How to Easily Uninstall Applications in Ubuntu
Uninstalling applications in Ubuntu can be a bit of a headache due to the various installation methods available. Whether you installed an app from the Apt repository, the Snap repository, or used universal packaging methods like Flatpak or AppImage, each method requires a different approach to uninstallation. In this article, we will explore different methods to uninstall apps in Ubuntu, making the process easier for you.
Command-Line Uninstall
If you're comfortable with the terminal, uninstalling apps through the command-line is a straightforward process. Let's start with the command-line method before exploring the GUI option.
Apt Repository
First, we need to determine the repository from which the app was installed and find the package name. In the case of the apt repository, you can search for the installed list of packages using the following command:
sudo dpkg --list <package-name>
For example, if you're searching for the Chromium app, you can use:
sudo dpkg --list chrom*
Once you've located the package, use the following command to uninstall it:
sudo apt remove <package-name>
If you want to remove the configuration files and dependencies associated with the app, use the following command instead:
sudo apt purge --auto-remove <package-name>
Snap Repository
If the app was installed via Snap, you can search for the package name using the following command:
sudo snap list | grep <package-name>
To uninstall the app, use the following command:
sudo snap remove <package-name>
If you want to remove all user data, configuration files, and dependencies associated with the app, use the following command:
sudo snap remove --purge <package-name>
Flatpak Repository
If the app was installed via Flatpak, you can search for the package name using the following command:
flatpak list | grep <package-name>
To uninstall the app, use the following command:
sudo flatpak uninstall <package-name>
To remove any unused packages and dependencies, use the following command:
sudo flatpak uninstall --unused
Graphical User Interface (GUI) Uninstall
For those who prefer a graphical interface, Ubuntu Software Center is the go-to option. It supports both the apt and snap repositories. To uninstall an app using the GUI, follow these steps:
- Open the Ubuntu Software application.
- Switch to the “Installed” tab.
- Browse through the list of installed apps.
- Click on the “Remove” button next to the app you want to uninstall.
Third-Party Installations
If you installed an app from a third-party source, such as GitHub or a shell script, the uninstallation process may vary. In such cases, you will need to refer to the app developer's instructions on their GitHub Wiki or website to find the appropriate uninstallation command.
In conclusion, uninstalling applications in Ubuntu can be done through the command-line or using the graphical user interface. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can easily uninstall apps and keep your system clean and organized. If you have any further questions or issues, feel free to let us know in the comments below.

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”