Uninstalling apps can often be a challenge for Mac users. While the process typically involves simply dragging an app to the Trash, some apps are not so easily removed. In this article, we’ll show you several methods to help you easily uninstall applications from your Mac.
How to Uninstall Apps on a Mac
There are several methods you can rely on to uninstall apps that you’re unable to delete from your Mac. Below, we present some of those methods.
1. Using an Uninstaller Program
When you first install apps on your Mac, you typically do so using a specialized program called the Installer, which comes with the app’s download. Similarly, you can use an uninstaller program when you need to remove apps, especially those that you can’t delete through the regular method.
There are two types of uninstaller programs: those that come with the apps you've installed and can only remove the apps downloaded with them, and versatile uninstaller programs that can uninstall apps in general.
If the app you want to remove already includes an uninstaller, you’ll find it in the app’s folder. Simply launch the program and follow the on-screen instructions. If the app doesn't have its own uninstaller, you can use a third-party app like AppCleaner by following these steps:
- Once you’ve installed AppCleaner, open the program.
- Follow the instructions to uninstall any app by dragging the app from the Applications folder into the program window to initiate the uninstallation.
Make sure to review all the files that will be deleted. Uninstalling the app this way doesn’t just remove the app itself, but also all related files on your Mac, including files you might not have known existed. Click "Remove" and the app will be erased.
2. Use the Terminal App
If using the built-in uninstaller doesn’t allow you to remove apps, there’s another option: using the Terminal app. This method requires some technical knowledge and isn’t suitable for beginners, but it can be effective. However, only use this app if you’re sure of what you’re doing, as any incorrect step could cause issues on your device.
- In the Applications folder on your Mac, click on Utilities and then double-click Terminal to open it.
- Type sudo rm -rf.
- Drag the app you want to delete from the Applications folder into the Terminal window. This will insert the app’s path on your Mac, which the Terminal app needs to remove the app.
- Press the Return key.
- Enter the password you use to log into your computer.
- The app will then be deleted immediately, and you won't receive a confirmation message.
3. How to Delete an App That Won’t Close on a Mac
In some cases, you might not be able to delete an app on your Mac because the app is still running and you can’t close it. In this case, there are two ways to force close the app so you can attempt to delete it.
The simplest way to close the app is by using the Force Quit menu. Just click on the Apple Menu, then Force Quit, select the app, and click Force Quit again.
If this method doesn’t work and the app is still stuck, you’ll need a more powerful option, and that’s where Activity Monitor comes in.
The Activity Monitor is a built-in macOS tool that lets you see all the apps, processes, and other activities running on your computer, including many things running in the background and hidden from you. It also provides a powerful way to close apps. Here’s how to use it:
- Go to Finder, then open the Applications folder, and then the Utilities folder.
- Double-click on Activity Monitor to launch the app.
- Scroll through all the processes currently running or search for the name of the app you can’t close. It’s likely marked in red and will say “Not Responding.”
- Click on the app, then click the “X” icon.
- Press Force Quit.
- Restart your Mac.
- Install any available updates for macOS.