How to Uninstall Apps on Microsoft Store Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 15, 2025

Windows 11 comes with a modern, user-friendly Microsoft Store that makes it easy to download and install apps, just like on your phone. But here’s the problem: over time, you may end up with too many apps cluttering your system. Some apps might not be useful anymore, while others might eat up storage space or slow down performance.

That’s where uninstalling Microsoft Store apps comes in. Unlike traditional desktop software, Store apps are managed differently. If you’re wondering how to uninstall apps downloaded from Microsoft Store in Windows 11, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the ways to uninstall apps, step by step, whether through the Start menu, Settings app, PowerShell, or even third-party tools.

Why Uninstall Microsoft Store Apps on Windows 11?

Before jumping into the steps, let’s understand why removing these apps might be useful:

  • Free up storage space – Get rid of unused apps taking up valuable disk space.

  • Improve system performance – Some apps run in the background, consuming resources.

  • Declutter your Start menu – Fewer icons means easier navigation.

  • Privacy and security – Remove apps you don’t trust or no longer need.

  • Better focus – Get rid of distracting apps like games or news widgets.

Method 1: Uninstall Microsoft Store Apps from the Start Menu

This is the easiest and fastest way.

  1. Click on the Start button (Windows logo).

  2. Find the app you want to uninstall in the app list.

  3. Right-click the app.

  4. Select Uninstall.

  5. Confirm the action when prompted.

👉 Done! The app will be removed instantly.

Method 2: Uninstall Apps from Settings

The Settings app gives you more control and is useful if you want to remove multiple apps.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.

  3. Scroll or use the search bar to find the app.

  4. Click the three dots (•••) next to the app.

  5. Select Uninstall → Confirm.

👉 This method is great for bulk app removal.

Method 3: Uninstall Apps via Control Panel (Limited Use)

The old Control Panel works mainly for classic desktop apps, not Microsoft Store apps. However, some Store apps that act like hybrid desktop apps may appear here.

  1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.

  2. Browse the list and select the app.

  3. Click Uninstall.

👉 If you don’t see the app, try the other methods.

Method 4: Uninstall Apps Using PowerShell (Advanced)

If an app won’t uninstall normally, PowerShell is your friend.

  1. Press Win + S, type PowerShell, and select Run as administrator.

  2. Type the following command to list installed apps:

    Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName

  3. Find the app you want to uninstall.

  4. Copy its PackageFullName.

  5. Run the command:

    Remove-AppxPackage PackageFullName

👉 This method works for stubborn apps that can’t be removed from Settings or Start.

Method 5: Use Command Prompt (Similar to PowerShell)

If you’re more comfortable with CMD:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  2. Enter:

    PowerShell Get-AppxPackage *AppName* | Remove-AppxPackage

    Replace AppName with part of the app’s name.

👉 Example:

PowerShell Get-AppxPackage *Spotify* | Remove-AppxPackage

Method 6: Uninstall Apps via Microsoft Store

Some apps can also be uninstalled directly from within the Microsoft Store.

  1. Open Microsoft Store.

  2. Click on your Library (bottom-left corner).

  3. Find the app you want to remove.

  4. Click the three dots (•••) next to it.

  5. Select Uninstall.

👉 Handy if you’re browsing your installed Store apps.

Method 7: Use Third-Party App Uninstallers

If you want to remove multiple apps at once or delete leftovers, try third-party tools:

  • CCleaner

  • IObit Uninstaller

  • Revo Uninstaller

These tools can force remove stubborn apps and clear leftover files.

How to Reinstall Microsoft Store Apps (If Needed)

Accidentally deleted an app? Don’t panic.

  1. Open Microsoft Store.

  2. Search for the app.

  3. Click Install.

👉 You can reinstall any previously owned app for free.

Common Issues When Uninstalling Microsoft Store Apps

  • Uninstall button greyed out? → Some apps like Microsoft Edge, Photos, or Calculator are system apps and cannot be removed normally.

  • Error messages? → Use PowerShell to force uninstall.

  • App keeps reappearing after restart? → Disable background sync in Settings > Accounts.

Tips to Manage Apps on Windows 11

  • Regularly review your apps in Settings > Installed apps.

  • Disable unnecessary startup apps to boost performance.

  • Use the Storage Sense feature to clear temporary files.

  • Keep apps updated through Microsoft Store > Library > Update all.

Conclusion

Uninstalling Microsoft Store apps in Windows 11 is simple once you know your options. Whether you prefer the quick Start menu method, the detailed Settings app, or advanced PowerShell commands, you now have multiple ways to take control of your apps.

By uninstalling unused apps, you’ll free up space, improve performance, and keep your PC clean and organized. And remember—if you ever need an app again, reinstalling from the Microsoft Store is just a click away.

FAQs

Q1. Can I uninstall all Microsoft Store apps?
No, core system apps like Microsoft Edge, Settings, and Store itself cannot be removed.

Q2. What happens if I uninstall Microsoft Store?
You shouldn’t uninstall Microsoft Store. If removed, you’ll lose access to updates and new apps.

Q3. Is PowerShell safe for uninstalling apps?
Yes, but be careful—don’t remove essential system apps unless you’re sure.

Q4. Do uninstalled apps leave behind files?
Sometimes. Third-party uninstallers can help remove leftovers.

Q5. Can I reinstall Microsoft Store itself if it’s missing?
Yes, by using PowerShell or downloading the installer from Microsoft’s official website.

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