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Windows installations often come bundled with a mix of essential and non-essential apps. Some are built-in for functionality, while others are designed to promote Microsoft’s subscription services like Microsoft 365 and OneDrive. As users, we now have the freedom to decide which apps to keep and which to remove, thanks to a 2023 decision by European regulators. Below, I’ll share the 11 apps I choose to keep on my new Windows installation and the 11 I remove.
The Apps I Keep
1. Microsoft Store
Though not visible in the “Installed Apps” list, the Microsoft Store is vital for updating system apps and installing desktop apps from a secure source. I don’t recommend uninstalling it, as it’s integral to your system’s app management.
2. Microsoft Edge
As the default browser, Edge has become much more reliable since switching to the Chromium engine. It’s now compatible with Chrome extensions and includes useful features like built-in tracking protection, making it a solid choice for daily browsing.
3. Snipping Tool
This tool allows for easy screenshots and even video recordings. It’s perfect for casual use, especially when you need to capture a portion of your screen and share it quickly. It’s come a long way and even includes features like text extraction from images.
4. Terminal
For power users, Terminal provides access to Windows PowerShell with support for multiple tabs and a modern scripting environment. It’s essential for executing various tasks efficiently through commands.
5. Quick Assist
Whenever friends or family need help troubleshooting their PC, Quick Assist lets me remotely connect to their system and make changes directly. It’s simple and avoids the need for third-party solutions.
6. Classic Utilities (Notepad, Paint, Calculator, Windows Clock)
These four apps might be simple, but they are timeless essentials that have evolved over the years to support modern needs, like tabbed editing in Notepad or graphing capabilities in Calculator.
7. Microsoft OneDrive
For anyone using a Microsoft 365 subscription, OneDrive is a must-have for storing and syncing files across devices. The 5GB of free cloud storage is also helpful for quickly backing up files.
8. Copilot
While I remain skeptical about its long-term utility, Copilot offers an enjoyable, evolving experience that could significantly enhance interaction with Windows and applications in the future.
9. Sticky Notes
This app syncs seamlessly with Android and iOS, making it an excellent tool for jotting down quick reminders and accessing them across devices.
10. Solitaire & Casual Games
Sometimes, a little entertainment is all you need. I enjoy playing Solitaire and similar games, especially ad-free with a yearly subscription.
11. Microsoft Teams
Given the rise of remote work, Teams has become a vital communication tool. It’s now integrated with both work and personal accounts, making it a worthwhile app to keep for business meetings and communication.
The Apps I Replace
1. Media Player
Microsoft’s Media Player is a functional app, but I replace it with MediaMonkey, which better suits my needs for managing and playing media.
2. Microsoft Photos
While useful for basic photo viewing and editing, I prefer a more robust tool. I leave the Photos app installed but hide it from the Start menu, replacing it with a dedicated photo editor.
3. Microsoft Clipchamp
This video editor seems to be a marketing tool, pushing users toward a paid subscription. I prefer third-party editors like DaVinci Resolve.
4. Outlook (New)
The new Outlook app attempts to combine Mail, Calendar, and People but falls short. I stick with the classic Outlook version, which suits my needs better.
The Apps I Dump
1. Microsoft To Do
This app complicates simple task management, so I prefer using alternatives like Todoist for a more streamlined experience.
2. Microsoft 365 Copilot
This app is merely a shortcut to the Microsoft 365 website, and I find it redundant. I just bookmark the site instead.
3. Movies & TV
Microsoft’s Movies & TV app is a front for rental and purchased content from the Microsoft Store, but I replace it with VLC Media Player for a more versatile media experience.
4. Maps
While useful for mobile users, the Maps app feels obsolete on a desktop PC. I rely on Google Maps or Bing Maps through my browser instead.
5. News and Weather
These apps
6. Cortana
Officially deprecated, Cortana is no longer necessary. If you find it lingering, it’s time to remove it.
7. Sound Recorder
This app has no place in my workflow, and I prefer to use my phone for voice memos. It’s not worth keeping around.
The Apps You Shouldn’t Touch
Some apps, though not immediately useful, are critical for Windows to function properly. These apps include System Components like Ink.Handwriting.Main.Store, the Feedback Hub, and the Camera app. These tools should remain untouched to avoid breaking important functionalities or missing out on providing feedback for system issues.
What Undercode Says
As a tech-savvy user who values customization and efficiency, the approach of selectively keeping or removing apps from a fresh Windows installation resonates with me. The pre-installed apps can often feel like clutter, especially when they are tied to Microsoft’s ecosystem of services, many of which require ongoing subscriptions or are only useful to certain users. What’s refreshing is the ability to make these decisions independently, something that wasn’t always the case.
When choosing which apps to keep, I agree that utilities like Snipping Tool, Microsoft Edge, and Quick Assist are indispensable, especially when they fit seamlessly into a more productive or connected lifestyle. The ability to use these tools for quick tasks without the need for additional installations or configurations adds a lot of value. The preference for keeping basic tools like Notepad and Paint also highlights how simplicity and utility can trump feature bloat.
On the other hand, apps like Microsoft 365 Copilot or Outlook (new) are perfect examples of Microsoft’s attempts to push users into its subscription ecosystem. While these apps may work for some, they don’t offer a superior experience over free alternatives. In fact, many users may find the integration of multiple services under one roof overwhelming and unnecessary. Apps like Cortana, which are no longer relevant in today’s AI-driven world, are also rightly discarded.
What stands out, however, is how Microsoft, despite its push to bundle apps, still leaves room for user preference. The inclusion of a variety of apps – from games to essential tools – gives users the flexibility to create their ideal setup. Ultimately, this creates a Windows experience that is both tailored to the individual’s needs and customizable to suit different workflows.
Fact Checker Results
- Microsoft Store remains essential for updating system apps, though alternative app stores exist.
- Outlook’s replacement app fails to match the classic version’s functionality for many users.
- Many of the apps, like Cortana and Sound Recorder, have become obsolete and should be removed.
References:
Reported By: https://www.zdnet.com/article/the-11-microsoft-apps-i-ditch-on-every-new-windows-install-and-the-11-i-keep/
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