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Epic Games Launcher vs Minecraft Launcher

Epic Games Launcher

store.epicgames.com

Minecraft Launcher

minecraft.net

Side by side

FigureEpic Games LauncherMinecraft Launcher
Price fromFreeFree
Free planYesYes
Free trial—Yes
Open source——
WindowsYesYes
macOSYesYes
Linux—Yes
iOSYesYes
AndroidYesYes
Plans published11
Spec score · Game Launcher Software8.4 (#6)8.5 (#5)
Spec score · Game launchers8.2 (#19)9.1 (#7)
PurposeThe Epic Games Launcher provides access to install and launch games from the Epic Games Store Library.The Launcher is a PC hub for accessing Minecraft games, downloading game versions, accessing multiplayer servers, managing profiles, and getting mod support.
SupportEpic provides a Player Support portal with self-service account recovery, password help, and two-factor-authentication tools.The Launcher page links to Minecraft Help Center articles for installation, Quick Play, sign-in connection errors, and Launcher crashes.

Plans

Epic Games Launcher

  • Epic Games Launcher / Epic Games StoreFree

Epic Games Launcher pricing →

Minecraft Launcher

  • Minecraft LauncherFree

Minecraft Launcher pricing →

In their own words

Epic Games Launcher

Epic Games Launcher gives users access to install and launch games in an Epic Games Store library. The launcher is free to install, and Epic offers a new free game every Thursday on mobile and PC. The store is available globally on PC and Mac and worldwide on Android; iPhone and iPad access is limited to specified supported regions. Desktop requirements include Windows 10 64-bit or Windows 11, macOS 13.5 or later, an Intel Core i3 or AMD FX processor, 4GB memory, compatible DirectX 9 graphics and 3GB storage. Many games support cloud saves, and signed-in players can continue progress across devices in supported games. Offline Mode works for eligible installed single-player games, though multiplayer, cloud saves, achievements and other online services may not be available. The launcher supports controllers and automatic updates. Epic accounts support authenticator-app, SMS or email two-factor authentication, parental controls and up to 1,000 friends. Mod support is listed as none. Optional in-app purchases are available.

Visit store.epicgames.com

Minecraft Launcher

Minecraft Launcher is a free PC hub for accessing Minecraft games, downloading versions, reaching multiplayer servers, managing profiles, and getting mod support. It brings Java and Bedrock editions together on PC, though the games can also be launched without it. Players can use the latest versions and try snapshots, create one-click Quick Play shortcuts to favorite worlds, manage Java skins, and access account information. Settings include language and accessibility options, and the Launcher also shows Minecraft news and promotions. Installation is available through the Microsoft Store or the Minecraft download page. On Windows, installing from Minecraft.net still requires signing into the Microsoft Store with the account intended for the Launcher. A Microsoft account is required to play all Minecraft versions. The free Java and Bedrock trial includes the core Survival experience and about 100 minutes of in-game play, with duration varying slightly by device. It supports offline play and LAN multiplayer, but online multiplayer servers are disabled. Java Edition cross-play is limited to Windows, Mac, and Linux, while Bedrock supports cross-play across Windows, consoles, and mobile.

Visit minecraft.net