How to Install 'Minecraft' Shaders and Transform the Graphics of the Game
To install shaders in "Minecraft: Java Edition," you'll first need to download a program for free called OptiFine. Once OptiFine has been installed, you can simply transfer the shader files to the appropriate folder on your computer. Shaders in Minecraft can make your game look better, but it can also make it harder to run.
At first glance, "Minecraft" is not an appealing game. It's more like a world made of Legos than any other game with sharp blocks that are surrounded on top of large sticks.
This is why thousands of players have put in the effort to develop shaders. Shaders alter the way lighting functions in "Minecraft," which sounds simple, but can completely transform what the game looks like. Once you start playing with shaders, you may be wondering how you could have done without them.
It's simple to install shaders in Minecraft. Here's how to find shaders and download them into your game.
Important: You can only install shaders if you're playing "Minecraft: Java Edition." It is the most played version for PCs and the only version that's available for Linux and Mac users.
You can see more differences between Java and Bedrock Edition by reading our article "'Minecraft Java vs.' Bedrock A comprehensive breakdown of Minecraft's two major version and which one is the best to purchase."
Where to download and find Shaders for Minecraft
Shaders are some of the most downloaded downloads on the internet. There are numerous websites where you can download these.
We suggest CurseForge.com, possibly the most popular website for "Minecraft" mods and shaders. Minecraft Servers ShadersMods.com also has useful categories such as "psychedelic," popular" and realistic.
If you find a shader you like, make sure it is compatible with the Minecraft version you're using. Then, download the file and save it to a location where you can find it later. Do not open the file.
How to install 'Minecraft shaders'
Two steps are needed to install shaders in Minecraft. The first step installing OptiFine is a single step. Once you've completed that you're ready to go.
OptiFine can be set up
OptiFine is an app for free that lets you finetune and modify "Minecraft's" graphics. The exact method to install and configure it will differ based on the mod you are using "Minecraft" mods, however here are the general steps.
1. Download OptiFine from the downloads page. Make sure you choose the OptiFine version which corresponds with the Minecraft version you're running. You can save the file wherever you can find it easily.
Important: If you plan to use OptiFine with mods save the file to your dedicated "mods" folder and then skip step 3.
2. Find the .jar file you downloaded and double-click to run the installer. Click "Install." OptiFine will then be installed successfully.
3. Start the Minecraft Launcher app. Click "Play" to open the Minecraft Launcher app.
We'll now get the shader files installed.
Transfer your shader files
1. From the familiar "Minecraft" intro screen Select "Options," and then "Video Settings."
2. You should now see some new settings. Click "Shaders ..."
3. Select "Shaders Folder" at the bottom-right. This will open the folder where all your shader files are stored.
4. Move the shader files that you downloaded into this folder. Again, don't unzip them.
5. You should see your newly added shades when you return to the Shaders Page. Close "Minecraft" and open it once more if you don't see them.
How to disable or enable 'Minecraft" shaders in game
Here's how to disable or enable shaders in your game without having to erase the files.
1. While playing while playing, press the "Esc" key to bring up the Menu screen.
2. Similar to how you added the shaders, click "Options ..." then "Video Settings ..." and "Shaders ..."
3. To switch between shaders, you must have only one pack in use at any time. Select the shader that interests you from the list. Then, click "Done."
4. To disable shaders entirely to completely turn off shaders, simply select "OFF" at the top of the Shaders page, then click "Done."
What to do if your computer can't handle shaders from 'Minecraft'
Shaders create "Minecraft more graphically demanding to the point where older graphics cards might struggle to keep up. As you're upgrading "Minecraft," keep aware of how your computer is handling the new stress.
If you discover that your computer's performance isn't well with shaders, a possible solution is to allocate more RAM to "Minecraft." You can easily allocate more RAM using the"Minecraft"Launcher.
If your frame rates are dropping when you run shaders another option is to alter other settings using OptiFine.
OptiFine offers quick summaries by hovering your mouse over the additional settings for video. This will explain how different changes will affect your game and which settings will make it the most efficient.
But, be aware that not everything OptiFine suggests is optimal for your type of hardware and computer. Try out the changes one at a time and pull up the debug menu with the F3 key (Fn + F3 on Mac) to monitor your frame rate as you try different settings.
You can also try to find a shader application that consumes less memory. Some smart developers will offer different versions of their shader packs designed for various types of computers.