Cactus MC Launcher vs Portal Launcher
Cactus MC Launcher
cactus.gianmarcocavallo.comPortal Launcher
github.comSide by side
| Figure | Cactus MC Launcher | Portal Launcher |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Minecraft Launchers | 8.8 (#7) | 8.4 (#20) |
| Automatic updates | Signed in-app updates can be installed with one click | Yes |
| Built-in modpack catalog | Yes | Yes |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Mod loader support | multiple | multiple |
| Modpack import | both | catalog |
| Separate instances | Yes | Yes |
Plans
In their own words
Cactus MC Launcher
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.
Portal Launcher
Portal Launcher has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.