Changing your Minecraft username allows you to refresh your in-game identity, whether you're playing Java Edition or Bedrock Edition. The process varies by edition and platform, as usernames are tied to your Microsoft account (required for all modern Minecraft accounts post-migration). Java Edition uses a specific profile name, while Bedrock Edition uses your Xbox Gamertag. You can typically change it once every 30 days for Java, with similar limits for Gamertags.
Important Notes Before Starting:
- Ensure your Mojang account is fully migrated to a Microsoft account (completed by late 2023).
- Java usernames: 3-16 characters, A-Z (case-insensitive), 0-9, underscores only. Must be unique.
- Bedrock Gamertags: 1-12 characters (including spaces), cannot start with a number. Uniqueness required; additional changes may cost money after free ones.
- Cooldown: 30 days for Java changes. Your old Java name is reserved for 37 days (30-day cooldown + 7-day grace).
- Always log in with the correct Microsoft account.
Changing Your Username in Minecraft: Java Edition
This applies to PC/Mac/Linux players using the Java Edition launcher.
- Open your web browser and go to minecraft.net/en-us/msaprofile.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account linked to Minecraft.
- Scroll to the Minecraft: Java Edition section.
- Click Change Profile Name.
- Enter your desired new username in the field.
- Click Change Your Profile Name to confirm.
Your change takes effect immediately in-game. Launch Minecraft, and your new name will appear. If the name is taken, try variations.
Changing Your Username in Minecraft: Bedrock Edition
Bedrock Edition (Windows 10/11, mobile, consoles) uses your Xbox Gamertag as the in-game name.
Online Method (Recommended for All Platforms)
- Visit xbox.com and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Select My Account or click your profile icon to view your Xbox profile.
- Click the pencil icon next to your current Gamertag.
- Enter a new Gamertag and check availability.
- If available, confirm the change (may incur a fee for non-free changes).
On Xbox Console
- Press the Xbox button on your controller.
- Go to Profile & system → Select your profile.
- Choose My profile → Customize profile.
- Select your Gamertag and edit it.
The update syncs across all Bedrock platforms.
Platform-Specific Changes
| Platform | In-Game Name Source | Steps Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Account Nickname | Home screen → Profile icon → Edit nickname (pencil icon). |
| PlayStation | PSN Online ID (or Gamertag if Microsoft-linked) | Change PSN ID via PlayStation site/account settings. Unlink Microsoft to revert. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- "You can only change every 30 days": Wait out the cooldown. Check exact date on the profile page.
- Name unavailable: Use a name checker like mcchecker.net for Java.
- Wrong account: Sign out/in via Minecraft Launcher → Installations → Switch accounts.
- Changes not showing: Restart the game/launcher, clear cache, or verify files.
- Migration issues: All accounts should be migrated; contact support if not.
Tips for a Great Username
- Keep it short and memorable.
- Avoid numbers if possible for a premium feel.
- Test in single-player to confirm.
- Update skins/capes via the same profile page for a full refresh.