Help · Mac apps

How to uninstall Java on a Mac.

By Grant and Brad, who make Pangalin's apps · Updated 10 October 2026

Oracle's Java comes in two parts you may have: the Java runtime with its browser plug-in and Control Panel (Java 8), and the JDK used for development. Oracle lists where each lives.

Remove the Java plug-in and Control Panel

Oracle lists three items. Move them to the Trash in Finder (⇧⌘G, then type the path); the first two are system folders, so Finder asks for your password:

1. /Library/Internet Plug-Ins/JavaAppletPlugin.plugin
2. /Library/PreferencePanes/JavaControlPanel.prefPane
3. ~/Library/Application Support/Oracle/Java

Remove a JDK

1. In Finder, press ⇧⌘G and go to /Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines.
2. Move the folder for the version you want to remove, such as jdk-26.jdk, to the Trash, and enter your password.

Don't remove the Java tools in /usr/bin. Oracle warns against it: those belong to macOS, which puts them back during updates.

Other Java builds (for example from Homebrew or other vendors) are removed their own way; for Homebrew, use brew uninstall.

Afterwards

• Check System Settings › General › Login Items & Extensions for anything still named Java; see login items. An app that's still in your Trash can stay listed there until you empty the Trash or restart; that's normal macOS behaviour.
• Empty the Trash when you're sure. Emptying the Trash is permanent.

Based on Oracle's own Java documentation, checked October 2026. Menu names can change between versions.