MultiMC vs Spectra Launcher

MultiMC is an alternative launcher for Minecraft that keeps multiple game instances separate. Each instance can have its own mods, resource packs, and saves, and users can import or export instances for sharing. It imports modpacks from Modrinth, CurseForge, FTB, Technic, ATLauncher, and FTB legacy, and includes a built-in modpack catalog. MultiMC also manages worlds and resource or texture packs, with controls for Java settings and runtimes. Color-coded logs provide extra diagnostic information, and users can stop Minecraft if it crashes or freezes. Automatic updates are supported. Downloads are available for Windows, macOS 10.13 or newer, and Linux distributions; Linux installations require Qt5 and may need distribution-specific packages. Designed to run in the background, including on older machines, MultiMC is free to use. A listed Patreon support option is priced on request; supporters get an app credit mention and a Discord role.

Spectra Launcher is a free desktop launcher for starting Minecraft and keeping multiple installations separate. Each instance has its own Minecraft version, mods and worlds, and supports Vanilla, Fabric, Quilt, Forge and NeoForge. The launcher can browse and install mods, shaders, resource packs and modpacks from Modrinth and CurseForge, including their required dependencies. Players can sign in with Microsoft/Xbox or offline accounts; Spectra finds and installs the required Java version automatically. It also imports instances from Prism, CurseForge and the Modrinth app, and exports them as .mrpack or .zip files. Shared views collect worlds and screenshots, alongside 3D skin previews, saved skins and cape switching. Other tools include Quick Play for Minecraft 1.20+, server status with player counts and ping, live logs, crash-report sharing, optional Discord status and playtime tracking. Downloads are listed for Windows, macOS and Linux. Spectra says accounts, settings and instances stay on the user's computer, and Microsoft/Xbox passwords are not seen by the launcher.