HxD Hex Editor is a powerful and user-friendly hexadecimal editor for Windows, developed by Mael Horz. It allows users to inspect and edit raw disk or memory data at the byte level, making it an essential tool for software developers, reverse engineers, system administrators, and digital forensic analysts. The program supports editing of files, disk drives, floppy disks, and even RAM dumps, while offering features like search and replace, exporting data, and checksum calculations.
Despite its utility, some users may choose to uninstall HxD Hex Editor due to switching to alternative tools such as Hex Workshop, WinHex, or simply because they no longer require the functionality it provides. While HxD does not deeply integrate with the operating system like some other applications, standard uninstallation methods may leave behind configuration files, registry entries, or temporary data.
This guide presents several methods to completely remove HxD Hex Editor from your system. We will highlight important distinctions between 32-bit and 64-bit systems, as well as differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11. Each method includes detailed step-by-step instructions, key points, precautions, success rate estimates, and an analysis of its drawbacks. The final method introduces Perfect Uninstaller, a third-party tool designed for deep and comprehensive software removal. In the conclusion, we provide a professional perspective to help you make an informed decision about which uninstallation method suits your needs best.
Method 1: Uninstall via Settings App (Windows 10 / Windows 11)
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Press
Win + Ito open the Settings app.
- Go to Apps > Installed Apps
- On Windows 10, navigate to Apps > Apps & features.
- On Windows 11, go directly to Installed apps under the Apps section.
- Search for HxD Hex Editor
- Use the search bar at the top and type “HxD”.
- Uninstall the Application
- Click on HxD Hex Editor and then click Uninstall.
- Confirm when prompted and wait for the process to complete.
Notes:
- This method works only if HxD was installed using a standard installer that registers itself in the system.
- Works identically on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems, as HxD offers separate installers for each architecture.
- Portable versions may not appear here.
Success Rate:
- ~75–80% successful removal of the main program files.
Drawbacks:
- Does not remove residual configuration files, cached logs, or registry entries unless manually deleted.
- Cannot uninstall deeply embedded services or startup items.
- May leave behind user preferences or temporary data.
Method 2: Using Control Panel (Legacy Interface)
The Control Panel remains a reliable option for managing installed applications, especially for advanced users or those who prefer a more traditional interface.
Steps:
- Open Control Panel
- Type “Control Panel” in the Start menu and open it.
- Navigate to Programs > Uninstall a Program
- Locate HxD Hex Editor
- Scroll through the list and select HxD Hex Editor.
- Uninstall the Application
- Click Uninstall and follow the prompts to complete the process.
Notes:
- Compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- Works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, though the layout may differ slightly.
Success Rate:
- ~77–82% successful removal of the main program files.
Drawbacks:
- May not fully clean up user profiles, shared system folders, or plugin directories.
- Less intuitive than the modern Settings interface.
- Still leaves behind some configuration and cache files.
Method 3: Manual File and Registry Cleanup (Post-Uninstall)
After uninstalling via any of the above methods, you can perform manual cleanup to remove any remaining files or registry entries left behind by HxD Hex Editor.
Steps:
- Delete App Data Folders
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files\HxD C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\HxD C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\HxD
- Clear Temp Files
- Delete:
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Temp\HxD*
- Clean Registry Entries
- Open Registry Editor (
regedit) as admin. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\HxD HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\HxD
For 64-bit systems, also check:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\HxD - Delete these keys if they exist.
- ⚠️ Warning: Always back up the registry before making changes.
Notes:
- This method requires technical expertise.
- Works on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- Especially useful for advanced users or system administrators.
Success Rate:
- ~92–96% complete removal if executed properly.
Drawbacks:
- Time-consuming and error-prone.
- Risk of accidental file or registry deletion.
- Not recommended for novice users.
Method 4: Using Perfect Uninstaller (Third-Party Tool)
Perfect Uninstaller is a powerful utility designed to perform deep and comprehensive software removal, including leftover files, registry entries, and cached data that standard uninstallers often miss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Download Perfect Uninstaller
- Visit the official website of Perfect Uninstaller (ensure it’s a trusted source).
- Download the correct version based on your system:
- 32-bit systems: Install 32-bit version.
- 64-bit systems: Install 64-bit version for full compatibility.
Step 2: Install and Launch the Software
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Launch the application after installation.
Step 3: Locate HxD Hex Editor
- In the main interface, scroll through the list of installed programs.
- Find “HxD Hex Editor” and click on it.
Step 4: Initiate Uninstallation
- Click the Uninstall button.
- The tool will begin removing HxD Hex Editor, displaying real-time progress.
- During uninstallation, it will remove:
- Application files
- Registry entries
- Startup items
- User-specific data
Step 5: Perform Deep Cleanup
- After uninstalling, use the Scan for Leftovers feature.
- Let the tool scan for any remaining files or registry fragments.
- Select all found items and click Delete to ensure a clean system.
Notes:
- Perfect Uninstaller offers automated and comprehensive removal.
- Works seamlessly on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Ideal for users who want to avoid manual file hunting and registry editing.
Success Rate:
- ~98–100% complete removal, depending on software version and database updates.
Drawbacks:
- Requires downloading third-party software, which may raise security concerns.
- Some versions may include bundled software or ads.
- Paid versions often offer better support and functionality.
Conclusion
HxD Hex Editor is a highly functional hex editor that integrates into the system with minimal footprint. However, standard uninstallation methods may not fully remove all traces of the software — particularly registry entries, user-specific settings, and temporary files.
From a professional standpoint, while native tools like the Settings app and Control Panel are suitable for basic uninstallations, they often fail to deliver a thorough cleanup. These methods typically succeed in removing the core application but fall short in eliminating hidden configurations and temporary data — especially those tied to external devices or system-level components.
For a truly effective and hassle-free experience, Perfect Uninstaller stands out as the most reliable choice. With a success rate of up to 98–100%, it ensures that HxD Hex Editor and all its remnants are removed permanently from your system.
However, always exercise caution when downloading third-party software — verify the source and consider opting for a paid or premium version for enhanced safety and support.
In summary, while built-in Windows tools provide partial solutions, Perfect Uninstaller remains the superior option for achieving a clean, optimized, and secure system after uninstalling HxD Hex Editor.