27 TOP Differences Between Minecraft: Java Edition and Windows 10 Edition(For NEW Gamers)

This is a list of 27 Top Differences between Minecraft Java Edition and Windows 10 Edition.

Specifically, you will learn:

  • The Minecraft Concept
  • Different Editions You need to Know
  • Minecraft Bedrock Edition
  • Minecraft Java Edition
  • What is Unique about these Editions
  • Various Java Modes
  • Where to Buy

Let's dive right into our findings.

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Income Disclosure: I recommend products that I have experience using. I may earn a commission on items purchased from links in this article.

What is Minecraft?

Minecraft is a best-selling game for computers, in which players mine for resources, build structures, and combat enemies. Minecraft was created by Markus “Notch” Persson, a Swedish game developer, and later developed and published by Mojang. It has spawned books, films, comics, toys, Lego sets, and even competitions.

The alpha or original version of Minecraft had its first physical release on May 17, 2009, before its full version, which was released in November that year.

The new version contains features like different biomes (compared to the alpha edition) and randomly generated worlds with more mountains and trees (than those found in the original world), a totally different Minecraft experience used as a proof of concept.

Throughout the beta phases of Minecraft’s release, various changes were made, including minecart physics and the addition of minecarts. Many issues were fixed in this development period, such as reducing the lag caused by placing blocks.

What are the Different Minecraft Editions?

Minecraft currently has about 16 different editions for different platforms. I have compiled an inventory menu of some of the most commonly played editions from Minecraft’s official site and listed them below for fellow players.

NameDevice or PlatformWhere to Buy
Minecraft: Java EditionWindows
Mac
Linux  
Minecraft.net  
Minecraft for WindowsVR Headsets
Windows 10
Windows 11
Amazon
Microsoft Store on Windows 10
Minecraft for Mobile DevicesApple Gadgets
Android
Amazon phones and  tablets
Apple, Android, Amazon app stores
Minecraft for XboxXbox One
Xbox One X|S
Xbox Series X|S
Xbox Store and Microsoft Store
Minecraft for Nintendo SwitchNintendo SwitchNintendo eShop and retail stores
Minecraft for PlayStationPS4
PS5
PlayStation Store  
Minecraft: Xbox One EditionXbox One
Xbox One S
Xbox One X
Xbox Store  
Minecraft: Xbox 360 Edition  Xbox 360  Xbox Store  
Minecraft: PS4 Edition  PlayStation 4  PlayStation Store and retail stores  
Minecraft: PS3 Edition  PlayStation 3  PlayStation Store and retail  

Here’s the most interesting part. Did you ever try to use Google Home to play Minecraft? I would love to hear that in the comments section.

Minecraft Bedrock Edition

 The Windows 10 Edition of Minecraft is also known as Bedrock Edition or Bedrock Version. The easiest way to purchase this is from Amazon, where they send you a code once the purchase is complete.

The code provided by Amazon can be redeemed at Microsoft, for which you will need a Microsoft account. If you already have one (or an Xbox Account is also okay), then you have to log in and redeem it.

The bedrock codebase is only for the Windows 10 Edition of Minecraft. It cannot be used on any other platform, but you can play with friends on different platforms (like the Xbox One version or Nintendo Switch, or PlayStation 5).

Consoles allow for split-screen for local multiplayer gameplay.

Like I was saying, there is also a Nintendo Switch edition and a Playstation Bedrock Edition that can be purchased on their respective consoles. The mobile Bedrock Edition (also known as Pocket Edition) can be downloaded on the Apple AppStore or Android PlayStore.

You can check out my Minecraft bedrock edition review video below.

Minecraft Bedrock Version Mods

Mods allow players to change Minecraft in many different ways. Mods can be used to add new features, create objects or rearrange the game so that they can enjoy it more.

Although most Mods are harmless, they can cause the game to crash if they malfunction. Minecraft Bedrock Edition does not have mod support—kind of a bummer for the modding community.

Suppose you want to modify your game in every possible way, including graphical mods, just for the sake of improving graphics and don’t care about being restricted by Microsoft-approved modifications. In that case, the original java version is the way to go.

The Minecraft Reddit community is quite active. Here’s one thread discussing texture packs for the Bedrock Edition.

Courtesy Minecraft Reddit u/bookwerm606

Cross-platform Play

Windows 10 Edition (for both PCs and your Windows phone) cannot be used on any other platform, but you can play with friends on other platforms.

You could only play online with fellow java players for the original Java Edition, which is only available for PC, Mac, and Linux. However, Microsoft has repealed support for the Apple TV version of Minecraft recently.

However, as of June 2021, Fire tv users will no longer enjoy Minecraft, as the Fire OS will not support it. Android TV with KitKat OS or lower will also no longer support Minecraft.

Ray tracing

What is ray tracing? Ray tracing is a technique that brings more realistic lighting to scenes. In traditional computer rendering, or “rasterization,” the light comes from objects in the scene itself. Still, with ray-tracing, it can be determined where an object would give off its glow and cast shadows on other nearby surfaces too!

Video courtesy Minecraft

NVIDIA, Mojang, and Microsoft released the Minecraft with RTX Windows 10 beta in early 2020, a unique Insider client that brought real-time ray tracing to the world’s most popular game. Ray tracing and DLSS are now accessible to all users, integrated into the official Minecraft Windows 10 client!

The newest Nintendo Switch edition is the cross-platform Bedrock game client, which lets you play all of your favorite ray tracing worlds and map packs. Now Minecraft players can connect with other gamers across different versions of Minecraft (e.g., Xbox One) without having any issues!

Does Minecraft Java Edition have Ray tracing?

No, the Java Edition does not support ray tracing.

Video courtesy NVIDIA GeForce

What are the Minimum Requirements to experience Ray Tracing in Minecraft for Windows?

As per the official Minecraft help center, the minimum requirements are :
Operation Systems: Windows 64-bit  
GPU: DirectX hardware ray tracing capable GPU like NVIDIA GeForce® RTX 20 Series and higher, and AMD Radeon™ RX 6000 Series and higher 
Hardware: PC; Virtual reality headsets and Mixed Reality (MR) headsets are not supported  
CPU: Intel Core i5 or equivalent  
RAM: >8 GB of RAM  
A version of Minecraft: 1.16.200 or higher  

Can you play Minecraft using PS4

Yes, Minecraft is available on both disc as well as digitally from the PlayStation 4 and you can play split-screen with your friends. You can also play cross-platform with other devices running Minecraft, including Windows PCs, Android devices, iOS phones and tablets, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and virtual reality platforms. Other features include DLC packs and skin bundles, as well as support for eight players online and four players locally. So if you’re a fan of Minecraft, you’ll be able to enjoy it on your PlayStation 4 with all of the features that you’re used to.

Can you play Minecraft using an Xbox game pass?

Yes, Minecraft is one of the many games that can be played using the Xbox Game Pass. To play Minecraft on Xbox, you will need to have an active Game Pass Ultimate or Console subscription. Once you have a subscription, you can install Minecraft from the Store on your Xbox console. Do keep in mind that the Java Edition of Minecraft is not available on consoles. With Xbox Game Pass, you can enjoy Minecraft and many other games without having to purchase them individually. The subscription provides great value and is perfect for gamers who like to try out new games.

How many Modes are there in Minecraft Java Edition?

There are five game modes in Minecraft Java Edition.

Creative

In Creative Mode, players have unrestricted usage of all game blocks and items. Players are invincible unless they fall into the Void or are targeted by the /kill command. Otherwise, they have infinite health, armor, and hunger. They can also fly if the /kill command doesn’t kill them.

Survival

Players must gather all of their resources in Survival Mode to create, build items and tools, and gain experience. There is a health, hunger, and defense bar as well as an inventory.

Hardcore

In Hardcore Mode, players build and play in a competitive atmosphere, similar to survival mode.

Adventure

For those who want to go around and explore maps for mini-games or something else, adventure mode is the way to go. Blocks may not be placed in this mode, and tools cannot break blocks unless authorized by the “CanPlaceOn” and “CanDestroy” NBT tags. Although weapons such as swords or shovels can still be used against mobs and other players, they can no longer harm structures.

Spectator

In spectator mode, players can fly and do things that would be impossible in Survival. It’s only accessible via commands, the Debug Mode world, or dying in hardcore mode. This game mode allows players to levitate like creative mode; however, they can’t stand on any block because they’ll phase through the ground. It also allows players to view areas they wouldn’t usually see, such as the tops of blocks.

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What’s the difference between Minecraft Java and Minecraft for Windows

Bedrock might be your best bet if you don’t have a high-end computer. The Java edition lets you use mods to enhance the graphics, but the Bedrock version runs more smoothly and consistently. This means fewer dropped frames and faster load times.

Along with this here are some of the other key features for each of them :

Bedrock Windows 10 Edition

  • Allows you to play with friends on other devices
  • Allows you to use a compatible game controller
  • Flexibility to use new ways to play Minecraft with maps, skins, and texture packs
  • Can change the behavior of mobs and transform the looks
  • Allows you to host your own multiplayer game server
  • Play with friends on LAN and even WiFi

Java Edition

  • Allows you to play with other Java edition players
  • Allows addition and modification to the game (Mods)
  • Share your gaming experience with gamers across the globe
  • Allows you to join other player-hosted multiplayer servers

So, let us quickly check out the Minecraft Java edition vs Windows 10 infographic.

java edition vs windows 10

Great.

Verdict

In the end, both versions of Minecraft are excellent. I never felt like I was playing a lesser version when I played the Bedrock Edition. In fact, there were times when I enjoyed it more than the Java Edition. For most casual players, the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft is an excellent starting point and offers all sorts of amenities to make your experience easier. It is a game world of a different level, and no two versions should ideally give you the same experience!

Regardless of what version you play, you may be sure that you’re getting a great game—no, a fantastic game in your hands.

Let me know in the comments which version you liked the most. Here are more articles on HowTO and Troubleshooting.

Where to Buy Minecraft Windows Edition & the Accessories?

The best place to get hold of the Windows Edition of Minecraft is Amazon. Here are my favorite gaming accessories below. Click on the links and it will take you straight there!

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