The best app uninstallers for Mac

A 2023 software usage report revealed that the average Mac user has 51 apps installed, but only uses 15 daily, with roughly 10 being pre-installed macOS apps. This highlights the need for efficient app removal to free up space and improve performance. Simply deleting an app doesn't fully remove associated files, potentially leaving behind remnants that consume storage and create security vulnerabilities. A dedicated Mac uninstaller is the solution.

Choosing the Right Mac Uninstaller

A good Mac uninstaller automates complete app removal, including locating and deleting associated files and caches. The best options offer a user-friendly interface and additional system optimization features. Key considerations include:

• Effectiveness: The uninstaller should thoroughly remove all app components.
• Ease of use: A simple, intuitive interface is crucial.
• Price: While pricing varies, effectiveness and usability should be prioritized.

Top Mac Uninstaller Options

Selecting the perfect uninstaller can be challenging. Setapp provides a curated collection of over 240 reliable Mac apps, including several excellent uninstallers. Here are some top contenders:

CleanMyMac X: This comprehensive utility offers a powerful uninstaller alongside system cleanup, malware detection, and performance optimization tools. Its Uninstaller module allows sorting apps by various criteria for easy selection and removal. It also includes a "Leftovers" module to find and remove hidden files left by manually uninstalled apps. CleanMyMac X is Apple-notarized, ensuring safety.

AppZapper: A straightforward, single-function app ideal for users seeking simplicity. Drag and drop the app into AppZapper, select leftover files, and click "Zap." A "Hit List" shows space-consuming apps for efficient batch removal. An undo function mitigates accidental deletions. Note that the free trial limits uninstallations to five apps.

App Cleaner & Uninstaller: This multi-functional tool offers extensive scanning and management options, including extension and startup program control. The interface is well-organized, displaying app storage usage to aid in space optimization. The free trial is limited to scanning; full functionality requires purchase.

Hazel: Hazel excels in automated folder organization, including app support file removal via its "App Sweep" feature. It also provides Trash folder management rules. However, its rule-based system may be overly complex for users solely seeking app removal.

AppCleaner: A free, simple uninstaller similar to AppZapper, focusing on removing apps and associated files. It offers a "SmartDelete" option for automatic leftover file removal. However, it lacks malware protection.

macOS's Built-in Uninstaller (Limitations)

macOS offers a basic uninstall method: dragging the app to the Trash and emptying it. However, this leaves behind hidden files, necessitating manual removal from the Library folder (a complex and potentially risky process). This method is not recommended.

Disk Drill for Leftover File Detection

For manual uninstallations, Disk Drill can assist in locating and removing leftover app caches and folders. It also provides disk space analysis and management tools.

Conclusion

While many uninstallers exist, CleanMyMac X stands out for its combination of robust features, user-friendly design, and system optimization capabilities. Disk Drill is a valuable complement for identifying and removing leftover files during manual uninstallation. Setapp offers a seven-day free trial to explore these and other helpful Mac utilities.

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