Cactus MC Launcher vs Thendrask 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.

Thendrask Launcher is a free, open-source desktop launcher for Minecraft modpacks. Users can browse approved Modrinth and CurseForge catalogues or import MRPACK and CurseForge ZIP files. It supports separate instances and custom packs using Fabric, Forge, NeoForge, or Quilt, with dependencies installed automatically. Java runtimes are downloaded for each Minecraft release, and users can set custom Java paths. The launcher verifies required files, snapshots packs before updates, and rolls back failed updates automatically. It also supports portable backups, broken-file verification, and sanitized diagnostic bundles. Users can add friends by code to see who is online and what they are playing. Windows is available, while macOS and Linux are in public beta. The launcher is built with Electron and React and starts the official game without modifying Minecraft; it is not affiliated with Mojang or Microsoft. Modrinth and approved CurseForge are its only public provider modules. Download and use cost nothing under the MIT license; optional support tiers are $3 a month and 50.00 USD once for lifetime support.