Cactus MC Launcher vs FTB App

Cactus MC Launcher is a free desktop launcher for managing Minecraft instances, modpacks, and dedicated servers on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It supports separate instances, Java runtime management, automatic updates, and a built-in modpack catalog. The launcher works with mods, resource packs, shaders, and modpacks from Modrinth and CurseForge. Available loaders include Vanilla, Fabric, Quilt, Forge, and NeoForge. Instances can be grouped by version and loader, with custom icons and cover art. Server tools include a live console, world management, ops and whitelist controls, and one-command sharing. The interface can be customized with backgrounds, gradients, decor, a movable dock, and toggleable click sounds. Cactus MC Launcher is built with Tauri and Rust, contains no ads, and does not track users. It is made by Ladvace and released under AGPL-3.0; the download page lists version 1.5.1. The project provides a GitHub link and a Discord community link. It is not an official Minecraft product and is not associated with Mojang or Microsoft.

FTB App is Feed The Beast’s desktop launcher for finding and managing modpacks, then playing them. It is the officially supported way to get FTB modpacks, and it also connects to CurseForge for discovering and installing its packs. The app supports NeoForge, Fabric, and Forge, and lets users create and share their own modpacks or add, remove, and update mods. Packs stay in separate instances, with automatic updates and controls for Java version, arguments, and RAM. Users can install FTB modpack servers through the app or a Linux command line. The app runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux; Windows uses Overwolf, while the other desktop versions use Electron without another background application. It is free to use and contains ads supporting Feed The Beast. Authentication is required to use the app, and playing Minecraft requires a Minecraft account. Its source code is available through GitHub.