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Cactus MC Launcher

cactus.gianmarcocavallo.com

  • Free
  • Windows
  • Linux
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What it is

Cactus MC Launcher runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux as a no-cost Minecraft launcher. It separates instances, imports modpacks from Modrinth or CurseForge, manages Java runtimes, and supports several loaders. Dedicated servers can also be run with console and world controls. There are no advertisements or user tracking, and the code is available under AGPL-3.0.

Good, and not so good

  • Free indefinitely without a premium tier
  • Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Works with Modrinth and CurseForge content
  • Manages Java runtimes and separate instances
  • Dedicated server console, worlds, ops, and whitelist controls
  • No advertisements or user tracking
  • Not an official Mojang or Microsoft product
  • Support is provided through a Discord community
  • Download page shows build 1.5.1
  • Limited to Windows, macOS, and Linux desktops

Who it suits

Minecraft groups managing several modded instances Players who want built-in server administration Users seeking a free, no-ad launcher

For Minecraft groups, Cactus MC Launcher combines instance organization, pack imports, loader choices, Java management, and dedicated-server administration in one free desktop application. Modrinth and CurseForge support covers varied setups, while its no-ad and no-tracking policy suits shared use. Regard it as a community project, not a Mojang or Microsoft product, and verify the 1.5.1 listing before making it the group standard. For groups comfortable with that tradeoff, the Free plan is an uncomplicated starting point.

Plans

  • FreeFree forever · No ads · Open-source · Windows, macOS, and Linux buildsFree

As cactus.gianmarcocavallo.com lists them, read 28 Sept 2026.

Questions

What platforms does Cactus MC Launcher support?
Windows, macOS, and Linux are supported.
Can it manage different Minecraft setups?
Yes. Instances can be arranged by version and loader, with custom icons and cover art.
Which mod loaders are supported?
The available choices are Vanilla, Fabric, Quilt, Forge, and NeoForge.
Can I import modpacks?
Yes. Modpacks can be imported from Modrinth or CurseForge.
Can it run a Minecraft server?
Yes. Dedicated servers offer a live console, world management, ops and whitelist controls, plus one-command server sharing.
Does the launcher include ads or tracking?
No. The launcher has no ads and does not track users.
Is Cactus MC Launcher official Minecraft software?
No. It is an independent product with no association with Mojang or Microsoft.
How much does it cost?
The Free plan costs nothing and remains free forever; there is no premium tier.