Finder is the most reliable free way to uninstall apps on a Mac. Open the Applications folder, then move the app to the Trash. This works for most apps, and you can put the app back until you empty the Trash.
Quick steps
- Quit the app.
- Open Applications in Finder.
- Select the app and press Command and Delete.
- Empty the Trash when you are sure.
Step 1: Quit the app
Press Command and Q while the app is open. If the app asks you to save your work, save it first.
Step 2: Open the Applications folder
Open Finder and click Applications in the sidebar. Every app you installed is here. Some apps sit inside a folder, such as one named after a company. Open that folder to find the app.
Step 3: Move the app to the Trash
- Select the app with one click.
- Press Command and Delete, or drag the app onto the Trash icon in the Dock.
- Enter your password if macOS asks for it.
One-time purchase. Works on macOS 15 or later, on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
Step 4: Empty the Trash when you are sure
The app stays in the Trash until you empty it. To free the space, choose Finder, then Empty Trash.
Warning: Emptying the Trash is permanent. Check the Trash before you empty it.
Undo a removal
Open the Trash, right-click the app, and choose Put Back. The app returns to Applications. This works only until you empty the Trash.
Frequently asked questions
Can I select several apps at once?
Yes. Hold Command and click each app, then press Command and Delete. Check your selection before you press the keys.
What if macOS says the app is in use?
Quit the app first, then try again. Check the menu bar for the app’s icon if it is still running.
Does this remove the app’s other files?
No. It removes the app itself. Other files the app created may stay in your Library folder.
Want one simple step instead?
Uninstallzy shows every app with its size. Pick the app, confirm once, and it goes to the Trash.
One-time purchase. Works on macOS 15 or later, on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.