Our verdict: CurseForge is the easiest way to install large Minecraft modpacks and keep World of Warcraft addons up to date. The app is free but shows ads, and the Overwolf version also installs the Overwolf platform. Choose the standalone app unless you need in-game overlays.
About CurseForge
CurseForge is a mod platform owned by Overwolf. The desktop app browses the CurseForge mod library, installs mods and modpacks with one click, keeps them updated and manages separate profiles. For Minecraft Java Edition it creates modded instances with the right loader, such as Forge or Fabric.
There are two Windows versions: a standalone app and an Overwolf app that adds in-game features and supports more games. The standalone app covers titles such as Minecraft Java Edition, World of Warcraft, The Sims 4, Stardew Valley, Palworld and Hytale. Both are free and show ads; an optional Premium subscription removes ads and adds themes. CurseForge shares part of its ad revenue with mod authors.
What it does well
- One-click mod installs. Installs mods and full modpacks, including dependencies, from the CurseForge library.
- Automatic updates. Checks installed mods and addons for updates and applies them.
- Profiles and instances. Keeps separate mod setups per game or Minecraft instance.
- Minecraft loaders. Sets up Forge, NeoForge, Fabric or Quilt for each Minecraft profile.
- Two app versions. Lightweight standalone app or Overwolf app with in-game features.
Who it is for
Good fit
Players who mod Minecraft, World of Warcraft or The Sims 4 and want installs and updates handled for them.
Look elsewhere
People who dislike ads in apps, or Minecraft players who want an open-source launcher.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Huge mod and modpack library
- One-click installs and updates
- Supports several popular games
- Standalone version without Overwolf
Cons
- Ads in the free app
- Overwolf version installs an extra platform
- Only games that CurseForge supports
How to install CurseForge
The download page offers the standalone app and the Overwolf app; pick the standalone one if you do not need in-game overlays, because the Overwolf version installs the Overwolf client as well. On first start, choose your games and let CurseForge find their install folders. A CurseForge or Overwolf account is optional for browsing and installing.
Questions about CurseForge
Is CurseForge free?
Yes. The CurseForge app is free with ads. An optional Premium subscription removes ads and adds premium themes.
What is the difference between the standalone and Overwolf versions of CurseForge?
The standalone app is a separate lightweight program. The Overwolf version runs on the Overwolf platform, which it installs too, and adds in-game features and support for more games.
Can CurseForge install Minecraft modpacks?
Yes. It installs full modpacks for Minecraft Java Edition with the correct mod loader and launches them through the Minecraft Launcher.
