Minecraft Java vs Bedrock: Differences and Which to Pick
Java and Bedrock get the same major updates but use different servers, so the edition you pick decides who can join you.
What is the difference between Minecraft Java and Bedrock?
Java Edition runs only on Windows, macOS and Linux and supports mods and plugins. Bedrock Edition runs on Windows, consoles and phones, and Bedrock players on all of them can play together, but not with Java players unless a Java server runs Geyser. For a server, Java suits groups that want plugins or mods; Bedrock suits groups on consoles and phones.
The differences at a glance:
What differs | Java Edition | Bedrock Edition |
|---|---|---|
Devices | Windows, macOS and Linux | Windows, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, phones, tablets and Chromebook |
Who you can play with | Other Java players, plus Bedrock players if the server runs Geyser | Bedrock players on any device |
Customization | Community mods and server plugins | Add-ons and Minecraft Marketplace content, no mods |
Performance | Needs a stronger computer to run smoothly | Runs on less powerful devices, often more smoothly |
Split-screen | No | Up to four players, consoles only |
Older game versions | Any release, picked in the launcher | Latest release or preview only |
Server software | Vanilla, Paper, Spigot, Purpur and modded servers | Bedrock Dedicated Server |
Platform Availability and Which Edition You Own
Minecraft is available in two main editions:
- Java Edition works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Bedrock Edition works on Windows, Android, iOS, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and other supported devices.
On a Windows PC, Minecraft is sold as Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition, so one purchase gives you both, and PC players who already owned one edition were given the other free in the Minecraft Launcher from June 7, 2022. However, console and mobile players can only use Bedrock Edition.
Before creating a server, you should know which edition your players use. This will help you choose the right setup.
Mods and Plugins
One of the biggest advantages of Java Edition is customization.
Java servers support plugins using software like Paper, Spigot, and Purpur. These plugins can add features such as:
- Economy systems
- Land claiming
- Custom commands
- Minigames
- Permissions
- Server management tools
Java also has a large modding community with mod loaders like Forge, NeoForge and Fabric. These mods can add new items, mobs, dimensions, and completely new gameplay features. Plan for plugins or mods, not both: Paper does not load Forge or Fabric mods, and PaperMC does not recommend hybrid servers that try to run both.
Bedrock Edition supports add-ons and behavior packs, but they do not offer the same level of customization as Java mods and plugins. For servers with many custom features, Java Edition is usually the better choice.
Mods also cost memory. Our RAM calculator starts a Forge or NeoForge server at a 6 to 8 GB floor with nobody online, against 4 GB for Paper or vanilla.
Server Software Differences
Java Edition has many server software options depending on what you need.
Vanilla
- Official server software made by Mojang.
- Best for a normal Minecraft experience.
Paper
- Improves server performance and has the spark profiler built in since 1.21; paste its report into our spark report analyzer to see which plugin causes lag.
- Supports Bukkit and Spigot plugins.
- A popular choice for most public servers.
Spigot
- Adds plugin support and improves performance compared to Vanilla.
Purpur
- Based on Paper with more settings and extra customization options.
Bedrock Edition mainly uses Bedrock Dedicated Server, Mojang's official server software, a free download for Windows and Ubuntu. It has fewer server options and a smaller plugin ecosystem compared to Java.
If you want more control over your server, Java Edition gives you more options.
Crossplay: What Geyser Bridges and What It Doesn't
Out of the box, Java and Bedrock players cannot join the same world. If you want players from phones, tablets, or consoles to join a Java server, you can use Geyser.
Geyser allows Bedrock players to connect to Java servers by translating the connection between both editions. Its companion plugin, Floodgate, lets them join with their Bedrock account, without buying Java Edition. It does not turn Bedrock into Java, though, and the GeyserMC team lists these as unfixable without changes to Bedrock or the Java protocol:
- Clickable links in chat
- The glowing effect
- Telling left and right clicks apart in inventories
- Anything that relies on tab completion in chat
If you want Bedrock players to join your Java server, check our guide:
How to Setup Geyser on Your Minecraft Server
Which to Pick If You're Starting a Server Today
Choose Java Edition if you:
- Need plugins or mods.
- Want a public server with permissions, an economy or minigames.
- Need better server management tools.
Choose Bedrock Edition if you:
- Play on mobile or console.
- Want an official and simple server.
- Only need support for Bedrock devices.
- Do not need advanced features.
Java Edition is usually the better option for new server owners because it has more customization and better server software support. If your group is split between editions, you can run a Java server with Geyser so both can join.
