Utilities

Can I delete Karabiner-Elements from my Mac?

Yes, you can delete it

Yes, you can delete Karabiner-Elements, though simply moving the application to the Trash leaves behind system drivers and configuration files. This utility occupies between 50 MB – 500 MB of data.

Last updated: October 31, 20262 min read

See how much space Karabiner-Elements really takes before you decide

Karabiner-Elements data usually takes 50 MB – 500 MB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.

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Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+

Application: Karabiner-Elements
Typical data size: 50 MB – 500 MB
Category: Utilities
File Location: ~/.config/karabiner

What happens when you remove Karabiner-Elements

Specific to Karabiner-Elements

You lose the ability to remap keys via the virtual keyboard driver and background daemons. Because there is no cloud sync, all custom rules exist only locally. Deleting the app alone does not remove the companion EventViewer app or the user data stored in ~/.config/karabiner.

Where your Karabiner-Elements data lives

These folders hold your own Karabiner-Elements data. Deleting the app leaves them in place; removing them is what actually deletes it.

~/.config/karabiner App data · karabiner.json, automatic backups and complex modification rules Back up first: your data

License: Karabiner-Elements is free and open source.
Your files: Your remapping rules live in ~/.config/karabiner/karabiner.json, with older copies in the automatic_backups folder next to it.

Risks of deleting Karabiner-Elements incorrectly

Dragging the app to the Trash fails to remove the DriverKit virtual keyboard driver and background services. These components remain active on your system unless the official uninstaller is used. Using the proper method requires a password prompt to authorize the removal of these system-level extensions.

Copy your karabiner.json file to save your custom key remappingsUse the uninstall option in the app settings Misc tabEnter your password when prompted to remove the keyboard driverRestart your Mac to fully unload the driver extension

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How to delete Karabiner-Elements completely

Quit Karabiner-Elements, move it to the Trash, then remove what it left in ~/.config/karabiner. The full step-by-step guide:

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Frequently asked questions

Will deleting Karabiner-Elements delete my files?

No. Removing the app doesn't touch documents you saved in other folders. Only the app and, if you remove them, its own support files are deleted.

Will my keyboard return to default behavior after removing Karabiner-Elements?

Yes, provided you use the internal uninstaller to remove the virtual keyboard driver.

Does the app leave any personal data behind if I just trash the icon?

Yes, your remapping rules and automatic backups remain in their config folder.