Version Differences

The Java version of Minecraft is the older version of Minecraft. When people talk about Minecraft, you can assume they're referring to the Java version and 90% of the time you'll be correct in your assumption. Java Minecraft is split into its different releases, and each one, as well as custom versions, can be individually installed and launched from the Minecraft launcher. Java features servers such as Hypixel, and generally has higher quality mods made for it, however many aspects of the game are locked to specific versions.

The Bedrock version of Minecraft is a newer version of Minecraft initially made for mobile devices under the name "Pocket Edition". It's still commonly referred to as Minecraft PE today, but Bedrock has been coined as a term that covers this version of the game on all of its supported platforms. Bedrock is notable for its easy-to-use multiplayer and friend features due to Microsoft account integration, as well as its ability to emulate older features on newer versions, ensuring that unless it's an unintentional glitch, nothing on your world will break after an update.

The title screen on Java Edition will display the text "Java Edition" underneath the Minecraft title. There are also different buttons than on Bedrock Edition, with a "Singleplayer" button to access singleplayer worlds, a "Multiplayer" button to access servers, a "Realms" button that no one cares about, and your "Options" and "Quit Game" buttons.

The title screen on Bedrock Edition will simply display "Minecraft" as its title by default. There are also different buttons than on Java Edition, with a simple "Play" button encasing all of your worlds, servers, and current online friends and realms. There's a "Settings" button for all of your adjustment needs, as well as a "Marketplace" button as a hotkey to check out all the generic skins people are somehow paid to keep making.