Shader packs for Iris and OptiFine. Every pack lists its loader compatibility, minimum GPU class, and whether it works on integrated graphics with a reduced preset. Complementary Reimagined is the most-downloaded shader pack on Modrinth — if you are new to shaders, start there.
They are not interchangeable. A shader pack built for Iris may not render correctly in OptiFine, and vice versa.
| Feature | Iris | OptiFine |
|---|---|---|
| Works with Sodium | Yes — designed for it | No — replaces Sodium |
| Frame rate on modern hardware | Higher, especially with Sodium | Lower |
| Shader pack support | Most modern packs | Broadest legacy support |
| Zoom, connected textures | Via separate mods | Built in |
| Setup complexity | Requires Fabric + 2 mods | Single installer |
| Best for | Modern setups, performance | Simple install, older packs |
If you already use Sodium, install Iris. If you want a one-click shader setup and do not care about Sodium, OptiFine still works — but you will lose the frame rate Sodium provides.
The single biggest factor is your GPU, not your CPU. A gaming CPU with integrated graphics will still struggle with heavy shaders.
Use Complementary Reimagined on the Potato preset, MakeUp Ultra Fast, or Chocapic13 Lite. Expect 30–45 FPS at 1080p. Do not try BSL or Photon on integrated graphics — they will run, but not playably.
Complementary Reimagined on Medium or High, Photon, BSL on Medium. Expect 60+ FPS at 1080p. SEUS PTGI is still out of reach at playable frame rates.
Any shader on this page at 1440p or 4K. SEUS PTGI becomes playable. Complementary on Ultra is the best-looking option for most players.
Full comparison with a shader compatibility table for the ten most popular packs.
Fabric and Forge setup from scratch. What folder the JAR goes in, and what to do when the game crashes on launch.
How to read a crash log, identify the failing mod, and remove it without breaking the rest of your setup.