Stardrop vs Zephyr
Stardrop
github.comZephyr
zephyr.prismo-studios.devSide by side
| Figure | Stardrop | Zephyr |
|---|---|---|
| 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 · Game Mod Managers | 8.2 (#20) | 8.7 (#6) |
| Spec score · Mod managers | 8.2 (#23) | 8.7 (#6) |
| Automatic updates | Yes | Yes |
| Deployment method | copy | copy |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| License | The GitHub repository lists the project under the GPL-3.0 license. | Zephyr is open source and distributed under the GPL-3.0 license. |
| Mod profiles | Yes | Yes |
| Mod source access | built-in | built-in |
| Profiles | Profiles let users keep multiple mod groups for specific gameplay or multiplayer sessions. | Users can switch between mod profiles and share a setup with a friend using a code. |
| Purpose | Stardrop is an open-source, cross-platform mod manager for Stardew Valley. | Zephyr is a desktop mod manager for browsing, installing, and switching game mod profiles. |
| Supported platforms | multi-platform | multi-platform |
Plans
In their own words
Stardrop
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.
Zephyr
Zephyr is a free desktop mod manager for browsing and installing mods, then switching between game mod profiles. It supports about 200 games out of the box and combines Thunderstore and CurseForge browsing in one search. Mods are deployed by copying them, and users can share a profile code or link so friends can reproduce a setup. Optional cloud sync requires signing in with Discord and enabling the feature. Zephyr also includes an Archipelago multiworld randomizer with Python bundled, a BepInEx configuration editor, and gamepad navigation throughout the interface. Customization includes seven themes, custom fonts and colors, and seven language options. The app is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is distributed under the GPL-3.0 license. The maker says that without sign-in, personal data stays on the device and mod metadata requests are anonymous. With cloud sync enabled, profile archives and metadata are stored with the maker's hosting provider in France. The Windows build is not code-signed and the macOS build is not notarized.