Minecraft Java Edition costs $26.99 and Minecraft Bedrock Edition costs $19.99

Minecraft Java Edition, the original version for Windows, Mac, and Linux, costs $26.99 as a one-time purchase. Minecraft Bedrock Edition, the newer cross-platform version for Windows 10 and Windows 11, costs $19.99. Both are sold through the official Minecraft launcher and through the Microsoft Store. You pay once and own the game permanently — there is no monthly subscription required to play.

The price difference reflects the two versions' different features and audiences. Java Edition is the version most players have used since 2009 and supports mods, custom servers, and community-created content. Bedrock Edition is designed to work across Windows, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and mobile devices, so your progress and purchases sync across those platforms if you own them.

Neither version includes a hidden cost to start playing. Once you buy the game, you can play indefinitely without paying again. Minecraft Realms, a subscription service that lets you run a private server for friends, costs $7.99 per month, but it is optional — you can play solo or on free community servers without it.

Key Takeaways

  • Minecraft Java Edition costs $26.99 and Minecraft Bedrock Edition costs $19.99 on PC, both as one-time purchases with no monthly fees.
  • Java Edition supports mods and custom servers; Bedrock Edition syncs progress across Windows, Xbox, Switch, and PlayStation if you own those devices.
  • You can buy either version directly from the Minecraft launcher or the Microsoft Store.
  • Minecraft Realms, a private server subscription, costs $7.99 per month but is optional and separate from the base game purchase.
  • Both versions let you play solo, on free community servers, or with friends at no additional cost beyond the initial purchase.

Where to buy Minecraft on Windows

The official Minecraft launcher is the most direct way to buy either version. Go to minecraft.net, click "read Launcher," install it, and log in with a Microsoft account. From the launcher, you can purchase Java Edition or Bedrock Edition directly. The launcher will prompt you to pay through Microsoft's payment system, and your purchase attaches to your account when ready.

The Microsoft Store is the second official route. Search for "Minecraft" in the Microsoft Store app on Windows 10 or Windows 11, and you will see both Java Edition and Bedrock Edition listed separately. Prices are the same as the launcher. If you already use a Microsoft account for Windows, the purchase process is faster because you are already signed in.

Do not buy from third-party key resellers. While some sites claim to sell Minecraft keys at a discount, they carry the risk of account suspension or key revocation if the key was obtained fraudulently. The official launcher and Microsoft Store are the safest options.

Java Edition vs. Bedrock Edition: what the price difference means

Java Edition costs $7 more because it is the original game and has a larger, older player base. It supports thousands of community-made mods that change gameplay, add new blocks, or overhaul mechanics entirely. If you want to play with mods like Optifine (which improves graphics), Forge (which manages mod compatibility), or total conversion mods, you need Java Edition. Java Edition also lets you run custom servers and join community-run multiplayer worlds.

Bedrock Edition costs less and is designed for players who want a simpler experience or who own multiple devices. Your world, inventory, and progress sync across Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 if you own them. Bedrock does not support traditional mods, but it does have a Marketplace where creators sell cosmetics, maps, and skins. Bedrock is also the version available on mobile (iOS and Android), so if you play Minecraft on a phone or tablet, Bedrock is your only option on PC as well.

If you are unsure which to choose, start with Bedrock Edition. It is cheaper, easier to set up, and sufficient for most players. Switch to Java Edition later if you find yourself wanting mods or a specific community server.

What you get for the price

Both versions include the full game: infinite worlds to explore, all blocks and items, creative mode, survival mode, and multiplayer. You get access to all future updates at no extra cost. When Minecraft releases a new version with new biomes, blocks, or creatures, you receive it automatically.

Neither version charges you to play online with friends. Java Edition lets you create a world and invite friends to join for free. Bedrock Edition also lets you invite friends to your world at no cost. The only paid multiplayer option is Minecraft Realms, which runs a persistent server that stays online even when you are not playing — useful if you want a world that friends can visit anytime, but not necessary for casual multiplayer.

You also get access to the Minecraft Launcher, which manages your game installation, lets you switch between versions, and stores your login credentials. The launcher is free and comes with your purchase.

Minecraft Realms: the optional subscription

Minecraft Realms costs $7.99 per month and is a subscription service that runs a private server for you. When you subscribe, Minecraft hosts a world on their servers, and you can invite up to 10 friends to join anytime. The world stays online and saves progress even when you are not playing. Realms is useful if you want a persistent multiplayer world without the technical work of running your own server.

Realms is not necessary to play multiplayer. You can create a world in Java Edition and invite friends to join directly, or you can join free community servers. Bedrock Edition also supports free multiplayer through Xbox Live (which is free on PC). Realms is only worth buying if you specifically want a private, always-online world for a small group.

You can start a free trial of Realms for 30 days to see if it suits your play style before committing to the monthly cost.

Regional pricing and sales

The prices listed above are for the United States. Prices vary by country and currency. If you are outside the US, check the Minecraft launcher or Microsoft Store in your region to see the local price.

Minecraft rarely goes on sale. The base game price has remained stable for years. Occasionally, the Microsoft Store or third-party retailers run promotions, but these are uncommon. Plan to pay the full price unless you catch a rare discount.

If you are a student, check whether your school offers Minecraft: Education Edition, which is free or discounted for educational use. Education Edition is a separate product designed for classrooms and is not the same as the consumer versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play Minecraft on PC without buying it?

No. The free trial in the launcher lets you play for 90 minutes, but after that you must purchase the game. There is no permanent free version for PC. (Minecraft is free on some mobile devices and through Xbox Game Pass, but not on Windows without a purchase.)

Do I need a Microsoft account to buy Minecraft?

Yes. You must have a Microsoft account to purchase and play either version. Creating one is free and takes a few minutes. If you already use Windows, Outlook, or Xbox, you already have a Microsoft account.

Can I play Java Edition and Bedrock Edition on the same account?

Yes. You can buy both versions and play them both on the same Microsoft account. They are separate games with separate worlds, but they share your account login. Your progress in one does not carry over to the other.

What if I buy Minecraft and then want a refund?

Microsoft allows refunds within 48 hours of purchase if you have played for less than 2 hours. After that window, refunds are not may provide. Contact Microsoft Support with your order number if you want to request a refund.

Is Minecraft cheaper on console than on PC?

Bedrock Edition costs $19.99 on all platforms, including Xbox and Nintendo Switch. Java Edition is only on PC. If you own multiple devices, buying Bedrock once lets you play on all of them with the same account.