The Best Minecraft Server Hosting in 2024

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Whether you’re crafting a detailed replica of King’s Landing or experiencing survival with Alex’s Mobs, the best Minecraft server hosting ensures quick loading and lag-free performance. Minecraft excels in collaborative builds, PvP battles, and immersive roleplaying, but hosting many players from your own PC is limited, making private servers essential.

The best hosts offer minimal downtime, scalability, customization, robust security, and regular backups. I’ve reviewed the leading Minecraft servers to ensure you get the best in-game experience, so let’s dive in.

The Best Minecraft Server Hosting Tested By Our Experts

Apex Hosting - Best for customizable mod support

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Hostinger - Best value option with high storage capacity

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Shockbyte - Best for unmatched uptime and instant server setup

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ScalaCube - Best scalable Minecraft hosting server

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GGServers - Most budget-friendly Minecraft hosting server

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FalixNodes - Best free Minecraft hosting server

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Nodecraft - Best Minecraft server host for multi-game hosting

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Sparked Host - Best for seamless performance with one-click installs

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The Top 8 Minecraft Server Hosting Ranked

  1. Apex Hosting – Best for customizable mod support
  2. Hostinger – Best value option with high storage capacity
  3. ShockbyteBest Minecraft Server Hosting for its unmatched uptime and instant server setup
  4. ScalaCubeBest scalable Minecraft hosting server
  5. GGServers – Best budget-friendly Minecraft hosting server
  6. FalixNodes – Best free Minecraft hosting server
  7. NodeCraft – Best for multi-game hosting
  8. Sparked Host – Best for seamless performance with one-click modpack installs

The Best Minecraft Server Hosting Reviewed

When evaluating Minecraft server hosts, I started by spinning up a standard Minecraft server on each hosting platform, then looking at metrics like CPU and RAM usage, TPS (ticks per second), and response times.

I also looked at any standout features, contract lengths, cancellation policies, and money-back guarantees. Finally, I analyzed each provider’s available support options and then contacted them to see their service in action.

1. Apex – Best Minecraft Server Hosting For Customizable Mod Support

Starting Price $5.99/month
Free Version/Trial
Key Features
  • One-click mod pack installer
  • FTP and MySQL database access
  • Automatic mod updates
Storage & RAM 32GB RAM / Storage not disclosed (Maximum)
Uptime Guarantee 99.99%
Server Locations United States, Quebec, Brazil, United Kingdom, Israel, Singapore, Australia, Turkey, Japan, India, Netherlands
Why We Picked It

Apex Hosting is my hosting provider of choice for running modded servers. With over 2,000 modpacks pre-installed, Apex makes it incredibly easy to customize your Minecraft server experience without the hassle of manual setup.

Features

Apex Hosting offers features tailored to hosting custom Minecraft servers. Its proprietary one-click mod installer provides access to over 2,000 mod packs from creators like Feed The Beast, Technic, and ATL.

Apex also supports all standard Minecraft server versions and types, including Java and Bedrock Editions, Forge, Fabric, and Spigot. Its servers boast industry-leading hardware with NVMe SSDs for lightning-fast performance.

Plus, you get full FTP and MySQL database access for ultimate control.

Pricing Plans

Apex Hosting’s plans are competitively priced. While slightly pricier than some budget hosts, they justify their rates with their customizability, mod support, and premium hardware.

Apex Minecraft Hosting Plans Monthly Quarterly
Basic Servers and Some Modpacks – 2GB – 4GB RAM $7.99 – $14.99 $7.20 – $13.49
Basic Servers and Most Modpacks – 5GB – 10GB RAM $18.75 – $35.00 $16.88 – $31.50
Advanced Servers and Most Modpacks – 12GB – 32 GB RAM $38.99 – $103.99 $35.09 – $93.59
  • Basic Servers and Some Modpacks: Offers access to 2-4GB of RAM, basic servers, and a few mod packs. It’s the minimum recommended plan for hosting Minecraft: Java Edition.
  • Basic Servers and Most Modpacks: Offers access to more modpacks, with options to choose between 5 or 6GB of RAM.
  • Advanced Servers and Most Modpacks: Gives you access to advanced servers, all modpacks, and anywhere from 8GB to 32GB of RAM.

    All packages come with a 7-day money-back guarantee, the ability to add unlimited players, a dedicated IP, and a free MySQL database.

    Who It's Best for

    Apex Hosting is the top choice for players who want to run heavily modded gaming servers for Minecraft. It’s perfect for those who frequently switch between modpacks or need to install custom mods, thanks to its one-click installer with FTP and MySQL access. However, if you’re just looking to host a Vanilla server, Apex may be overkill.

    Pros pros

    • Extensive library of one-click modpack installers
    • Supports uploading custom mods via FTP
    • Support team experienced with modded servers
    • Automatic backups to protect server data
    • DDoS protection to defend against attacks

    Cons cons

    • Pricier than budget Minecraft hosting providers
    • Mod compatibility not guaranteed
    • Limited server locations compared to others
    Apex Hosting

    2. Hostinger: Best Value With High Storage Capacity

    Starting Price $4.99/month
    Free Version/Trial
    Key Features
    • Affordable plans
    • Ample availability of fast storage
    • Full root access for modders
    Storage & RAM 32GB RAM / 400 GB storage (Maximum)
    Uptime Guarantee 99.90%
    Server Locations North America, South America, Europe, Asia
    Why We Picked It

    Hostinger stood out to me for its affordable hosting plans that don’t skimp on storage capacity. Even its lowest-tier plan offers a generous 50GB of NVMe SSD storage, ensuring your world loads quickly and runs smoothly.

    Features

    Despite its affordability, Hostinger’s plans are packed with features to enhance your Minecraft gaming experience. All plans include full root access, allowing you to customize your server configuration and install any mods or plugins you desire.

    Automatic backups protect your world from data loss, while built-in brute-force protection keeps your server safe from attacks. I also found the user-friendly game panel really useful for server management and one-click server setup.

    Pricing Plans

    Hostinger’s plans offer excellent value, with the lowest-tier Minecraft plan.

    Hostinger Minecraft Hosting Plans Monthly Annually 2 Years
    Game Panel 1 $13.99 $9.99/month $8.99/month
    Game Panel 2 $19.99 $15.99/month $14.99/month
    Game Panel 4 $39.99 $29.99/month $26.99/month
    Game Panel 8 $99.99 $49.99/month $44.99/month
    • Game Panel 1: Offers 4GB RAM, 1 vCPU core, and 50GB NVMe disk space.
    • Game Panel 2: 8GB RAM, 2 vCPU cores, and 100GB NVMe disk space.
    • Game Panel 4: Mid-tier plan with 16GB RAM, 4vCPU cores, and 200GB NVMe disk space.
    • Game Panel 8: 32GB RAM, 8 vCPU cores, and 400GB NVMe storage.

          Hostinger’s higher-tier plans offer more RAM and CPU cores to accommodate larger player counts and more complex modpacks, but all of them offer full root access and off-site server backups.

          There’s no free trial, but Hostinger offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

          Who It's Best for

          Hostinger is an excellent choice for Minecraft players on a budget who still want a feature-rich hosting experience. The generous storage allocations are perfect for those who want to build expansive worlds without worrying about running out of space.

          However, if you need a server that can handle hundreds of simultaneous players, you may want to look at a higher-end provider like Apex Hosting.

          Pros pros

          • Affordable plans starting at just $4.99/month
          • Generous NVMe SSD storage
          • Full root access for server customization
          • Easy one-click Minecraft setup process
          • Game panel for server management

          Cons cons

          • Not as customizable as some competitors
          • Pricier for shorter terms
          • No free trial period

          3. Shockbyte: Best for Unmatched Uptime and Instant Server Setup

          Shockbyte Logo

          Starting Price $2.99/month
          Free Version/Trial
          Key Features
          • 100% uptime guarantee
          • One-click server installation
          • Plugin manager for mod packs
          Storage & RAM 16GB RAM / Unlimited storage (Maximum)
          Uptime Guarantee 100%
          Server Locations North America, Europe, Asia, Australia
          Why We Picked It

          Shockbyte stands out for its exceptional uptime record and lightning-fast setup process. With a 100% uptime guarantee backed by their SLA, I can trust that my server will be online and accessible 24/7.

          I also love that Shockbyte supports one-click installation for every type of Minecraft server, from Spigot and CraftBukkit to Forge and Vanilla, with a dedicated plugin manager for custom mod packs.

          Features

          With over 13 years of experience hosting gaming servers, Shockbyte offers lots of features to enhance your Minecraft experience. Its servers guarantee 100% uptime for all Minecraft versions and editions, including Java and Bedrock, with automatic updates.

          One-click installation is available for popular server types like Spigot, CraftBukkit, Forge, and Vanilla, as well as modpacks from CurseForge, Feed The Beast, and ATLauncher. Shockbyte has also introduced a brand-new control panel that I really liked, as it’s clean, modern, and intuitive.

          Pricing Plans

          Shockbyte has a wide variety of plans catering specifically to vanilla, modded, and community servers for Minecraft.

          Shockbyte Minecraft Hosting Plans Monthly Quarterly Semi-Annually Annually
          Vanilla – 1GB – 4GB RAM $2.99 – $11.99 $8.08 – $32.38 $14.36 – $57.56 $26.96 – $107.93
          Modpack – 6GB – 9GB RAM $17.99 – $26.99 $48.58 – $72.88 $86.36 – $129.56 $161.93 – $242.93
          Community – 10GB – 16GB RAM $29.99 – $47.99 $80.98 – $129.58 $143.96 – $129.58 $269.93 – $431.93
          • Vanilla Servers: These plans are suitable for small groups running a Minecraft server with no more than a few plugins. They are available in variants of 1-4GB of RAM. You also get automatic backups, real-time console management, and one-click server installation.
          • Modpack Servers: These plans are suitable for servers running mod packs with significant customization. They are available in variants of 6-9GB of RAM. Plus, you get a mod pack installer, task scheduling, and all the other features from the vanilla plan.
          • Community Servers: These plans are suitable for large servers with many players and extensive modding. They are available in variants of 10-16GB of RAM. You also get DDoS protection, community management tools, and all the features of the Modpack and Vanilla plans.

              Shockbyte offers a generous discount on the first month when you purchase a new plan. You can also get considerable discounts in exchange for a long-term commitment, with 10% off on the Quarterly plan and 25% off on the Annual plan.

              Who It's Best for

              Shockbyte is the only provider on this list with a 100% uptime guarantee, making it perfect for large-scale community servers that require accessibility around the clock. The one-click installation also lets you set up custom configurations with massive modpacks in the blink of an eye.

              That said, I’d appreciate seeing more storage capacity in its higher-tier community plans.

              Pros pros

              • 100% uptime guarantee
              • Instant setup with one-click modpack installation
              • Supports all Minecraft versions and editions
              • User-friendly control panel

              Cons cons

              • Slow customer support response times
              • RAM capacity capped at 16GB
              • Server lag during peak hours
              • Limited server locations

              4. ScalaCube: Best Scalable Minecraft Server Host

              ScalaCube Logo

              Starting Price $2.00/month
              Free Version/Trial
              Key Features
              • Scalable pricing structure
              • Diverse server locations
              • Automated server backups
              Storage & RAM 32GB RAM / 320 GB storage (Maximum)
              Uptime Guarantee 99.90%
              Server Locations Canada, France, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, United States, Germany, Poland, India
              Why We Picked It

              ScalaCube is the most scalable Minecraft server host that I’ve reviewed, offering unparalleled flexibility to grow your server as your player base expands. With their easy plan upgrades and robust infrastructure, I can scale from a small private server to a massive multiplayer world without any hassle.

              Features

              ScalaCube is a great choice for hosting growing Minecraft servers. Its one-click installer supports over 1000 unique modpacks, making it easy to launch a customized server in minutes. With full FTP access and MySQL support, you have complete control over your server configuration.

              ScalaCube’s servers are also protected by advanced DDoS protection to ensure optimal uptime, with automated backups to safeguard your world from data loss.

              Pricing Plans

              ScalaCube’s pricing plans are designed to accommodate Minecraft servers of all sizes. As your player base grows, you can easily upgrade to more RAM, CPU power, and SSD storage.

              ScalaCube Minecraft Hosting Plans ScalaCube Pricing (Monthly)
              Proxy 768M $4
              Minecraft 1.5G $10
              Minecraft 3G $20
              Minecraft 4.5G $26
              Minecraft 6G $36
              Minecraft 8G $48
              Minecraft 12G $72
              Minecraft 16G $96
              Minecraft 32G $192
              • Proxy 768M: Offers 768MB RAM, 2×3.4 GHz CPU, 10GB SSD storage. Supports up to 10 player slots.
              • Minecraft 1.5G: Offers 1.5GB RAM, 2×3.4 GHz CPU, 15GB SSD storage. Supports up to 20 player slots.
              • Minecraft 3G: Offers 3GB RAM, 4×3.4 GHz CPU, 30GB SSD storage. Supports up to 40 player slots.
              • Minecraft 4.5G: Offers 4.5GB RAM, 4×3.4 GHz CPU, 45GB SSD storage. Supports up to 70 player slots.
              • Minecraft 6G: Offers 6GB RAM, 6×3.4 GHz CPU, 60GB SSD storage. Supports up to 100 player slots.
              • Minecraft 8G: Offers 8GB RAM, 6×3.4 GHz CPU, 80GB SSD storage. Supports up to 150 player slots.
              • Minecraft 12G: Offers 12GB RAM, 8×3.4 GHz CPU, 120GB SSD storage. Supports up to 225 player slots.
              • Minecraft 16G: Offers 16GB RAM, 8×3.4 GHz CPU, 160GB SSD storage. Supports up to 300 player slots.
              • Minecraft 32G: Offers 32GB RAM, 8×3.4 GHz CPU, 320GB SSD storage. Supports up to 600 player slots.

                              All ScalaCube plans allow for unlimited server slots on a single VPS. New plan purchases receive a 50% discount for the first month, but there is no free trial.

                              Who It's Best for

                              ScalaCube is the ideal choice for Minecraft server owners who anticipate growth and want a hosting partner that can keep up. Whether you’re starting a new server or have an existing community ready to expand, ScalaCube makes scaling your server a breeze.

                              Pros pros

                              • Scalable pricing structure
                              • 1000+ modpacks with one-click setup
                              • DDoS protection for optimal server uptime
                              • Automated backups to protect server data

                              Cons cons

                              • Expensive higher-end plans compared to others
                              • Lacks some advanced features
                              • No phone support

                              5. GGServers: Most Budget-friendly Minecraft Server Host

                              Starting Price $3/month
                              Free Version/Trial
                              Key Features
                              • Affordable plans with unlimited storage
                              • Nine different server locations
                              • DDoS protection for enhanced security
                              Storage & RAM 32GB RAM / Unlimited storage (Maximum)
                              Uptime Guarantee 99.90%
                              Server Locations United States, Canada, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore
                              Why We Picked It

                              GGServers is possibly the most budget-friendly Minecraft server host I have encountered, making it easy for anyone to launch their own server without breaking the bank. Despite its low prices, GGServers doesn’t skimp on quality, providing fast RAID/NVMe SSD storage, DDoS protection, and instant setup on all plans.

                              Features

                              GGServers offers an impressive array of features, even on their most affordable plans. All servers come equipped with advanced DDoS protection and unmetered SSD storage.

                              Its included Multicraft control panel makes server management a breeze, with an intuitive interface for tasks like managing files, installing mods, and accessing the console. GGServers also offers free .gg subdomains and several player slots on all plans.

                              Pricing Plans

                              GGServers’ pricing is where this host really shines. All plans come with a 3.2-4 GHz CPU, DDR4 2133 MHz RAM, and SOFT RAID 1 (400 MB/s r/w) SSDs.

                              GGServers Minecraft Hosting Plans GG Servers Pricing (Monthly)
                              Standard Premium
                              Stone – 1GB $3 $6
                              Coal – 2GB $6 $12
                              Iron – 3GB $9 $18
                              Gold – 4GB $12 $24
                              Lapis – 5GB $15 $30
                              Redstone – 6GB $18 $36
                              Diamond – 8GB $24 $48
                              Emerald – 12GB $36 $72
                              Amethyst – 16GB $48 $86
                              Beacon – 32GB $96 $192
                              • Stone – 1GB: 12 player slots, 1GB RAM
                              • Coal – 2GB: 24 player slots, 2GB RAM
                              • Iron – 3GB: 36 player slots, 3GB RAM
                              • Gold – 4GB: 48 player slots, 4GB RAM
                              • Lapis – 5GB: 60 player slots, 5GB RAM
                              • Redstone – 6GB: 72 player slots, 6GB RAM
                              • Diamond – 8GB: 96 player slots, 8GB RAM
                              • Emerald – 12GB: 144 player slots, 13GB RAM
                              • Amethyst – 16GB: Unlimited player slots, 16GB RAM
                              • Beacon – 32GB: Unlimited player slots, 32GB RAM

                                                All GGServers plans include DDoS protection and unmetered storage. You can also upgrade to more premium hardware by paying twice the price for each plan to access a 4.4-5 GHz CPU, DDR4 2400 MHz RAM, and NVMe (2500+ MB/s r/w) SSDs.

                                                Who It's Best for

                                                GGServers is perfect for budget-conscious Minecraft players who still want a reliable hosting provider. It’s great for small to medium-sized communities, as even the cheapest plans can comfortably support dozens of simultaneous players.

                                                Pros pros

                                                • Extremely affordable pricing
                                                • Unmetered storage across all plans
                                                • Easy-to-use Multicraft control panel
                                                • Instant one-click setup
                                                • 9 server locations

                                                Cons cons

                                                • No dedicated IP
                                                • No free trial
                                                • Limited hardware capability, even on premium plans
                                                • NVMe storage only available for premium users

                                                6. Falix: Best Free Minecraft Server Hosting

                                                Starting Price $6.50/month
                                                Free Version/Trial
                                                Key Features
                                                • Free plan for up to 3 servers
                                                • FTP access and MySQL database
                                                • Unlimited player slots
                                                Storage & RAM 20GB RAM / Unlimited storage (Maximum)
                                                Uptime Guarantee 99.90%
                                                Server Locations North America, Europe, Asia
                                                Why We Picked It

                                                I picked Falix because it has the most generous free plan among any Minecraft hosting provider. I can create up to three Minecraft servers for free, each with impressive starting specs like 5.5GB RAM and 15GB storage.

                                                Features

                                                Falix’s free Minecraft hosting plan is packed with features. I get full FTP access to upload and manage server files, plus the ability to install unlimited mods and plugins to customize my world.

                                                Falix also provides a free MySQL database for each server, so you can manage plugins with ease. With support for all Minecraft versions, multi-user account management, and a user-friendly control panel, Falix is a great starting point for any new Minecraft community.

                                                Pricing Plans

                                                Falix’s free server hosting for Minecraft is truly free — no catch, no hidden fees, no trial period. You can host up to three Minecraft servers with 5.5GB RAM, 15GB storage, and unlimited player slots at no cost. One minor drawback is that your server won’t be online 24/7 unless you have active players.

                                                Falix Minecraft Hosting Plans Monthly Quarterly Annually
                                                Economical $6.50 $5.85/month $5.53/month
                                                Basic $8.70 $7.83/month $7.40/month
                                                Starter $13.03 $11.73/month $11.08/month
                                                Advancer $17.37 $15.63/month $14.76/month
                                                Professional $26.06 $23.45/month $22.15/month
                                                Power $34.75 $31.28/month $29.54/month
                                                • Economical: This is an entry-level plan offering 3 server slots, 2 CPU threads at 5.60 GHz, 3.5GB RAM, and 50 GB NVMe storage for $6.50/month.
                                                • Basic: This is a slightly upgraded plan for lightly modded servers, offering unlimited server slots, unlimited storage, 3 CPU threads at 5.60 GHz, and 5GB RAM.
                                                • Starter: For servers using modpacks, this mid-tier plan offers a beefier 7.5GB RAM option. Everything else is the same as the Basic plan.
                                                • Advancer: Recommended for community servers running multiple modpacks with a large player count, this plan offers 4 CPU threads and 10GB RAM.
                                                • Professional: For public Minecraft servers, this plan offers 5 CPU threads and 15 GB RAM, so you can support a massive player count even with multiple modpacks.
                                                • Power: This is a flagship plan offering 6 CPU threads and 20GB RAM, recommended for server networks that host multiple-player worlds.
                                                        Who It's Best for

                                                        Falix is perfect for Minecraft players who want a feature-rich starting server without paying a dime, with options to scale up as your community grows.

                                                        While the free plan is the main attraction, Falix’s premium plans are nothing to scoff at either, with incredible value given the amount of resources they offer for your money.

                                                        Pros pros

                                                        • 3 free Minecraft servers per account
                                                        • 5.5GB RAM and 15GB storage per free server
                                                        • FTP access and MySQL database for free
                                                        • Supports unlimited mods and plugins
                                                        • No player slot restrictions on free plan

                                                        Cons cons

                                                        • Servers go offline when not in use
                                                        • Free plan displays ads
                                                        • No dedicated IP for free user
                                                        FalixNodes

                                                        7. Nodecraft: Best For Multi-Game Hosting

                                                        Starting Price $9.98/month
                                                        Free Version/Trial
                                                        Key Features
                                                        • Free plan for up to 3 servers
                                                        • FTP access and MySQL database
                                                        • Unlimited player slots
                                                        Storage & RAM 32GB RAM / 140GB storage (Maximum)
                                                        Uptime Guarantee 99.90%
                                                        Server Locations United States, Brazil, Spain, United Kingdom, France, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia, Romania, Israel, Singapore, Australia, Japan, New Zealand
                                                        Why We Picked It

                                                        Nodecraft is the best Minecraft server host to also offer multi-game hosting support for games like Valheim, Enshrouded, Palworld, 7 Days to Die, Garry’s Mod, Rust, Factorio, and more.

                                                        With the intuitive Game Swapping feature, I can save my Minecraft progress to the cloud and instantly spin up a server for ARK: Survival Evolved — all under a single plan. Nodecraft currently supports 31+ multiplayer game titles, including Minecraft, with more added regularly.

                                                        Features

                                                        Nodecraft’s custom control panel, Nodecraft Pro, streamlines server setup and management with one-click modpack installs, plugin support, and configuration editing.

                                                        I was pleasantly surprised to see advanced capabilities like split-screen file management, a live-streamed console, and player management features built-in. No matter which plan you’re on, you also get full FTP and MySQL database access. You also get free DNS, DDoS protection, and automatic backups

                                                        Pricing Plans

                                                        Nodecraft’s pricing is structured differently than other Minecraft hosts due to their unique multi-game hosting model. Rather than paying for a specific game server, you’ll purchase a VPS plan with a set amount of RAM, CPU power, and storage. There’s also a 24-hour free trial available to all new users.

                                                        Nodecraft Minecraft Hosting Plans Monthly
                                                        Nano $9.98
                                                        Keelo $19.98
                                                        Megs $29.98
                                                        Omega $39.98 – $189.98
                                                        • Nano: Entry-level plan with unlimited player slots, one-click modpack installation, and a free dedicated IP. You get access to 5 save-and-swap servers, 2GB RAM, and 10GB storage space.
                                                        • Keelo is a mid-tier plan offering access to 10 servers, 4GB RAM, and 20GB storage space. Everything else is the same as the Nano plan.
                                                        • Megs: 15 save-and-swap servers, 6GB RAM, and 30GB storage space packaged into an upper-mid-tier plan, plus all the features of the Nano and Keelo plans.
                                                        • Omega: Flagship plan offering 20 servers, plus varying options for RAM, storage, and backup space. Priced between $39.98/month to $189.98/month, depending on what you choose.
                                                        Who It's Best for

                                                        Nodecraft is the perfect hosting provider for multi-game player communities that appreciate the ability to switch between different titles without losing progress.

                                                        You get unparalleled flexibility that I haven’t found in any other Minecraft host, along with VPS hosting and Nodecraft’s state-of-the-art control panel. However, VPS hosting does raise the prices considerably in exchange for better performance in-game.

                                                        Pros pros

                                                        • Easily switch between 31+ game titles
                                                        • Automatic backups
                                                        • Nodecraft Pro control panel for simplified management
                                                        • VPS hosting
                                                        • Free DNS, dedicated IP, and DDoS protection

                                                        Cons cons

                                                        • Pricier than shared Minecraft server hosting
                                                        • Free trial only 24 hours
                                                        • Limited server locations
                                                        • Not all games are available on all plans

                                                        8. Sparked Host: For One-Click Modpack Installs

                                                        Starting Price $1.80 (Quarterly)
                                                        Free Version/Trial
                                                        Key Features
                                                        • One-click modpack installation
                                                        • User-friendly server management tools
                                                        • Server Importer and Reverse Proxy functionality
                                                        Storage & RAM 32GB RAM / 250GB storage (Maximum)
                                                        Uptime Guarantee 99.90%
                                                        Server Locations United States, Germany, Australia, Singapore
                                                        Why We Picked It

                                                        Sparked is a great Minecraft host for new players who want a hassle-free setup experience. Its proprietary Apollo control panel streamlines setup, allowing me to install popular modpacks like Feed The Beast, Technic, and ATLauncher — with a single click.

                                                        During my trial run, I also had access to powerful hardware options and optimized server configurations, which reduced the need for troubleshooting.

                                                        Features

                                                        Sparked has plenty of features that streamline hosting for modded Minecraft servers. Its one-click modpack installer supports over 100 popular modpacks, with new packs added regularly.

                                                        Sparked’s proprietary control panel, Apollo, provides an intuitive interface for managing your server, with tools for file management, plugin installation, server splitting, and more. You also get a unique Server Importer to easily transfer existing servers and a Reverse Proxy to protect your server from attacks.

                                                        Pricing Plans

                                                        Sparked’s pricing plans offer excellent value for modded Minecraft servers. All plans include DDoS protection, 24/7 uptime, and Sparked’s user-friendly Apollo control panel.

                                                        Sparked Minecraft Hosting Plans Pricing (Monthly except where indicated)
                                                        Budget Enterprise Extreme Extreme+
                                                        Asteroid $1.80/quarter $1.50 $4
                                                        Pluto $2.94/quarter $2.20 $8
                                                        Triton $2 $4.40 $12
                                                        Moon $3 $6.60 $16
                                                        Mercury $4 $8.80 $20
                                                        Mars $5 $11 $24
                                                        Venus $6 $13.20 $28
                                                        Earth $7 $15.40 $32
                                                        Neptune $8 $17.60 $36 $36
                                                        Saturn $9 $19.80 $40 $45
                                                        Jupiter $10 $22 $48 $54
                                                        Sun $12 $26.40 $64 $78
                                                        Milky Way $16 $35.20 $75 $96
                                                        Supernova $18 $44 $90 $128
                                                        Black Hole $22 $56 $110 $144
                                                        • Budget: Entry-level plans offering a Dual Xeon E5-2698v4 equivalent processor, 2133 MHz DDR4 RAM, and a RAID 10 SSD. This plan has varying options ranging from 512MB RAM to 22GB RAM.
                                                        • Enterprise: Designed for business-grade servers, these plans offer an AMD Ryzen 5 7600 processor, 4800 MHz DDR5 RAM, and a RAID 1 NVMe SSD.
                                                        • Extreme: For those looking for top-of-the-line shared hosting Minecraft servers, these plans come with an AMD Ryzen 7 7700 equivalent processor, 3 backup slots, and a dedicated IP for an additional $4/month.
                                                        • Extreme+: These plans offer an upgraded version of the Extreme packages with a Ryzen 7900X processor, 7 backup slots per server, a free dedicated IP, and a server splitter tool.

                                                              While Sparked Host’s sheer number of plans available can be overwhelming, I still welcomed the option to customize my server experience.

                                                              Who It's Best for

                                                              Sparked is the perfect choice for Minecraft players who want to host heavily modded servers with minimal hassle. A one-click modpack installer, combined with a dedicated control panel for server management, makes it incredibly easy to get started.

                                                              However, if you’re hosting a vanilla server or don’t mind handling the initial setup yourself, you may find better value with a more basic provider.

                                                              Pros pros

                                                              • One-click installer for 100+ modpacks
                                                              • Apollo control panel for server management
                                                              • Server Importer and Reverse Proxy features
                                                              • Unlimited player slots on all plans
                                                              • Optimized configurations designed for modding

                                                              Cons cons

                                                              • Overkill for simple vanilla Minecraft servers
                                                              • No dedicated IP on entry-level servers
                                                              • Limited server locations
                                                              Sparked Host

                                                              The Best Minecraft Server Hosting – Compared

                                                              Looking for a bird’s eye view of how each Minecraft hosting provider stacks up against its competitors? Here are the 8 best server hosts for Minecraft — compared.

                                                              Provider Name Key Features Starting Price  Uptime RAM Storage
                                                              Apex
                                                              • One-click mod pack installer
                                                              • FTP and MySQL database access
                                                              • Automatic mod updates
                                                              $5.99/month 99.99% 32GB Not disclosed
                                                              Hostinger
                                                              • Affordable plans
                                                              • Ample availability of fast storage
                                                              • Full root access for modders
                                                              $4.99/month 99.90% 32GB 400GB
                                                              Shockbyte
                                                              • 100% uptime guarantee
                                                              • One-click server installation
                                                              • Plugin manager for mod packs
                                                              $2.99/month 100% 16GB Unlimited
                                                              ScalaCube
                                                              • Scalable pricing structure
                                                              • Diverse server locations
                                                              • Automated server backups
                                                              $2.00/month 99.90% 32GB 320GB
                                                              GGServers
                                                              • Affordable plans with unlimited storage
                                                              • 9 different server locations
                                                              • DDoS protection for enhanced security
                                                              $3.00/month 99.90% 32GB Unlimited
                                                              Falix
                                                              • Free plan for up to 3 servers
                                                              • FTP access and MySQL database
                                                              • Unlimited player slots
                                                              $6.50/month 99.90% 20GB Unlimited
                                                              Nodecraft
                                                              • Free plan for up to 3 servers
                                                              • FTP access and MySQL database
                                                              • Unlimited player slots
                                                              $9.98/month 99.90% 32GB 140GB
                                                              Sparked
                                                              • One-click modpack installation
                                                              • User-friendly server management tools
                                                              • Server Importer and Reverse Proxy functionality
                                                              $1.80/quarterly 99.90% 32GB 250GB
                                                              Methodology

                                                              How We Review And Test Hosting Providers

                                                              15 Providers Tested

                                                              20 Data Points Measured

                                                              300+ Hours Testing

                                                              500+ User Reviews Read

                                                              To be able to offer our readers factual information and only the best web hosting solutions, we evaluate and test the most popular hosts in the market. Here are the main factors we focus on:

                                                              • Features: We ensure the provider includes basic features like a custom domain, an SSL, generous storage and bandwidth, and email accounts, as well as advanced tools like domain protection, staging, automated backups, and more.
                                                              • Ease of use: It’s important that, regardless of their experience managing a site, all users can quickly and easily navigate the hosting provider’s dashboard. All providers on our list either offer an easy-to-navigate custom panel or a widely used cPanel.
                                                              • Performance: We ensure the provider offers at least a 99.9% uptime guarantee and uses up-to-date and functional servers. We test this by setting up a site with each provider, testing site loading speed and traffic handling capabilities, and monitoring the uptime.
                                                              • Customer Support: We ensure that users can reach customer support 24/7 via various support channels. We also contact them to test whether the support agents are knowledgeable and efficient.
                                                              • Value for Money: We evaluate the features within the package and the price point it retails for. We only recommend plans that offer the best value for money.

                                                              What Is Minecraft Server Hosting?

                                                              Minecraft Server Hosting is a specialized web hosting service that allows users to host and manage their own Minecraft servers. With it, you have full control over the server’s settings, plugins, and rules, enabling you to customize your gameplay experience.

                                                              Free Vs. Paid Minecraft Server Hosting – Which Is Better?

                                                              While it is technically possible to host a Minecraft server for free with providers like Falix, it comes with several challenges and limitations. For example, Falix’s free plan lets you host no more than 3 servers with 5.5GB RAM and 15GB storage space.

                                                              On the other hand, paid hosting providers offer more well-performing servers with ample RAM, CPU power, and SSD storage. Many of them also offer 24/7 premium support for when your server runs into any issues. This helps you simplify troubleshooting and avoid downtime.

                                                              What Is the Best Free Minecraft Server Hosting?

                                                              Of all the Minecraft hosting providers we’ve reviewed, Falix has the most generous free plan. It comes with no strings attached — with unlimited player slots and no time restrictions. However, the free plan is still limited. It lets you host up to 3 servers with 5.5GB RAM and 15GB storage for each. 

                                                              Also, the server goes offline whenever there are no active players. This may not be an issue for smaller communities, but larger ones may experience issues with the time it takes to load the server again.

                                                              How Much RAM Do I Need for a Minecraft Server?

                                                              The amount of RAM your Minecraft server needs depends on several factors, such as the number of players, world size, and the number of plugins or mods installed. Here are some general guidelines from MC Utils:

                                                              • For a small server (up to 10 players) with a basic world and few plugins/mods, 2-4GB of RAM is recommended.
                                                              • For a medium-sized server (up to 30 players) with a larger world and more plugins/mods, 4-6GB of RAM is ideal.
                                                              • For a large server (50+ players) with an expansive world and numerous plugins/mods, 8GB or more of RAM may be necessary.

                                                              Keep in mind that these are general recommendations, and it’s always better to have slightly more RAM than you think you need for a lag-free experience.

                                                              How to Choose the Best Hosting Provider for Minecraft?

                                                              Minecraft servers have very different requirements from what typical web hosts offer, making it more challenging to find the right provider to settle on. If you’re on the hunt for a Minecraft host, here are a few specific things to look out for when making your decision:

                                                              Price & Value for MoneyEase of UsePerformance (RAM & CPU)Uptime & ReliabilityCustomer SupportScalability

                                                              While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest Minecraft hosting option, you should also consider value. Avoid hosts with hidden fees or steep charges for basic features.

                                                              Look for detailed information on your server’s hardware configuration to determine if it offers the best possible value. Also, consider the level of handholding you need during the setup process, which can significantly impact the price.

                                                              Setting up and managing a Minecraft server can be complex, especially for beginners. Choose a host that offers a user-friendly control panel and streamlined setup process.

                                                              One-click installers for modpacks and plugins are a huge plus, saving you time and hassle. Another thing to look for is server management tools like a Multicraft control panel or a full-access FTP.

                                                              To ensure a lag-free experience for your players, select a host with powerful hardware and ample resources. Look for providers offering at least 2-4GB of RAM for small to medium servers and consider upgrading to 8GB+ for larger player counts or modded setups.

                                                              CPU is also important — aim for at least a dual-core processor for small servers and quad-core or better for larger ones.

                                                              Uptime refers to the percentage of time your Minecraft server is accessible to players. Choose a host with a proven track record of reliability and uptime guarantees of 99.9% or higher.

                                                              Prioritize features like DDoS protection, high storage and bandwidth, and automatic backups to ensure that your servers stay online and can be restored quickly if they do.

                                                              Even with the best hosting, issues can arise. Look for providers offering 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, such as live chat, email, and tickets. Responsive support agents can make all the difference when troubleshooting problems.

                                                              Some hosting providers even offer specialized setup assistance and white-glove support concierge for an even smoother experience.

                                                              As your Minecraft community grows, your hosting needs may change. Choose a provider that offers easy scalability, allowing you to upgrade resources or switch plans without hassle. Flexible billing options, unlimited player slots, and the ability to add more RAM on demand are all valuable features.

                                                              If you can, look for a provider with dedicated server transfer capabilities to assist with data import and export.

                                                              FAQs

                                                              What Minecraft server host is best?

                                                              What is the best free 24/7 Minecraft server hosting?

                                                              Do I need a dedicated IP for a Minecraft server?

                                                              Can too much RAM be bad for a Minecraft server?

                                                              Are two CPU cores enough for a Minecraft server?

                                                              What are the benefits of Minecraft server hosting?

                                                              References

                                                              Ritoban Mukherjee
                                                              Technology Expert
                                                              Ritoban Mukherjee
                                                              Technology Expert

                                                              Ritoban Mukherjee is a startup and innovations journalist who's been covering the world of consumer and enterprise software for the last 7+ years. His works — ranging from investigative deep-dives into startups engaging in unethical octopus farming all the way to reviews of popular no-code platforms — have been published in outlets like Quartz, OneZero, Fast Company, Techradar, Tom's Guide, and others. He currently covers software reviews for Techopedia, apart from his role as a contributing writer at Techradar, Tom's Guide, and TechnologyAdvice.com.

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