Short answers to the questions the download page does not spell out.

Q: Is Minecraft Launcher free?

The installer is free. The games inside still need a license, entitlement, or demo.

Q: Do I need to install Java myself?

Not for default official launcher Java Edition installs. The launcher bundles a runtime.

Q: Can I play Bedrock on Mac or Linux with this launcher?

Not officially. Bedrock on PC is Windows 10/11 only.

Is Minecraft Launcher free?

Yes. The installer is free. Java Edition, Bedrock, Dungeons, and Legends still need a license, Game Pass entitlement, or a demo where Mojang offers one.

Do I need to install Java myself?

Not for the official launcher’s default Java Edition installations. It downloads a runtime. Install a JDK if you run a server or a third-party launcher that asks for one.

Can I play Bedrock on Mac or Linux with this launcher?

Not officially. Those builds launch Java Edition. Bedrock on PC is a Windows 10/11 product.

Does Xbox Game Pass include the launcher games?

Game Pass for PC has included the Java & Bedrock PC bundle at times. Sign in with the subscription account and wait for entitlements. The launcher is still a separate install.

Can I play offline?

After a successful online launch of that edition, yes, the launcher can start the already downloaded game offline. First install and account checks need the network.

Where should I download it?

minecraft.net/en-us/download or the Microsoft Store listing for Minecraft Launcher. See our download map.