Complete reference guide for Minecraft color codes and formatting. Copy codes instantly for chat, signs, books, and server MOTDs.
Master Minecraft text formatting with our comprehensive color codes and format codes reference. Whether you're customizing chat messages, creating colorful signs, writing books, or designing server MOTDs, our interactive tool provides everything you need to make your text stand out.
Minecraft color codes are special character combinations that change the color and formatting of text in-game. These codes work in various contexts including:
Chat/In-Game: §4Red Text
(Section symbol + code)
Alternative: &4Red Text
(Ampersand + code, plugin dependent)
MOTD/Config: \u00A74Red Text
(Unicode escape sequence)
JSON Format: {"text":"Red Text","color":"red"}
Using Minecraft color codes is simple once you understand the basic syntax:
Take your Minecraft text formatting to the next level with these advanced techniques:
Color code support varies across different Minecraft platforms:
Maximize the impact of color codes on your Minecraft server:
In most servers, you can use the ampersand (&) symbol followed by a color code. For example, type "&4Hello" to display "Hello" in red. Note that this depends on server permissions and plugins.
The § (section) symbol is the official Minecraft color code character, while & (ampersand) is commonly used by plugins as an alternative that's easier to type. Many plugins automatically convert & to § when processing text.
Color codes work in single-player for signs, books, and anvil renaming. However, chat color codes typically require server plugins or mods to function properly.
Rainbow text requires cycling through different color codes for each character or word. Many plugins offer automatic rainbow text generation, or you can manually alternate colors like: &4R&6a&ei&an&bb&9o&dw
Bedrock Edition has limited color code support compared to Java Edition. Support varies by platform (Windows 10, mobile, console) and context (chat, signs, etc.).
Modern Minecraft versions (1.16+) support hex colors using the format RRGGBB. However, this requires compatible plugins or mods to work properly in most contexts.
Use the reset code §r or &r to return text formatting to default. This removes all colors and formatting effects applied before the reset code.
Color codes may not work due to: insufficient permissions, server restrictions, incorrect syntax, or platform limitations. Check with your server administrator or plugin documentation for specific requirements.