Updated:
Java Edition
- Title screen: the bottom left shows "Minecraft 1.21.x".
- In game: press F3; the first line at the top left is the version.
- Launcher: the Installations tab shows and changes the version each profile uses.
Bedrock Edition
- Title screen: the bottom right shows something like "v1.21.x".
- Settings: the version also appears near the bottom of the settings screen (the layout varies a little by version).
Switch, mobile, PlayStation, Xbox and Windows Bedrock all use the same numbers. Updating from the store gets the latest version.
A server's version
- Java: in the multiplayer list, a mismatched version shows in red. Once inside, F3 shows it too.
- If you run the server: check the version printed in the console at startup, or the server.jar you downloaded.
Versions that changed command syntax (Java)
| Version | Main change |
|---|---|
| 1.13 | A big rewrite: numeric IDs and data values gone, new /execute. |
| 1.20.5 | Item data moved from NBT ({ }) to components ([ ]). See NBT vs components. |
| 1.21.2 | Attribute IDs lost the generic. prefix (e.g. max_health). |
| 1.21.5 | Text such as names uses SNBT; enchantments no longer need levels. |
| 1.21.11 | Gamerules renamed to forms like keep_inventory (see the gamerule list). |
On Bedrock, /execute switched to the newer Java-like form in 1.19.50. Bedrock /give never accepts Java's [ ] or { } item data (see Java vs Bedrock).
Fixing old commands
Commands in articles and videos use the syntax of the version they were written for. Check the date or version mentioned, and rewrite the command if yours differs. Our generators output the right syntax once you pick a version, and the converter updates older commands.
Common problems
- Java or Bedrock? Switch, mobile and consoles are Bedrock. On PC, "Java Edition" is Java.
- Both are 1.21 but it fails: 1.21.5 and 1.21.11 changed syntax, so check the last number too.
- New syntax errors out: your version may be older. Pick the latest in the launcher or use the older syntax.
Common questions
- What are numbers like 26.1? After 1.21.11, Java switched to year-based numbers such as 26.1. Our guides cover both numbering styles.
- Can I go back to an older version? Java can, through launcher installations. Bedrock is basically latest only. Opening a world in an older version can break it, so back it up.
- Can friends on other versions join? Generally everyone needs the same version.
Check your command
The Command Error Doctor checks common syntax mistakes in your browser.