You can play Minecraft with friends on other devices if you’re all using compatible editions. Bedrock players can join across supported Windows PCs, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. Java players can join other Java players on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Java and Bedrock do not directly cross-play, so first check which edition your host and friends are using.
Check which Minecraft edition everyone is using
Edition—not just the device—is the key to cross-play. Minecraft’s official store describes Bedrock cross-play across Windows 10 and 11, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, and mobile, while Java cross-play is for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
XBOX Wireless Gaming Controller | Carbon Black | $49.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Logitech G F310 Wired Gamepad Controller Console - Blue/Black | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
XBOX Wireless Gaming Controller | Shock Blue | $54.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
XBOX Wireless Gaming Controller + USB-C Cable | Carbon Black | $51.57 | Buy on Amazon |
| Edition | Platforms that can play together | Practical rule |
|---|---|---|
| Bedrock | Supported Windows PCs, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices | If a friend is on a console or mobile, a PC player generally needs to launch Bedrock. |
| Java | Windows, Mac, and Linux | Everyone must be playing Java Edition. |
A Windows PC player with Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition can switch between the two editions for separate sessions. Owning both does not let a Java player join a Bedrock-hosted game, or vice versa. Minecraft Help summarizes the boundary: “Java Edition players can only join Java Edition hosted games.”
Get accounts, versions, and online access ready
Before joining, make sure everyone has the same edition and a compatible game version. Minecraft Help recommends using the latest release; update the game if players cannot see or join one another.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
- Use a stable internet connection for online play.
- Console and mobile players should sign in with a Microsoft account. Child accounts may need multiplayer permissions enabled.
- Console players may need the platform’s online multiplayer service: Xbox Game Pass Core for Xbox, PlayStation Plus for PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch Online for Switch. These subscriptions are separate from the game.
- For a Realm, have the host invite you.
For PlayStation Bedrock cross-play, link a Microsoft account to the PSN account. In Minecraft, choose Sign in with a Microsoft account, then scan the QR code or visit microsoft.com/link and enter the displayed code. Minecraft Help says this link is needed to play Realms with players on other platforms. One Microsoft account can be linked to a PSN account; changing the association requires unlinking the existing one.
Choose how to join your friends
Depending on the edition, platform, and setup, you can join an online world, Realm, server, or (for Bedrock) a local LAN world. Ask the host which method they’re using and follow the matching invitation or join option in Minecraft.
Rank #2
- With broad game support, the Logitech Gamepad F310 works with old standbys to today's biggest titles, so it's easy to set up and use with your favorite games.
- Profiler software allows the gamepad to be programmed to perform keyboard and mouse commands for games without gamepad support.* * Requires software installation.
- A familiar control layout that doesn't require a learning curve to be able to use, with all the same buttons as on an Xbox 360.
- The unique floating D-pad rests on four switches-instead of a single pivot point-making it responsive to quick changes in direction.
- The six-foot cord lets you lean back and play a comfortable distance from your PC monitor.
- Online world: The host starts a multiplayer world and makes it available to friends. Select the friend’s world from the game’s friends or join options.
- Realm: Ask the host to send an invitation, then accept it in Minecraft.
- Server: Join a server that supports your edition. Java and Bedrock servers are not interchangeable for direct play.
Play Bedrock over a local network
LAN play is for Bedrock players connected to the same local network. Minecraft Help’s LAN instructions say players need the latest game version, LAN-capable devices, and the same network. Console players may still need an online multiplayer subscription.
Host a LAN world
- Connect the host device to the local network and open Minecraft.
- Select Play, then the pencil icon beside the world.
- Open Multiplayer and enable Multiplayer game and Visible to LAN Players.
- Start the world.
Join the LAN world
- Connect to the same local network as the host.
- Wait until the host has started the world.
- Open Minecraft, select Play, then Worlds.
- Join the world marked as a LAN game.
If Bedrock friends are online, Minecraft may default to showing the option to join their world over the internet rather than as a LAN session.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Troubleshoot cross-play problems
- You can’t see the other player: Confirm that everyone is using the same edition, then check that game versions are compatible and updated.
- You’re on PlayStation: Check that the Microsoft account is linked to the PSN account and that multiplayer access is available.
- A child account cannot join: Check its multiplayer permissions.
- A console player cannot join online: Check the required platform multiplayer subscription.
- You’re trying LAN: Confirm everyone is on the same local network, that the host enabled LAN visibility, and that the world is running.
- You’re trying a Realm: Ask the host to invite your account.
Minecraft Help’s multiplayer requirements and its LAN guidance cover account, version, subscription, and local-network requirements. Exact service labels and platform requirements may change.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER + USB-C CABLE — Includes the XBOX Wireless Controller in Carbon Black and a 9' USB-C cable. Play wirelessly or plug in for a wired gaming experience, right out of the box.*
- WIRED OR WIRELESS, YOUR CALL — Connect the included 9' USB-C cable for zero-setup wired play on console and PC. Go wireless when you want the freedom to play from the couch, the desk, or anywhere in between.
- PC READY. NO EXTRAS NEEDED — Plug the USB-C cable into your Windows PC and you're playing instantly. No adapters, no Bluetooth pairing, no additional purchases required. Works across the XBOX app, Steam, and more.*
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience sculpted surfaces and refined geometry designed around how you actually hold a controller. Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of wireless battery life on standard AA batteries. When the batteries run low, plug in the included cable and keep playing without missing a beat.*
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
