For those with children who are Minecraft modders and adventure-mode enthusiasts, choosing the correct laptop can be difficult. Minecraft modding and game design require more than just the basic processing speed, memory storage, and software platforms. We at blue{shift} use the 15 inch HP Pavilion laptop in our Minecraft Modding Camps because it has all the power and flexibility needed for coding and modding. However, this does not mean it is your only option!

When playing and modding Minecraft, your child’s computer needs to have certain requirements, so it pays to check these before purchasing their next laptop. Before breaking down the specifics, we just want to clear up some of the terminology you may encounter during your shopping. First, the central processing unit (CPU) is the circuitry and processing component of a laptop, and random access memory (RAM) and hard disk drive (HDD) store data and digital information. In regards to the display, the graphic processing unit (GPU) handles the hard work of delivering the game’s more intense graphics. Lastly, Java is a computer language that assists in Minecraft modifications and programming.

Here are the minimum requirements for a Minecraft laptop:

• CPU: Intel Core i3–3210 3.2 GHz / AMD A8–7600 APU 3.1 GHz or equivalent
• RAM: 2GB
• GPU (Integrated): Intel HD Graphics 4000 (Ivy Bridge) or AMD Radeon R5 series (Kaveri line) with OpenGL 4.4
• GPU (Discrete): Nvidia GeForce 400 series or AMD Radeon HD 7000 with OpenGL 4.4
• HDD: At least 1 GB for Game Core and Other Files
• Java 8

These are the recommended requirements for the best gaming and modding experience:

• CPU: Intel Core i5–4690 3.5GHz / AMD A10–7800 APU 3.5 GHz or equivalent
• RAM: 4GB
• GPU: GeForce 700 Series or AMD Radeon Rx 200 Series (excluding integrated chipsets) with OpenGL 4.5
• HDD: 4GB
• Latest release of Java 8 from java.com

Here’s why Minecraft needs higher specs: it is no ordinary video game. The popular app, which allows users to create brick heroes and construct realms from other worlds, requires more power from the computer than many others you’ll be used to running.

Since the game is highly technical and visual, it requires specific processing, graphic cards, and storage. To make the most out of Minecraft, your kid’s laptop will need the correct hardware and software, like the newest Minecraft Release. If your child is enrolled in our Creative Coding Minecraft camp, visit our website to see what specific apps we recommend to have downloaded before arrival.

Whether your child is building the next architectural monument or smashing invading creepers, the laptop they use is essential for the quality of coding (and creativity!) in Minecraft.

If you have any other questions on purchasing a laptop suitable for Minecraft or software needed, please contact us.