CurseForge vs Stardrop

CurseForge is a catalog for finding and downloading Minecraft mods and modpacks. Its Minecraft browse page lists Forge, Fabric, NeoForge, and Quilt, and displays more than 10,000 projects. Users can filter by game version and see dependency information, download tracking, and mod collections. The free web catalog provides access to Minecraft mods and modpacks, which the page describes as free. Premium access is available on the web and desktop client. Premium removes ads across CurseForge platforms and the desktop client, enables direct downloads without waiting delays, and includes custom themes and layout customization in the desktop experience. The monthly subscription is $2.99 per month. The annual subscription is $30.00 billed annually, listed from $35.88 with a 16% saving. Subscribers can cancel at any time and retain access through the billing cycle. Refunds are generally not offered, although exceptions may be considered individually. After Premium access ends, an account returns to free membership. CurseForge says mod authors receive 70% of subscription income.

Stardrop is a free, open-source mod manager for Stardew Valley on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Built with Avalonia UI, it uses SMAPI to manage applicable mods and check for updates. Profiles keep separate mod groups for different gameplay or multiplayer sessions. Stardrop connects to the Nexus Mods API, including in-app mod endorsements, and offers built-in mod-source access and automatic updates. Downloading updates through Stardrop requires a premium Nexus Mods account. The manager uses copy-based deployment, and documentation says uninstalling it leaves SMAPI, Stardew Valley, and the original mod folder unaffected. Downloads are available from GitHub Releases and Nexus Mods; GitHub instructions direct users to choose the ZIP matching their operating system. GitBook covers installation, updates, and usage. The repository is licensed under GPL-3.0.