Minecraft Java vs. Bedrock: A full breakdown of Minecraft's two major versions and which one you should buy

Once you start digging into Minecraft, you'll be faced with a world's worth of choices to make: where to explore, what to build, and which game mode to play in.

But there's one big choice to make before you ever create a world: Which version of Minecraft should you play? 

While the two versions of Minecraft — the "Java" and "Bedrock" editions — are mostly the same in terms of basic gameplay, there are also a few key differences.

Here's an overview of the most major differences between the Java and Bedrock versions of Minecraft, and a summary of what version you should get for yourself.

Minecraft: Java Edition vs Minecraft: Bedrock Edition

Java Edition is exclusive to PC, Mac, and Linux

Firstly, if you're planning on playing Minecraft on anything other than a computer, then you'll be playing Bedrock. There's no choice there — the Java version is only available on computers.

However, Bedrock isn't available on Mac or Linux. This means that if you're playing on one of those systems, Java is your only route.

Bedrock Edition lets you play with friends on other consoles

If you want to play Minecraft with friends who own other systems, your best bet is to buy Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. The Bedrock version has cross-play, meaning you can play with a friend even if you're on PC and they're on a Nintendo Switch, for example.

The Java version only allows you to play with other Java users. Of course, that means that if all your friends are playing Java, it's the best one for you too.

Java Edition has massive multiplayer servers

Although it doesn't have the same level of cross-play, Java does boast big multiplayer servers. These servers let you play with other Java users, and feature beautiful maps filled with minigames and activities.

Both versions of the game have their own servers. But Java servers have been around for almost a decade now, meaning that there's no shortage of cool maps to pick from.

If you want to play the minigames that are popular on YouTube, like Bed Wars or Hunger Games, go for Java.

Bedrock Edition has most consistent performance

Although it might seem like a simple game, Minecraft can be incredibly taxing on your computer's graphics card and CPU. If you're not playing with a high-end computer, Bedrock might be your best bet.

While the Java edition lets you use mods to enhance your graphics, the Bedrock version runs more smoothly more consistently. This means less dropped frames and faster load times.

Java Edition has a near-limitless collection of mods

One huge difference between Java and Bedrock is the ability to add mods, which are only available to Java players.

Mods are pieces of software you can add to Minecraft to transform the game in just about any way you like. There are basic mods that alter the graphics or change the music, and more advanced mods that introduce new items or change how the world generates.

Best of all, nearly all of these mods are free. And there's even a dedicated program called Minecraft Forge that will let you install and edit them easily.

While Bedrock has some modding tools available, you have to pay for them, and there are only a few compared to the limitlessness of Java.

Java Edition lets you play in Hardcore mode

By default, Minecraft has four game modes: Survival, Creative, Adventure, and Spectator. But Java players get access to a fifth: Hardcore.

Popular with streamers, Hardcore mode spawns you with only one life. This means that if you die, there's no respawning in a bed — your world is permanently deleted.

If you're looking for a challenge, Java is the way to go.

Should you buy Java Edition or Bedrock Edition?

As noted above, if you're playing on anything but a PC, you don't have a choice.

But if you're on a PC, we recommend the Java version. You get the same great gameplay, as well as thousands of mods to enhance your experience, and the massive multiplayer community. It's the original way to play Minecraft, and still the best.

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Emma Witman

Emma Witman is an Asheville, NC-based freelance journalist with a keen interest in writing about hardware, PC gaming, politics, and personal finance. She is a former crime reporter for a daily newspaper, and has also written extensively about bartending for Insider. She may or may not judge your drink order when behind the bar. Follow her on Twitter at @emwity.

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William Antonelli

Former Tech Reporter for Insider Reviews

William Antonelli (he/she/they) is a Business Insider contributor based in New York City. As a founding member of BI's Reference team, he helped grow the Tech Reference section from humble beginnings into a juggernaut that attracts over 20 million visits a month.Outside of Insider, his writing has appeared in publications like Polygon, The Outline, Kotaku, and more. He's also a go-to source for tech analysis on channels like Newsy, Cheddar, and NewsNation.You can find him on Twitter @DubsRewatcher.

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