There usually comes a point in time when the number of applications on your computer are starting to pile up and consume most of your Mac’s storage space. Moreover, with the introduction of new macOS software updates like Catalina and Big Sur, many of your old apps are beginning to become obsolete. This is because of the new requirement from Apple that states every Mac app on these new systems, must be 64-bit binaries. In simple terms, if the application is not of the 64-bit variety, then chances are those apps will no longer work on your Mac.

Additionally, it may be possible that the application is an old one and isn’t supported anymore or maybe you simply have no need for it anymore? Either way, what you are looking for is a sure-fire way to remove these clunky and unnecessary apps and so, we’ve put together this quick and handy guide to help you get the job done! However, the first thing you need to realise is deleting an application is very different from uninstalling it, but for the sake of context, you should be aware that there are two main methods of deleting an app and that is either through Finder or through Launchpad.

Using Launchpad 

One of the easiest ways of deleting an unnecessary or bothersome application is by heading to your Launchpad and deleting the file directly from there. You can accomplish this by clicking on the rocket-shaped icon which is located at the bottom of your desktop screen. The process is actually very similar to how you would deleting an iPhone app, as all you need to do is click and hold on the specific app and wait for it to start wiggling. Once that happens, simply click on the ‘x’ that pops up and voila, instant deletion!

Using Finder

The second method that you can use is to delete them through your Finder window. You can accomplish this by either simply right-clicking on the app and moving the app to the trash. Or by dragging the application to the trash as well. On a side note, you can also always back up the applications data or installer files for later use, on an external storage device using a usb-c hub, for example.

Uninstalling Apps Through Finder

As we mentioned earlier, deleting an application is not the same as uninstalling it. This is because even if you delete an app, chances are there are some left-over files, caches and processes still lingering in your Mac’s hard drive, which i turn could be consuming a significant amount of space in your Mac. As such, for you to be able to erase an application from your hard drive, you will have to head to the Finder window and select Go. From there, select ‘Go To Folder’ and paste this, ~/Library.

However, be aware that you should not delete every file in that folder. Some of your Mac’s most important system files are saved in the Library folder and that is why Apple tries to hide it from its users. As such, you should only delete files that you are fully confident are disposable, otherwise, you could end up damaging your system. Even experienced technicians tread lightly when browsing any Mac’s Library folder. However, if you notice a file that shouldn’t be there anymore, then you can simply drag it to the trash and erase it permanently.

The benefit of using this method, despite its riskiness, is the fact that erasing these app files will fully guarantee that any remnants of that previous app will be removed from your hard drive, clearing storage space. In most cases, those remnants tend to be, eg. cache files or keystroke tracks but since you have no need for them anymore, they become spyware and are not to be left to sit in your hard drive too long. However, as we said, it’s a risky method and one that is not necessary, because there is a much safer way to uninstall programs from your computer.

Uninstall Mac Apps Using A Third-Party App

This might seem a bit contradictory, but it is actually the safest and most efficient way of erasing unnecessary apps from your Mac. By downloaded system management utility apps like CleanMyMac X, you can very easily manage your applications, folders and files. Plus, there are several extra features available too! If you download the CleanMyMacX tool, once you open it, there is a sidebar on the left-hand side. There will be an Applications section that offers an uninstaller. This option provides an easy-to-use interface for all of the applications on your Mac. So, the next time you intend to clear your Mac, head to the uninstaller, and voila, instant uninstallation,. Plus, you won't have to go to the Library menu. It’s that simple!

Conclusion

While it can be a tedious process removing these apps from your mac, you can rest assured that you are doing your Mac a favor. At the end of the day, when you decide that you want to uninstall an app, this means removing everything eg. cache files, folders, etc. So, while deleting it from the Finder or Launchpad works, to properly ensure that any remaining files aren’t taking up storage space on your Mac, you need to make use of an uninstaller tool to help you get the job done.

Also, if you decide you might need some fo these files later, you can always transfer them to an external device using a 10ft usb c cable, for instance. However, do remember that using the Library method as we stated, is not the best choice, as one bad move and you will have created more problems for your Mac. There are also other alternative tools available online apart from CleanMyMacX, so take your time and find something that will suit you and your Mac’s needs best.