How to Get Minecraft for Free

There are many versions of Minecraft that you can play entirely for free, like the in-browser version, which can be played without an account, or Education, which is made for academic institutions. There are also ways to try Minecraft Java (the full version) for a limited time.

But if you are looking to get Minecraft for long-term use, the best method involves earning your account via Freecash or with Microsoft rewards. Here are all the ways to get Minecraft for free, or very cheaply.

Play Minecraft in your browser

The full versions of Minecraft, Java and Bedrock, cost $29.99, but there is a free alternative version of Minecraft that you can play instead. Minecraft Classic, The most basic version of the game, can be played entirely for free and without installation from your browser.

This version of the game is still enjoyable, but you simply get far fewer features than you do with Java or Bedrock. Still, it’s a great way to get free Minecraft and experience the basics.

Use Freecash to get free Minecraft

This is probably the best way to earn Minecraft for free. Use Freecash to fund your purchase of the game within a few hours:

You can also use this method to buy other games. It's one of the fastest ways to get free Minecraft with very little effort.

Use Microsoft Rewards to get free Minecraft

Microsoft Rewards is very similar to Freecash, but it takes far longer to earn enough points to get Minecraft for free:

The Microsoft Rewards program allows you to earn points while doing things you would do anyway, but the rewards are not generous.

Microsoft Rewards are worth activating for Windows users, especially if you're determined to get free Minecraft over time.

Free Minecraft Java Trial

There are ways to access Minecraft for a limited amount of time for free, which may be a good option for those who haven’t played Minecraft before and want to try the game first.

Download the free trial of Minecraft Java and you can play the game for 100 minutes of in-game time.

Xbox Game Pass Trial for Minecraft

Sign up to Xbox Game Pass for a 14-day trial for only $1, and you will be able to play as much Minecraft Java or Bedrock as you want during that period.

These free trial options do not provide a long-term solution, but they will help those who just want to test the game. A great short-term way to get free Minecraft access.

Use Minecraft Education Edition

Minecraft Education: If you are an educator, working at an institution that is Microsoft-verified, you can apply for the free trial of Minecraft Education. In this version you can only play multiplayer with other Minecraft Education users. You will be given access to 25 accounts for faculty and 10 for students.

A unique way to get free Minecraft access in an educational environment.

Buy Minecraft Second-Hand

We have included this option because, although not free, it is very cheap compared to buying a brand-new account. Simply follow these steps:

4 Search for Minecraft, and follow the instructions to buy it on that platform.

5 The vendor will normally send you the login details within a few hours.

There are risks associated with this method, as you are going to a third-party source and not a vendor like Xbox.

Get Minecraft in a hardware bundle

Some hardware bundles come with a free Minecraft code included. This is usually offered with certain Xbox consoles, laptops, and PCs. If you are already planning to buy a new device, it may be worth checking if it comes with a game code bundled in.

While this is not truly “free” Minecraft, it’s a way to get Minecraft without paying extra—if you were already going to buy the device anyway.

We hope you are able to enjoy Minecraft for free (or very cheaply) soon. Good luck!