Laptops often run out of storage space after a while due to the accumulation of learning apps, online meeting apps, photo editing apps, game launchers, and many other small utilities. In many cases, the computer runs slowly, applications malfunction and are impossible to uninstall, or even deleting shortcuts leaves the software still on the system. Let's explore how to uninstall applications on both Windows and MacBook laptops in this article from TipsMake.
Key points
- Uninstalling unused apps helps free up memory space, reduce background processes, and optimize laptop performance.
- On Windows 10/11, you can uninstall applications through Settings, Control Panel, Start Menu, or by using the uninstall file in the installation folder.
- For MacBooks , users can easily remove software using Launchpad, Finder, or the deep cleaning tool AppCleaner.
- Never attempt to delete system applications, hardware drivers, or security software yourself, as this can cause operational errors on your laptop.
- When dealing with stubborn apps, completely disable background processes or use reputable third-party uninstallation tools.
1. Why you should delete unused apps on your laptop.
During laptop use , a common situation is that the machine has too many outdated applications, game launchers, online learning software, or heavy editing tools installed that are no longer used. In such cases, properly uninstalling software will help to make the system cleaner and easier to manage.
- Free up space: Old apps, games, and installations can take up a lot of storage space, especially on low-capacity SSDs.
- Reduce background app usage: Some software still starts automatically with Windows or macOS, consuming RAM and CPU even when you don't have them open.
- Minimize software conflicts: Two applications with the same function or outdated apps can cause crashes, update errors, or unstable operation.
- Easier computer cleanup: A concise application list helps you manage the software you're using and perform computer maintenance checks more quickly.
Note: Uninstalling removes an application from your computer, but it doesn't always completely delete all leftover files, temporary data, or shortcuts.
Uninstalling unused apps helps free up storage space.
When should you delete something and when shouldn't you?
- You should delete apps that you no longer use, are buggy, have duplicate functions, or consume too many resources.
- You should delete: Learning apps, online meeting apps, and old game launchers that you no longer use.
- Do not delete: Windows or macOS system applications unless you are sure of their function.
- Do not delete: Graphics card, sound, touchpad, or WiFi drivers .
- Do not uninstall security software until you have a suitable alternative.
2. How to delete applications on a Windows 10/11 laptop
2.1. Delete apps using Settings
This is the preferred method for most Windows 10/11 users.
- Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings .
- Step 2: Select Apps . Go to Installed apps on Windows 11 or Apps & features on Windows 10.
Go to Installed apps on Windows 11
- Step 3: Find the app you want to uninstall in the list. Tap the three dots or select the app, then tap Uninstall .
Tap the three dots or select the app, then tap Uninstall.
- Step 4: Confirm if prompted by the system and follow the on-screen instructions.
This method works for most applications installed on the device, including many apps downloaded from the web and from the Store. If the Uninstall button is grayed out, it could be a system application or software controlled by the device administrator.
2.2. Deleting applications using the Control Panel
This method is suitable for traditional desktop software, especially apps installed using .exe or .msi files.
- Step 1: Press the Windows key , type and select Control Panel .
- Step 2: Select Programs and Features .
Select Programs and Features
- Step 3: Find the software you want to uninstall in the list.
- Step 4: Double-click or right-click the software, then select Uninstall .
Double-click or right-click the software, then select Uninstall.
- Step 5: Follow the uninstallation instructions that appear to complete the process.
Follow the uninstallation instructions that appear to complete the process.
If you're using older software, specialized tools, or a long-standing game launcher, this is often a more stable method than using Settings.
2.3. Uninstall the app from the Microsoft Store or Start Menu.
This is a quick way to uninstall simple apps. This method usually works well with apps from the Microsoft Store or some lightweight applications. If the system switches to Settings or Control Panel, just continue with the window that opens.
- Step 1: Open Start .
- Step 2: Type the name of the application you want to delete.
- Step 3: Right-click on the application.
- Step 4: Select Uninstall .
Right-click on the application and select Uninstall.
2.4. Use the Uninstall file in the installation directory.
Some software may not appear correctly in the application list but still have its own uninstallation file. This method should only be used if you are certain that it is the folder of the correct application to uninstall.
- Step 1: Open File Explorer and go to Program Files or Program Files (x86) .
- Step 2: Find the correct application folder.
- Step 3: Run the file such as uninstall.exe , unins000.exe , or a similar name.
Run files like uninstall.exe or unins000.exe to uninstall the application.
2.5. When should you use third-party uninstallation software?
Use this when an app is stubborn, displays errors, or leaves too many junk files after uninstallation. Only download from the developer's official website and avoid overusing it with system applications, drivers, or security software.
- Revo Uninstaller | DOWNLOAD HERE
- IObit Uninstaller | DOWNLOAD HERE
3. How to delete apps on a MacBook
3.1. Deleting applications using Launchpad
- Step 1: Open Launchpad . Find the app you want to delete.
- Step 2: Press and hold the icon until the apps vibrate slightly.
- Step 3: Press the X if it appears, then confirm deletion.
Press and hold the icon until the apps vibrate slightly, then press the X to delete them.
Not all apps have an X. This method is generally more suitable for apps downloaded from the App Store than for apps installed from external sources.
3.2. Deleting applications using Finder
This is a more common method for apps installed outside the App Store.
- Step 1: Open Finder . Go to the Applications folder .
Open Finder, go to the Applications folder.
- Step 2: Select the app you want to delete.
- Step 3: Drag the application to the Trash or right-click and select "Move to Trash ".
Drag the app to the Trash or right-click and select Move to Trash.
- Step 4: Open Trash and select Empty Trash if you want to delete it permanently.
Select Empty Trash if you want to delete it completely.
If the app is open, macOS may prompt you to close it before deleting it. This is a simple and sufficient method for most new MacBook users.
3.3. Use AppCleaner to delete unnecessary files.
- Step 1: Open AppCleaner .
- Step 2: Tap the three-line icon in the top right corner of the application.
Tap the three-line icon in the top right corner of the app.
- Step 3: Type the name of the app you want to delete and select it. AppCleaner will automatically scan related files such as cache, configuration, and temporary data.
Type the name of the app you want to delete and select the app.
This method is useful when you want to clear additional cache data, which is temporary data left behind by the application. You should only delete files that are relevant to that app.
4. What should I do if the app cannot be uninstalled?
Common situations include apps running in the background, uninstaller errors, or traces remaining even after uninstallation. In these cases, follow the steps in the correct order to avoid unnecessary actions.
4.1. The order in which to try
- Completely close the application: On Windows, open Task Manager to terminate the process. On Mac, use Force Quit if the app freezes.
- Restart your computer: This step helps close hidden processes and refresh the system state.
- Try uninstalling it again using the default tools: Try again via Settings , Control Panel , Launchpad , or Finder .
- Use a dedicated uninstaller: Only use Force Uninstall if the app is extremely stubborn and not a system application.
Avoid force uninstalling system apps, drivers, or security-related software. If you've tried all the basic steps and the problem persists, contact technical support for further investigation instead of continuing with force uninstallation.
On Windows, open Task Manager to terminate the process.
4.2. Why do files remain after uninstallation?
- Applications can leave behind cached data, which is temporary, to make them faster the next time they open.
- Some software also saves temporary files , logs, or user configuration folders.
- On Windows, there may be entries in the Registry , which is where the operating system stores some software configurations.
Therefore, free space doesn't always increase dramatically right after uninstalling an app.
5. Take precautions to avoid accidentally deleting or losing data.
Before uninstalling an app, check if it stores important data or is related to your laptop's hardware. This is a small step, but it helps reduce the risk of file loss or system errors.
- Data backup: Save personal files, save games, projects, presets, or sync folders if the application uses them.
- Do not uninstall system apps: Many apps included with Windows or macOS serve as background applications for the system.
- Do not uninstall drivers without understanding the process: Deleting the wrong driver can cause sound, touchpad, WiFi, or display issues.
- Be careful with security software: Incorrect uninstallation can leave your computer unprotected or trigger system alerts.
- Close the app before uninstalling it: Apps running in the background often cause the uninstallation process to fail or not complete.
Deleting the wrong driver can cause loss of sound, touchpad, etc.
6. When should I ask for technical support?
- I've tried uninstalling it multiple times, but it still won't work, even after trying all the basic steps.
- Suspect the app is malware or malicious software.
- After uninstalling the app, the device experienced audio, network, touchpad, or display issues.
In these cases, it's best to stop attempting to fix the problem yourself to avoid spreading the error. If you need to check the software, remove stubborn applications, or re-check the system configuration, you can contact technical support for guidance on the correct condition of your device.
If you need to check your software, remove stubborn applications, or contact technical support, please do so.
7. Some related questions
7.1. What is the quickest way to uninstall apps on a Windows 11 laptop?
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find the app you want to uninstall, and select Uninstall. This is a quick and suitable method for most users.
7.2. Why doesn't my device have much freed up space even after uninstalling apps?
The application may still leave behind cache, temporary files, or user data. Some software also saves configurations, so the file size doesn't decrease significantly immediately.
7.3. Should you use third-party software to uninstall apps?
Yes, but only use it when the app is stubborn or the default tools are ineffective. Always download from official sources and don't use it with system applications unless you fully understand how to use it.
7.4. How do you delete apps on a MacBook using Finder and Launchpad differently?
Launchpad is suitable for many apps downloaded from the App Store and often has an X for quick deletion. Finder is more suitable for apps installed externally and is a more common way to use it on macOS.