Side by side
Minecraft Forge vs NeoForge
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 LinuxMacWindows
Pick Minecraft Forge if you want a free, open-source modding API for Minecraft Java Edition or need its mod development resources. Look elsewhere if you need Java–Bedrock cross-play; developers should also account for the Java and IDE prerequisites and choose a build with stability in mind.
Visit Minecraft Forge
Free plan APILinuxMac+2
NeoForge provides a free Java modding stack with generators, templates, documentation, and server support. Check Minecraft version guidance and Java requirements before installing.
Visit NeoForgeThe facts
| Minecraft Forge | NeoForge | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | files.minecraftforge.net | neoforged.net |
| On minecraft mod development tools | #12 of 35 | #16 of 35 |
Minecraft Forge: what it does well
- Free and open source, with permission to use and modify.
- Installer aims to add Forge to the vanilla launcher.
- Downloads include installers, changelogs, and Mod Developer Kits.
- Documentation covers development topics from events to configuration.
- Eclipse and IntelliJ IDEA are explicitly supported.
What to know first
- It supports Minecraft Java Edition, not Java–Bedrock cross-play.
- Mod development requires a Java Development Kit and IDE familiarity.
- The latest build may be less stable than the recommended build.
NeoForge: what it does well
- Free Minecraft Java mod loader and API
- Starter projects available through the Mod Generator
- Documentation covers APIs, installation, and modpacks
- Gradle tools support flexible project versions
- Dedicated server support spans Windows and Unix-like systems
What to know first
- Mod Generator is described as early-stage
- Java must be installed separately
- Required Java version depends on Minecraft
- Guide recommends Forge for Minecraft 1.20.1
Alternatives to Minecraft Forge Alternatives to NeoForge The whole list