Fabric, Forge or NeoForge: which Minecraft mod loader should you pick?
A plain comparison of Fabric, Forge and NeoForge for Minecraft mods: how they differ, which has the mod you want, and how to choose for your server.
By CraftMy · · 1 min read
Mod loaders are the base that mods run on. A mod built for one loader does not work on another, so the choice matters. Here is how the three main options compare.
Fabric
Fabric is a lightweight loader with a modern, simple design. It tends to update to new Minecraft versions quickly and is popular for performance mods and new gameplay ideas. Most Fabric mods need Fabric API as well.
Forge
Forge is the long-running loader with a very large library of older mods. Many big modpacks are built on it.
NeoForge
NeoForge started as a community continuation of Forge and is where much of the active Forge-style development now happens for newer versions.
How to choose
- Pick the loader your mods need. If you want specific mods, check which loader they support first.
- Starting fresh on a recent version? Fabric is a common choice for its quick updates.
- Running a large classic modpack? Check whether Forge or NeoForge is required.
- Want players to install nothing? Use a PaperMC plugin instead of a mod.
Do not mix loaders
You cannot load Fabric mods on Forge or NeoForge, or the other way round. Always match the loader on both the client and the server.
Building something custom?
CraftMy builds custom mods, mainly for Fabric. If you want one made, see the hire page. New to Fabric? Read how to install Fabric mods.