Onyx Launcher
Onyx Launcher: A free, open-source Java Edition launcher with migration, modpack, and instance tools. Ranked #15 of 74 in Minecraft Launchers by our editors (5.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for windows and Linux migration workflows.
At a glance
- Editor score5.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forWindows and Linux migration workflows
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Facts checked19 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Imports `.mrpack` and CurseForge manifests with dependency resolution
- Supports Modrinth, CurseForge, and multiple Minecraft loaders
- Includes launcher migration, Java management, and world snapshots
Where it doesn't
- Supports Windows and Linux, not other desktop platforms
- A licensed Microsoft account is required for the full Java Edition experience
- Focuses on Minecraft: Java Edition rather than other Minecraft editions
Our verdict on Onyx Launcher
Onyx Launcher is an open-source desktop launcher for Minecraft: Java Edition on Windows and Linux. Its feature set suits players moving from other launchers, managing separate game setups, or installing content from Modrinth and CurseForge. It supports vanilla, Fabric, Quilt, Forge, and NeoForge, while isolated instances help keep configurations distinct. A licensed Microsoft account is required for the full Java Edition experience.
Migration and modpack handling are central strengths. Onyx offers universal migration from several other launchers, and it can install `.mrpack` files and CurseForge manifests with dependency resolution. Its catalogs connect to Modrinth and CurseForge, and Microsoft/Xbox is also listed among its integrations. Automatic Eclipse Temurin Java 8, 17, or 21 selection and installation reduces the need to manage those runtimes separately. These tools make it a strong fit for Windows and Linux players transferring existing workflows or switching between modded setups; players on other desktop platforms should look elsewhere.
The launcher also includes Crash Bisect diagnostics for suspected mod conflicts, manual and automatic world snapshots with restoration, and Flight Recorder performance monitoring. Download verification and a GitHub Releases automatic updater round out its maintenance features. The project is distributed under the MIT License, and the published description presents it as open source and free. Choose Onyx if migration, loader choice, Java handling, and two major mod catalogs matter together. It is less suitable for someone who needs a launcher on an operating system beyond Windows or Linux, or whose Minecraft needs extend beyond Java Edition.
Onyx Launcher pricing
Onyx Launcher fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Desktop OS support | Not verified |
| Separate instances | Yes |
| Modpack import | Both |
| Mod loader support | Multiple |
| Java runtime management | Yes |
| Built-in modpack catalog | Yes |
| Automatic updates | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: Modrinth, CurseForge, Microsoft/Xbox |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 19 Sep 2026 |
Onyx Launcher integrations
Onyx Launcher lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- Modrinth
- CurseForge
- Microsoft/Xbox
Alternatives to Onyx Launcher
- Prism LauncherA free, open-source launcher for organizing isolated Minecraft instances and modpacks.9.0
- RefractA broad, free launcher for players moving libraries and modpacks from other launchers.8.2
- Spectra LauncherA free, open-source launcher with strong instance, mod, and modpack workflows.7.7
See all Onyx Launcher alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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