A good minimap mod can completely change how you explore Minecraft. Two of the most popular options are Xaero’s Minimap and JourneyMap. Below, we’ll compare their key features, highlight the pros and cons of each, and show you some useful add‑ons to improve your mapping experience—all in a clear, easy‑to‑read format.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Feature | Xaero’s Minimap | JourneyMap |
---|---|---|
Map Types | Minimap + cave mode | Minimap + fullscreen + web-map |
Waypoints | In‑game, color-coded | Export/import, visible in all map modes |
Entity Radar | Color-coded dots/icons | Configurable names & types |
Performance | Lightweight, great for low-end PCs | Feature-rich, may impact performance |
Customization | Shapes, colors, scale, UI placement | Dual presets, cave/day/night grids |
Server Support | Client-side (optional server install) | Client+server version, admin controls |
Xaero’s Minimap
- Performance-friendly: runs smoothly even in mod-heavy setups.
- Clean and customizable: choose circle or square, drag anywhere, tweak appearance.
- Cave mode included: enable underground mapping without extra mods.
JourneyMap
- Three map modes: minimap, fullscreen, and web interface for remote mapping.
- Advanced waypoint system: import/export, organized labels for better navigation.
- Highly customizable: dual map presets, toggle cave/day/night visuals, adjustable grids and entity names.
- Server-side control: admins can restrict features for fair play or gameplay balance.
Recommended Add-ons
- For Xaero’s Minimap:
- Xaero’s World Map — fullscreen mapping and teleport-friendly UI.
- XaeroPlus — performance boost, waypoint enhancements, compatibility with Baritone and Waystones.
- For JourneyMap:
- JourneyMap Integration — sync waystones, chunk claims, and REI waypoints with map.
- Server tools — options to limit cave mode, entity radar, or webmap access on multiplayer servers
Comparative Full-screen map
Comparative MiniMap
Final Take
If you want a fast, no‑frills minimap that stays out of your way and works well even on slower PCs, Xaero’s Minimap with XaeroPlus and World Map is a great choice.
If you prefer detailed mapping, remote web access, powerful waypoint handling, and don’t mind a bit more resource usage, JourneyMap offers unmatched versatility—especially with its integration tools.