Where to buy Minecraft depends on what device you own

Minecraft comes in two main versions: Java Edition and Bedrock Edition. Java Edition runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. Bedrock Edition runs on Windows 10 and 11, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and mobile devices (phones and tablets). You buy them from different places, and they do not work together — a world you create in Java Edition will not open in Bedrock Edition.

The version you need depends on your device. If you own a Mac or Linux computer, you can only get Java Edition. If you own an Xbox or Switch, you can only get Bedrock Edition. If you own a Windows PC, you can buy either one, but most new players choose Bedrock because it connects to mobile and console players.

Both versions cost money upfront — there is no free version for computers or consoles, though Minecraft is free on some mobile platforms with in-game purchases. Once you buy it, you own it permanently and can play offline.

Key Takeaways

  • Java Edition is sold through the Minecraft launcher on the official website and runs only on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers.
  • Bedrock Edition is sold through the Microsoft Store on Windows, or through the console's own store if you own an Xbox, Switch, or PlayStation.
  • Java and Bedrock worlds are separate — you cannot transfer a world from one version to the other.
  • Mobile versions of Bedrock (on phones and tablets) cost money upfront on some platforms and include optional in-game purchases.

How to buy Java Edition on Windows or Mac

Go to minecraft.net and click the "read" button at the top of the page. You will see options for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Click the one that matches your computer. This downloads the Minecraft Launcher, a small program that manages your game files and handles updates.

Open the launcher once it finishes downloading. You will need a Microsoft account to sign in — if you do not have one, you can create one for free on the same page. After you sign in, click "Java Edition" in the launcher menu. The launcher will show you the price and a button to purchase. Click it, and you will be taken to a payment page where you can use a credit card, debit card, or other payment method.

After payment goes through, the launcher automatically downloads the full game. This takes a few minutes depending on your internet speed. Once it finishes, you can click "Play" to start the game.

How to buy Bedrock Edition on Windows

Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10 or 11 computer. If you do not have it, you can read it free from Microsoft. Search for "Minecraft" in the store's search box at the top.

Click on the official Minecraft app (the one with the blocky dirt-and-grass icon). The store page will show the price and a button to buy it. Click the button and sign in with your Microsoft account if you are not already signed in. Choose your payment method and complete the purchase.

The game will read and install automatically. Once it finishes, you can click "Launch" to start playing. Bedrock Edition on Windows also works with Xbox Game Pass for PC, which is a subscription service that includes Minecraft and hundreds of other games — if you already subscribe, you can play Bedrock without paying separately.

How to buy Bedrock Edition on console

On Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or PlayStation, go to that console's store app. Search for "Minecraft" in the store. Click on the official Minecraft listing and select the option to purchase or read.

You will need an account on that console (Xbox Live, Nintendo Switch Online, or PlayStation Network). The store will ask you to confirm your payment method — this is usually a credit card or debit card linked to your console account. After you confirm, the game downloads and installs automatically.

On Xbox, Minecraft is also included with Xbox Game Pass, so if you already subscribe, you can read it without paying extra. Nintendo Switch and PlayStation do not offer Minecraft through their subscription services.

How to get Bedrock Edition on phones and tablets

On Android phones and tablets, open Google Play Store and search for "Minecraft." Click on the official Minecraft app and tap "Install" — the app is free to read. When you first open it, you will see a free trial period of about an hour. After that, you can buy a permanent license through the app for a one-time cost, or you can subscribe to Minecraft Realms (a separate service that lets you play on shared worlds with friends).

On iPhones and iPads, open the App Store and search for "Minecraft." The app is free to read. Like Android, it includes a free trial period, and you can buy a permanent license or subscribe to Realms after the trial ends.

Both the Android and iOS versions are Bedrock Edition, so you can play with people on Windows, Xbox, Switch, and PlayStation. Worlds you create on mobile can be played on those other devices if you have the same Microsoft account.

What happens after you buy it

Once you own Minecraft, you can read and play it on any device where that version is available, as long as you sign in with the same Microsoft account. If you buy Java Edition, you can install it on as many Windows, Mac, or Linux computers as you own. If you buy Bedrock Edition, you can install it on multiple devices of the same type (multiple phones, multiple Switches, etc.) using the same account.

Updates to Minecraft are free and read automatically. You do not pay again when a new version comes out. The game also has a Marketplace where you can buy cosmetic items like skins and world templates, but these are optional — the base game has everything you need to play.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can buy both versions and install them both on a Windows PC. They are separate games and do not interfere with each other. Your worlds and progress in each version stay separate.

What if I buy Minecraft and then want to refund it?

Microsoft allows refunds within 48 hours of purchase if you have played for less than an hour. Go to your account page on microsoft.com, find the purchase in your order history, and request a refund. After 48 hours or if you have played more than an hour, refunds are not available.

Do I need to pay for Minecraft Realms?

No. Realms is optional. The base game lets you play single-player worlds or join multiplayer servers for free. Realms is a subscription service that creates a private world only you and people you invite can access — it costs extra but is not required to play.

Can I transfer my Java Edition world to Bedrock Edition?

Not directly. Java and Bedrock worlds are not compatible. Some third-party tools exist to convert worlds, but they are not official and may not work perfectly. Most players who switch versions start a new world.

What payment methods does Minecraft accept?

Minecraft accepts credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal through Microsoft's payment system. Some regions also support local payment methods. The exact options depend on your country and which store you are buying from (Microsoft Store, console store, or mobile app store).