What Is Bloatware? How to Remove It from Your New PC (2026)

Bloatware is pre-installed software on a new PC that you may not need or want, including trial apps, promotional games, and bundled utilities. It takes up storage space, and active bloatware that runs at startup can consume RAM and CPU resources, slowing boot times and multitasking. To remove bloatware from Windows 11, go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, locate the unwanted program, click the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall. Not every pre-installed app is bloatware, manufacturer tools like HP Support Assistant manage drivers and security updates and should be kept.

This guide explains what bloatware is, why it exists on new PCs, how to identify it, and how to remove it safely. For a broader setup walkthrough, check out the first-day checklist for setting up a new laptop.

What Is Bloatware?

Bloatware refers to software that comes pre-loaded on a new device, most of which the owner did not request. These programs fall into two categories: manufacturer-installed OEM software and third-party trial software.

OEM software includes utilities that help manage your hardware, such as a device update tool or driver manager. Third-party apps are often included through licensing agreements or commercial partnerships—these are apps like trial antivirus suites and game launchers.

Common examples of what many users consider bloatware as of 2026 include Xbox Game Bar, Microsoft Clipchamp, Microsoft News, Spotify, and Candy Crush Saga. What counts as “bloat” versus “legitimate” is subjective. HP includes HP Support Assistant so your device stays updated with the latest drivers and security patches, this keeps your hardware performing at its best and protected.

Does Bloatware Slow Down Your PC?

The short answer is yes, but the impact depends on whether the software is passive or active.

Passive vs. Active Bloatware

To find which apps are consuming resources at startup, open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, then select Startup Apps. A column shows whether each app is enabled or disabled at startup. Disabling unnecessary startup programs can improve boot speed immediately. For a deeper look at monitoring your system, learn how to use Task Manager.

How To Identify Bloatware On Your PC

Once you have identified which apps to remove, use one of the three methods below. Start with the most targeted approach and escalate if needed.

Removal Methods Comparison

Method 1: Uninstall via Settings

Open the Settings app and select Apps. Click Installed Apps to see the full list. Make sure the app is not running in the background. Locate the unwanted program, click the three-dot icon next to it, and select Uninstall.

Method 2: Uninstall via the Start Menu

Click the Start button and find the app in the All Apps list. Right-click the app icon and select Uninstall from the context menu. This is the fastest method when you spot an unwanted app while browsing the Start menu.

Method 3: Use the Reset This PC Feature

For a more thorough clean, the Reset This PC feature provides a cleaner starting point. Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC. Choose the option to keep your personal files. Some OEM apps may reinstall, but most third-party bloatware will be removed. This is the most efficient approach for bulk removal.

After completing any removal method, run Windows Update and restart your device to finalize the changes.

What to Keep and What to Remove

Deciding what to remove is easier with a framework rather than a fixed list, since pre-installed apps vary between devices and configurations.

While there may be no urgent need to reclaim storage space on a brand-new device, the first day is actually the ideal time to clean house—before you add your own apps and files. Distinguishing bloatware from useful software now saves confusion later.

How To Prevent Bloatware On Your Next PC

Knowing how to remove bloatware is useful, but prevention is easier. A few strategies can reduce the amount of bloatware you deal with on your next device.

Check reviews for bloatware complaints before making a purchase. Business-class PCs often ship with fewer promotional apps than consumer models. During the initial setup process, watch for optional app and offer screens that can be unchecked. Be mindful of which manufacturer you buy from—HP designs its direct-to-consumer systems with a focus on a clean out-of-box experience.

Some users download dedicated bloatware remover tools, but this is another app to install and manage. A Windows reset upon first use is typically cleaner and more effective. Explore HP laptops and HP desktop PCs for systems designed with a cleaner starting configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bloatware on a PC?

Bloatware is unwanted pre-installed software on a new computer, such as trial antivirus suites, promotional games, social media apps, and bundled utilities. These apps are included through manufacturer or licensing agreements and may consume storage, RAM, or CPU resources.

Does bloatware slow down a new laptop?

All bloatware consumes storage space, but only active bloatware—apps that launch at startup and run in the background—significantly impacts performance by consuming RAM and CPU. Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc > Startup Apps) to identify and disable problem programs.

Is it safe to remove pre-installed apps from Windows 11?

It is generally safe to remove third-party trial software and promotional apps. Avoid deleting system-critical drivers, manufacturer utilities like HP Support Assistant, or core Windows components. If you are unsure about an app, search for its name and check the publisher before uninstalling.

What apps should I remove from a new PC?

Focus on removing third-party trial antivirus suites, promotional games (like Candy Crush), social media apps, and game launchers you do not use. If an app has a trial tag, comes from an unfamiliar publisher, or you have no memory of installing it, it is likely a candidate for removal.

How do I stop bloatware from coming back?

Be cautious during software installations and opt out of bundled offers—many installers include checkboxes for additional apps through commercial partnerships. Review your startup programs regularly in Task Manager and keep Windows 11 updated to avoid unwanted app reinstallation.

What is the difference between bloatware and malware?

Bloatware is legal software pre-installed by manufacturers, often for promotional purposes. It is generally safe, though it may slow performance. Malware is malicious software designed to damage your system or steal data. Bloatware is an annoyance; malware is a security threat.

How do I check what’s using resources on my PC?

Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. The Processes tab shows which apps are currently consuming CPU, RAM, and disk resources. The Startup Apps tab shows which programs launch automatically when you boot your PC and their impact on startup time. Disable any unnecessary startup apps to improve performance.

Conclusion

Bloatware remains a standard part of the new-PC experience in 2026, but it does not have to stay on your device. Removing unwanted apps takes just a few minutes through Windows 11 Settings, the Start menu, or a PC reset. The key is distinguishing between genuine bloatware—trial apps, promotional games, and duplicate utilities—and essential tools like manufacturer support software and hardware drivers that keep your system running correctly.

Looking for a cleaner out-of-box experience? Explore HP laptops and HP desktop PCs designed with fewer pre-installed extras so you can get to work faster.