Minecraft Java or Bedrock: what's the difference and which one to pick

Minecraft comes in two versions: Java and Bedrock. The game starts out the same, with the same blocks, mobs and biomes. But they don't talk to each other: a Java player and a Bedrock player can't play in the same world, with a few exceptions. Here's what separates them and how to choose.

Which devices

• Java only runs on computers: Windows, Mac and Linux.
• Bedrock runs everywhere else: Windows PC, Android, iPhone and iPad, Chromebook, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch and Switch 2.

So on console and mobile, you're on Bedrock, no choice there. Bedrock doesn't exist on Mac or Linux.

How to tell which one you have

On console or mobile, it's Bedrock. On PC, open the Minecraft Launcher and look at the name of the game you start:

• "Minecraft: Java Edition" is Java.
• "Minecraft for Windows" is Bedrock.

Another quick check: if your main menu has a Marketplace button and a Dressing Room, you're on Bedrock.

On PC, you have both

Since June 2022, buying Minecraft on PC gives you both versions. If you bought Java years ago, Bedrock is already waiting in your launcher, and the other way round. You don't have to pick once and for all: you can switch depending on who you play with.

Playing with friends

This is the big one.

On Bedrock, everyone plays together: a friend on Switch, another on PS5, one on mobile and you on PC, in the same world or on the same server. All you need is a free Microsoft account, plus the console's online subscription on console.

On Java, you only play with other Java players, so on computers.

If your friends are on console or mobile, that settles it: Bedrock. We went through every way to play together in our guide to playing with friends.

Mods

Java has thousands of free mods that can change the whole game: new machines, new dimensions, new mobs. You install them with Fabric, NeoForge or Forge.

Bedrock has add-ons, which are more limited, and the Marketplace: maps, skins and texture packs made by creators, many of them paid. On console, the Marketplace is the only way to add content.

If you want to play big modpacks, you need Java.

Combat

On Java, every weapon has a cooldown: hit too fast and your hits do less damage. You have to time your swings.

On Bedrock, there's no cooldown. You hit as fast as you click or tap. PvP is faster, and it plays just as well on a controller or a touchscreen as with a mouse. More on that in our Bedrock PvP tips.

Redstone

Circuits don't behave quite the same. Some redstone machines that work on Java don't work on Bedrock, and the other way round. If you follow a redstone tutorial, check that it's made for your version.

Performance

Bedrock is lighter. It runs better on a low-end PC, an old phone or a console. Java needs a slightly stronger computer, especially with mods or shaders.

Servers

Both versions have servers, but not the same ones.

• A Java server usually uses port 25565.
• A Bedrock server usually uses port 19132.

Some servers accept both at once through a bridge between the versions. Others are made for just one. On console, you need a small trick to join a server that isn't an official partner. It's explained for Switch, PS4 and PS5 and Xbox.

To find a place to play on Bedrock, we tested the best Minecraft Bedrock servers.

So, which one?

• You're on console or mobile: Bedrock, no choice.
• Your friends are on console or mobile: Bedrock, to play with them.
• You want big mods or technical redstone: Java.
• Your PC is a bit weak: Bedrock.
• You're on PC and can't decide: you have both. Try both and keep the one your friends play.

What about Linesia?

Linesia is a Bedrock server. You can join from any device that has Bedrock: Windows PC, mobile, Xbox, PlayStation or Switch. We play SkyFaction: an island for your faction and a warzone to fight in. The game is in English.

Address play.linesia.net, port 19132. On console, add JoinLinesia as a friend and join their game. The server doesn't accept Java.

Frequently asked questions

Can a Java player play with a Bedrock player?

Not in a world or a Realm. Only on a server that accepts both versions, which a lot of servers do.

Is Minecraft PE the same as Bedrock?

Yes. Minecraft Pocket Edition, the mobile version, became Bedrock in 2017, when the mobile, console and Windows versions were merged.

I have Java. Do I get Bedrock for free?

On PC, yes. Since June 2022, both versions come in the same purchase. Open the Minecraft Launcher, pick "Minecraft for Windows" and install it.

Can I move a world from Java to Bedrock?

Not directly in the game. You need a conversion tool like Chunker. Builds come over well, but some details can change, especially redstone.

Which one is better for PvP?

Neither is better, they're different. Java asks you to time your hits. Bedrock is faster and plays on every device, controllers and touchscreens included.