Our verdict: The Minecraft Launcher is the official way to install and play Minecraft on a PC. The launcher itself is free, but Minecraft is a paid game: without a purchase you can only play the free trial. It needs a Microsoft account and handles updates, snapshots and skins for you.
About Minecraft Launcher
The launcher is Mojang Studios' hub for its PC games. From one window you install and update Minecraft: Java Edition and Bedrock Edition, try snapshots of upcoming versions, create Quick Play shortcuts to favorite worlds and servers, manage Java skins and read Minecraft news. Mojang's other PC games, such as Minecraft Dungeons and Minecraft Legends, can also be launched from it.
Downloading the launcher costs nothing, and you sign in with a Microsoft account. To play the full game you have to buy it: Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC costs $29.99 for the Standard Edition on minecraft.net, and Deluxe and Ultimate collections with add-ons and Minecoins cost more. Without a purchase the launcher only gives access to the free trial.
What it does well
- Java and Bedrock in one place. Installs, updates and launches both PC editions of Minecraft.
- Snapshots and versions. Lets you play test snapshots or older Java versions with separate installations.
- Quick Play. Creates desktop shortcuts that jump straight into a world, server or Realm.
- Skins and profile. Changes Java Edition skins and manages your Minecraft profile.
- Other Mojang games. Also launches Minecraft Dungeons and Minecraft Legends if you own them.
Who it is for
Good fit
Anyone who owns Minecraft on PC or wants to try the free trial.
Look elsewhere
People looking for a free game; Minecraft itself must be bought. Heavy mod users may prefer a third-party launcher such as Prism Launcher.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Official and free to download
- Java and Bedrock editions in one launcher
- Easy access to snapshots and older versions
Cons
- Minecraft itself is a paid game
- Requires a Microsoft account
- Basic mod management compared with third-party launchers
How to install Minecraft Launcher
Run MinecraftInstaller.exe and sign in with the Microsoft account you bought Minecraft with. Pick Java or Bedrock in the sidebar and press Play to download the game. For Java mods, create a separate installation in the Installations tab so your main game stays untouched.
Questions about Minecraft Launcher
Is the Minecraft Launcher free?
Yes, the launcher is free. Minecraft itself is paid: the Java & Bedrock Edition for PC costs $29.99 for the Standard Edition on minecraft.net. Without buying it you can play the free trial only.
Do I need a Microsoft account?
Yes. You sign in to the launcher with a Microsoft account, which also holds your Minecraft purchase.
Can I play Minecraft without the launcher?
Mojang says you can launch its games without the launcher, but the launcher keeps them installed, updated and in one place.
