What Chat Heads works with.
| Platform | Java Edition |
|---|---|
| Loaders | Fabric, Forge, NeoForge |
| Minecraft versions | 1.16.5, 1.18.2, 1.19.2, 1.20.1, 1.21.1, 1.21.8, 26.2 |
| Environment | Client |
Chat Heads is a client-side Minecraft Java mod for Fabric, Forge, and NeoForge that draws each player's head next to their chat messages, the effect some players search for as a chat bubbles mod. On a busy server you can see who said what at a glance, without reading every username. It only needs to be installed on your own client. Fabric and NeoForge builds track Minecraft's current 26.2 release; Forge development has narrowed, and its newest build only reaches 1.21.4.
What Chat Heads changes in chat
The mod pulls each player's current skin and renders their face as a small icon in the chat window. It is a purely visual change: message text, timestamps, and any server formatting stay exactly as they were, with the head added alongside.
- A player head icon appears next to every chat message, matching that player's current skin.
- Heads can sit before the whole chat line or directly before the player's name.
- The icon can use the flat face or the raised hat layer for a slightly 3D look.
- An optional drop shadow makes the heads easier to read against bright chat backgrounds.
- Useful in singleplayer for command feedback and on any multiplayer server you join.
How to install Chat Heads on Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge
- 1.Install the mod loader that matches your Minecraft version: Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge.
- 2.Download the Chat Heads jar for your loader and version from the source page.
- 3.Place the jar in your Minecraft mods folder.
- 4.Optionally add Cloth Config API to unlock the in-game settings screen for placement, offset, and shadow.
- 5.Launch Minecraft and join a world or server to see heads appear beside chat.
Compatibility and configuration
Because Chat Heads runs entirely on the client, it does not need to be installed on the server and works on servers you do not control. It has no required dependencies. Cloth Config API is optional: install it if you want a settings screen to change where the head sits, adjust its offset, and toggle the drop shadow. Version support differs by loader: Fabric and NeoForge builds are current through Minecraft 26.2, while Forge's newest build only reaches 1.21.4, so Forge players on a later release need a different mod or should stay on 1.21.4 or earlier.
- Loaders: Fabric, Forge, and NeoForge.
- Side: client only; the server does not need the mod.
- Optional dependency: Cloth Config API for the in-game settings menu.
- Minecraft versions: 1.16.5 through the current 26.2 release on Fabric and NeoForge; Forge stops at 1.21.4.
Chat Heads pairs well with other lightweight client-side add-ons. If footstep audio that matches the block you are walking on appeals to you too, Presence Footsteps is another simple immersion mod worth installing alongside it.
Questions about Chat Heads.
4 questions
How do I install Chat Heads?
Install Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge for your Minecraft version, then drop the matching Chat Heads jar into your mods folder and launch the game. It runs on the client only, so you do not add it to the server. Optionally install Cloth Config API to get an in-game settings screen for head placement and the drop shadow.
Does Chat Heads work on multiplayer servers?
Yes. Chat Heads is client-side, so it works on any server you join, including ones you do not own or control. The server does not need the mod installed, and other players do not need it to see their own heads on your screen.
Does Chat Heads need Fabric API or Cloth Config?
It has no required dependencies. Fabric API is not needed for Chat Heads itself. Cloth Config API is optional and only adds an in-game settings screen where you can change head placement, offset, and the drop shadow. Without it the mod uses its default layout.
Which Minecraft version does Chat Heads support?
Chat Heads has builds spanning from Minecraft 1.16.5 through the current 26.2 release on Fabric and NeoForge. Forge development has narrowed and its newest build only reaches 1.21.4, so Forge players on a later release need to wait for an update or pick a different loader. Always match the file to both your loader and your exact Minecraft version on the source page.
