Alternatives to Minecraft Launcher

The official launcher for installing, updating and playing Minecraft Java and Bedrock editions and other Mojang games. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.

Replacements

Listings that take over the same core job as Minecraft Launcher.

  • Prism Launcher

    A Minecraft launcher that keeps every modpack in its own instance so one update cannot break the others.

    FreeOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinux

    Prism Launcher is open source under GPL-3.0, keeps each modpack in its own instance and installs mods from Modrinth and CurseForge, but it does not launch Bedrock edition.

  • Modrinth App

    The official launcher for Modrinth, built around installing mods and modpacks in a couple of clicks.

    FreeOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinux

    Modrinth App is a GPL-3.0 launcher built around installing Modrinth mods and modpacks into separate instances, while CurseForge packs must be imported by hand.

  • MultiMC

    An alternative Minecraft launcher for managing multiple cleanly separated instances with their own mods and saves.

    FreeOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinux

    MultiMC is an open-source launcher with isolated instances and fine Java control, and runs old Minecraft versions, though recent releases are infrequent and a Microsoft account is still required.

  • ATLauncher

    A Minecraft launcher that browses, installs and manages modpacks and separate game instances.

    FreeOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinux

    ATLauncher is a GPL-3.0 launcher that browses and installs modpacks from several sources into separate instances and manages Java versions, but needs a working Java installation.

  • GDLauncher

    A free Minecraft launcher that installs mods and modpacks from CurseForge and Modrinth with one click.

    FreeProprietaryWindowsmacOSLinux

    GDLauncher is a free launcher with one-click installs from CurseForge and Modrinth, Forge, Fabric, NeoForge and Quilt support, and shareable instances, though its source license is not stated.

Similar software

Related functionality, not a direct replacement.