Quick answers about the official launcher

Yes. The installer is free to download. Java Edition, Bedrock, Dungeons, Legends, and other titles still require a valid license, Game Pass entitlement, or demo where offered.

Use the Microsoft Store on Windows or the official download page at minecraft.net. macOS and Linux files come from launcher.mojang.com. Avoid third-party download sites. Our download guide lists every official path; follow the install walkthrough after the file finishes.

Not for default Java Edition play. The official launcher downloads a bundled runtime. You only need a separate JDK for servers or some third-party launchers.

Not officially. Bedrock on PC is a Windows 10/11 title. macOS and Linux players use Java Edition through the official launcher. See our games and platform matrix for a full edition comparison.

Mojang account migration moved authentication and ownership checks to Microsoft accounts. Since March 10, 2022, a Microsoft account is required to play Java Edition.

Both can deliver the official launcher. The Microsoft Store version is recommended for Windows 10 and 11 because it handles updates automatically. The minecraft.net installer is an alternate path that also installs the official launcher.

Requirements vary by edition. Windows needs Windows 10 build 19041 or later (not S mode) for the unified launcher. macOS needs 10.15+ for launcher updates; Java Edition itself needs more RAM and GPU headroom for shaders and large worlds. Linux needs a 64-bit distribution with working OpenGL and a desktop keyring for sign-in. Check minecraft.net for the latest official specs per game.

Xbox Game Pass for PC includes Minecraft for Windows (Bedrock) and can include other Mojang titles depending on your plan and region. Sign into the launcher with the same Microsoft account linked to Game Pass. Java Edition is a separate purchase unless bundled in a promotion—verify your entitlements in the Microsoft Store library.

Realms and Realms Plus subscriptions are tied to your Microsoft account. After signing in, open Java or Bedrock from the launcher and use the Realms tab in-game to join or manage your subscription. The launcher itself does not host worlds—it downloads the game that connects to Mojang's Realms service.

On Windows, uninstall "Minecraft Launcher" from Settings → Apps. On macOS, drag Minecraft from Applications to Trash and empty it. On Linux, remove the package with your package manager (sudo apt remove minecraft-launcher on Debian/Ubuntu) or delete the portable folder. Your saved worlds and screenshots stay in the default game directory unless you remove those folders separately.

For Java Edition, copy the saves folder from your game directory (open from the launcher installations screen → folder icon). On Windows Bedrock, use the in-game export or sync through your Microsoft account where supported. Realms worlds stay on the subscription—sign in on the new PC to access them. Always close the game before copying world files.