PolyMC as a Linux alternative to Lunar Client
Updated
Our verdict
PolyMC is a solid replacement for Lunar Client on Linux, especially for users who run modded Minecraft. It supports Forge, Fabric, and Quilt, handles mods and resource packs directly, and isolates instances cleanly. While it lacks Lunar Client’s in-game overlay and some performance tweaks, its stability, open-source nature, and strong mod support make it ideal for Linux users who prioritize control and simplicity over flashy extras. If you don’t rely on Lunar’s specific optimizations or built-in shaders, PolyMC covers the core needs well.
- License
- GPL-3.0-only
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 7.1 (November 11, 2011)
- Rating
- —

What works the same
- Supports mod loaders like Forge, Fabric, and Quilt
- Manages multiple Minecraft instances separately
- Includes mod and resource pack integration
- Offers custom Java settings per instance
- Provides easy profile and version management
What is different
- PolyMC has no built-in performance overlay like Lunar Client
- No native shader pack integration or one-click shader installer
- Lunar Client offers more aggressive optimization tweaks
- PolyMC lacks a built-in friend system or server browser
- Lunar Client has a more polished, modern UI
Opening your Lunar Client files
PolyMC cannot directly open Lunar Client profiles or configurations. There is no known import path for Lunar-specific settings, modpacks, or accounts. However, if you have access to the actual Minecraft world folders, mod JARs, or resource packs, you can manually copy them into PolyMC instances. Most modded content works the same once transferred, but setup must be done manually.
Switching from Lunar Client to PolyMC, step by step
- Install PolyMC via Flathub or your distro’s package manager
- Manually reinstall desired mod loaders (Forge, Fabric, etc.)
- Copy over your world folders and resource packs from Lunar Client
- Re-add mods by dragging JARs into PolyMC’s mod manager
- Set custom Java arguments per instance if needed
Key features of PolyMC
- Manage multiple isolated Minecraft instances
- Install and switch between Forge, Fabric, and Quilt
- Direct mod and resource pack management
- Built-in log viewer and crash recovery
- Custom Java settings per instance
- One-click instance duplication
- Automatic updates for Minecraft versions
- Support for custom servers and modpacks
How to install PolyMC on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.polymc.PolyMCFrequently asked questions
Can PolyMC run Lunar Client modpacks?
Yes, if you have the modpack files or mod list. You can recreate the setup manually in PolyMC by installing the same mods and version.
Does PolyMC support multiplayer servers?
Yes, PolyMC supports all standard Minecraft servers, including custom and modded ones, just like Lunar Client.
Is PolyMC updated regularly?
Yes, PolyMC is actively maintained, with updates for new Minecraft versions and launcher improvements.