Although Minecraft fans have various means to play Java Edition for free, including the game's demo as well as Minecraft Classic, these options are limited.

Here's what you should know about the differences in Minecraft Java and Bedrock for Windows before you choose which to install.

Of the two versions of Minecraft available to download, Java and Bedrock, which is the better choice? The answer lies in these distinctions.

Hardcore mode (which makes it so you can’t respawn when you die) and Spectator mode (which lets you fly around and view the world) are both only available in the Java Edition of Minecraft.

Minecraft: Java Edition is the original version of the game for computers, while Bedrock is a newer version available on nearly every device.