Yes. Minecraft’s official server software for both Java and Bedrock editions is free to download. Hosting it yourself is not necessarily cost-free: you provide the computer and internet connection, cover any electricity or equipment costs, and handle setup. If you want Minecraft to host the world for you, Realms is a paid alternative.
What “free” means when you host a Minecraft server
The server software itself costs nothing to download, according to Minecraft’s official server download page. You still need a suitable computer to run it and an internet connection. Your actual running costs depend on what you already own and how you use it; Minecraft does not provide a universal cost estimate.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Minecraft | Java & Bedrock Deluxe Collection | Windows Digital Code | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Minecraft | Java & Bedrock Ultimate Collection | Windows Digital Code | $49.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Minecraft | Standard Edition | XBOX Digital Code | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Minecraft | $6.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Minecraft - Bedrock Edition PS4 | $42.98 | Buy on Amazon |
Self-hosting also means you are responsible for setup and keeping the server available. If friends outside your home network need to connect, you may have to configure firewall settings or port forwarding. That is a network-setup task, not evidence that you generally need to buy a new router.
Self-hosting versus Realms
| Option | Cost | What you manage |
|---|---|---|
| Self-host with official server software | Software is free. Computer, electricity, and internet costs depend on what you already have and your usage. | Setup, server uptime, and any necessary network configuration. |
| Minecraft Realms | Recurring subscription. The official page displayed these U.S. monthly prices when accessed October 8, 2026: Bedrock Realms, $3.99; Bedrock Realms Plus, $7.99; Java Realms, $7.99. Prices may differ by country or platform; check the price shown to you before subscribing. | Minecraft hosts the world, which is always online. Choose a plan for the edition and player needs you have. |
Realms is a convenient paid hosting option, while self-hosting trades the subscription for your own equipment, connection, configuration, and time. The official Realms page lists current plans and details.
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#1 Best Overall
- DELUXE COLLECTION — Includes Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition, three Bedrock add-ons, three exclusive Character Creator items, and 700 Minecoins.
- CREATE YOUR WORLD — Build whatever you imagine in an infinite world that’s unique in every playthrough.
- EXPLORE AND CRAFT — Discover biomes, resources, and mobs, then craft your way through a sandbox world filled with surprises.
- SURVIVE THE ADVENTURE — Face mysterious foes, travel across exciting landscapes, and venture into perilous dimensions.
- PLAY TOGETHER — Play cross-platform with friends in Bedrock Edition on console, mobile, and PC, or join community servers in Java Edition on PC, Mac, and Linux. Online console multiplayer requires a platform-specific subscription (sold separately).
Check your edition and platform before choosing
Java and Bedrock servers are separate. Players need to join a server for the matching Minecraft edition; Realms cross-play works within the same edition, not between Java and Bedrock. Console players may also need an active online subscription from their console platform to play multiplayer. See Minecraft’s multiplayer requirements.
- Java Edition: The server setup requires a compatible Java Runtime Environment. Follow the official Java server setup instructions.
- Bedrock Edition: Bedrock Dedicated Server is available for supported Windows and Linux environments. Check the current download page for supported systems and requirements before installing; operating-system and version requirements can change. Microsoft also provides Bedrock Dedicated Server setup documentation.
Which option makes sense for you?
- Choose self-hosting if you have a suitable computer and connection, are comfortable following the relevant setup instructions, and want to manage availability yourself.
- Consider Realms if you prefer a cloud-hosted world that stays online without you running the server on your own computer, and are comfortable with its recurring price.
There is no universal break-even point: compare the subscription with any equipment you would need to buy, your electricity and connection costs, and the value you place on setup time and availability.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
Rank #4
- Skins! We have biome settlers, city folk, town folk, and more!
- The Nether and all its inhabitants. Fight Ghasts and make friends with Pigmen
- Cross platform play for up to five players between Pocket Edition and Windows 10
- Revamped touch controls, controller support, and a controller mapping screen
- Enhanced Weather effects! Accumulating snow and more
Rank #3
- CREATE YOUR WORLD — Build whatever you imagine in an infinite world that is unique in every playthrough.
- EXPLORE AND CRAFT — Discover biomes, resources, and mobs, then craft your way through a sandbox world full of surprises.
- SURVIVAL ADVENTURES — Face mysterious foes, travel across varied landscapes, and venture into perilous dimensions.
- PLAY TOGETHER — Play solo or join friends in local split-screen and cross-platform play across console, mobile, and PC. Online multiplayer supports up to 8 players.
- COMMUNITY PLAY — Connect with players on community servers, or subscribe to Realms Plus (sold separately) to play with up to 10 friends on a private server.
Rank #2
- ULTIMATE COLLECTION — Includes Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition, five Bedrock add-ons, five exclusive Character Creator items, and 1000 Minecoins.
- CREATE YOUR WORLD — Build whatever you imagine in an infinite world that’s unique in every playthrough.
- EXPLORE AND CRAFT — Discover biomes, resources, and mobs, then craft your way through a sandbox world filled with surprises.
- SURVIVE THE ADVENTURE — Face mysterious foes, travel across exciting landscapes, and venture into perilous dimensions.
- PLAY TOGETHER — Play cross-platform with friends in Bedrock Edition on console, mobile, and PC, or join community servers in Java Edition on PC, Mac, and Linux. Online console multiplayer requires a platform-specific subscription (sold separately).
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.
