How to uninstall Microsoft store apps on Windows 10
Windows 8/8.1 first introduced the Windows Store, which, after a few iterations of Windows 10, became the Microsoft Store. The store hasn’t been big; it is host to some popular apps, but many users still use desktop apps since they’re not subject to the same restrictions as these UWP apps.
Microsoft Store apps
Installing an app from the Microsoft Store app allows you to view your entire library in one place and mass-update the apps. The apps don’t have to be uninstalled, and the update process is seamless and in-place.
Installing apps from the Microsoft Store app is also fairly easy; you don’t have to figure out which is the right Download button to click.
Uninstall Microsoft Store apps
Microsoft Store apps cannot be uninstalled from the Control Panel, which is how Windows’ users have been uninstalling apps for years.
Note: This post refers to uninstalling apps from the Microsoft Store and NOT how to uninstall the Microsoft Store app itself. Uninstalling the Microsoft Store app is possible but not advisable.
Uninstall Microsoft Store apps from Settings
The easiest way to uninstall Microsoft Store apps is from the Settings app.
- Open the Settings app (Win+I keyboard shortcut).
- Go to Apps>Apps & features.
- Look through the list of apps, and select the app to uninstall.
- Click the Uninstall button, and the app will be uninstalled within minutes.
Uninstall Microsoft Store apps from Start menu/Apps list
A Microsoft Store app can be uninstalled directly from the Start menu if it’s pinned to it or from the Apps’ list.
- Open the Start Menu.
- Go to the Apps’ list.
- Look for the app to uninstall.
- Right-click the app and select Uninstall from the context menu.
Missing Uninstall option
If you’ve tried both of the above two options, and the Uninstall option is missing, it likely means that the app isn’t from the Microsoft Store. Many desktop apps have modified their icons so that they fit in better with the Windows 10 UI, and the Start menu.
These apps can be uninstalled from the Control Panel or, in the rare case, they may come with their own uninstaller that you can run from the app’s folder in the Apps’ list.
Conclusion
Most apps that you install from the Microsoft Store have a desktop version, e.g., VLC player can be installed from the Microsoft Store, but its desktop app is still available for download on the official website. There are exceptions to this, e.g., Minecraft on the Microsoft Store and the Java version are different in terms of features.
I use CCleaner. It’s free version gives you an option to uninstall apps. If I use Microsoft way, I would have to scroll down a lot to look at the apps currently installed in my PC.