ATLauncher vs Refract

ATLauncher is a Minecraft launcher for browsing, downloading and installing modpacks. Its catalog includes packs from ATLauncher, CurseForge, Modrinth and Technic, and it supports multiple mod loaders and pack imports. Users can maintain separate instances so a new installation does not affect an existing one; the launcher automatically selects the Java version for a pack.

The launcher supports multiple accounts, including Mojang and Microsoft accounts and Xbox Game Pass subscribers. Instance management can install mods, maps and resource packs from CurseForge and Modrinth. It also offers one-click save backups and tools to create and run servers for ATLauncher modpacks. ATLauncher is free and has downloads for Windows, macOS and Linux, as well as a Jar download. Playing modpacks requires a purchased Minecraft account. The site no longer accepts submissions for its own pack platform and recommends Modrinth or CurseForge for sharing packs. For help, users can turn to Discord; contact form requests needing a response are answered within 24 hours.

Refract is a free launcher for organizing Minecraft modpacks on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It supports modpacks from Modrinth, CurseForge, and FTB, with a built-in catalog for finding compatible content. Multiple mod loaders are supported, and modpack import is available through both listed methods. Each pack runs in a separate instance, with its mods, resource packs, worlds, settings, and launch options kept apart. The launcher can install dependencies, update individual mods in place, manage Java runtimes, and apply automatic updates; worlds are preserved during updates. Existing libraries can be imported without mixing files or damaging saves. Users can choose themes, accent colors, sidebar layouts, Java versions, memory limits, and launch behavior. Refract is licensed under GNU GPL v3.0, and its application and website are developed in public. The project uses Tauri and Rust for its native shell. Discord supports player help and project discussions, while GitHub is used for bug reports, change proposals, and code contributions.