How to Get Shaders in Minecraft
Last updated: Mar 31, 2025 • 5 min readThere are plenty of Minecraft versions: Java Edition, Bedrock Edition, Pocket Edition, and more.
The Minecraft World looks very similar from one edition to another, so when you play Minecraft on your console or your PC, you’ll always see that blocky universe you are used to.
We know that this game isn’t meant to have realistic graphics, but wouldn’t it be absolutely incredible if we could install a file that improves the graphics of a Minecraft version?!
That’s what shaders are for: they work as texture packs that greatly improve your game experience by enhancing all overall video settings.
Playing Minecraft with shaders enabled your journey isn’t difficult, and with little technical knowledge, you can learn how to get a popular version of a shader downloaded right away.
In this blog post, we’ll be giving you all the information you need about the following topics:
- How to get shaders in Minecraft;
- Best ways to get shaders installed correctly;
- How to start a shader download both in Java and Bedrock Editions.
What Are Minecraft Shaders?
Before you add shaders, you first need to know what they are.
Minecraft mods are all over the place, and depending on the version of Minecraft you play, installing mods is easy or difficult.
Most shaders change the way you perceive the game.
Shaders pack acts as an enhancement tool for those who want to look at the latest version graphics.
Shaders Minecraft can’t be installed in Vanilla Minecraft, which is an unaltered version of the game that doesn’t support other mods either.
Pro Tip
Downloaded shaders aren’t a new concept in PC gaming. For instance, you can also Get Shaders for Roblox, which usually work in the new version of the game.
Both the Roblox and Minecraft community are constantly looking for ways to improve the experience for all players who want to go one step beyond.
Make Sure that Your Computer Can Install Shader Packs
Installing shaders isn’t always that easy.
The best Minecraft shaders usually have high graphics card requirements.
Are you sure that your computer supports ray tracing?
Kuda Shader, Continuum Shaders, Slidurs Vibrant Shaders and other different shaders only work with fast render devices.
This creates the need to check if your PC can actually run shaders.
You want lagless shaders, don’t you?
Well, then you can’t skip this piece of advice.
How to Get Shaders in Minecraft
Let’s install Minecraft shaders! It’s time to make Minecraft look realistic with a shader pack.
We know that there are many types of shaders for Minecraft out there, but today, we are going to focus on those shader packs that have proven to work.
Additionally, you first need to get the newer Optifine version installed.
Read Also
After you install shaders pack, you’ll be able to enjoy a whole new experience in Minecraft.
Imagine building amazing things with improved graphics! Find 40+ cool things to build in Minecraft by reading our blog post.
Step 1: Install Optifine
Installing Optifine is a must to get installed shaders on your device.
You can download Optifine file at the following download link: click here.
Optifine is a software designed to enhance the mods in Minecraft.
There are other options for optimizing Minecraft without using Optifine, but Optifine is definitely the best one of them.
Step 2: Download a New Shader Pack
Once you have Optifine installed, you’ll be almost good to go.
Now, you need to install shaders.
The shader pack you choose depends entirely on you.
You might as well choose Sonic Ether’s Unbelievable Shaders, but Continuum Shaders are often the main option of most players.
We recommend doing your own research before you install shaders with Optifine.
Worry not - most files are safe to use.
Step 3: Open Minecraft Launcher
Once you have selected a shader pack, it’s time to launch it and test it.
Open the Minecraft Launcher as you normally do it.
The Launcher is different if you change Minecraft versions.
In the Minecraft Launcher screen, select Optifine.
Remember that this option won’t appear on settings unless you have installed Optifine before.
Step 4: Select the Minecraft Folder (Shaders Folder)
Now, go to Video Settings and look for the option that says “Shaders.”
You won’t have any file enabled by default, so you need to click on “Shaders Folder.”
Step 5: Enable the Shaders Packs
While you are in the Shaders Folder option, look for the file you downloaded.
You can select various shaders at the same time, but you can only enable one when playing.
Click on the file inside the folder and run the game.
Now, from the “Video Settings” menu you’ll be able to choose whether the shaders are on or off.
Many users often try different shaders before choosing a new one, but believe us - they are worth it!
Activating them is really easy since Optifine practically guides you through the process, but remember that your PC must meet all the requirements before even trying.
That’s all you need to know for today! If you liked this blog post, keep checking all the content we have for you here at Hypenoon.
How to Get Shaders in Minecraft FAQ
Can I Install Shaders in Minecraft Pocket Edition?
Yes, there are shaders for Pocket Edition, but logically, they are not as good-looking as PC shaders.
What is Forge in Minecraft?
Forge is another program that allows you to install mods in Minecraft. You can install Forge at this link.
However, you need to make sure that your PC is able to run Forge before doing so.