Since their release nearly one decade ago, command blocks are among some of the most widely used blocks for anyone interested in creating minigames, adventure maps and other Redstone contraptions. As the name suggests, command blocks are used to send out commands whenever a Redstone signal activates them. You can also use numerous command blocks at once, allowing you to execute as many commands at once as you’d like. This guide will teach you how to obtain command blocks in Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions.

How to Get a Command Block in Minecraft Java and Bedrock

It is impossible to craft command blocks or obtain them through the Minecraft creative menu. You also cannot get them as a monster drop, treasure chest loot or through natural generation in your world. Instead, you must use a command to receive a command block. There are two possibilities for getting a command block in Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions:

  • /give @s minecraft:command_block or /give (PlayerName) minecraft:command_block  – This command will give you or another player a command block. Using @s will also give you the command block.
  • /setblock ~ ~ ~ minecraft:command_block – This command will place a command block on the space you’re standing on.

Furthermore, there are three different types of command blocks you can obtain in Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions:

  • An Impulse Command Block, which appears as a pale orange block. When you send a Redstone signal into it, the command block executes a single command.
  • A Chain Command Block, which appears as a pale green block. When you send a Redston signal into it, the command block executes a chain of commands simultaneously. This block is often used together with Impulse or Repeating command blocks.
  • A Repeating Command Block, which appears as a purple block. When you send a Redston signal into it, the command block executes a single command repeatedly until you deactivate the redstone signal.

To get one of these three command blocks in Minecraft, give yourself a command block and place it down. From here, interact with the command block to find an interface with a Console Command box and several buttons underneath. Press the leftmost button to cycle between Impulse, Chain and Repeat. After pressing done and exiting the menu, the block will automatically change depending on which command block type you chose.

Minecraft is available on PC, Android, iOS, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation platforms.