This open-source application for Mac detects the leftover junk files from the apps you've uninstalled.

      Uninstalling applications on macOS is generally straightforward: you simply drag an app to the Trash, empty it, and you're done. However, a frustrating aspect is that many applications leave behind remnants—support files, caches, preferences, containers, and logs—even after deletion. This lingering data can be bothersome, particularly when it remains long after the app itself has been removed.

      For years, AppCleaner by FreeMacSoft has been a popular choice to address this issue, and it continues to perform well. Recently, however, I discovered a new open-source alternative called Uninstally by Codenta, which tackles the same fundamental issue. It effectively uninstalls Mac apps along with their associated support files, caches, preferences, containers, logs, and other residual elements.

      How does Uninstally operate?

      Uninstally can be accessed directly from Finder. After enabling its Finder extension, you can right-click any .app bundle and select “Uninstall with Uninstally.” Instead of launching a separate application, it brings up a confirmation window to simplify the process.

      Uninstally in Finder menu Codenta on GitHub

      What sets it apart is how it identifies related files. Uninstally utilizes the app’s bundle identifier and helper namespaces to locate leftover items within the Library hierarchy, rather than merely searching for folders with the same name. Prior to removal, it displays the app name, icon, reclaimable storage amount, count of items found, and allows you to review or deselect matched files.

      What else enhances its utility?

      There is also a standalone app browser for more intentional cleaning. This feature lets you search through installed applications, toggle between grid and list views, and filter by the largest apps, recently installed apps, never opened apps, faulty installs, duplicated apps, and those with leftover files.

      Codenta on GitHub

      Uninstally includes a leftover scanner for applications that you have previously uninstalled. Instead of manually searching through Library folders, you can scan for orphaned support files, caches, containers, preferences, logs, and old installers all in one place.

      It also accommodates Homebrew casks and formulae, indicates dependency relationships, and can remove Homebrew leftovers through an optional zap cleanup. Files in the user domain are moved to the Trash, while privileged items will prompt for administrator access. You can download Uninstally from Codenta’s website or its GitHub repository.