Mac, these guides pair perfectly:
- Check If Mic Is Working on Mac & Windows
https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-check-my-mic-is-working-or-not-in-windows-11-10-7-mac-complete-guide-2025
FAQs – How to Uninstall Apps on Mac
How do I completely uninstall apps on Mac?
Use System Settings → Storage → Applications and remove leftover Library files.
How to uninstall apps on macOS Tahoe?
macOS Tahoe supports clean removal via Settings → General → Storage.
Does macOS 26 change uninstall steps?
No. macOS 26 uses the same uninstall process as recent macOS versions.
Is uninstalling apps on Mac free?
Yes. Uninstalling apps costs $0—no paid tools required.
Why can’t I delete some Mac apps?
System apps are protected by macOS and cannot be removed.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to uninstall apps on Mac properly helps free storage, boost speed, and prevent background issues. Whether you’re on a MacBook Pro, macOS Tahoe, or macOS 26, using the Settings → Storage method ensures the cleanest results.
Your Mac will thank you 🚀