How To Make a Beacon in Minecraft

Beacons in Minecraft have evolved significantly, offering enhanced functionalities and customization options. This guide provides an in-depth look at crafting, building, and maximizing the potential of beacons in the current game version.

🛠️ Crafting a Beacon

Materials Required:

• 1 Nether Star

• 3 Obsidian Blocks

• 5 Glass Blocks(4NetPlayers, Theria Games)

Steps:

1. Obtain a Nether Star:

   • Summon the Wither by placing 4 Soul Sand or Soul Soil blocks in a T-shape and adding 3 Wither Skeleton Skulls on top.

   • Defeat the Wither to receive a Nether Star. Note: Nether Stars have a 10-minute despawn timer, double that of most items.(Theria Games)

2. Craft the Beacon:

   • In a crafting table, place the Nether Star in the center, 3 Obsidian blocks in the bottom row, and 5 Glass blocks in the remaining slots.(Theria Games)

🏗️ Building the Beacon Pyramid

To activate a beacon, it must be placed atop a pyramid constructed from the following mineral blocks:(4NetPlayers)

• Iron

• Gold

• Diamond

• Emerald

• Netherite(Minecraft Wiki)

Pyramid Tiers:

• Tier 1: 3x3 base (9 blocks) – 20-block range

• Tier 2: 5x5 base with a 3x3 top (34 blocks) – 30-block range

• Tier 3: 7x7 base with 5x5 and 3x3 layers above (83 blocks) – 40-block range

• Tier 4: 9x9 base with 7x7, 5x5, and 3x3 layers above (164 blocks) – 50-block range(Sportskeeda, Badlion)

Note: The range extends horizontally; vertical effects are unlimited.(4NetPlayers)

⚡ Beacon Effects

Primary Powers:

• Speed

• Haste

• Resistance

• Jump Boost

• Strength(Minecraft Wiki, 4NetPlayers)

Secondary Powers:

• Regeneration

• Amplification of primary powers (e.g., Speed II, Haste II)(Badlion)

Activation:

• Insert one of the following into the beacon's GUI:

  • Iron Ingot

  • Gold Ingot

  • Diamond

  • Emerald

  • Netherite Ingot(Badlion, Minecraft Wiki, Minecraft Feedback, Sportskeeda)

• Select the desired effect and confirm to activate.

🌈 Customizing Beacon Beams

Beacon beams can be customized using stained glass:(Minecraft Wiki)

• Place stained glass or stained glass panes above the beacon to change the beam's color.

• Stack multiple colors to create gradient effects.(4NetPlayers)

🧱 Beacon Mechanics & Tips

• Transparency: Beacon beams can pass through transparent blocks like glass, slabs, and even bedrock.

• Nether Usage: Beacons function in the Nether. Ensure no blocks obstruct the beam, especially when placing beacons near the bedrock ceiling.

• Simulation Distance: Beacon effects are subject to the game's simulation distance. Ensure your settings accommodate the beacon's range.

• Material Mixing: Different mineral blocks can be mixed within the pyramid without affecting functionality.(Reddit, 4NetPlayers)

🔄 Recent Updates (2025)

• Enhanced Beam Visibility: Beacon beams are now visible up to 2048 blocks away, improving navigation and base visibility.

• User Interface Improvements: The beacon GUI has been updated for better clarity and usability.

• Netherite Integration: Beacons can now be activated using Netherite Ingots, offering more options for players.(Minecraft Wiki)

🎮 Strategic Uses

• Mining: Utilize Haste II to expedite block breaking.

• Combat: Combine Strength and Regeneration for enhanced survivability.

• Mobility: Employ Speed and Jump Boost to navigate terrains swiftly.

• Aesthetic Builds: Use colored beams to mark locations or enhance structures.(4NetPlayers, Sportskeeda)

By understanding and leveraging the full capabilities of beacons, players can significantly enhance their Minecraft experience. Whether for utility or aesthetics, beacons remain a pivotal feature in the game.

Abid Akay

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.