What version of java does minecraft need
Rachel Davis
Updated on May 06, 2026
The official Minecraft system requirements list Java 8 as the minimum version to run Java. But for a few years already, the launcher downloads Java for you if you don’t have it already, meaning that a missing Java installation would be a launcher bug.
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To play Minecraft from version 1.12 on a Windows computer, Java 8 is required. The software can be downloaded from our website, although in practice, you will not need it either.
Download OpenJDK instead of Java, works better on Ubuntu and it’s Open Source with better Linux support. You can download and Install it from Ubuntu Software Centre. Open JDK 6 and 7 are available, 7 is newer, I recommend you install this. Then In minecraft.jar properties, select Open With OpenJDK 7 Runtime Share Improve this answer
From Java Edition 1.17 ( 21w19a) to Java Edition 1.17.1 (1.18: 1.18 Pre-release 1 ), Minecraft requires Java 16 or newer. Since Java Edition 1.18 ( 1.18 Pre-release 2 ), Minecraft requires Java 17 or newer. Minecraft may sometimes crash without being run by …
Related Questions
Do I need Java to play Minecraft?
When installing the latest available version of Minecraft, if you do not have Java installed, it will be installed automatically as the installer has its own version of the software, so you do not have to worry about anything else. Obviously, older versions of Minecraft also require older versions of Java.
What are the device requirements to run Minecraft Java Edition?
What are the Device Requirements to Run Minecraft: Java Edition? A stable internet connection is required for Minecraft to download game files, authenticate usernames, and connect to multiplayer servers.
What is Minecraft Java Edition?
Minecraft Java Edition. The original version of Minecraft! Java Edition has cross-platform play between Windows, Linux and macOS, and also supports user-created skins and mods. Includes a decade’s worth of updates, with much more to come!
Is Minecraft Java free on Windows 10?
But there is a little bit. The Java version can be fully played, complete with mods, textures, and all other content associated with Minecraft without paying a penny. Although you can download all of the above variants for free in Windows 10, this version also includes optional in-game purchases.
