You'll need a Microsoft account to download Minecraft but that's no sweat to do. Choosing between the two versions, Java and ...

Rather than enrolling in a dedicated beta program, Minecraft: Java Edition allows you to select a slice of pre-release software for you to try.

Importantly, Minecraft Java mods tend to be free, while Bedrock add-ons can be either free or paid downloads in the Minecraft Marketplace.

Microsoft’s free Minecraft for Windows 10 giveaway ends at midnight for Java players Legacy Minecraft: Java Edition players can still snag free codes to the Windows 10 Edition until midnight.