Where to buy Minecraft for PC

You can buy Minecraft for PC from three main places: the official Minecraft Launcher (which installs directly from Microsoft), the Microsoft Store, or third-party retailers like Steam, Amazon, or Best Buy. The official Minecraft Launcher is the most straightforward route — you go to minecraft.net, create or sign in with a Microsoft account, and purchase the game directly. The Microsoft Store works the same way if you prefer to buy through Windows. Steam and other retailers also sell Minecraft, and the game will still run through the official launcher once you install it.

The price is the same across all legitimate sellers: $26.95 USD for the Java Edition (the original version that runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux) or $19.99 USD for the Windows 11/10 Edition (also called Bedrock Edition, which is optimized for Windows and can play with console players). Prices vary by country and may be listed in your local currency.

Key Takeaways

  • Java Edition costs $26.95 and runs on any Windows PC; Bedrock Edition costs $19.99 and is built into Windows 11/10.
  • You need a Microsoft account to buy and play either version, whether you buy from the official launcher, Microsoft Store, or Steam.
  • The official Minecraft Launcher at minecraft.net is the fastest way to buy and start playing without extra steps.
  • Once you buy the game, you own it permanently and can reinstall it on any PC using the same Microsoft account.

Java Edition vs. Bedrock Edition: which one to buy

Java Edition is the original Minecraft, released in 2009. It has the largest modding community, runs on older PCs, and lets you play on custom servers. If you want to heavily customize the game or play on community-run servers, Java is the choice. It requires a Microsoft account but no Game Pass subscription.

Bedrock Edition is the newer version, optimized for modern Windows machines. It plays faster on newer hardware, includes cross-platform multiplayer with console players (Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation), and has built-in marketplace content. Bedrock Edition is also included free with Xbox Game Pass for PC if you already subscribe. If you want the smoothest experience on a modern PC and don't plan to use mods, Bedrock is simpler.

You can own both versions on the same Microsoft account — buying one does not prevent you from buying the other later. Many players own both because they serve different purposes.

How to buy through the official Minecraft Launcher

Go to minecraft.net and click the read button for the Minecraft Launcher. Install it on your PC. Open the launcher and sign in with a Microsoft account (create one if you don't have one — it is free). Once signed in, you will see the option to buy Java Edition or Bedrock Edition. Click the price button next to the version you want, and you will be taken to the Microsoft Store checkout page. Enter your payment method (credit card, debit card, or Microsoft account balance) and complete the purchase.

After purchase, the game will appear in your launcher library. Click it to install — the read is about 500 MB to 1 GB depending on the version. Once installed, click Play to start the game. Your Microsoft account is tied to your copy, so you can reinstall it on any PC by signing in with the same account.

Buying through Steam

Open Steam on your PC and search for "Minecraft: Java Edition" in the store. Click the game, then click the price button to add it to your cart. Complete checkout with your Steam payment method. After purchase, the game will appear in your Steam library. Click Install, and Steam will read and set up the game. When you launch it from Steam, it will open the official Minecraft Launcher, where you will sign in with your Microsoft account to play.

Buying through Steam does not change the game itself — you still need a Microsoft account, and the game still runs through the official launcher. The only difference is that Steam tracks your playtime and lets you manage the installation through Steam's library interface. Java Edition is available on Steam; Bedrock Edition is not.

What you need before you buy

You must have a Microsoft account. If you already use Windows, Outlook, Xbox, or OneDrive, you already have one. If not, go to account.microsoft.com and click Sign in, then Create one. It takes two minutes and is free. You will need a valid email address and a password.

You also need a payment method: a credit card, debit card, or a Microsoft account gift card. Some regions support other payment methods like PayPal or local payment services — the checkout page will show what is available in your country. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian's payment method depending on your region and account settings.

After you buy: installing and playing

Once you own the game, it is tied to your Microsoft account permanently. You can install it on as many PCs as you want by signing into the same account. If you reinstall Windows or buy a new computer, sign in with your Microsoft account and read the game again — you will not be charged twice.

The first time you launch the game, it may read additional files or updates. This is normal and can take a few minutes depending on your internet speed. After that, the game launches in seconds. You can play offline, but you will need an internet connection at least once every 30 days to verify your ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Minecraft as a gift for someone else?

Yes. Buy a Minecraft gift card from a retailer like Amazon, Best Buy, or Target, or purchase a Microsoft gift card and send it to them. They can redeem it in their Microsoft account and use it to buy the game. You can also buy the game directly through the Microsoft Store and send them a gift code if you have their email address.

What if my PC does not meet the system requirements?

Java Edition runs on older hardware — even a PC from 2010 can play it. Bedrock Edition requires Windows 10 or 11. Check your Windows version by pressing Windows key + Pause/Break or going to Settings > System > About. If you have Windows 7, 8, or an older machine, Java Edition is your only option.

Do I need Xbox Game Pass to play Minecraft?

No. You can buy the game outright for a one-time price. However, if you already have Xbox Game Pass for PC ($9.99 per month or included with Game Pass Ultimate), Bedrock Edition is included at no extra cost. Game Pass does not include Java Edition.

Can I return the game if I change my mind?

Microsoft allows returns within 14 days of purchase if you have played for less than two hours. Go to your Microsoft account purchase history, find the Minecraft order, and request a refund. If you have played more than two hours, a refund is unlikely but you can contact Microsoft Support to ask.

Is there a free version of Minecraft for PC?

Minecraft: Education Edition is free for teachers and students at schools that have a license, but it is not the same as the regular game. The regular Java and Bedrock editions require purchase. There is a free trial of Bedrock Edition (100 minutes of playtime) available through the Microsoft Store if you want to test it before buying.