Minecraft on Windows 10 comes in two versions, Java Edition and Bedrock Edition, and buying Minecraft for PC today gets you both. You install and play either one through the Minecraft Launcher. This guide covers buying or claiming the game, installing the launcher, installing each edition, system requirements, and fixes for common installation problems.
Quick Answer
Buy Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC from minecraft.net or the Microsoft Store, install the Minecraft Launcher, sign in with your Microsoft account, pick Java Edition or Bedrock Edition in the left menu, and click Install.
Java vs. Bedrock: Which Should You Install?
| Java Edition | Bedrock Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Play with | Other Java players on PC, Mac and Linux | Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, phones and tablets (crossplay) |
| Mods | Huge mod community, custom servers | Add-ons and Marketplace content |
| Performance | Heavier on older PCs | Usually runs smoother on low-end hardware |
You can install both from the same launcher.
Step 1: Buy or Claim Minecraft
- New purchase: buy Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC from minecraft.net or the Microsoft Store. PC Game Pass also includes it.
- Already own one edition: older owners of Java Edition received Bedrock free, and vice versa, when signed in with the same Microsoft account. See how to claim Minecraft for Windows 10.
- Old Mojang account: Mojang accounts had to be migrated to Microsoft accounts. If you never migrated, contact Minecraft support.
Only buy from official stores. “Free Minecraft” downloads from other sites are often pirated copies bundled with malware.
Step 2: Install the Minecraft Launcher
- Open the Microsoft Store and search for Minecraft Launcher, or download it from minecraft.net.
- Click Install (or Get) and wait.
- Open the launcher and sign in with the Microsoft account that owns the game.
Step 3: Install and Play an Edition
- In the launcher’s left menu, click Minecraft: Java Edition or Minecraft for Windows (Bedrock).
- Click Install. Java downloads the latest release; Bedrock may open the Microsoft Store or Xbox app to finish.
- When it’s done, the button changes to Play.
Java Edition includes its own Java runtime, so you don’t need to install Java separately.
System Requirements (Approximate)
- OS: Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit, kept up to date
- CPU: a dual-core processor from the last decade; quad-core recommended
- RAM: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended
- Graphics: integrated graphics with current drivers, or a dedicated GPU for higher settings
- Storage: at least 4 GB free, more for worlds and mods
Check minecraft.net for the current official requirements.
Fixes for Installation Problems
| Problem | Try |
|---|---|
| Launcher won’t install | Update Windows, then reset the Microsoft Store (run wsreset) |
| Install stuck at 0% | Sign out and back in to the Microsoft Store and Xbox app, restart the PC |
| “You need to buy the game” | Sign in with the Microsoft account that bought it |
| Game crashes on start | Update graphics drivers; for Java, allocate more memory in Installations > More options |
| Multiplayer blocked | Allow Minecraft through the firewall: steps here |
Keep Minecraft Updated
The launcher updates Java Edition automatically. Bedrock updates through the Microsoft Store. See how to update Minecraft on Windows 10. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025, and these steps work the same on Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minecraft free on Windows 10?
No, apart from a free trial. It’s included with PC Game Pass.
Can I install Minecraft on multiple PCs?
Yes, sign in with the same Microsoft account on each PC.
Where are my worlds saved?
See how to find Minecraft world files on Windows 10.
Summary
- Buy Java & Bedrock Edition for PC from an official store.
- Install the Minecraft Launcher and sign in.
- Choose an edition and click Install, then Play.
- Update drivers and Windows if installation fails.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.