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Candela Shaders vs Continuum Shaders

Both stand on minecraft shader packs. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Candela Shaders

Free plan LinuxMacWindows

Candela Shaders offers several adjustable lighting and environmental effects, with the project emphasizing modest GPU demands. Check the listed game-version compatibility and Iris requirement before installing.

Visit Candela Shaders

Continuum Shaders

Free plan Windows

Continuum 2.1 provides a free option with extensive lighting and image controls. Early Access costs $15, paid once and includes an Alpha version of Continuum Legacy.

Visit Continuum Shaders

The facts

	Candela Shaders	Continuum Shaders
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Linux, Mac, Windows	Windows
Lowest paid plan	Free or on request	Continuum Early Access: $15, paid once
Plans published	1	2
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	github.com	continuum.graphics
On minecraft shader packs	#4 of 38	#8 of 38

Candela Shaders: what it does well

Free shaderpack for Minecraft Java Edition.
Colored translucent shadows include customizable blur.
Brightness settings vary by time and dimension.
Includes bloom, godrays, and waving foliage and water.
v1.5 notes optimization for older hardware.

What to know first

Requires Iris Shaders for Minecraft (Fabric) for installation.
The listed supported version range is specific to Minecraft Java Edition.

Continuum Shaders: what it does well

Continuum 2.1 is free through Focal Engine.
Offers camera settings, color grading, and custom LUT uploads.
Includes reflections and volumetric clouds, air, and water.

What to know first

Focal Engine requires a Continuum Graphics account.
Early Access costs $15, paid once.
Some effects can be demanding, depending on hardware.
The license limits use to personal, non-commercial purposes.

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