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SJMCL

Free#14 of 74 in Minecraft Launchers

SJMCL: A free, open-source desktop launcher with broad mod support and automation options. Ranked #14 of 74 in Minecraft Launchers by our editors (6.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for players who want extensibility and automation.

6.0/10Editor score
Visit SJMCL
SJMCL6.0 Visit SJMCL

At a glance

  • Editor score
    6.0 / 10
  • Pricing
    Free plan
  • Best for
    Players who want extensibility and automation
  • Free plan
    Yes
  • Paid from
    None
  • Facts checked
    23 Sep 2026
SJMCL screenshot

  • Where it wins

    • Keeps instances, saves, mods, packs, shaders, and settings organized.
    • Finds mods on CurseForge and Modrinth and checks installed mods for updates.
    • Extension system and MCP service provide options for external automation.

  • Where it doesn't

    • Desktop-only, with no mobile deployment listed.
    • Support is community-based rather than through a listed dedicated channel.
    • Its range of instance and mod tools may be more than casual players need.

Our verdict on SJMCL

SJMCL, also called SJMC Launcher, is a desktop Minecraft launcher for players who want to manage separate game instances and extend or automate their launcher workflows. Developed by members of the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Minecraft Club, it runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is free and open source under GPLv3, and is not an official Mojang or Microsoft service. Players looking for a simple way to start one game directory may find its broader management tools unnecessary; those maintaining distinct modded setups have more to organize here.

Instance management covers saves, mods, resource packs, shaders, and settings, while the launcher also downloads Minecraft clients and game resources. It installs Forge, Fabric, NeoForge, and Quilt, searches CurseForge and Modrinth for mods, and supports manual mod installation as well as automatic checks for installed mod updates. Modpacks and other files can be imported, including by dragging them into the launcher. Java runtime downloads and automatic launcher updates further reduce the need to manage those pieces separately. This breadth makes SJMCL a fit for players whose setups involve multiple loaders or changing mod collections, rather than users who need only a basic launcher.

The extension system and launcher MCP service are the most distinctive fit for players seeking extensibility and external automation. Authentication supports Microsoft accounts and third-party authentication servers. The trade-off is a desktop-focused product with community support, so players who prioritize a dedicated support channel or a minimal launcher should consider whether its extra capabilities are worth the added complexity. For technically curious players managing modded instances across the supported desktop systems, SJMCL combines instance organization, mod discovery, imports, and automation in one free, open-source launcher.

SJMCL pricing

Plans Free planFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.
See plans on mc.sjtu.cn

SJMCL fact sheet

Free planYes
Paid fromNone
Desktop OS supportNot verified
Separate instancesYes
Modpack importBoth
Mod loader supportMultiple
Java runtime managementYes
Built-in modpack catalogNot verified
Automatic updatesYes
DeploymentDesktop
PlatformsWindows, macOS, Linux
SupportCommunity
Built forSolo, Small business (editorial estimate)
Integrations4 integrations: CurseForge, Modrinth, Microsoft accounts, Third-party authentication servers
PricingFree plan
Websitemc.sjtu.cn
Facts checked23 Sep 2026

SJMCL integrations

SJMCL lists 4 integrations on its own site.

  • CurseForge
  • Modrinth
  • Microsoft accounts
  • Third-party authentication servers

Alternatives to SJMCL

See all SJMCL alternatives →

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Featured on iTechGuides

Featured on iTechGuides — SJMCL 6.0/10

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026

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