How much RAM does a Minecraft server need?
A practical guide to picking RAM for a Minecraft Java server on ESN: vanilla, Paper with plugins, Fabric and Forge modpacks, and what uses the most memory.
RAM is the most important number for a Minecraft server. Too little and it lags or crashes; much more than you need is money spent on nothing. Use this as a starting point.
Quick picks
| Server | Start with | ESN plan |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla or Paper, a few friends | 1–2 GB | Basic or Advanced |
| Paper with a handful of plugins | 2–3 GB | Advanced, Core or Pro |
| Fabric with light mods | 2–4 GB | Advanced to Elite |
| Forge or a modpack | 4 GB and up | Elite, Power, Ultra or bigger |
ESN's minimums: Paper, Purpur, Fabric and Vanilla need a plan with at least 1 GB; Forge needs at least 2 GB. Prices for every plan are on Plans and billing.
What uses the most RAM
- Mods. Big modpacks often list their own recommended RAM; follow it.
- Players spread out. Every area someone stands in stays loaded. Ten players in one base costs less than ten players exploring.
- View distance. Lowering
view-distanceinserver.properties(for example to 6–8) is the easiest win. - Farms and entities. Huge mob farms and item piles cost both RAM and CPU.
Signs you need more
- The Console shows
OutOfMemoryErroror the server stops by itself under load. - Memory sits near the top of your plan's limit on the server page while players are on.
If lag is constant but memory isn't full, the cause is usually CPU (too many entities or plugins), not RAM. Try Paper instead of vanilla, and pre-generate your world if you can.
Ready to set one up? See Set up a Minecraft server.
Still stuck? Use the live chat on the panel or ask in the ESN Hosting Discord. Last updated October 27, 2026.