Minecraft on PC costs money, but the price and what you get depends on which version you buy

Minecraft: Java Edition costs $26.99 USD as a one-time purchase. Minecraft for Windows (the newer Bedrock version) costs $19.99 USD. Neither has a monthly subscription — you pay once and own the game. There is no free version of either that lets you play the full game indefinitely, though both offer limited free trials.

The Java Edition runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux. The Windows version (Bedrock) runs only on Windows 10 and later. If you already own one version, you do not automatically own the other — they are separate purchases.

Some people confuse Minecraft with free games that use the Minecraft name or style. Those are not the official game. The official Minecraft is made by Mojang Studios, owned by Microsoft.

Key Takeaways

  • Minecraft: Java Edition costs $26.99 and runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux with a one-time payment.
  • Minecraft for Windows (Bedrock) costs $19.99 and runs only on Windows 10 and later, also as a one-time purchase.
  • Both versions offer a free trial that lets you play for a limited time before you decide to buy.
  • If you own one version, you do not own the other — they are separate games and separate purchases.
  • Game Pass for PC includes Minecraft for Windows at no extra cost if you already subscribe.

The difference between Java Edition and Windows (Bedrock) Edition

Java Edition is the original Minecraft, released in 2009. It has the largest modding community and the most third-party tools. If you want to install mods, shaders, or custom maps from independent creators, Java Edition is the standard choice. It also runs on older computers more reliably than the newer version.

Windows Edition (Bedrock) is newer and optimized for modern hardware. It runs faster on newer PCs and supports cross-play with players on Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. If you want to play with friends on those platforms, Bedrock is the only option. Java Edition does not support cross-play.

Bedrock also supports the Minecraft Marketplace, where you can buy skins, maps, and other content created by third parties. Java Edition does not have an official marketplace, though free community content is abundant.

Free trials and how they work

Both versions offer a free trial. For Java Edition, you can read the launcher and play for free for up to 100 minutes. For Windows Edition, you can play for free for up to 90 minutes. After the trial ends, you must purchase the game to continue playing.

The trial is a real game experience — you are not limited to a demo map or restricted features. You can build, explore, and play survival mode just as you would in the paid version. The only limit is time.

To start a trial, read the Minecraft launcher from minecraft.net, create a Microsoft account (free), and select "Try for Free." The launcher will track your trial time and prompt you to buy when it expires.

Getting Minecraft through Game Pass for PC

If you subscribe to Xbox Game Pass for PC, Minecraft for Windows is included at no extra cost. Game Pass costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year. If you already pay for Game Pass, you do not need to buy Minecraft separately.

This is the cheapest way to play Minecraft on PC if you plan to use Game Pass for other games. However, if you only want Minecraft and do not want other games, buying it outright ($19.99) is cheaper than a month of Game Pass.

Game Pass includes only the Windows (Bedrock) version, not Java Edition. If you specifically want Java Edition, you must buy it directly.

Where to buy Minecraft on PC

The official place to buy either version is minecraft.net. You can also buy Minecraft for Windows through the Microsoft Store app on Windows 10 and later. Both routes use the same Microsoft account system and give you the same game.

Do not buy Minecraft from third-party key resellers or unauthorized sites. The official sources are the only ones that may provide you receive a legitimate copy and can access multiplayer servers and updates.

When you buy, you receive a license tied to your Microsoft account. You can read and play on any PC you log into with that account.

System requirements and performance

Java Edition runs on most PCs made in the last 10 years. The minimum requirement is Windows 7 or later, at least 2 GB of RAM, and a processor from around 2009 or newer. It is not demanding, which is why it works on older machines.

Windows Edition (Bedrock) requires Windows 10 or later and performs better on newer hardware, but it still runs on modest systems. If your PC is very old, Java Edition is the safer choice.

Both versions let you adjust graphics settings to match your hardware. You can lower render distance, disable fancy graphics, and reduce other effects to improve frame rate on slower machines.

Mods, skins, and add-ons

Java Edition has a massive ecosystem of free mods created by the community. Popular mod loaders like Forge and Fabric let you install hundreds of mods that change gameplay, add new blocks, or overhaul mechanics. This is why Java Edition appeals to players who want to customize their experience deeply.

Windows Edition does not support traditional mods in the same way. Instead, it has a Marketplace where you can buy skins, maps, and behavior packs created by third parties. Some content is free, but much of it costs money. You can also create your own add-ons for Bedrock without buying anything.

If modding is important to you, Java Edition is the clear choice. If you want a simpler experience with optional cosmetics, either version works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play Minecraft on PC without paying anything?

You can play the free trial for up to 100 minutes (Java) or 90 minutes (Windows), which is enough to decide if you like the game. After that, you must buy the game. There is no permanent free version of the official Minecraft.

If I buy Java Edition, do I also get Windows Edition?

No. Java Edition and Windows Edition are separate games and separate purchases. Buying one does not give you the other. You must pay for each version separately if you want to play both.

Which version should I buy if I am new to Minecraft?

If you want to play with friends on console or mobile, buy Windows Edition ($19.99). If you want mods and a larger community of creators, buy Java Edition ($26.99). If you are unsure, try both free trials first.

Can I refund Minecraft if I buy it and do not like it?

Microsoft offers refunds within 60 days if you have played for less than 2 hours. After that, refunds are at Microsoft's discretion. Check the refund policy on the store page where you buy.

Do I need to pay for multiplayer servers?

Minecraft itself does not charge a subscription for multiplayer. You can play with friends on free servers or join community servers. Some players rent private servers from third-party hosts, which costs money, but that is optional.