Minecraft Launcher vs Refract

Minecraft Launcher is a free PC hub for accessing Minecraft games, downloading versions, reaching multiplayer servers, managing profiles, and getting mod support. It brings Java and Bedrock editions together on PC, though the games can also be launched without it. Players can use the latest versions and try snapshots, create one-click Quick Play shortcuts to favorite worlds, manage Java skins, and access account information. Settings include language and accessibility options, and the Launcher also shows Minecraft news and promotions. Installation is available through the Microsoft Store or the Minecraft download page. On Windows, installing from Minecraft.net still requires signing into the Microsoft Store with the account intended for the Launcher. A Microsoft account is required to play all Minecraft versions. The free Java and Bedrock trial includes the core Survival experience and about 100 minutes of in-game play, with duration varying slightly by device. It supports offline play and LAN multiplayer, but online multiplayer servers are disabled. Java Edition cross-play is limited to Windows, Mac, and Linux, while Bedrock supports cross-play across Windows, consoles, and mobile.

Refract is a free launcher for organizing Minecraft modpacks on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It supports modpacks from Modrinth, CurseForge, and FTB, with a built-in catalog for finding compatible content. Multiple mod loaders are supported, and modpack import is available through both listed methods. Each pack runs in a separate instance, with its mods, resource packs, worlds, settings, and launch options kept apart. The launcher can install dependencies, update individual mods in place, manage Java runtimes, and apply automatic updates; worlds are preserved during updates. Existing libraries can be imported without mixing files or damaging saves. Users can choose themes, accent colors, sidebar layouts, Java versions, memory limits, and launch behavior. Refract is licensed under GNU GPL v3.0, and its application and website are developed in public. The project uses Tauri and Rust for its native shell. Discord supports player help and project discussions, while GitHub is used for bug reports, change proposals, and code contributions.