Opera is a popular web browser known for its speed and built-in features like VPN, ad blocker, and sidebar integrations. However, if you’ve decided to switch to another browser or free up space on your device, you may want to uninstall it completely. This guide walks you through how to delete Opera from Windows, macOS, and mobile devices, including how to remove leftover files for a clean uninstall.
Step-by-Step Guide to Deleting Opera
Step 1: Close Opera Completely
Before uninstalling, make sure Opera is not running:
- On Windows/macOS: Close all Opera windows and check the system tray or dock for any background processes.
- On Mobile: Close the app completely or force stop it from the app manager.
Step 2: Uninstall Opera from Your Device
On Windows:
- Click Start and go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Scroll down and find Opera in the list.
- Click the three-dot menu beside it and choose Uninstall.
- In the Opera uninstaller window, check the box “Delete my Opera user data” (if you want to remove saved settings, history, bookmarks, etc.).
- Click Uninstall again to confirm.
On macOS:
- Open Finder.
- Go to the Applications folder.
- Locate Opera.app, then drag it to the Trash.
- To delete user data, navigate to:
- ~/Library/Application Support/
- Delete the Opera folder manually.
- Empty the Trash to complete removal.
On Android:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Apps > Opera.
- Tap Uninstall, then confirm when prompted.
On iPhone/iPad:
- Press and hold the Opera app icon.
- Tap Remove App, then choose Delete App.
- Confirm the deletion.
Step 3: Delete Opera’s Leftover Files (Optional but Recommended)
On Windows:
- Press Win + R, type %appdata%, and press Enter.
- Locate and delete the Opera Software folder.
- Repeat the process with %localappdata% and delete Opera Software from there as well.
On macOS:
- Open Finder > Go > Go to Folder.
- Enter ~/Library/Application Support/ and delete the Opera folder.
- Also check ~/Library/Caches/ and ~/Library/Preferences/ for Opera-related files.
Step 4: Restart Your Device
Restart your computer or mobile device to ensure all Opera components are completely removed.
What Happens When You Delete Opera?
All Opera Features and Data Are Removed
Uninstalling deletes the Opera browser and its features like bookmarks, extensions, saved passwords, browsing history, and user profiles (if you choose to delete user data during uninstall).
Other Browsers Are Unaffected
Your other installed browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) remain intact and unaffected.
Your Default Browser May Change
If Opera was set as your default browser, your system may revert to another browser or prompt you to choose a new default.
Additional Considerations
How to Backup Opera Data Before Uninstalling
If you want to reinstall Opera later and keep your settings:
- Go to opera://settings/importData to export bookmarks.
- Manually back up the Opera folder from:
- Windows: %appdata%\Opera Software
- Mac: ~/Library/Application Support/Opera
How to Reinstall Opera Later
If you decide to come back to Opera:
- Visit www.opera.com and download the latest installer for your platform.
Is Opera Safe to Use?
Yes, Opera is generally considered safe and secure, with built-in ad blocking and a free VPN. If you’re deleting it due to performance issues, consider resetting or reinstalling first.
FAQs About Deleting Opera
Will deleting Opera remove my bookmarks and saved passwords?
Only if you check the option to remove user data during uninstallation. Otherwise, user data may remain.
Can I reinstall Opera after deleting it?
Yes. You can download the latest version from the official Opera website anytime.
Does Opera leave files behind after uninstalling?
Yes. Temporary files and user data may remain unless you manually delete them from AppData (Windows) or Library (Mac).
Is it safe to delete Opera?
Absolutely. Deleting Opera will not affect other programs or your system’s performance.
How do I make another browser my default after uninstalling Opera?
Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps (Windows) or System Preferences > General (Mac) and select a new default browser.
Deleting Opera is a simple process, whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or mobile. By following the steps outlined above, you can uninstall Opera and remove any leftover files for a clean system. If you’re switching browsers or troubleshooting, you can always reinstall Opera later with ease.