Updated 24 October 2026. Every answer lists its source.
The small differences between Java and Bedrock
Java and Bedrock look alike but play differently in many small ways. These answers list the differences players notice most. Which edition to buy is on the Java vs Bedrock FAQ.
Do axes do more damage than swords on Java?
Yes. On Java axes hit harder than swords but swing slower, because of the attack cooldown. On Bedrock swords do more damage than axes.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - Combat
Is reach longer on Bedrock?
Yes. Bedrock lets you reach blocks and attack mobs from a little farther away than Java.
Can you hold anything in your off-hand on Bedrock?
No. Java lets you hold any item in the off-hand. Bedrock only allows certain items there, such as shields, totems, arrows, maps and fireworks.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - Off hand
Why is building easier on Bedrock?
Bedrock lets you hold the button to place blocks in a row, and place a block right in front of the one you stand on. That makes bridging much easier than on Java.
Is spectator mode the same on Java and Bedrock?
No. Java spectators can look through a mob's eyes, open inventories and pick a player to watch. On Bedrock you can only fly through blocks; you cannot spectate mobs or players.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - Spectator
Can you eat in Peaceful on Bedrock?
Yes. On Bedrock you can still eat food in Peaceful. On Java your hunger stays full, so you cannot eat most food.
Why does Bedrock have achievements and Java advancements?
The two editions use different systems. Java advancements are kept per world and give experience; Bedrock achievements are tied to your account and give Gamerscore.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - Achievement, Minecraft Wiki - Advancement
Where is chat on Bedrock?
Bedrock shows chat messages at the top-left of the screen, while Java shows them at the bottom-left. On Bedrock, Enter also opens chat.
Does Bedrock have the recipe book?
Yes. Bedrock's recipe book can search any recipe, even ones you have not unlocked yet, and can show recipes you have at least one ingredient for.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - Recipe Book
Does Bedrock have amplified or large biomes worlds?
No. Java has large biomes, single biome, amplified and debug world types, plus custom superflat layers. Bedrock does not.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - World type
Can you play old versions on Bedrock?
No. Java's launcher lets you play older versions and modded versions. Bedrock always runs the newest version for your device.
Source: Minecraft Wiki - Parity issue list, Minecraft Wiki - Minecraft Launcher
Does Bedrock have Featured servers?
Yes. Bedrock's server list has Featured servers that console players can join, which Java does not have.
Does Bedrock have ray tracing?
Yes. Ray tracing and Vibrant Visuals are Bedrock graphics features. Java uses shaders through mods instead.
More questions
Every topic is on the FAQ hub. Questions about the ArtemisPvP server itself (commands, ranks, events) are on the server FAQ. Server IP: play.artemispvp.com.