Minecraft Java vs Bedrock: What's the Difference?

Java and Bedrock are the two editions of Minecraft. Here is how they differ, which one you have, and how to play together on a crossplay server.

Minecraft comes in two main editions — Java and Bedrock. They look similar but are built differently. Here is the short version of how they differ and what it means for playing online.

Java Edition

• Runs on PC (Windows, Mac, Linux).
• Huge modding and custom-server scene.
• Slightly different combat and redstone mechanics.
• Connects to Java servers by address.

Bedrock Edition

• Runs on Windows 10/11, mobile, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch.
• Built-in cross-device play with other Bedrock players.
• Marketplace for skins and worlds.
• Connects to Bedrock servers by address + port.

Can they play together?

Not on normal servers — but crossplay servers use bridging software so Java and Bedrock players share one world. So even if your friends are on different editions, you can still play together on a crossplay server.

MiningMaven SMP supports both Java and Bedrock on the same address, so it doesn't matter which edition you or your friends have.

Join MiningMaven SMP

MiningMaven is a Java + Bedrock survival server with custom cosmetics, KOTH events, quests, and a player-driven economy. Open Minecraft, add the server below, and talk to the NPCs at spawn to get started.