How to uninstall apps on a Mac

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Most Mac apps are a single file in the Applications folder, so removing them is simple. A few larger programs come with their own uninstaller, which you should use if it exists.

The pictures are diagrams of the keys to press.

Step by step

1. Quit the app

   An app that is open cannot be removed. Click its name in the menu bar and choose Quit, or press Command + Q.

   Done

2. Open Finder and click Applications

   Applications is in the sidebar of every Finder window. You can also press Shift + Command + A in Finder.

   Done

3. Move the app to the Bin

   Drag the app onto the Bin in the Dock, or select it and press Command + Delete. Enter your password if asked.

   Done

4. Empty the Bin

   Right-click the Bin in the Dock and choose Empty Bin. The space is freed only after this step.

   Done

5. Use the uninstaller if there is one

   Programs such as Adobe apps and some antivirus tools include an uninstaller in their folder in Applications, or offer one on their website. Use it so that background helpers are removed too.

   Done

Good to know

Apps that are part of macOS, such as Safari, Mail and Messages, cannot be deleted.

Deleting an app does not cancel a subscription. Check under System Settings, your name, Media & Purchases, Subscriptions.

To see which apps take the most space, open System Settings, General, Storage and click the i next to Applications: how to check and free up storage on a Mac.

In short: Quit the app, drag it from Applications to the Bin, empty the Bin.