Where your Minecraft worlds are saved on Windows depends on the edition. Java Edition worlds are in %APPDATA%\.minecraft\saves. Bedrock Edition (the version from the Microsoft Store or Xbox app) moved its saves in late 2025. On current versions, look in %APPDATA%\Minecraft Bedrock\Users, inside your profile folder under games\com.mojang\minecraftWorlds. Older installs used a folder deep inside %LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages. Paste the path into the File Explorer address bar to jump straight there. Here’s how to find each one, identify which folder is which world, and back them up.
Which edition do you have?
- Java Edition opens from the Minecraft Launcher and says “Java Edition” on the title screen. It supports mods.
- Bedrock Edition is called just “Minecraft” (or “Minecraft for Windows”). It has a Marketplace and cross-play with consoles and phones.
Java Edition world files
- Press Windows + R.
- Type
%APPDATA%\.minecraft\savesand press Enter.
Each folder is one world, named after the world. From inside the game, you can also open Options > Resource Packs > Open Pack Folder, then go up one level to reach the .minecraft folder.
Bedrock Edition world files
Current versions (late 2025 and later)
- Press Windows + R, type
%APPDATA%\Minecraft Bedrock\Usersand press Enter. - Open the folder with the long number (your account). Worlds created while signed out may be in Shared.
- Open games > com.mojang > minecraftWorlds.
Older versions
Before the update, Bedrock stored worlds at %LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages\Microsoft.MinecraftUWP_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalState\games\com.mojang\minecraftWorlds. If you haven’t updated, or the new folder is empty, check there. Updating moves worlds to the new location, but a copy may remain.
Which folder is which world?
Bedrock world folders have random names such as q2k9AFxCAAA=. Open each one and open levelname.txt in Notepad. It contains the world’s name. The world_icon.jpeg file also shows a thumbnail.
Back up or move a world
- Copy the folder: Close Minecraft, then copy the world folder to an external drive or OneDrive. To restore it, paste it back into the same folder.
- Export from Bedrock: In Minecraft, click the pencil icon next to the world, scroll down and choose Export World. This creates a single .mcworld file. Double-click it on any PC with Bedrock to import it.
- Java: Zip the world folder to share it, and unzip it into another player’s saves folder.
Java and Bedrock worlds aren’t directly compatible. Converting between them needs a third-party converter tool.
Can’t see AppData?
The AppData folder is hidden, but typing the path in the address bar always works. To browse to it normally, turn on hidden items in File Explorer. See how to show hidden folders and how to find the AppData folder.
Other editions
- Minecraft Education: Use the in-game export option, or look in the app’s own folder under %LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages (it starts with Microsoft.MinecraftEducationEdition).
- Realms: Realm worlds are stored on Mojang’s servers. Download a copy from the Realm’s settings.
Troubleshooting
My worlds disappeared after an update
Check both Bedrock locations above and the Shared folder. If you play on several Microsoft accounts, check each account’s folder.
Windows says the path doesn’t exist
You may have the other edition, or Minecraft hasn’t been opened yet. Launch the game once, create a world, and try again.
Frequently asked questions
Are Minecraft worlds saved in the cloud?
Not automatically, except Realms. Your worlds live on your PC, so if the drive fails or you reset Windows, they’re gone unless you’ve backed them up. Copying the worlds folder to OneDrive once a week is a simple safety net.
Can I edit world files directly?
Only with care. Editing files while the game is running, or with the wrong tool, can corrupt a world. Always work on a copy.
Is it the same on Windows 11?
Yes. The folders and steps are identical on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Related guides
Summary
- Java:
%APPDATA%\.minecraft\saves. - Bedrock (current):
%APPDATA%\Minecraft Bedrock\Users, then your profile, then games\com.mojang\minecraftWorlds. - Open levelname.txt to identify Bedrock worlds.
- Close the game before copying folders, or use Export World for a single .mcworld file.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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