What Minecraft Version is Best for Mac?
The Minecraft: Java Edition is the best version for Mac as it is the classic version of Minecraft still updated in tandem with the Bedrock version and is available on Mac, PC, and Linux with its own siloed Realms cross-play. This version has been updated with native Apple Silicon support in version 1.19, making it the optimal choice for Mac users.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
- Which Minecraft should I get for Mac? As long as you purchase the Minecraft Java Edition, it will work on your MacOS, and be sure to use the same Microsoft account to access the game on your MacOS so your game license will be detected in-game.
- Which Minecraft Edition works on Mac? The Java Edition of Minecraft is the version that works on Mac, and it differs from the Bedrock Edition for consoles and Windows 10.
- Is Mac Minecraft Java or Bedrock? The Java Edition is only available on Windows, Mac, and Linux, while the Bedrock Edition is available on a wide range of platforms including Windows 10 and 11, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Performance and Compatibility
- Is Minecraft Java good on Mac? Both Mac and Windows can handle Minecraft well, but Windows has a slight edge with higher frame rates and smoother gameplay, ultimately making the choice between Mac and Windows come down to personal preference and available hardware.
- Why does Minecraft run so poorly on Mac? Running too many programs at once can cause Minecraft to run poorly on Mac, as it leaves limited processing power for the game, resulting in slower gameplay.
- Can a Macbook run modded Minecraft? Any mods designed to work with Minecraft: Java Edition should also work for Minecraft on Mac, and to download Minecraft mods, you first need to download and install the Minecraft Forge API program.
Java and Bedrock Editions
- Which Java version is best for Mac? Java 7 and later versions can run on your Mac, and Oracle Java 8 requires administrator privileges for installation, while Java 17 is required to run Minecraft version 1.18 and up.
- Can I get Bedrock if I have Java on Mac? If you have registered your Minecraft: Java Edition account with a Microsoft account, you now also own Minecraft: Bedrock Edition.
- Do I want Minecraft Java or Bedrock? Java Edition can create custom fonts and GLSL shaders, while Bedrock Edition can create custom particles and fogs, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Installation and Purchase
- Can I play Java on Mac? Installing Java on a Mac is performed on a system-wide basis, for all users, and administrator privileges are required, and a 64-bit browser is needed to run Oracle Java on Mac.
- Is Minecraft not compatible with Mac? The Microsoft store is not supported on Mac, and to install Minecraft on Mac, you should go to minecraft.net and download the DMG installer.
- How much is Minecraft for Mac? You can buy Minecraft: Java Edition from minecraft.net for $29.99 USD or local currency equivalent, which is a one-time purchase.
Gaming Experience
- What Minecraft version is best? The choice of Minecraft version depends on the device you are playing on, with Java Edition being the best for Mac and Linux, and Bedrock Edition being the best for consoles and mobile devices.
- Is Minecraft too much for Mac? Macs are not made for gaming, but Minecraft is not very difficult to run on any computer, and you may experience lag if you play on servers with a lot of activities.
- Why are there two versions of Minecraft? The two versions of Minecraft exist because Java Edition is the original version of the game, while Bedrock Edition was developed for consoles and other platforms, and they have distinct features and capabilities.