Removing unused apps can free storage and reduce background activity, but uninstalling a particular set of Microsoft apps is not a guaranteed way to speed up every Windows 11 PC. One September 22, 2026 article reports smoother performance after removing OneDrive, Xbox, Copilot, Outlook, and Phone Link; that is an author’s experience, not a controlled before-and-after test. Whether cleanup helps depends on what is installed and running on your PC.
Which apps did the author remove?
The September 22, 2026 article names five apps: OneDrive, Xbox, Copilot, Outlook, and Phone Link. It also mentions Weather, Camera, Sound Recorder, To Do, and Clipchamp as examples of apps a user might not need. This is a personal list, not an official Microsoft bloatware list or a complete inventory of apps installed on every Windows 11 PC. Read the article.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Use the list as a prompt to check your own PC, not as a removal checklist. If you rely on an app or its connected features, removing it may be inconvenient even if it saves some storage or background activity.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
When can removing an app help?
Microsoft identifies limited storage, too many startup apps, outdated software, and hardware that no longer meets current demands among possible causes of a slow Windows device. It recommends considering more than one remedy. Removing apps you do not use may free storage and reduce background activity, but Microsoft’s guidance does not establish that uninstalling these five apps will improve performance on every PC. Microsoft’s performance tips.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Before uninstalling, check whether the app is actually launching at sign-in or using resources. Startup behavior is a separate setting: Microsoft says startup apps can affect startup speed and overall performance, and documents controls in Settings and Task Manager. If an app is useful but does not need to open automatically, disabling its startup entry may be a better fit than removing it. Configure startup applications in Windows.
How to decide what to remove
- You do not use it: Consider uninstalling it if you do not need its functions.
- It launches automatically: Check its startup setting first; turn off automatic launch if you want to keep the app.
- You may want it back: Check that you know how to reinstall it, especially if it came from Microsoft Store.
- Windows offers no Uninstall option: Some built-in apps cannot be removed through ordinary Windows controls. Do not assume every Windows component is removable.
Uninstall an app in Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find the app you want to remove and open its More options menu.
- Select Uninstall and follow any prompts. If Uninstall is unavailable, Windows may not support removing that built-in app through this route.
Microsoft documents this route and notes that some built-in apps cannot be uninstalled. Uninstall or remove apps and programs in Windows.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Turn off an app’s startup launch instead
To keep an app but stop it launching automatically, open Start > Settings > Apps > Startup and switch off the app. You can also manage startup apps in Task Manager. These controls address automatic launch; they do not uninstall the app. Microsoft’s startup-app instructions.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Reinstall an app if you change your mind
For a Microsoft Store app, open Microsoft Store, go to Library, find the app, and select Install. Microsoft’s Store app troubleshooting guidance.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
There is also a separate policy-based removal process for managed Windows 11 Enterprise and Education environments. It is not the ordinary consumer uninstall method; after policy-based removal, the relevant policy selection must be cleared before reinstalling. Microsoft’s policy-based removal documentation.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the smoother-PC claim does—and does not—show
The reported improvement is anecdotal: the article does not provide controlled measurements comparing the PC before and after the removals. It also makes an Outlook memory-use claim of 800 MB to 1 GB without a supporting measurement source, so that range should not be treated as a general fact. For your own device, check storage, startup behavior, and resource use rather than assuming an app is responsible for slowness.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
