Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your Minecraft Name

Changing your Minecraft name in 2025 is easier than ever, but there are still a few important rules you need to follow. Whether you’re trying to rebrand your gaming profile, correct an old username, or just looking for a fresh start, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.
In this article, you’ll learn:
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How to change your Minecraft name on both Java and Bedrock Edition
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Rules and limitations for name changes
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Common mistakes to avoid
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Expert tips and FAQs
Let’s get started!
Why Change Your Minecraft Name?
Your Minecraft name is how the community sees you. Sometimes your current name just doesn’t represent your style anymore. Here are some top reasons players choose to update their name:
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You want to match your YouTube or Twitch branding.
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You’ve outgrown an old or silly name.
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You want a cleaner, more professional gamer tag.
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You need to correct a spelling mistake.
Regardless of the reason, it’s a smart and easy move with the right steps.
Requirements for Minecraft Name Change
Before you make the switch, here’s what you should know:
Requirement | Details |
---|---|
Name Length | 3–16 characters |
Allowed Symbols | Letters, numbers, underscore (_) |
Not Allowed | Spaces, special characters, emojis |
Change Frequency | Once every 30 days (Java) |
Must Be Unique | Yes (can’t match any existing name) |
These apply mainly to Minecraft Java Edition.
How to Change Minecraft Name (Java Edition)
If you’re using Java Edition, follow these simple steps:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Go to the official Minecraft website (dofollow link).
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Log in using your Microsoft account credentials.
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Click on your profile picture > “Profile”.
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Look for the “Change” option next to your current Minecraft name.
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Enter your new name and click “Save”.
You’ll see your new name active almost immediately in-game and on servers.
Note: You must wait 30 days before making another change.
How to Change Minecraft Name (Bedrock Edition)
If you’re on Bedrock Edition (Xbox, Windows 10, Switch, etc.), your name is based on your Gamertag.
Here’s how to change it:
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Go to account.xbox.com (dofollow link).
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Log in with your Microsoft account.
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Click your profile > “Customize Profile”.
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Select “Change Gamertag”.
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Enter your new Gamertag and confirm.
You get one free change. After that, it costs a small fee (varies by region).
Real Example: A Streamer’s Transformation
Anna, a Minecraft streamer, started with the username “GirlBuilder122.” As her audience grew, she rebranded to “CraftQueenAnna.” The result?
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Higher recognition on Twitch and Discord
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Matching usernames across platforms
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More professional appearance
Changing her Minecraft name was a key move in growing her brand.
Pros and Cons of Changing Minecraft Name
Pros:
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Refresh your online identity
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Better branding for creators
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Easy, safe process
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No data loss
Cons:
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30-day wait (Java only)
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Some servers may take time to reflect new name
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Popular names may be unavailable
FAQs About Changing Your Minecraft Name
Q1: Will I lose my worlds or progress after changing my name?
A: No. Minecraft uses a UUID to track progress. Your data is safe.
Q2: How often can I change my Minecraft name?
A: In Java Edition, once every 30 days. No limit for Bedrock (with paid changes).
Q3: What happens to my old name?
A: It becomes available to others after a delay. Anyone can claim it.
Q4: Is changing my name free?
A: Yes for Java. Bedrock gives one free change; future changes cost money.
Q5: Can I revert to my old name?
A: Yes, if it hasn’t been claimed by someone else.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Picking a name with special characters (like @ or !)
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Forgetting to notify server admins after name change (for permissions)
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Using trademarked or offensive words (may get flagged or banned)
Always double-check your spelling and ensure your new name reflects your gaming personality.
What Happens After You Change Your Minecraft Name?
Once your name is changed:
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All your worlds remain the same
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Your friends list stays intact
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Your new name appears on servers
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Some third-party plugins may take time to update your name
How to Pick a Great Minecraft Username
Here are a few pro tips to pick the perfect name:
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Keep it short and easy to type
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Avoid numbers unless meaningful
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Use your real or brand name if possible
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Make sure it’s not already taken
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Check if the name is available on other platforms too
Use NameMC (nofollow) to check availability.
Conclusion: Changing Your Minecraft Name Is a Power Move
Your Minecraft name tells the world who you are. Whether you’re rebranding or simply want a fresh start, learning how to change Minecraft name can level up your entire game experience. And the best part? You can do it in under 5 minutes.
Take control of your Minecraft identity today.