A computer is the only place where you may own two different Minecrafts. Java Edition is the original, with snapshots and mods. Bedrock on Windows is the edition that can cross-play with phones and consoles. Mac and Linux play Java. Windows can play both.
Direct install
- Visit the download page on minecraft.net.
- Save the launcher for your operating system.
- Open it and sign in with Microsoft.
- Install the edition you own.
- Keep the launcher. It is how updates and snapshots arrive.
Which edition to launch
| You want | Launch |
|---|---|
| Friends on phones or consoles | Bedrock, Windows |
| Mods, snapshots, servers you already know | Java |
| A Mac or a Linux machine | Java |
| Marketplace add-ons | Bedrock |
Snapshots
Java snapshots, such as the 26.4 snapshot series in October 2026, are test builds. Enable them on a separate installation. Mojang's own notes say testing versions can corrupt a world. Do not open your long-term Survival world in one.