Minecraft Java vs Bedrock: Which Edition Should You Buy?

Minecraft comes in two editions, Java and Bedrock, and the one you need depends on the device you play on and who you want to play with. This guide compares them on the points families ask about most, using Minecraft’s store page and the Microsoft Store as sources.

The short answer

• Playing on a console, phone or tablet? You need Bedrock. It is the only edition there.
• Playing on a Mac or Linux computer? You need Java.
• Playing on a Windows PC? Buy Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC. It includes both.
• Joining friends? Ask which edition they use first. Java and Bedrock players cannot join each other.

Price and the PC bundle

Minecraft’s Java & Bedrock store page says one PC purchase gives you both editions. Prices from the Microsoft Store listing on October 8, 2026:

The bigger collections were on sale for some versions when we checked, and sales change, so look at the price at checkout. Console and mobile versions are sold in each platform’s own store.

Devices and system needs

Minecraft’s store page lists these minimums. Java needs Windows 10 64-bit, macOS 12 or later, or 64-bit Linux, with 8 GB of RAM on a separate graphics card or 12 GB on integrated graphics, and a graphics card that supports Vulkan 1.3. Bedrock on Windows needs Windows 10 version 19041 or later and at least 4 GB of RAM. An older family laptop often runs Bedrock more smoothly than Java.

Crossplay and online play

Java crossplays only with other Java players, on Windows, Mac and Linux. Bedrock crossplays across Windows, Xbox, PlayStation 5, Switch and mobile, which is why most families with mixed devices choose it.

On consoles, playing online needs that console’s own paid subscription, as the store page notes. On PC, an internet connection is enough. Both editions can host their own servers and play over a home network (LAN). Java players can join community servers run by other people, while Bedrock shows a list of featured servers inside the game.

Mods vs Marketplace

This is the biggest difference in what you can add to the game.

• Java supports mods, the community-made changes that can add new blocks, mobs or whole game modes. Mods come from third-party sites, so a parent should choose them with the child and avoid any site that asks for a password.
• Bedrock has add-ons and the Minecraft Marketplace, a store of maps, skins and mini-games bought with Minecoins. Minecraft’s parents’ guide says Marketplace content is curated for quality and safety. Minecoins carry across Windows, Xbox, mobile and Switch. On PlayStation the currency is Tokens, which stay on PlayStation.

Bedrock also offers Marketplace Pass, a subscription to a rotating catalog of Marketplace content. Creators who want to sell there can read our Marketplace creator program guide.

Realms on each edition

Realms is a private server that Mojang hosts for you, so friends can join your world even when you are offline. The store page lists Realms on both editions with up to 10 players at a time. Realms Plus, which adds a rotating set of Marketplace content, is Bedrock only. Our Realms setup guide for parents walks through inviting friends and setting limits.

Parental controls

Bedrock’s parental controls work through the Microsoft account and its family settings, and the store page says Bedrock online play is moderated through Xbox services. Minecraft’s parents’ guide adds that multiplayer is off by default on child accounts on both editions. For a first look at the game itself, see our Minecraft beginner’s guide, and if your child is choosing between games, try Minecraft vs Roblox for kids.

Sources checked October 2026: minecraft.net Java & Bedrock Edition store page, Microsoft Store catalog (product 9NXP44L49SHJ plus Deluxe and Ultimate collections), minecraft.net “The Difference between Java and Bedrock Editions” and Minecraft Parents’ Guide, Microsoft Learn “Differences between Bedrock Edition and Java Edition”.