NeoForge Explained 2026: What It Is vs Forge and Fabric
NeoForge is a mod loader for Minecraft Java Edition, forked from Minecraft Forge in 2023. It is maintained by a separate team and targets Minecraft 1.20.2 and newer. For most new modpacks and servers running 1.21+, NeoForge is the correct choice.
What Is NeoForge?
NeoForge started as a fork of Minecraft Forge after a disagreement within the original Forge development team. The core developers left and created NeoForge as a continuation with modernized APIs and an open governance model.
Key facts:
- NeoForge targets Minecraft 1.20.2 and all newer versions
- Forge continues to support older versions (1.20.1 and below)
- Both use similar mod APIs but are not directly compatible with each other
- Most major modpacks for 1.21+ (ATM10, Better MC, Prominence II) now use NeoForge
Is NeoForge the Same as Forge?
No. They share history and many concepts but are different projects. A NeoForge mod does not run on Forge, and vice versa (for 1.20.2+).
| Feature | Forge | NeoForge |
|---|---|---|
| Minecraft versions | All (1.1 to current) | 1.20.2+ only |
| Mod compatibility | Forge mods only | NeoForge mods only |
| Legacy pack support | Yes (1.12, 1.16, 1.18) | No |
| New pack support | Limited | Yes (1.21+ packs) |
| Downloads | CurseForge, Modrinth | Modrinth, neoforged.net |
For Minecraft 1.20.1 and older, use Forge. For 1.20.2 and newer, use NeoForge unless your modpack explicitly requires Forge.
Are Forge Mods Compatible With NeoForge?
For 1.20.1 and older: yes, if using original Forge. For 1.20.2 and newer: no. Forge mods will not load on a NeoForge server.
Some mods publish for both loaders separately. Check the mod page on Modrinth or CurseForge - it will list supported loaders explicitly.
Is NeoForge Better Than Forge?
For new projects on 1.21+, NeoForge is the better choice:
- More active development
- Cleaner internal APIs
- Better support from mod authors going forward
- All major new modpacks use it
For legacy servers on 1.12.2, 1.16.5, or 1.18.2, Forge is your only option.
NeoForge vs Fabric
| Feature | NeoForge | Fabric |
|---|---|---|
| API style | Full-featured | Lightweight |
| Best for | Large modpacks | Performance, simple mods |
| Popular packs | ATM10, Vault Hunters, Better MC | Mostly performance mods |
| Shaders | Iris (NeoForge build) | Iris + Sodium |
If you run a large modpack, NeoForge is almost certainly the right choice. If you want maximum performance with Sodium on a vanilla-like server, use Fabric.
Which Modpacks Use NeoForge in 2026?
| Modpack | Loader | Minecraft Version |
|---|---|---|
| All The Mods 10 (ATM10) | NeoForge | 1.21.1 |
| Better Minecraft Plus | NeoForge | 1.21.1 |
| Vault Hunters 3 | Forge | 1.20.1 |
| Prominence II RPG | Forge | 1.20.1 |
| Create: Above and Beyond | Forge | 1.18.2 |
Rule of thumb: Modpacks targeting 1.20.2 or newer almost always use NeoForge.
Common NeoForge Questions
Can I run NeoForge mods on a Forge server? No. They are separate loaders - a 1.21.1 NeoForge mod will not load on a 1.21.1 Forge server.
Does NeoForge work with Optifine? No. Use Iris and Sodium instead for shaders and performance on NeoForge.
Where do I download NeoForge? The official site is neoforged.net. Mod files are also on Modrinth.
Is NeoForge free? Yes. NeoForge is open source and free.
NeoForge Server RAM Requirements
| Player count | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|
| 1-5 players (small modpack) | 4-6 GB |
| 1-5 players (ATM10) | 8-12 GB |
| 6-15 players (ATM10) | 12-16 GB |