Neither is universally better. For Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition on Windows PC, official guidance describes the Microsoft Store and Minecraft.net as purchase routes for the same bundle. Choose by the Microsoft account you want to own it, the final price at your regional checkout, and which seller’s refund process you prefer.
What you’re buying on PC
This comparison is for Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition on PC, not console or mobile versions. Minecraft Help says the PC bundle was released on June 7, 2022, and gives PC owners access to both Java and Bedrock. The official purchase guidance lists both the Microsoft Store and Minecraft.net as ways to buy it. Minecraft Help’s edition guide provides further context.
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The bundle does not mean the editions play identically. Choose the edition that fits your preferred features and the people you play with:
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- Java Edition: PC-only, with extensive mod support and custom servers.
- Bedrock Edition: the cross-platform option for Windows, consoles, and mobile; its listed features include controller and touch support and Marketplace access.
Minecraft’s edition comparison explains these differences. A Windows PC buyer gets both editions in the PC bundle, so the purchase-channel choice does not require choosing Java or Bedrock upfront.
#1 Best Overall
- Minecraft is a game about placing blocks and going on adventures
- Explore randomly generated worlds and build amazing things from the simplest of homes to the grandest of castles
- Play in creative mode with unlimited resources or mine deep into the world in survival mode, crafting weapons and armor to fend off the dangerous mobs
- Play on the go in handheld or tabletop modes
- Includes Super Mario Mash-Up, Natural Texture Pack, Biome Settlers Skin Pack, Battle & Beasts Skin Pack, Campfire Tales Skin Pack; Compatible with Nintendo Switch only
Compare the two purchase routes
| What to compare | Microsoft Store | Minecraft.net |
|---|---|---|
| PC game offered | Java & Bedrock bundle, according to official PC purchase guidance | Java & Bedrock bundle, according to official PC purchase guidance |
| Price | Check the final total in your regional checkout | Check the final total in your regional checkout |
| Account | Use the Microsoft account that should own the game | Use the Microsoft account that should own the game |
| Refund route | Microsoft order history; only eligible items show a return option | Follow Minecraft.net’s applicable refund process |
The reviewed official pages do not establish comparable current totals for a specified region, so they do not support calling either route cheaper. Compare the checkout totals where you live, including any promotion or tax shown before you pay. The two purchase routes are described as offering the same PC bundle, while price, account choice, and refund handling are practical points to weigh.
Use the account you want to own the game
Buy while signed in to the Microsoft account you intend to use for Minecraft. After purchase, sign in to the Launcher with that same account. Minecraft Help’s ownership guide says editions you own show Play or Install in the Launcher; an edition you do not own shows Buy Now. In the Microsoft Store, an owned version is marked You Own This.
Rank #2
- Skins! We have biome settlers, city folk, town folk, and more!
- The Nether and all its inhabitants. Fight Ghasts and make friends with Pigmen
- Cross platform play for up to five players between Pocket Edition and Windows 10
- Revamped touch controls, controller support, and a controller mapping screen
- Enhanced Weather effects! Accumulating snow and more
If the Launcher or Store prompts you to buy a game you already purchased, first check which Microsoft account is signed in. A purchase tied to another account will not appear as owned on the account currently in use.
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Buying the game and installing the Launcher are separate
You do not have to install the Launcher from the same place where you bought Minecraft. Minecraft’s download page says you can install it through the Microsoft Store or select the download option on Minecraft.net. The Launcher is the PC hub for accessing game downloads, managing a profile, finding multiplayer servers, and using mod support.
Rank #3
- DELUXE COLLECTION — Includes Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition, three Bedrock add-ons, three exclusive Character Creator items, and 700 Minecoins.
- CREATE YOUR WORLD — Build whatever you imagine in an infinite world that’s unique in every playthrough.
- EXPLORE AND CRAFT — Discover biomes, resources, and mobs, then craft your way through a sandbox world filled with surprises.
- SURVIVE THE ADVENTURE — Face mysterious foes, travel across exciting landscapes, and venture into perilous dimensions.
- PLAY TOGETHER — Play cross-platform with friends in Bedrock Edition on console, mobile, and PC, or join community servers in Java Edition on PC, Mac, and Linux. Online console multiplayer requires a platform-specific subscription (sold separately).
How refunds work
Minecraft Help says each seller has its own return policy. Its general guidance says purchases from Minecraft.net or the Microsoft/Xbox Store are generally eligible for a refund within 14 days of purchase, subject to eligibility. This is not a guarantee that every order qualifies.
- Microsoft Store: check Microsoft order history. The help page says a return option appears only for eligible items.
- Minecraft.net: follow the refund guidance for that seller and check the specific order’s eligibility.
Read Minecraft Help’s refund instructions for the applicable process. Because seller rules and order eligibility control the outcome, consider which request route you are comfortable using before choosing where to buy.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Minecraft Labyrinth invites 2-4 people aged 7 and over to immerse themselves in the world of Minecraft, move corridors and search for hidden characters and items
- The classic in the look of the well-known and popular computer game Minecraft! The labyrinth has been delighting children and adults for decades and has become a highlight among board games
- A fun family game for children and adults: This board game for ages 7 and up is a must-have in any game collection! Simple rules, entertaining games and exciting rounds ensure long-lasting fun
- A search and slide game that challenges and encourages logical thinking in a playful way
- A great gift or souvenir for all Minecraft fans: the characteristic illustrations provide an authentic gaming experience
Rank #4
- The classic UNO card game builds fun on game night with a Minecraft theme.
- UNO Minecraft features a deck and storage tin decorated with graphics from the popular video game.
- Players match colors and numbers to the card on top of the discard pile as in the classic game.
- The Creeper card unique to this deck forces other players to draw 3 cards.
- Makes a great gift for kid, teen, adult and family game nights with 2 to 10 players ages 7 years and older, especially Minecraft and video game fans.
A quick decision checklist
- Sign in to the Microsoft account that should own Minecraft.
- Compare the final regional checkout totals at both official stores, including any promotion or tax shown.
- Consider which seller’s refund process applies if you later need to request a return.
- After purchase, sign into the Launcher with the buying account and confirm ownership using the Play or Install indicator.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
