LOOT review
A free, open-source desktop tool for sorting plugins and spotting load-order issues.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
LOOT (Load Order Optimisation Tool) is a free, open-source desktop utility for organizing plugin load orders in Starfield, The Elder Scrolls, Fallout and OpenMW games. It is aimed at players who want automated sorting and diagnostics, including people managing multiple installations or total-conversion projects. Its scope is specific: it works with plugins and their metadata rather than handling mod downloads or deploying mod files, so it suits users seeking load-order management rather than an all-in-one mod installation tool.
The core workflow combines sorting with checks that can identify incompatibilities, missing requirements and other load-order errors. LOOT can update game masterlists from configured repositories, while plugin-specific notes, warnings and Bash Tag suggestions add context to individual entries. Users can also edit metadata and define their own load-order rules. That combination makes it useful for players who want to review why plugins are ordered a certain way and adjust the rules for their setup; players who only need to install or download mods will need a separate tool for those tasks.
Profiles let users keep settings separate for multiple game installations or total conversions. Load-order comparison, apply and discard controls, automatic backups, filtering and overlap views support reviewing changes before or after applying them. Official builds are available for Windows and Linux, with Linux distribution through Flatpak; the Arch package mentioned for LOOT is unofficial. Support is provided through community resources and documentation. Choose LOOT when plugin sorting, metadata rules and load-order diagnostics are the priority, and look elsewhere if mod-file downloading or deployment is central to the job.
LOOT pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Calculates and sorts plugin load orders using plugin data and metadata
- Flags incompatibilities, missing requirements and other load-order errors
- Supports separate profiles, custom rules, comparisons and automatic backups
- Where it doesn't
- Manages plugin load order, not mod downloading or file deployment
- Official builds are available for Windows and Linux only
- Support is through community resources and documentation
LOOT fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update