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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →You can try Minecraft: Java Edition for free on Windows 10/11, Linux, or Mac. The trial gives approximately 100 minutes of in-game time—about five in-game days—and supports offline play and local-network (LAN) multiplayer. It does not let you join online multiplayer servers. Use Minecraft’s official free-trial page to get started.
How to start the Java Edition free trial
- Open Minecraft’s free-trial page and choose the download for your computer.
- Download Minecraft by following the instructions for your device.
- Sign in with a Microsoft account, or create one, then launch the trial.
The Java trial is listed for Windows 10/11, Linux—including Debian-based and Arch-based distributions—and Mac. The page lists different platforms for Bedrock Edition; do not assume that the Java trial is available on consoles or mobile.
How long is the Minecraft free trial?
Minecraft says the Java and Bedrock trials each provide approximately 100 minutes of in-game time, or about five in-game days. The duration can vary slightly by device, so 100 minutes is an estimate of time in the game, not a guaranteed wall-clock session length. The official trial page does not state a publication year for this figure.
What can you do during the trial?
Offline play
You can play offline, making the trial suitable for trying solo gameplay without joining an online session.
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- Play and share with friends on console, mobile and Windows 10
- discover community creations in the new in-game store
- access new mini games and game modes through servers
LAN multiplayer
LAN multiplayer is allowed. This is for players on a local network, rather than access to public or other online servers.
Online servers
You cannot join online multiplayer servers during the game trial. Minecraft gives the default trial player name, “Player,” as the reason online servers are unavailable. The restriction does not prevent LAN play.
Rank #2
- Learn your way around one block at atime in the new tutorial mode
- Craft all sorts of items from boats todiamond armor and create enormousstructures
- Team up with friends in eight-playeronline multiplayer and four-player splitscreen modes
Check your computer against the current Java requirements
Minecraft’s Java Edition system-requirements article, published July 21, 2026, says its updated requirements took effect that day and describes a transition toward Vulkan 1.3 support. Its targets are for 1080p play:
| Target | Settings and frame rate | Processor and memory | Graphics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | Fast preset, 30 FPS | 64-bit system; four-core processor; 8 GB RAM with a discrete GPU or 12 GB with integrated graphics | Vulkan 1.3-capable GPU with at least 2 GB VRAM |
| Recommended | Fancy preset, 60 FPS | 16 GB RAM and a more capable processor | More capable graphics card with 6 GB VRAM |
These are Minecraft’s stated targets, not a guarantee that every computer meeting a listed component figure will perform identically. Consult the full Java Edition system requirements for supported processor and GPU examples and updates. Minecraft says devices below the new minimum may still launch the game, but performance and visual quality are not guaranteed; older hardware may struggle or fail to launch as the game transitions away from OpenGL toward Vulkan.
Rank #3
- ENGAGING AND COOPERATIVE: Experience the thrill of Minecraft in a unique and cooperative board game format. Perfect for teams of 2 to 4 players, the game encourages joint strategies and shared victories
- EVER-CHANGING GAMEPLAY: With a map that changes every time you play, this game offers high replay value, making every game a unique and unpredictable experience
- QUALITY COMPONENTS: The game includes 25 wooden blocks, 18 world tiles, 4 inventory boards, 6 player cards, 9 buildings, 12 mob tokens and more. All components are crafted with care to enhance your gaming experience
- AGE-APPROPRIATE CHALLENGE: Aimed at ages 7 and up, this game offers a great balance of fun and challenge, making it a great choice for family game nights, parties, or gatherings
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Will the Java trial work with your friends?
Ask friends which edition they play before choosing Java for a group. Java and Bedrock use separate servers, so a Java player cannot join a Bedrock player in the same edition-specific multiplayer session. Minecraft’s Java or Bedrock comparison says Java cross-play is between Windows, Mac, and Linux. The trial’s LAN option does not remove the edition-compatibility distinction.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What are the options after the game trial?
The approximately 100-minute game trial is separate from the options for continuing play or setting up a longer-running multiplayer world. Neither a subscription nor paid server hosting is required to install the game trial.
Rank #4
- Minecraft Dungeons Hero Edition includes the Hero Pass DLC content: a Hero Cape, two player skins, and a chicken pet. It also includes the Jungle Awakens and Creeping Winters DLC packs.
- Dungeon Creeper Battle new-and-nasty mobs in this all-new action-adventure, inspired by classic dungeon crawlers.
- Multiplayer Up to four players can team up and fight together in co-op mode.
- Power Up Unlock dozens of unique items and weapon enchantments for devastating special attacks.
- Options Personalize your character, then fight up-close and personal with melee swings, hang back with ranged attacks, or tank your way through swarms of mobs, by heavy armor
Buy the PC edition for continued play
Minecraft lists Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC Standard Edition as its PC product. Check the official listing for current regional availability and terms.
Use Realms for a persistent private world
Minecraft’s Realms page describes a 30-day trial for eligible first-time users and displays Java Realms at $7.99 USD per month on the US page. It also lists up to 10 other concurrent players and says the service renews automatically unless cancelled. Eligibility and terms can vary; confirm the offer, local price, and renewal details at checkout. Realms is an optional service, not part of the game trial.
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Host a Java server yourself
Minecraft provides Java server software to download free. It requires a compatible Java runtime, and connecting from outside the local network may require network and firewall configuration. Self-hosting is optional and involves more setup than using a hosted service.
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