Side by side
CKAN vs Zephyr
Both stand on mod managers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
CKAN combines mod discovery with installation checks for dependencies, conflicts, and game versions. Its macOS interface limitation is worth noting if you prefer a graphical client.
Visit CKAN Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose Zephyr if you want a free, open-source desktop manager with profile switching, combined mod browsing, and sharing. Look elsewhere if you need a platform beyond Windows, macOS, or Linux, or prefer signed or notarized installation builds.
Visit ZephyrThe facts
| CKAN | Zephyr | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | zephyr.prismo-studios.dev |
| On mod managers | #8 of 78 | #12 of 78 |
CKAN: what it does well
- Search the registry by name, identifier, author, or relationship
- Installs dependencies and checks conflicts
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Offers graphical, console, and command-line interfaces
- Can manage portable game installations
What to know first
- macOS 10.15 and later default to the console interface
- Mods need exact game-version compatibility by default
Zephyr: what it does well
- Supports about 200 games out of the box.
- Combines Thunderstore and CurseForge browsing in one search.
- Profile codes and links let users share setups.
- Includes an Archipelago randomizer and BepInEx config editor.
- Offers seven themes and seven language options.
What to know first
- Available only for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Windows build is not code-signed; macOS build is not notarized.
- Cloud sync requires Discord sign-in and must be enabled.