Side by side
Crystal Launcher vs Onyx Launcher
Both stand on minecraft launchers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Crystal Launcher combines broad Minecraft version support with modpack sources, separate instances, and runtime controls. Its free distribution is supported by pop-under ads, and VPN users may encounter installation verification issues.
Visit Crystal Launcher Free plan LinuxWindows
Choose Onyx if you want a free launcher with instance management, Modrinth catalog access, Java runtime handling, and built-in diagnostics. Windows users should account for the unsigned builds, which may prompt a SmartScreen warning.
Visit Onyx LauncherThe facts
| Crystal Launcher | Onyx Launcher | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | crystal-launcher.net | github.com |
| On minecraft launchers | #28 of 76 | #24 of 76 |
Crystal Launcher: what it does well
- Free plan with no listed usage charge
- Automatic packs from six listed sources
- Forge, Fabric, and Quilt installers
- Separate instances and JVM settings
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows
What to know first
- Download website uses pop-under ads
- VPN use may cause verification trouble
- Windows support starts at Windows 7 SP1 64-bit
- Site says it is not yet worldwide
Onyx Launcher: what it does well
- Supports separate Minecraft instances and five loader options.
- Browse, install, and update Modrinth mods and modpacks in the launcher.
- Automatically manages Eclipse Temurin Java 8, 17, or 21.
- Includes performance measurements, log analysis, and Crash Bisect.
- World Guard creates snapshots and supports safe rollbacks.
What to know first
- Windows builds are unsigned, so SmartScreen may show a warning.
- Downloads are for Windows 10/11 x64 or modern Linux x64.
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