Windows computers come with several useful applications from Microsoft, such as Notepad, Photos, and Paint. However, it also includes some applications that arent very useful and are worth deleting.
Windows computers come with several useful applications from Microsoft, such as Notepad, Photos, and Paint. However, it also includes some applications that aren't very useful and are worth deleting.
5. Windows Mail and Calendar
Windows Mail and Calendar have long been essential applications for managing email and scheduling events on Windows. Many people prefer them for their simplicity. However, with the recent overhaul of Outlook, Microsoft has decided to replace the default Mail and Calendar applications on Windows.
If you're running a recent Windows build, opening the Mail and Calendar apps will automatically redirect you to Outlook or prompt you to install it if you haven't already. This makes keeping the old Mail and Calendar apps on your PC pointless.
Of course, Outlook isn't your only option. There are many other great email applications for Windows . If you're looking for a free app that offers a reliable user experience, you might want to check out Thunderbird . For something similar to Windows Mail but with modern updates, Mailspring might be worth considering.
Similarly, there's no shortage of quality calendar apps for Windows. Fantastical is a great one that was previously exclusive to Mac.
4. Maps
Believe it or not, Microsoft's Maps app has been a part of Windows for over a decade. It's primarily designed for users who want to view maps and get directions directly on their PCs.
However, anyone who has tried this app will likely agree: It can't compare to more powerful and feature-rich alternatives like Google Maps or Apple Maps , both of which are easily accessible through any browser. In fact, you can even install Google Maps as a Progressive Web App (PWA) on your PC for faster access.
One area where Windows Maps still excels is offline accessibility. If you're traveling or live in an area with unreliable internet, the ability to download and view maps without a connection can be quite useful.
However, if you don't need offline access, Windows Maps is just another unnecessary app that takes up space and resources.
3. Movies & TV
One application that often goes unnoticed but can be safely uninstalled by most Windows users is Movies & TV. While it used to be a pretty good option for renting or buying individual movies and shows, the landscape has changed considerably.
With all-in-one streaming services like Netflix , Disney+, and Prime Video, the idea of paying per title seems outdated and far less cost-effective. Furthermore, Movies & TV doesn't offer any unique features that you can't find elsewhere.
If you still want to buy or rent content from Microsoft, the Entertainment tab in the Microsoft Store provides access to the same selection, so there's no need to clutter your system with a separate app.
2. Microsoft 365 Copilot
Microsoft has a habit of confusing users with frequent rebranding – the latest example being the move from Office 365 to Microsoft 365 and now the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. While the new name emphasizes integration with Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot , the app itself may not be necessary for many users.
The Microsoft 365 Copilot application is pre-installed on Windows 11 and serves as a central hub for accessing Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Microsoft tools, with integrated AI support. This application promises to streamline productivity by allowing you to create, manage, and share content, provided you are actively using those Office applications and have a Microsoft 365 subscription .
But the problem is: this app doesn't offer many features. For example, when you click on a Word document, the Microsoft Word application opens. Essentially, you'll find yourself switching between multiple applications instead of enjoying a seamless experience.
If you want to view and manage all your Office documents in one place, it's best to use the Microsoft 365 website directly. You can also create a shortcut for this website on your desktop or Start menu.
1. Microsoft News
Microsoft News is an app that provides personalized news stories, similar to Google News Feed on Android phones. While it may be useful for some, the app is already available in other parts of the system.
For example, you can access a nearly identical news feed using the Widgets panel on your PC. This application provides updated content in a clean, efficient layout, eliminating the need to open the Microsoft News app itself.
The default browser on PCs, Microsoft Edge , also includes a customizable news feed on its start page. If you use Edge regularly, you may find that the app provides the same personalized news. Since you can access news in many ways, there's no reason to keep Microsoft News cluttering your system.
Of all the bloatware apps on Windows, this is one of the least useful and almost pointless to keep. Of course, if you change your mind later, you can always reinstall them from the Microsoft Store. However, you probably won't miss them, and your PC will thank you with faster performance and fewer distractions.