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Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge
Choose a loader based on the specific mod and Minecraft version—not on a universal ranking.
The main difference
Fabric
A lightweight ecosystem built around Fabric API, common among client-side, optimization, and experimental mods.
Forge
A long-running ecosystem with especially large mod catalogs for 1.12.2, 1.16.5, and 1.20.1.
NeoForge
A separate modern branch of the Forge ecosystem. A NeoForge file is not automatically compatible with Forge.
Do not mix loaders: Fabric mods do not run on Forge and Forge mods do not run on Fabric. Authors may publish separate builds.
Selection order
- Identify the exact Minecraft version
- Open the mod’s official page
- Check the supported loader
- Create the corresponding launcher profile
- Add every required API and library