Nov 13, 2026
Java Edition is the original Minecraft for PC, Mac and Linux, with mods, plugins and the widest choice of servers. Bedrock Edition runs on Windows, phones, tablets, Xbox, PlayStation and Switch, and lets all those devices play together. If you play on a computer, you do not have to choose, because the PC version includes both.
Where each edition runs
- Java Edition. Windows, macOS and Linux.
- Bedrock Edition. Windows, Android, iPhone and iPad, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and some other devices.
On consoles and phones, Minecraft is always Bedrock. On a Windows PC you can install both from the Minecraft Launcher.
Buying the game
Since June 2022, Minecraft for PC is sold as Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition for PC. One purchase gives you both editions on the same Microsoft account. If you already owned one of them on PC, you received the other at no cost.
On consoles and phones you buy Bedrock in that platform's store, separately for each platform. Both editions use a Microsoft account for logging in.
Servers and multiplayer
This is where the editions differ the most.
- Java servers. You add any server by its address in the Multiplayer menu. The default port is 25565, and most servers do not need you to type it. Thousands of community servers, from small SMPs to large networks such as Hypixel, are Java servers.
- Bedrock servers. On Windows, phones and tablets you add a server with its address and port, usually 19132. On Xbox, PlayStation and Switch the game shows only a set of featured servers, such as The Hive and CubeCraft.
The first row is a Java-only network, the second a Bedrock-only one. Our lists of Java servers and Bedrock servers show which servers each edition can join. Step by step instructions for both are in how to join a Minecraft server.
Realms, the paid private servers from Mojang, also exist separately for each edition. A Java Realm and a Bedrock Realm cannot be joined from the other edition.
Mods, plugins and add-ons
Java Edition has the big modding scene. Mods loaded through Fabric, Forge or NeoForge can add new dimensions, machines, creatures or a complete game like Cobblemon. Servers use plugins to add ranks, economies, minigames and protection, and players can join many of them without installing anything.
Bedrock has add-ons and the Marketplace, where you buy maps, skins and texture packs made by approved creators. Add-ons can change mobs and items, but they cannot change the game as deeply as Java mods.
Gameplay differences
The worlds look almost the same, but some mechanics behave differently.
- Combat. Java has an attack cooldown, so timing your hits matters. On Bedrock you can click faster, and the combat feels closer to old Java versions.
- Redstone. Java has quasi-connectivity and very predictable timing, which technical players rely on for complex machines. Some Java contraptions do not work on Bedrock, and the other way round.
- Farms. Mob spawning rules differ, so a farm design from a Java video may not work on Bedrock.
- Debug info. Java shows coordinates, the biome and performance data on the F3 screen. Bedrock shows coordinates through a world setting.
Performance
Bedrock is written in C++ and runs well on weaker devices, including older phones. Java needs more memory, but with optimisation mods such as Sodium it runs smoothly on most current computers and allows higher view distances.
Crossplay
All Bedrock devices can play together. A player on Switch can join a friend on a phone or a Windows PC through the friends list, a Realm or a featured server.
Java and Bedrock players cannot meet in the base game. They can only play together on servers that run a bridge, most often Geyser. You will find such servers in the cross-play category.
Which one should you choose
- You play on a PC and want mods or the biggest choice of servers. Java.
- You play on a console, phone or tablet. Bedrock, there is no other option.
- Your friends play on different devices. Bedrock, or a Java server with Geyser that accepts both.
- You want technical redstone or speedrunning. Java.
- You want ready-made maps and skins from a store. Bedrock and its Marketplace.
Frequently asked questions
Can Java and Bedrock players play together?
Not in the base game. They can play together on a server that supports both editions, usually through the Geyser plugin. Bedrock players then connect to the same address with the Bedrock port.
Do I need to buy Minecraft twice on PC?
No. The PC version includes both Java and Bedrock Edition with one purchase.
Can I move my world from Java to Bedrock?
There is no converter inside the game. Third party tools such as Chunker can convert worlds between the editions, but some blocks and redstone builds may need fixing afterwards. Make a backup first.
Which edition has more servers?
Java has far more community servers. Bedrock has fewer, but several large networks are made only for Bedrock. Check the Java and Bedrock lists to compare, and vote for the server you enjoy. See how to vote for details.