Guide
How to install Minecraft mods on Java: Fabric, Forge and NeoForge
Mods can change almost anything in Minecraft Java, from better performance to whole new dimensions. Installing them is simple once you know the three pieces that have to match.
The short version
Every mod needs three things to line up: a mod loader, mods made for that loader, and the same Minecraft version for all of them. Get those right and mods just work. A modding launcher sorts all three out for you.
Fabric, Forge or NeoForge?
A mod built for one loader won't run on another, so pick the loader your favourite mod or modpack uses. Its download page always says.
| Loader | Good for | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | Performance and quality-of-life mods, fast updates to new versions | Most Fabric mods also need the Fabric API mod |
| Forge | Big content mods and older modpacks | The longest-running loader, with the biggest back catalogue |
| NeoForge | Big content mods on recent versions | A newer branch of Forge that many large mods have moved to |
The easy way: use a modding launcher
- Install a launcher made for mods: the CurseForge app, the Modrinth App or Prism Launcher.
- Create a new instance (or profile). Choose the Minecraft version and the loader.
- Search for mods or a full modpack, such as All the Mods, and click install. The launcher fetches anything they depend on.
- Press play. Each instance keeps its own mods and worlds, so your normal game stays untouched.
By hand: install a loader and add mods
- Download the loader's installer from its official site (fabricmc.net, the Minecraft Forge site or neoforged.net) and run it for your Minecraft version.
- Open the Minecraft Launcher, pick the new loader profile and play once so it creates its folders, then quit.
- Open your Minecraft folder. On Windows, type %appdata%\.minecraft into the Run box (Windows key + R). On macOS it's ~/Library/Application Support/minecraft, and on Linux ~/.minecraft.
- Put the mod .jar files in the mods folder. Create the folder if it isn't there. On Fabric, add Fabric API too.
- Start the game with the loader profile. Your mods are listed under Mods on the title screen.
Shaders
Java shaders need a shader mod. The usual choice is Iris, often paired with the Sodium performance mod on Fabric, or OptiFine. Put the shader pack's .zip file in the shaderpacks folder and choose it under Video Settings, then Shader Packs. Shaders are heavy, so expect a lower frame rate on older machines.
Stay safe
- Mods are programs that run on your computer. Download them only from CurseForge, Modrinth or the mod's own official page.
- A real mod is a .jar file. Never run an .exe that claims to be a Minecraft mod.
- Skip reupload sites full of fake download buttons, and be wary of mods with very few downloads.
- Back up your worlds before adding mods to them. Some mods can't be removed cleanly later.
If the game crashes
- Crash on start: usually a version mismatch or a missing dependency. The crash screen or log names the mod; check that it matches your Minecraft version and loader.
- Still crashing: take half the mods out and try again, then narrow it down.
- Big modpacks running slowly: give the instance more memory in your launcher's settings.
Do Java mods work on Bedrock or Minecraft Education?
No. Java mods only run on Java Edition. Bedrock, including consoles and phones, uses add-ons instead. See how to install Bedrock add-ons. Minecraft Education is built on Bedrock, so Java mods don't work there either. Not sure which edition you play? Read Java vs Bedrock.