/setblock
Drop a single block at an exact spot - even ones you can't craft.
Overview
What is the /setblock command?
The /setblock command places a single block at exact coordinates, with options to keep, replace or destroy what's already there. It's the precise counterpart to /fill — perfect for one redstone component, a command block, or scripted single-block changes.
It's a building block (literally) of clocks, contraptions and map mechanics that toggle blocks on and off.
When to use it: Use /setblock to place exactly one block at a known position — ideal for redstone, command blocks and scripted toggles.
At a glance
Syntax
/setblock <x> <y> <z> <block>See it
What it does
Anatomy
Every part, explained
- 1
/setblockPlaces one block at a position.
- 2
<x> <y> <z>Where to place it. ~ means 'here'.
- 3
<block>The block id, e.g. stone, chest, command_block.
Your turn
Try it yourself
Copy & paste
Examples
/setblock ~ ~ ~ stoneA stone block at your feet.
/setblock ~ ~1 ~ chestA chest right above you.
/setblock 0 64 0 diamond_blockMark the world origin.
Avoid these
Common mistakes
/setblock stone/setblock ~ ~ ~ stoneCoordinates are required - all three of them.
/setblock ~ ~ ~ stones/setblock ~ ~ ~ stoneBlock ids are singular - 'stone'.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- How do you place a block with a command?
- Run /setblock <x> <y> <z> <block>, e.g. /setblock ~ ~ ~ redstone_block.
- How do you place a block with specific properties?
- Add block states in square brackets, e.g. /setblock ~ ~ ~ oak_stairs[facing=east].
- What's the difference between /setblock and /fill?
- /setblock changes one block; /fill changes an entire cuboid region between two corners.
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