How to Get Minecraft for Free

Several versions of Minecraft can be played for free, including a browser version that requires no account and an Education edition for academic institutions. The full Java version is also available to trial for a limited time.

For long-term access, the most practical routes are earning the cost through Freecash or accumulating Microsoft Rewards points. Here are all the ways to get Minecraft free or at reduced cost.

Play Minecraft Classic in Your Browser

The full Java and Bedrock editions cost $30.00, but Minecraft Classic is playable free in any browser with no installation or account required. It covers the core building mechanics without the features that come with the paid versions.

Use Freecash to Cover the Cost of Minecraft

Completing tasks on Freecash is a reliable way to earn $30.00 and fund the purchase. Available tasks include playing mobile games, completing surveys, and signing up to partner services depending on your region.

1. Join Freecash and pick a task, options include playing a mobile game or completing a survey.
2. Repeat until your balance reaches at least $30.00, the price of Minecraft.
3. Withdraw $30.00 via the cashout page.
4. Use the funds to buy Minecraft from Xbox.

The same method works for other games, and most users reach the $30.00 threshold within a few days.

Earn Microsoft Rewards Points for Minecraft

Microsoft Rewards lets users accumulate points through everyday actions like searching with Bing and browsing with Edge. Reaching 30,000 points unlocks enough Xbox Store credit to cover Minecraft's $30.00 cost, though level one users are capped at 50 points per day — making this a slower route than Freecash.

1. Sign up to Microsoft Rewards.
2. Complete daily tasks like Bing searches and Edge browsing to earn points.
3. Accumulate at least 30,000 points.
4. Redeem points for Xbox Store gift cards worth at least $30.00 at rewards.bing.com.
5. Buy Minecraft on the Xbox Store with the gift cards.

The program is worth activating for Windows users who are happy to build toward the purchase gradually over time.

Try the Free Minecraft Java Trial

Anyone who wants to test the game before buying can download the Minecraft Java free trial, which provides 100 minutes of in-game time. It's a practical option before committing $30.00 to the full version.

Access Minecraft Through Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass offers a 14-day trial for $1.00, covering full access to both Minecraft Java and Bedrock editions during that period. Neither trial option is a permanent solution, but both let new players experience the game before deciding whether to buy.

Access Minecraft Through Education Edition

Educators at Microsoft-verified institutions can apply for a free Minecraft Education trial, which includes 25 faculty accounts and 10 student accounts. Multiplayer is limited to other Education edition users.

Buy a Second-Hand Minecraft Account

Second-hand accounts cost significantly less than a new purchase, though buying from third-party platforms carries risk since the seller is not an official vendor like Xbox. The main account trading platforms are PlayerAuctions, PlayerUp, and G2G.

Search for Minecraft on your chosen platform, complete the purchase, and the seller typically sends login details within a few hours.

Look for Minecraft in a Hardware Bundle

Certain Xbox consoles, laptops, and PCs include a Minecraft game code in the box. For anyone already planning a hardware purchase, it's worth checking whether the device bundles a code before buying separately.

This doesn't make Minecraft free on its own, but it eliminates the extra cost for buyers who were going to make the purchase regardless.