Why you might need to change your Minecraft version

Minecraft releases updates regularly, and sometimes you need to run an older or newer version than what your device defaults to. You might want an older version because a mod or server only works with that version. You might want a newer version to access recent features or security fixes. The process differs depending on whether you play on Windows, Mac, or Linux, and whether you use the Java Edition or Bedrock Edition.

The good news: switching versions takes a few minutes and doesn't require uninstalling the game. Your worlds and settings stay intact.

Key Takeaways

  • Java Edition lets you choose any version from a dropdown menu in the launcher before you start the game.
  • Bedrock Edition (Windows 10/11 and console) updates automatically and does not let you pick older versions.
  • You need the official Minecraft Launcher to switch Java versions; third-party launchers like MultiMC work differently.
  • Mods and servers often require a specific version, so check what version you need before you change.
  • Switching versions does not delete your worlds, but older versions may not open worlds created in newer versions.

Changing versions in Java Edition

Open the official Minecraft Launcher. On the left side, you will see your username and a button that says "Installations" (or sometimes "Profiles"). Click it.

You will see a list of your saved game setups. Look for the one you want to play, or create a new one by clicking "New Installation" if you want to keep your current setup separate. When you click on an installation, a menu opens showing the version dropdown. Click the version field — it usually shows something like "Latest Release" or a specific number like "1.20.1" — and a list of all available versions appears. Scroll to find the version you need and click it.

Once you have selected your version, click "Save" at the bottom of the menu. Now when you click "Play" from the launcher, it will load the version you chose. The first time you launch an older version, the launcher downloads the files it needs, which can take a minute or two depending on your internet speed.

Bedrock Edition does not let you pick older versions

Bedrock Edition — the version on Windows 10, Windows 11, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices — updates automatically through your device's app store or system update. You cannot roll back to an older version through the normal settings.

If you absolutely need to play an older version of Bedrock, your only option is to use a third-party launcher or emulator, which is complicated and not officially supported by Minecraft. For most players, this is not necessary. If a server or world requires a specific Bedrock version, it is usually the current one.

What happens to your worlds when you change versions

Your saved worlds stay on your device when you switch versions. However, a world created in a newer version may not open in an older version. For example, if you created a world in version 1.20 and then switch to version 1.19, that world might not load or might lose some blocks and features that only exist in 1.20.

Worlds created in older versions usually open fine in newer versions, though they may look different as new terrain generation and features are added around the edges of your explored area. Before you switch to an older version, back up any worlds you care about. In the launcher, right-click an installation and select "Open Folder" to find your worlds folder and copy it somewhere safe.

Using third-party launchers to manage versions

Some players use launchers like MultiMC, Prism Launcher, or ATLauncher instead of the official Minecraft Launcher. These tools let you manage multiple versions and mod packs more easily, and they handle version switching automatically when you load a mod pack.

If you use a third-party launcher, the process is different from the official launcher. Most of them show you a list of versions when you create a new instance (a separate game setup), and you pick the version right there. The launcher then downloads and manages that version for you. Check the launcher's documentation for exact steps, as each one works slightly differently.

Checking what version you are currently running

In Java Edition, open the launcher and look at the bottom right of the main screen — it shows the version number next to "Latest Release" or your chosen version name.

In Bedrock Edition, start the game and look at the bottom left corner of the title screen. You will see a version number like "1.20.73". That is your current version. You cannot change it from within the game itself.

Common reasons version switching fails

If the launcher will not let you pick a version, make sure you are using the official Minecraft Launcher, not a third-party one. If you are using the official launcher and the version dropdown is grayed out, try closing the launcher completely and opening it again.

If a version you need is not in the list, it may be very old or very new. The launcher only shows versions that are still available for read. If you need a version from several years ago, check whether a third-party launcher has archived it. If the launcher is downloading a version and seems stuck, check your internet connection and try closing and reopening the launcher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing versions delete my worlds or settings?

No. Your worlds, resource packs, and settings stay on your device. However, worlds created in newer versions may not open in older versions. Always back up important worlds before switching to an older version.

Can I run two different versions at the same time?

Yes, if you use the official launcher. Create two separate installations with different versions, and you can launch them both. Each one runs independently. Bedrock Edition does not support this.

Why does my server say I need version 1.19.2 but I only see 1.19?

Scroll down in the version list — point releases like 1.19.2 are usually below the main version numbers. If you still cannot find it, the server may be using a custom version that requires a third-party launcher.

Do I need to uninstall Minecraft to switch versions?

No. Switching versions in the launcher takes seconds and does not touch your installation. Just pick a new version and launch the game.

What if I want to play a mod that only works on an old version?

Check the mod's documentation to see exactly which version it needs. Switch to that version in the launcher, then install the mod according to the mod creator's instructions. Some mods work with multiple versions, so read carefully.