Many players who love Minecraft Java Edition want to play on the same fast, stable PC as their Java install while enjoying Bedrock features. If you already have Java installed, you can get Bedrock Edition on Windows 10/11 by switching to the Microsoft Store or Epic Games launcher and keeping both versions side by side.
This guide walks through practical steps, requirements, and pitfalls to help you run Bedrock Edition on PC without uninstalling or disrupting your existing Java setup.
| Edition | Store / Launcher | Account Type | File Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Java | Minecraft Launcher (official) | Microsoft or Mojang | %appdata%\.minecraft |
| Bedrock | Microsoft Store (Windows) or Epic Games | Microsoft | System drive \ Program Files \ Minecraft or %localappdata%\Packages\Microsoft.MinecraftUWP |
| Pros | Separate launchers, stable updates | Single sign-in with Microsoft | Isolated saves and settings |
| Cons | Different launcher, account split | Separate sign-in required | Slightly more disk usage |
Getting Bedrock From the Microsoft Store
The simplest path on Windows 10 or Windows 11 is to install Bedrock Edition directly from the Microsoft Store. Because the Store app is separate from the Java launcher, your Java profile remains untouched.
You will need a Microsoft account, which also secures your achievements and cloud saves across devices that sign in with the same profile.
After installing the Store version, you can pin Bedrock to your taskbar or start menu and keep Java running in parallel without conflicts.
Installing via Epic Games Launcher
Why Choose Epic Games
Some players prefer the Epic Games Launcher because it occasionally offers free months of Minecraft Bedrock Edition. If you already have Epic installed for other games, this can be a convenient alternative to the Store.
Setup and Linking
Epic installs its own copy of Bedrock, and you will sign in with Epic credentials. You can link a Microsoft account inside Epic to preserve cross-platform progress and avoid managing two separate sign-ins.
Managing Saves and Cross-Play
Local Save Locations
Bedrock stores worlds in a different folder than Java, which prevents accidental overwrites. On Windows, you can usually find them under %localappdata%\Packages\Microsoft.MinecraftUWP on the system drive.
Playing Together
Bedrock cross-play works with consoles and mobile, but Java players cannot join Bedrock servers directly. If your goal is to host mixed sessions, consider a Bedrock dedicated server or use Realms, keeping platform compatibility in mind.
Key Takeaways for Running Both Editions
- Keep Java and Bedrock separate by using the official launcher and Microsoft Store or Epic Games.
- Use a Microsoft account to sign into Bedrock for achievements and cloud saves.
- Expect different file paths and save locations so you do not accidentally overwrite worlds.
- Remember that cross-play is limited; Java players generally cannot join pure Bedrock worlds.
- Install Bedrock through trusted channels like the Microsoft Store to ensure a secure, stable experience.
FAQ
Reader questions
Do I need to uninstall Java to install Bedrock on PC?
No, Java and Bedrock Edition are completely separate products; you can keep both on the same PC without removing anything.
Can I use the same Minecraft account for both Java and Bedrock?
Not directly; Java uses Mojang or Microsoft accounts tied to the official launcher, while Bedrock requires a Microsoft or Epic account, but you can link them for progress.
Will my Java worlds transfer to Bedrock Edition on PC?
World formats are incompatible, so you cannot port Java saves directly to Bedrock, but you can back up structures manually or use custom tools for specific blocks.
Is the Microsoft Store version of Bedrock safer than third-party sites?
Yes, installing Bedrock through the Microsoft Store or Epic Games Launcher is the safest method, avoiding modified files and potential bans.