Brixel vs Stratum

Brixel is a Minecraft resource pack that redesigns the game’s world, blocks, mobs, sounds, and interface as a miniature brick-built universe. It uses 3D textures with physical studs and adds custom models for blocks, mobs, and tools, along with a stylized interface and brick-like sound effects. The maker lists compatibility with Minecraft Java Edition and Bedrock Edition, Vibrant Visuals, RTX, and shaders. Resolution options range from x64 to x512, with access varying by patron tier; all listed tiers include Java and Bedrock editions. Plans cost 1.00 USD, 4.00 USD, 8.00 USD, or $12 a month, plus VAT. The Bedrock RTX version is described for PCs supporting Minecraft RTX or BetterRTX, and the latest Minecraft Preview with experimental Renderdragon shader features. Its Bedrock launch was described as Early Access, with some assets still needing polishing and additions. For Brixel 3.3, the maker recommends Minecraft 1.21.4 with OptiFine; newer versions through Iris may omit some custom models. Patrons receive frequent updates and can vote on development choices.

Stratum is a Minecraft resource pack for realistic visuals and shader-supported rendering. It includes physically based rendering materials, parallax occlusion mapping, and normal and specular maps when used with compatible shaders. The pack is designed with Continuum shaders in mind and takes steps to work with other popular shader packs. It supports Minecraft Java Edition only, officially covering versions 1.12.2 through 1.21.11. OptiFine is required for textures to load properly; Iris may work but is not fully verified. A free 128×128 version is described as up to date with paid higher-resolution options. One-time tiers cost $5 as a one-time purchase for 256x, $15, paid once for 256x and 512x, or $25, paid once for resolutions through 2048x, with future updates included. Stratum remains in Early Access, and some textures may be missing. Requirements range from 4 GB VRAM and 8 GB RAM at 128x to more than 48 GB VRAM and 96 GB RAM for 2048x.