Paint 3D is a 3D modeling and image editing application developed by Microsoft, introduced as part of the Windows 10 Creators Update and continued in Windows 11. It allows users to create, edit, and manipulate 3D models, textures, and scenes using intuitive tools, while also supporting basic 2D drawing features similar to the classic Microsoft Paint. While Paint 3D offers creative capabilities for casual designers and educators, users may choose to uninstall it due to lack of usage, system resource optimization, or preference for more advanced alternatives like Blender or Adobe Dimension.
A complete uninstallation ensures that no residual files, registry entries, or background processes remain on the system, which could otherwise interfere with performance or future installations. This guide outlines multiple methods to fully remove Paint 3D from Windows 10 and Windows 11, while addressing differences between 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems. Each method includes detailed instructions, limitations, and success rate estimates.
Method 1: Uninstall via Settings (Apps & Features)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Windows 10:
- Open Settings (
Win + I
). - Navigate to Apps > Apps & Features.
- Locate Paint 3D in the list of installed applications.
- Click on it and select Uninstall.
- Confirm the action and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
For Windows 11:
- Open Settings (
Win + I
). - Go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Search for Paint 3D if necessary.
- Click the three-dot menu next to the app and select Uninstall.
- Confirm and follow the prompts to finish the uninstallation.
Notes:
- On Windows 11, Paint 3D may be listed under “Optional features” or appear as a pre-installed UWP (Universal Windows Platform) app.
- Some versions of Windows 10/11 do not allow full removal of system-integrated apps through this interface.
Disadvantages:
- May not fully remove all components or prevent automatic reinstallation after updates.
- In some cases, especially on Windows 11, Paint 3D cannot be uninstalled directly due to its integration into the OS.
Success Rate: 60–70%
Method 2: Use PowerShell Command Line
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Press
Win + S
, type PowerShell, right-click and select Run as Administrator. - Enter the following command to remove Paint 3D:
Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.MSPaint | Remove-AppxPackage
- Wait for the command to execute. There will be no confirmation message unless an error occurs.
- To ensure the package is removed for all user accounts, run the following command:
Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers Microsoft.MSPaint | Remove-AppxPackage
Notes:
- This method works only on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems where Paint 3D is installed as a UWP app.
- The exact package name may vary slightly depending on the Windows version.
Disadvantages:
- Requires knowledge of PowerShell commands.
- May not work if system policies restrict app removal.
Success Rate: 80–90%
Method 3: Manual Removal via Registry Editor and File System
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Ensure Paint 3D is closed and not running in the background.
- Perform an initial uninstall using either Method 1 or Method 2.
- Navigate to the following directories and delete any remaining folders related to Paint 3D:
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.MSPaint_*
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.MSPaint_*
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Paint 3D
- Open Registry Editor (
regedit
) as Administrator. - Back up the registry before proceeding.
- Delete any registry keys under:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppModel
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppModel
Notes:
- This method should only be performed by advanced users familiar with the Windows registry.
- Incorrect deletions can cause system instability or affect other software.
Disadvantages:
- High risk of damaging the system if executed improperly.
- Time-consuming and complex for non-technical users.
Success Rate: 85–95% (with caution)
Method 4: Use Perfect Uninstaller Software
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- If not already installed, download Perfect Uninstaller from its official website.
- Launch the software after installation.
- From the list of installed programs, locate Paint 3D or search manually if it’s not visible.
- Select the program and click Uninstall.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.
- After removal, use the built-in Scan for Leftovers feature to detect and delete remaining files, folders, and registry entries.
- Restart your computer to finalize changes.
Notes:
- Perfect Uninstaller automatically detects and removes leftover components, including registry entries and cached data.
- Compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11, and supports both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures.
Advantages:
- More thorough than standard uninstallers.
- User-friendly interface suitable for non-technical users.
Disadvantages:
- Requires downloading third-party software.
- Free version may have limited functionality unless upgraded to the full license.
Success Rate: 95–98%
Final Thoughts & Professional Recommendation
Each method for uninstalling Paint 3D presents different levels of effectiveness and complexity. Due to its status as a pre-installed or system-integrated application in Windows 10 and Windows 11, removing Paint 3D completely requires more effort than standard third-party software.
For general users, Method 1 (via Windows Settings) is the most accessible but often insufficient for a full uninstallation. Method 2 (PowerShell command line) provides better results and is recommended for intermediate users. However, when aiming for a clean system state or preparing for reinstallation, relying on a trusted third-party utility like Perfect Uninstaller is both efficient and safe, provided that the source is verified and security protocols are followed.
As a professional, I recommend starting with native tools only if you are certain they will suffice for your needs. However, achieving a truly clean removal of Paint 3D often requires additional steps or specialized tools. Understanding the distinctions between 32-bit and 64-bit systems, as well as differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, is essential for ensuring a successful and complete uninstallation.
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