Windows 11 comes with a variety of preinstalled apps, some essential and others unnecessary. A recent decision by European regulators allows users to uninstall most of these apps, but the question remains: which ones should you keep and which should you remove? On a new installation of Windows 11 version 26H2, there are over 30 Microsoft apps, each serving different purposes.
Among the apps worth keeping are the Microsoft Store, which is crucial for updating system apps, and Microsoft Edge, a Chromium-based browser with tracking protection features. The Snipping Tool is another favorite, offering screen capture and video recording capabilities. For those who need command-line tools, Terminal provides a modern interface for PowerShell and other scripting tasks.
Quick Assist is a handy tool for remote support, allowing users to connect to another PC and troubleshoot issues directly. Classic utilities like Notepad, Paint, Calculator, and Windows Clock have also been updated with modern features. Microsoft OneDrive, while not essential for everyone, offers useful cloud storage options, especially for Microsoft 365 subscribers.
Ultimately, the choice to keep or uninstall these apps depends on individual needs. Some apps are indispensable, while others can be safely removed to declutter the system.