Whether you’re freeing up disk space or cleaning up software you no longer use, knowing how to delete an app in Linux Ubuntu is one of the most useful skills for any Ubuntu user. Unlike Windows, Ubuntu gives you multiple ways to uninstall applications — from a simple graphical interface to powerful terminal commands. This guide covers all of them, clearly and step by step.
Method 1: Delete an App Using Ubuntu Software Center (GUI)
If you prefer a visual, click-based approach, the Ubuntu Software Center is the easiest way to remove apps — no commands needed.
- Open the Ubuntu Software Center from your dock or application menu.
- Click the “Installed” tab at the top of the window.
- Browse the list or use the search bar to find the app you want to remove.
- Click the “Remove” button next to the application.
- Enter your password when prompted to confirm.
The app will be uninstalled within seconds. This method is ideal for beginners or anyone who doesn’t want to use the terminal.
Method 2: Delete an App Using the Terminal (apt remove)
The terminal is the fastest and most reliable way to uninstall software on Ubuntu. The apt remove command deletes the application but keeps its configuration files on your system — useful if you plan to reinstall it later.
Open your terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T, then run:
sudo apt remove package-nameReplace package-name with the actual name of the app. For example, to remove VLC:
sudo apt remove vlcType your password when asked, then press Y and hit Enter to confirm. The application will be removed.
Not Sure of the Exact Package Name?
You can list all installed packages and search for the one you need:
dpkg --list | grep app-nameThis will help you find the exact package name before running the remove command.
Method 3: Completely Remove an App with apt purge
If you want to fully wipe an application — including all its configuration files, settings, and leftover data — use apt purge instead:
sudo apt purge package-nameFor a clean removal with no leftovers, you can also add --auto-remove to clean up dependencies at the same time:
sudo apt purge --auto-remove package-nameThis is the recommended method when you’re sure you won’t need the app again.
Method 4: Remove a Snap App
If the application was installed as a Snap package (common for apps like Spotify, VS Code, or Slack), the apt command won’t work. Use the snap remove command instead:
sudo snap remove package-nameFor example, to remove the Snap version of VLC:
sudo snap remove vlcNot sure if an app is a Snap? Run this to see all installed Snap packages:
snap listHow to Remove Leftover Dependencies (apt autoremove)
When you uninstall an app, some of its dependencies may remain on your system unused. These take up disk space without serving any purpose. To clean them up, run:
sudo apt autoremoveIt’s a good habit to run this command after removing any application. Ubuntu will identify all orphaned packages and remove them automatically after your confirmation.
apt remove vs apt purge — What’s the Difference?
Both commands uninstall an application, but they behave differently when it comes to leftover files:
- apt remove — Deletes the application binaries but keeps configuration files. Good if you plan to reinstall later and want to preserve your settings.
- apt purge — Deletes the application and all its configuration files completely. Best when you’re done with the app for good.
For most users who want a clean system, apt purge followed by apt autoremove is the recommended approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I delete an app in Linux Ubuntu using the terminal?
Open the terminal with Ctrl + Alt + T and run sudo apt remove package-name to uninstall the app while keeping configuration files. To remove everything including config files, use sudo apt purge package-name instead. Confirm with your password and press Y when prompted.
What is the difference between apt remove and apt purge in Ubuntu?
The apt remove command uninstalls the application but leaves its configuration files on the system. The apt purge command removes both the application and all associated configuration files. Use purge when you want a complete, clean removal.
How do I remove a Snap app in Ubuntu?
Snap apps cannot be removed with the apt command. To uninstall a Snap application, open the terminal and run sudo snap remove package-name. You can see all installed Snap packages by running snap list first.
How do I clean up leftover files after uninstalling an app on Ubuntu?
After removing an app, run sudo apt autoremove in the terminal to delete any orphaned dependencies that were installed alongside the app but are no longer needed. This helps keep your system clean and frees up additional disk space.
Can I uninstall apps on Ubuntu without using the terminal?
Yes. Open the Ubuntu Software Center, click the “Installed” tab, find the app you want to remove, and click the “Remove” button. You’ll be asked to enter your password to confirm. This graphical method works well for most standard applications.
