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Minecraft

What is the Bedrock version of Minecraft? Which one is better Java or Bedrock?

On the surface, Bedrock Edition and Java Edition of Minecraft seem very similar, but under the hood is a completely different story. The different code bases create distinct development environments. This tutorial outlines the major differences you as a content creator should be aware of.

Bedrock Edition lets you play with friends on other consoles

If you want to play Minecraft with friends who own other systems, your best bet is to buy Minecraft: Bedrock Edition.

The Bedrock version has cross-play, meaning you can play with a friend even if you’re on PC and they’re on a Nintendo Switch, for example.

The Java version only allows you to play with other Java users. Of course, that means that if all your friends are playing Java, it’s the best one for you too.

Java Edition has massive multiplayer servers

Although it doesn’t have the same level of cross-play, Java does boast big multiplayer servers. These servers let you play with other Java users, and feature beautiful maps filled with minigames and activities.

Both versions of the game have their own servers. But Java servers have been around for almost a decade now, meaning that there’s no shortage of cool maps to pick from.

If you want to play the minigames that are popular on YouTube, like Bed Wars or Hunger Games, go for Java.

Which Edition has most consistent performance

Although it might seem like a simple game, Minecraft can be incredibly taxing on your computer’s graphics card and CPU. If you’re not playing with a high-end computer, Bedrock might be your best bet.

While the Java edition lets you use mods to enhance your graphics, the Bedrock version runs more smoothly more consistently. This means less dropped frames and faster load times.

Which one has a near-limitless collection of mods

One huge difference between Java and Bedrock is the ability to add mods, which are only available to Java players.

Mods are pieces of software you can add to Minecraft to transform the game in just about any way you like. There are basic mods that alter the graphics or change the music, and more advanced mods that introduce new items or change how the world generates.

Best of all, nearly all of these mods are free. And there’s even a dedicated program called Minecraft Forge that will let you install and edit them easily.

Minecraft Mods

Some Minecraft mods just change textures, while others introduce new enemies and characters. minecraftmods.com
While Bedrock has some modding tools available, you have to pay for them, and there are only a few compared to the limitlessness of Java.

Which one lets you play in Hardcore mode

By default, Minecraft has four game modes: Survival, Creative, Adventure, and Spectator. But Java players get access to a fifth: Hardcore.

Popular with streamers, Hardcore mode spawns you with only one life. This means that if you die, there’s no respawning in a bed — your world is permanently deleted. If you’re looking for a challenge, Java is the way to go.

World Differences

The most obvious difference between both versions is the world format. Bedrock Edition uses the LevelDB format for world storage while Java Edition uses the Anvil format. Due to this, most third-party tools created for Java Edition world editing will not work on Bedrock Edition.

The two versions also use a fairly different block format. Java Edition has flattened its block format using a unique string for each individual block and storing the state of that block separately. Similarly, Bedrock Edition has moved to a string-based system with block states, but have kept some blocks grouped together defined by data value. Basically, this means that blocks are named differently between the versions. In Bedrock Edition, granite would be stone 1 whereas on Java Edition it’s simply granite.

Another key difference is how the world is generated. Even though both versions use a similar process for generating terrain, they use a different random number generator. This means seeds are not cross-compatible between versions. A seed used in Bedrock Edition will generate differently than it would in Java Edition. This makes creating content in Java Edition aimed for Bedrock Edition a bit more difficult.

THE BEDROCK EDITION LIMITS MODDING

While the Bedrock Edition does have add-ons, it features more paid content to add to the game, whereas the Java version lets you install mods (such as texture packs) for free.

If you’re planning on modding the heck out of your game and don’t want to be limited by Microsoft-approved mods, you’ll want to go with the Java Edition.

WHICH ONE IS BETTER FOR CROSS-PLATFORM PLAY

The Bedrock Edition allows for cross-platform multiplayer on consoles, mobile devices, and Windows 10. The Java Edition is only for PC, and it will only allow you to play with other Java players, which is a lot more limiting.

Do keep in mind that if you want the Bedrock Edition on different platforms, you’ll have to rebuy it on each console. That said, purchases of add-ons (like texture packs) will carry over from other platforms.

HARDCORE AND SPECTATOR MODES

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.

BEDROCK OR JAVA?

For most casual players, the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft is the way to go. It’s easier to hop into, and is more stable, than the Java Edition. It also allows you to play with other platforms, which is a real plus.

If you’re more of a hardcore Minecraft player and you’re interested in tinkering with the guts of the game, or seeing in-development features before the majority of players, Java Edition is the better choice.

Is Minecraft for free?

You can play Minecraft for free on your web browser by heading to classic.minecraft.net, with no need to download or install anything.

How does Minecraft cost?

If you buy it for a PC from the Minecraft.net website, expect to pay around $27 as of July 2017. You can also buy gift cards at the website. If you want to download Minecraft to your favorite console, expect to pay $20 to $30 for the base game, and about $30 or more on the Wii U if you opt to buy the Favorites Pack.

How do I download Minecraft without paying?

Go to https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/download/ in a web browser. This is the website where you can download Minecraft and try the demo for free. Click Download.

What Minecraft should I buy?

If you want to play Minecraft with friends who own other systems, your best bet is to buy Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. The Bedrock version has cross-play, meaning you can play with a friend even if you’re on PC and they’re on a Nintendo Switch, for example. The Java version only allows you to play with other Java users.

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