Installing apps on Windows 10 is as simple as clicking a button — but uninstalling isn’t so straightforward. Windows 10 doesn’t really make it clear how to get apps off your system once they’re installed. If you’re short on space — or just don’t need an app — that can be a problem. Learn how to uninstall apps on Windows 10 now.
In this article, we’ll cover three methods for uninstalling apps that are built in to Windows 10. We’ll also discuss some other approaches to keeping your system running smoothly when you uninstall apps.
For many simple apps, like those installed from the Microsoft Store, you can simply uninstall them from the Start menu. To do so, follow these steps:
Windows 10 should then begin to uninstall the app.
For some apps, this method may not work. If so, you should use one of the two options listed below.
Some larger apps may require a more involved uninstallation process. For these apps, you’ll need to either use the Settings Menu or Control Panel. To uninstall apps using Windows 10 Settings, follow these steps:
Windows 10 will then begin uninstalling the selected app.
Some apps may have the Uninstall button grayed out. These are system apps that you can’t easily remove using standard methods.
It is possible to remove these apps using PowerShell, the command-line shell for Windows 10. However, you will need to be at least a little familiar with PowerShell — and for most apps, this method won’t be necessary.
Depending on the system app, removal could also create new issues or system instability.
If you’re a long-time Windows user, you may be familiar with using the Windows Control Panel to uninstall programs. You can still use the Control Panel on Windows 10 — just type control panel into the Start menu search bar, open the app, then follow these steps:
Windows 10 will then start to uninstall the selected program.
However, while you can use the Control Panel, it’s probably quicker to use the Settings menu method for uninstalling apps.
Also, some Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps, which are apps from the Microsoft Store, may not be visible on the Control Panel’s list of programs. You’ll need to use the Windows 10 Settings menu to get rid of these apps.
There are also third-party uninstallers, like Revo Uninstaller, that can remove your apps. In most cases, you won’t need to use a third-party uninstaller — the default methods that come with Windows 10 will work just fine.
It is true that some apps can sometimes leave behind files or registry changes. Over a long enough period of time, or with enough installs and uninstalls, these files could theoretically slow down your computer and even start to cause errors.
Third-party installers keep track of every file and registry change that a program makes, then undoes these changes when you go to uninstall an app. Typically, this helps to clear away any overlooked files or changes
However, these uninstallers, because they’re going above and beyond normal processes to remove files and make corrections, can also cause problems.
Third-party uninstallers are an option, but you should be sure that you need one before committing.
