VulkanMod Reforged
by rindw
VulkanMod Reforged is a NeoForge optimization mod that moves Minecraft rendering onto the Vulkan graphics API to aim for smoother frame rates and steadier responsiveness.
What it does
Vulkan is a graphics API that the mod uses in place of the default renderer. The project focuses on overall smoothness, stability and responsiveness, and aims to reduce lag while keeping the normal Minecraft feel. Its author describes it as built with optimization in mind, and gameplay should feel smoother across supported setups.
Installation is done by placing the file in the Minecraft mods folder and launching Minecraft with the matching NeoForge profile. Builds exist for 1.20.1 and 1.21.1, and the latest file is 0.2.0-ALPHA for 1.21.1. The mod is client-side only, so servers do not need it and players can join without installing it. It is released under the GNU General Public License v3.0 only and is open source, with source code published.
Some mods change rendering or core client behavior, and those may not work correctly with Vulkan. Before a problem is reported, players should confirm that the Minecraft version, the mod loader and every installed mod are on the supported list. Support for newer Minecraft versions and other mod loaders is planned, with a Forge version and other releases described as coming soon.
Key features
Vulkan rendering
Replaces the default renderer with a Vulkan-based one for the game's drawing work.
Smoother gameplay
Targets lower lag and steadier responsiveness during play on supported hardware.
Optimization focus
The project is built around performance, keeping the feel of the vanilla game.
Hardware requirements
Needs a device capable of running Vulkan properly, and current GPU drivers are recommended.
Gallery
Compatibility
Latest build for each game version and loader.
Only full game releases are shown. This mod publishes no snapshot builds.
How it compares
VulkanModNeoForge is also client-side only and open source under the GNU Lesser General Public License v3.0 only, but it targets 1.21 – 1.21.3 instead of 1.20.1 and 1.21.1. Meshelium is client-side only and open source under the GNU Lesser General Public License v3.0 only, with Fabric and NeoForge files for 26.2 – 26.3. [Reforged] Accurate Block Placement is client-side only under the MIT License, is not open source, and covers Forge and NeoForge for 1.21.1 – 1.21.8.
| Mod | Loaders | Game versions | Environment | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VulkanMod Reforged | NeoForge | 1.20.1 – 1.21.1 | Client-side only | 2026-08-04 |
| VulkanModNeoForge | NeoForge | 1.21 – 1.21.3 | Client-side only | 2026-06-29 |
| Meshelium | Fabric and NeoForge | 26.2 – 26.3 | Client-side only | 2026-09-25 |
| [Reforged] Accurate Block Placement | Forge and NeoForge | 1.21.1 – 1.21.8 | Client-side only | 2025-08-18 |
Questions
Does VulkanMod Reforged need to be installed on the server?
Which Minecraft versions does VulkanMod Reforged support?
Do all mods work with VulkanMod Reforged?
In the catalog
VulkanMod Reforged is one of 3,545 Optimization mods on ModsFinder, and one of 1,250 Optimization mods for NeoForge. 32,366 mods support Minecraft 1.21.1.
Similar mods
What the author says
Vulkan is a Minecraft performance project that focuses on improving the game’s overall smoothness, stability, and responsiveness. It is designed to give players a cleaner and more optimized experience while keeping the normal Minecraft feel. Vulkan is built with optimization in mind. It aims to reduce lag, improve…
Official listing
- Modrinth page
- modrinth.com/mod/vulkanmod-reforged
- Owner
- rindw
- Published
- 2026-06-19
- Updated on Modrinth
- 2026-08-04
- Facts verified
- 2026-10-15