“Minecraft for Windows” is the Bedrock Edition, while Java Edition is a separate version that also runs on Windows. The choice mainly affects which friends you can play with, available mods and servers, and input options. The current PC bundle includes both editions, so Windows players can choose either.
What “Java” and “Windows” mean
Java Edition and Bedrock Edition are two editions of Minecraft; Windows is an operating system. The Windows app is called Minecraft for Windows and runs Bedrock Edition. Java Edition is also available for Windows, as well as macOS and Linux. Minecraft’s edition guide and PC product page distinguish the two.
How the editions differ
| Feature | Java Edition | Bedrock Edition (Minecraft for Windows) |
|---|---|---|
| Where it runs | Windows, macOS and Linux, according to Minecraft’s edition comparison. | Windows, consoles and mobile platforms; supported platform lists can vary. See Minecraft’s platform comparison. |
| Cross-play | Plays with other Java Edition players, not normally with Bedrock players. | Cross-play with supported Bedrock platforms, not normally with Java players. Players in a standard multiplayer session need the same edition. |
| Mods and servers | Minecraft highlights extensive community mod support and access to third-party servers. Individual mods and servers may have their own requirements. | Has featured servers and Marketplace content. Java mods, servers and Marketplace items do not automatically transfer between editions. |
| Controls | The current PC comparison does not list native controller support. | The current PC comparison lists controller and touch support. |
| Testing and older versions | Offers snapshots for testing and selectable historical release versions. | Testing builds are called Previews on most supported platforms and Betas on Android. |
| PC purchase | The current PC bundle includes Java Edition. | The current PC bundle includes Bedrock Edition. |
Which edition should you choose?
Choose Bedrock if your group uses consoles or phones
Bedrock is generally the right fit when you want to play with friends on supported consoles or mobile devices. Cross-play works among Bedrock players on supported platforms; it does not bridge the gap to Java Edition. Platform multiplayer requirements also differ, so check Minecraft’s multiplayer requirements for the devices in your group.
Choose Java if you want Java mods or Java servers
Java is the relevant edition for its community mod ecosystem and Java multiplayer servers. Check each mod or server’s requirements, including supported game version. A Java player and a Bedrock player cannot normally join the same game simply because both are on Windows.
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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
Choose Bedrock for controller or touch input on PC
Minecraft’s current PC comparison lists controller and touch support for Bedrock, but not Java. The same comparison lists split-screen for consoles, not PC, so do not assume local split-screen is available on a Windows computer.
Choose either if you play solo on a Windows PC
The PC bundle currently includes both editions. Your decision can therefore come down to the features above and the edition used by the people or servers you want to join. Confirm the edition selected in the launcher or store before starting multiplayer.
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Can Java and Bedrock play together?
Not in normal multiplayer: Java and Bedrock use different servers and players generally need to be on the same edition to join one another. Bedrock cross-play is for supported Bedrock platforms; Java multiplayer is for Java players. Minecraft also offers separate Java and Bedrock Realms, with play available within the corresponding edition.
Snapshots, previews and older releases
Java lets players opt into snapshots and select historical release versions. Bedrock testing builds are called Previews on most supported platforms, or Betas on Android. These development versions can be unstable; follow Minecraft’s current official instructions for the platform and edition before opting in. A world or session using a development build may not work like one on the regular release.
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Does one edition run faster or look better?
There is no universal performance winner established by Minecraft’s feature comparisons. Results depend on the computer, settings and other conditions; those comparisons do not amount to a benchmark across PCs. Choose based on compatibility, multiplayer group, controls and features rather than assuming one edition is always faster or has better graphics.
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