Refract is a free, open-source launcher for Minecraft modpacks on Windows, macOS and Linux. It supports packs from Modrinth, CurseForge and FTB, with a built-in catalog for finding compatible content. Users can keep packs in separate instances, each with its own mods, resource packs, worlds, settings and launch options. Existing libraries can be imported without combining files or damaging saves, and worlds are preserved during updates. Refract can install dependencies, update individual mods in place, manage Java runtimes and apply automatic updates. It supports multiple mod loaders and lets users choose themes, accent colors, sidebar layouts, Java versions, memory limits and launch behavior. The application and website are developed in public, and the project is licensed under GNU GPL v3.0. Refract uses Tauri and Rust for its native shell. Discord hosts player help and project discussion, while GitHub is used for bug reports, proposals and contributions.
Who it is for
Refract suits Minecraft players who manage modpacks and want separate instances, import support and in-launcher mod discovery. It is also relevant to users seeking a free, publicly developed launcher across desktop platforms.
What is good
- Supports Windows, macOS and Linux.
- Works with Modrinth, CurseForge and FTB packs.
- Separate instances keep worlds and settings apart.
- Worlds are preserved during updates.
- Can install dependencies and update individual mods.
What to know first
- No mobile platform is listed.
- No price is listed for the free-software plan.
Verdict
Refract combines pack discovery, isolated instances and mod maintenance in a free launcher for three desktop operating systems. Its GPL v3.0 license and public development are notable for users interested in open software.
Refract plans and pricing
All plansCompared on Minecraft launchers
- Free plan
- Yes
- Separate instances
- Yes
- Modpack import
- both
- Mod loader support
- multiple
- Java runtime management
- Yes
- Built-in modpack catalog
- Yes
- Automatic updates
- Yes
