The best Y levels for finding iron ore in Minecraft Java Edition 1.20 are primarily Y=16 and Y=232.
- Y=16 is considered the safest and most common underground level where iron ore generates, making it a reliable spot for mining iron throughout most biomes.
- Y=232, on the other hand, is found in mountain biomes and is a better spot for iron ore because iron veins generate more abundantly and are easier to spot exposed in the terrain.
In summary:
- For underground mining, Y=16 is ideal.
- For mountain biomes, Y=232 yields more iron ores.
Most players find Y=16 to be the best general level for iron mining due to ease and consistency, while Y=232 is excellent if you are in or near mountain biomes. This is specifically for Minecraft Java Edition 1.20 and reflects the updated ore distribution in this version. Iron ores spawn anywhere between Y=-64 and Y=320, but these two levels, 16 and 232, stand out as the most productive for iron.
