Why Minecraft Windows 10 Edition Is Now Called Bedrock Edition
If you've been following Minecraft for a while, you might remember "Minecraft Windows 10 Edition." This name no longer exists — it was officially replaced by Minecraft Bedrock Edition in 2022. Here's what happened and why it matters.
A Brief History of the Name
The Original Split (2011–2017)
When Minecraft launched, there was one version: Java Edition. As Microsoft expanded the game to consoles and mobile, they built a separate codebase — initially called Minecraft: Pocket Edition on mobile, and later Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition on PC.
The Unification Under "Bedrock" (2017–2022)
In 2017, Microsoft announced the Better Together Update, which unified all non-Java versions under a single codebase called the Bedrock Engine. This allowed crossplay between:
- Windows 10 PC
- Xbox
- Mobile (iOS, Android)
- Nintendo Switch (later)
- PlayStation (later)
Despite running on the same engine, different platform editions kept their platform-specific names. The Windows PC version kept the "Windows 10 Edition" branding.
The 2022 Rebrand
In 2022, Microsoft streamlined the naming:
| Old Name | New Name |
|---|---|
| Minecraft Windows 10 Edition | Minecraft Bedrock Edition |
| Minecraft for Xbox | Minecraft (Bedrock) |
| Minecraft Pocket Edition | Minecraft (Bedrock) |
The goal was to eliminate confusion and clearly communicate that all these versions are the same game running on the same engine.
Does This Affect Existing Owners?
No. If you owned Minecraft Windows 10 Edition, your license automatically became Minecraft Bedrock Edition. Nothing was removed, and you didn't need to repurchase anything. The game was simply renamed in your library.
What About Keys Sold as "Windows 10 Edition"?
Some sellers still list keys under the old "Minecraft Windows 10 Edition" or "Windows 10/11 Edition" branding. These are the same product — Bedrock Edition. When activated, the game shows up in your library as Minecraft (Bedrock).
When shopping on Marix, you'll find listings for:
- Minecraft Java & Bedrock Edition — the combined package (recommended)
- Individual Bedrock or legacy Windows 10 keys
The 2023 Change: Java + Bedrock Combined
Microsoft made an even bigger change in 2023: Java and Bedrock Edition became a single combined purchase. Buying one gives you access to both:
- Java Edition (PC only, mods, classic servers)
- Bedrock Edition (crossplay across all platforms)
The combined package — Minecraft Java & Bedrock Edition — costs ~$29.99 on the Microsoft Store, or less through Global keys on Marix.
Summary: What You Need to Know
- "Minecraft Windows 10 Edition" = Bedrock Edition (renamed in 2022)
- The Bedrock engine powers all non-Java versions across all platforms
- Since 2023, Java + Bedrock are sold together as one product
- Keys labeled "Windows 10 Edition" still work and activate Bedrock
- Global keys from Marix work worldwide at lower prices
Should You Still Buy "Windows 10 Edition" Keys?
If you see a listing for "Minecraft Windows 10 Edition" at a lower price, it's typically the same Bedrock Edition. However, for the best value in 2026, the Minecraft Java & Bedrock Edition combined key gives you both versions — making it the smarter purchase regardless of what you primarily want to play.
Marix offers Global keys for the combined edition with instant delivery, no foreign card required.