Minecraft Java Edition now recommends 16GB of RAM

July 28, 2026·3 min read

Mojang has officially raised the minimum and recommended PC specifications for Minecraft: Java Edition. The updated requirements took effect on July 21 and set new hardware targets for players using Windows, macOS and Linux.

The new recommended setup includes 16GB of RAM, a modern processor and a graphics card with at least 6GB of VRAM. Mojang says the changes give players a clearer idea of the hardware needed for stable performance as Minecraft continues to grow.

Recommended Specs Target 60 FPS

Alex stands among villagers beside a wooden house in a Minecraft forest village. — Image Credit: Mojang Studios

The recommended requirements are designed for Minecraft running at 1080p and 60 frames per second using the Fancy graphics preset. Players will need Windows 11 64-bit, macOS 14 or a supported 64-bit Linux system.

Suggested processors include the Intel Core i5-12400 and AMD Ryzen 5 5600. The listed graphics cards include the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060, AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT and Intel Arc A580, while Apple users are pointed toward the M2 Pro.

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Minimum Requirements Also Increase

The minimum target is 1080p at 30 FPS using the Fast graphics preset. Mojang now recommends a four-core processor, 8GB of RAM with a dedicated graphics card or 12GB when using integrated graphics.

Minimum CPU examples include the Intel Core i3-10100 and AMD Ryzen 3 3100. Players will also need a Vulkan 1.3-compatible GPU with at least 2GB of VRAM, such as the GTX 950, Radeon RX 460 or Intel Arc A310.

The minimum operating system is now Windows 10 64-bit, Windows on ARM, macOS 12 or a 64-bit Linux distribution. Minecraft Java Edition still requires an internet connection for account setup and downloading game files.

Older Computers Can Still Launch Minecraft

Minecraft players wearing custom skins gather in a colourful multiplayer town square. — Image Credit: Mojang Studios

The higher requirements do not immediately block every older computer. Minecraft may continue to launch on systems below the new minimum, but Mojang will no longer guarantee stable performance or visual quality.

Players using older hardware may face low frame rates, longer loading times or graphical problems. Some systems could also lose support later as Java Edition moves away from its current graphics technology.

Vulkan Is Replacing OpenGL

Minecraft Java Edition is moving from OpenGL to Vulkan as Mojang modernises its renderer. Vulkan is currently available as an experimental option, while OpenGL can still be used if Vulkan does not work.

The move to Vulkan will also help Mojang add Vibrant Visuals to Java Edition. Mojang expects Vulkan to improve its ability to update graphics, increase performance and reduce driver-related problems.

OpenGL will remain available during testing, and players can switch between the two renderers. Mojang will notify the community before OpenGL support is fully removed.

Minecraft: Java Edition

Minecraft focuses on allowing the player to explore, interact with, and modify a dynamically generated map made of one-cubic-meter-sized blocks. In addition to blocks, the environment features plants, mobs, and items. Some activities in the game include mining for ore, fighting h

Released

November 18, 2011

Developer

Mojang Studios

Publisher

Mojang Studios

Systems

Linux

PC (Microsoft Windows)

Mac