Paper vs Purpur vs Fabric vs Forge vs Vanilla: which Minecraft server type?
What each Minecraft server type is for, whether it runs plugins or mods, and which one to pick for your server.
When you create a Minecraft Java server you pick a server type (sometimes called server software or a jar). It decides whether you can use plugins, mods or neither. ESN offers five.
The five types #
| Type | Runs | Pick it when |
|---|---|---|
| Paper | Plugins (Bukkit/Spigot/Paper) | You want a fast server with plugins. The usual choice. |
| Purpur | Plugins | You want Paper plus extra settings to tweak gameplay. |
| Fabric | Fabric mods | Your mods say "Fabric", or you want lightweight performance mods. |
| Forge | Forge mods and modpacks | Your modpack or mods are built for Forge. Needs 2 GB of RAM or more on ESN. |
| Vanilla | Nothing extra | You want plain Minecraft exactly as Mojang ships it. |
Plugins vs mods #
Plugins run only on the server, so players join with a normal Minecraft client. They add commands, protection, economies, minigames and so on. Mods can add new blocks, items and mobs, but usually every player must install the same mods. You can't mix them freely: plugins need Paper or Purpur, mods need Fabric or Forge.
Which should you pick? #
- Friends server with a few quality-of-life additions: Paper.
- A public server with lots of plugins: Paper or Purpur.
- A modpack from a launcher: whatever the pack says (usually Forge or Fabric).
- Bedrock players too: Paper or Purpur (Fabric also works) with Geyser and Floodgate (guide).
RAM by type #
On ESN, Paper, Purpur, Fabric and Vanilla need a plan with at least 1 GB of RAM, and Forge needs at least 2 GB. Modpacks often need 4 GB or more. See how much RAM a Minecraft server needs.
Create the server #
- Sign in at panel.esnoffical.com and open the plans page.
- Under what you want to host, choose Minecraft.
- Pick the type from this page and a plan with enough RAM.
- Pay on Stripe; the server is set up automatically. Then follow set up a Minecraft server.
Adding plugins or mods afterwards: plugins and mods guide.
FAQ #
Is Paper better than Vanilla? #
For most servers, yes: Paper runs the same game with better performance and supports plugins. Pick Vanilla only if you want the game exactly as Mojang ships it.
Can I use plugins and mods together? #
Not on the same server type. Plugins need Paper or Purpur; mods need Fabric or Forge.
What is the difference between Paper and Purpur? #
Purpur is built on Paper and adds extra configuration options. Both run the same plugins.
How much RAM does a Forge server need? #
At least 2 GB on ESN, and many modpacks recommend 4 GB or more.
Still stuck? Use the live chat on the panel or ask in the ESN Systems Discord. Last updated October 31, 2026.