Side by side
IntelliJ IDEA vs MCreator
Both stand on minecraft mod development tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APIExtensionLinux+2
IntelliJ IDEA combines Java and Kotlin coding assistance with debugging, build, testing, and version-control integrations. Core functionality stays free after the Ultimate trial, while advanced tools and integrations require a subscription.
Visit IntelliJ IDEA Free plan LinuxMacWindows
MCreator combines visual tools, code editing, asset creation, and testing for making Minecraft content. It is free and cross-platform, though setup requires internet access and plugin sources warrant care.
Visit MCreatorThe facts
| IntelliJ IDEA | MCreator | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Extension, Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 5 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | jetbrains.com | mcreator.net |
| On minecraft mod development tools | #7 of 35 | #11 of 35 |
IntelliJ IDEA: what it does well
- Core Java and Kotlin functionality remains free.
- Includes a JVM debugger with inspection and stepping.
- Integrates with Gradle and Maven.
- Supports four version-control systems and GitHub pull requests.
- Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
What to know first
- Ultimate subscription is listed at $100 a year.
- Minimum listed hardware includes 8 GB RAM and 10 GB disk space.
- Ultimate trial lasts 30 days.
MCreator: what it does well
- Free and open source
- Visual creation without programming knowledge
- Includes a code editor and asset tools
- Built-in testing environment and Java debugger
- Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux
What to know first
- Internet access needed during setup
- Plugins may carry significant power
- Anonymous usage data is collected by default
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