Instead of Refract
Refract alternatives
Refract is a free launcher for Windows, macOS, and Linux that keeps each modpack in its own instance. It separates mods, resource packs, worlds, settings, and launch options, and preserves worlds during updates. You can import an existing library, install dependencies, update individual mods, and browse compatible content from Modrinth, CurseForge, and FTB. Java versions, memory limits, themes, and launch behavior are among its customization options. Refract is free software under GNU GPL v3.0, with development taking place in public.
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Prism Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindowsUsers prioritizing an open-source launcher and free redistributability — Prism emphasizes open-source distribution and user freedom, while Refract details world preservation, in-place mod updates, and customization.
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Spectra Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindowsPlayers managing multiple Minecraft installations and resources — Spectra describes browsing shaders and resource packs, while Refract specifies world preservation and in-place mod updates.
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X Minecraft Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindowsPlayers seeking broad game resource and instance support — XMCL adds experimental Bedrock support and instances for OptiFine and LabyMod, beyond Refract's instance components.
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GDLauncher
by GDLauncherFree plan LinuxMacWindowsPlayers seeking a free cross-platform launcher — GDLauncher shares Refract's platform and launcher capabilities, but its description gives no additional product-specific features.
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ATLauncher
Free plan LinuxMacWindowsPlayers who want packs from Technic and other sources — ATLauncher supports packs from ATLauncher, CurseForge, Modrinth, and Technic, while Refract supports Modrinth, CurseForge, and FTB.
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Thendrask Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindowsPlayers wanting free software with optional supporter tiers — Thendrask offers open-source access and paid supporter tiers, while Refract specifies GNU GPL v3.0 and public development.
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FLauncher
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows - 10
Cactus MC Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 11
OpenJar Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 12
PolyMC
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 13
MultiMC
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 14
FTB App
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 15
Fjord Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 16
Shard Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1 - 17
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Basalt Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 19
Portal Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 20
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EX Launcher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 22
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Histolauncher
Free plan LinuxMacWindows - 24
Onyx Launcher
Free plan LinuxWindows
A different launcher may suit you better if you need mobile support, a specific marketplace, or a different range of game resources. Refract does not offer Android or iOS support; LabyMod does. ATLauncher includes Technic packs, while Spectra supports browsing shaders and resource packs. XMCL covers several game resources and has experimental Bedrock support. Before switching, weigh platform availability, content sources, instance compatibility, and whether the alternative describes controls or community options you value. All the alternatives here have a free plan, though Thendrask also offers paid supporter tiers.