By Holly Kelly ·
How to Install Minecraft for Kids (PC, Mac and iPad)
How to install Minecraft for your child on PC, Mac, iPad or console: which edition to buy, Microsoft child account setup and multiplayer settings.
On a Windows PC, buy Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition from minecraft.net, sign in with a Microsoft account and install the Minecraft Launcher; one purchase covers both editions. Macs run Java Edition through the same launcher, while iPads, Android devices and consoles get Minecraft from their own app store.
Check which edition your child's class or friends use before you buy. Set up a parent account and a child account in a Microsoft family group, install on the device your child will actually use, then check the multiplayer, chat and spending settings that parents often miss.
Java or Bedrock? Know the difference first
Minecraft comes in two main editions. They look similar but don't play together.
| Edition | Runs on | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Java Edition | Windows, Mac, Linux | Free mods and community servers; plays only with other Java players |
| Bedrock Edition | Windows, iPad/iPhone, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch | Cross-play between these devices; includes the Marketplace |
Many online Minecraft classes and family friend groups use one edition or the other. If your child's teacher lists a required edition, buy for that. For a fuller overview, see Minecraft for Education: The Complete Parent Guide.
Step 1: Set up a Microsoft account
Every version of Minecraft uses a Microsoft account for sign-in. For a child, the best setup is a parent account plus a child account in a Microsoft family group.
- Create or sign in to your own Microsoft account. You'll manage purchases and settings from here.
- Create a family group. Use the Microsoft Family Safety website or app, then choose to add a family member.
- Add your child. Create a new child account or invite an existing one. Use your child's real birthdate so the right protections apply.
- Turn on purchase approval if you like. Microsoft offers an "Ask to buy" option so you approve spending first.
Step 2: Install on a Windows PC
- Buy the game. Go to minecraft.net and choose Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC. You can also buy it in the Microsoft Store.
- Download the Minecraft Launcher. Get it from minecraft.net or the Microsoft Store and install it.
- Sign in. Open the launcher and sign in with the Microsoft account that owns the game. For a child account, sign in as your child.
- Choose an edition. In the launcher's left sidebar, pick Java Edition or Minecraft for Windows (Bedrock).
- Click Install, then Play. The launcher downloads the latest version and keeps it updated.
Both editions can stay installed. Your child just switches in the sidebar.
Step 3: Install on a Mac
Macs run Java Edition only. There's no official Bedrock version for macOS.
- Buy Java & Bedrock Edition on minecraft.net with your Microsoft account. You'll use the Java half on the Mac.
- Download the Minecraft Launcher for macOS from minecraft.net.
- Install it. Open the downloaded file and drag Minecraft into your Applications folder.
- Sign in with the Microsoft account that owns the game.
- Select Java Edition, then Install and Play.
If a class needs Bedrock and you only have a Mac, ask the teacher before buying. An iPad may be a simpler option.
Step 4: Install on iPad, Android or a console
These devices all run Bedrock Edition and have separate purchases.
- Open the device's store. That's the App Store on iPad, Google Play on Android, or the console's store.
- Search for Minecraft and check it's the official app from Mojang.
- Buy and download it. Use your family's purchase settings so your child can't buy add-ons without you.
- Open Minecraft and sign in with your child's Microsoft account to unlock multiplayer and cross-play.
A purchase on one store usually doesn't carry to another device type. Buy on the device your child will actually use.
Step 5: Check multiplayer settings
Many families get stuck here. Child accounts often have online multiplayer turned off by default. If your child sees a message that they can't play online because of how their account is set up, a parent needs to change it.
- Open the Xbox Family Settings app, or the privacy and online safety settings at xbox.com, signed in as the parent.
- Select your child's profile.
- Find the Minecraft or online safety options and allow multiplayer if you're comfortable.
- Decide on chat and friend settings separately. You can allow play but limit who can message your child.
Live classes often run on a teacher-hosted world, so multiplayer may need to be on. Our Minecraft Multiplayer Safety guide covers how to keep it safe.
Safety and screen time
- Use a child account with a real birthdate, not your own account.
- Limit chat to friends you know, or turn it off for young kids.
- Control spending with Ask to buy and device purchase settings.
- Set time limits using Microsoft Family Safety or your device's screen time tools.
- Avoid unofficial downloads. "Free Minecraft" sites and mod packs from unknown sources can carry malware.
Frequently asked questions
Does one purchase work on every device?
No. The PC purchase covers Java and Bedrock on Windows, and Java on Mac. iPad, Android and consoles each need their own purchase from that store.
Which edition should I buy for an online class?
Check the class listing or ask the teacher. Some classes use Java for mods or coding, and others use Bedrock for cross-play.
Is Minecraft Education the same thing?
No. Minecraft Education is a separate version made for schools and learning. It uses different accounts and licenses. A class will say if it needs it.
Why can't my child join a multiplayer world?
Child accounts often have online multiplayer turned off by default. A parent can allow it in Xbox Family Settings or the online safety settings at xbox.com, and set chat limits separately.
Turn building into learning
Live Minecraft classes use teacher-hosted worlds to turn your child's favorite game into projects in building, coding, storytelling and more.