Can You Run Minecraft?
Minimum and recommended PC requirements, side by side, with a free check against your own hardware.
Quick answer
Mojang updated the Minecraft: Java Edition requirements in July 2026. At minimum you need a 64 bit system with a 4 core processor, 8 GB of memory with a dedicated graphics card or 12 GB with integrated graphics, and a Vulkan 1.3 capable GPU with at least 2 GB of video memory. That targets 1080p at 30 fps on the Fast preset. For 1080p at 60 fps on Fancy, Mojang recommends 16 GB of memory and a graphics card with 6 GB of video memory.
Check your own PCMinecraft system requirements
Minimum
Bare minimumThe game launches and runs, usually at low settings
- Operating system
- 64 bit operating system
- Processor
- 4 core processor
- Memory
- 8 GB RAM (12 GB with integrated graphics)
- Graphics
- Vulkan 1.3 capable GPU with at least 2 GB VRAM
- DirectX
- Not listed (Java Edition uses Vulkan)
- Storage
- Not listed by Mojang
Recommended
Smooth playComfortable frame rates at higher settings
- Operating system
- 64 bit operating system
- Processor
- A stronger modern processor (no model named)
- Memory
- 16 GB RAM
- Graphics
- Graphics card with 6 GB VRAM
- DirectX
- Not listed (Java Edition uses Vulkan)
- Storage
- Not listed by Mojang
Mojang rates the minimum spec at 1080p and 30 fps on the Fast preset, and the recommended spec at 1080p and 60 fps on the Fancy preset. Mojang says Java Edition should still launch on weaker hardware, but performance and visuals are no longer guaranteed there. These figures are for Java Edition, not Bedrock Edition.
Source: Minecraft.net: Java Edition system requirements, checked September 30, 2026.
What these numbers mean in practice
Minimum requirements are the floor, not a target. Meeting them means Minecraft will start and remain playable, typically at low settings and often around 30 frames per second. If your hardware only just clears the minimum, expect to lower the resolution before you lower anything else, since resolution costs more performance than almost any other setting.
The graphics card matters more than any other component here. In our scoring the GPU carries 40 percent of the compatibility result, the processor 30 percent, and memory and storage speed 15 percent each. A strong processor cannot rescue a card that falls below the minimum, though a weak processor can hold back a strong card at lower resolutions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I run Minecraft on my PC?
Mojang updated the Minecraft: Java Edition requirements in July 2026. At minimum you need a 64 bit system with a 4 core processor, 8 GB of memory with a dedicated graphics card or 12 GB with integrated graphics, and a Vulkan 1.3 capable GPU with at least 2 GB of video memory. That targets 1080p at 30 fps on the Fast preset. For 1080p at 60 fps on Fancy, Mojang recommends 16 GB of memory and a graphics card with 6 GB of video memory. Enter your own specs in the checker above and you will get a compatibility score with an estimated frame rate rather than a simple yes or no.
What are the minimum requirements for Minecraft?
64 bit operating system, 4 core processor, 8 GB RAM (12 GB with integrated graphics), Vulkan 1.3 capable GPU with at least 2 GB VRAM. Minimum specs mean the game launches and runs, usually at low settings. These figures come from Minecraft.net: Java Edition system requirements.
What are the recommended requirements for Minecraft?
64 bit operating system, A stronger modern processor (no model named), 16 GB RAM, Graphics card with 6 GB VRAM. Recommended specs target a smooth experience at higher settings.
How much storage does Minecraft need?
Mojang Studios does not state an install size for Minecraft. Keep plenty of free space on an SSD and check the size your store or launcher shows before installing.
Does Minecraft run on a laptop?
It can, but compare the actual laptop GPU rather than the desktop card with a similar name. Laptop graphics chips typically run 15 to 30 percent slower than their desktop counterparts because of power and cooling limits, so a laptop card that matches the recommended spec on paper often performs closer to the minimum.