Minecraft Launcher
7.8#5 in minecraft launchersFree planFree planAndroidiOSLinuxmacOS
VisitMinecraft Launcher vs Shard Launcher
Shard Launcher
7.2#16 in minecraft launchersFree planFree planLinuxmacOSSelf-hostedWindows
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Minecraft Launcher | Shard Launcher |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | The Launcher is a PC hub for accessing Minecraft games, downloading game versions, accessing multiplayer servers, managing profiles, and getting mod support. | Shard is a content-addressed Minecraft launcher focused on reproducibility and reducing duplicate files. |
| Separate instances | Yes | Yes |
| Support | The Launcher page links to Minecraft Help Center articles for installation, Quick Play, sign-in connection errors, and Launcher crashes. | The FAQ directs users with unanswered questions to open an issue on GitHub. |
Minecraft Launcher plans
- Minecraft LauncherFree
Shard Launcher plans
- FreeFree
Pick Minecraft Launcher if…
The Launcher suits PC players who want Java and Bedrock access, version downloads, profile management, and Quick Play shortcuts. The official page describes Java Edition as suited to players seeking mods and custom servers, and Bedrock as suited to cross-platform play.
Pick Shard Launcher if…
It suits Minecraft players who want versioned profiles, mod-loader flexibility and deduplicated local storage. Scripting users can use the included command-line tool.