Minecraft server hosting enables gamers to create customizable and stable multiplayer environments for Minecraft. Hostinger is our recommended best Minecraft server web host for both beginners and advanced server operators. Their affordable VPS (Virtual Private Server) based plans ensure excellent performance, 99.9% uptime, and full mod and plugin compatibility.
Minecraft server hosting is a game server hosting service optimized for the Microsoft-owned game Minecraft. There are 2 main types of Minecraft server hosting: Java and Bedrock. Java Minecraft hosting supports extensive customization and modding for Minecraft Java Edition (Windows, macOS, and Linux). Bedrock Minecraft hosting is designed for cross-platform play, supporting mobile devices, consoles, and Windows 10.
It’s important to distinguish between Minecraft server hosting (the focus of this article), and Mojang’s subscription-based service, Minecraft realms. Minecraft server hosting gives players full root access to customize gameplay and introduce new features, unlike the more limited Minecraft Realms service. Minecraft server hosting costs typically range from $2.50 – $9 per month for basic plans. Free options are available for casual gaming but paid plans are recommended for better uptime, speed, and mod and plugin support.
Top Minecraft Server Hosting Providers
1. Hostinger
https://www.hostinger.com/
Hostinger is our top pick as Minecraft hosting provider for a number of reasons. The first and foremost is that it is extremely rare to find a host that offers plans specially built to cater for Minecraft hosting.
Their Minecraft hosting plans are built on VPS servers, meaning you will get the dedicated resources needed to host Minecraft. Their plan structure is also built around the concept, offering a minimum of 2GB memory, near instant Minecraft server setup, and technical support that can help if you get stuck. Read our in-depth review on Hostinger to learn more.
2. ScalaHosting
https://scalahosting.com/
ScalaHosting is setting a new standard in Minecraft server hosting with their premium Minecraft plans. They offer a managed hosting environment on a VPS, which ensures that your server files are always updated and your setup is hassle-free. They include advanced features like Automatic World Repair and a Local Server Builder. You also get dedicated system resources to guarantee a seamless and powerful gaming experience.
ScalaHosting provides a comprehensive solution that supports all mod packs and allows for low latency gaming across 13 locations worldwide. The promise of 99.9% uptime and on-demand scalability means you can adjust your resources as your community grows, without any interruption to gameplay. See our ScalaHosting review to learn more.
3. InMotion Hosting
https://inmotionhosting.com/
InMotion Hosting offers a range of Minecraft server hosting plans to cater to various gaming needs. We recommend their Gold Plan to enthusiast gamers who require support for all plugins and some more demanding modpacks. This plan allows for up to 20 players simultaneously, which is ideal for medium-sized gatherings in the Minecraft world.
InMotion’s setup process is quick and easy, which enables you to launch your Minecraft server in less than 5 minutes. InMotion’s powerful game panel also allows you to choose your preferred Minecraft version and server types, manage plugins, and more.
The company is backed by high customer satisfaction ratings and extensive expertise in server management. Their Minecraft servers are powered by cloud VPS and located at key internet exchange points to ensure excellent performance and reliability. Check our InMotion Hosting review for more information.
4. Shockbyte
https://shockbyte.com/
Shockbyte is an Australian-registered company that specializes in renting out game servers. Their key focus areas are Minecraft, ARK: Survival Evolved, and Rust – with plans to support more titles.
Their plans are very focused and you can choose one that is very directly suited for your needs. Their experience with Minecraft allows them to offer some good suggestions, and this is a good place to go for specialized Minecraft hosting.
5. BisectHosting
https://www.bisecthosting.com/
BisectHosting is another popular name in Minecraft hosting although it does offer almost all other web-related services. Due to the scope of their hosting plans, Bisect is more streamlined when it comes to Minecraft, supporting either the Java version or Bedrock.
A strong distinguishing feature is that all of Bisect’s Minecraft hosting plans have unlimited SSD storage, even on their cheapest plan. This is of course subject to their fair usage policy, meaning you can use it, but not abuse it.
6. GGServers
https://ggservers.com/
GGServers is a Canandian web hosting company that offers web hosting, but also specializes in game servers. They have servers for a variety of games including Minecraft and have deployed more than half a million of these, to date.
They offer high-performance specs on their game servers and have a good spread of nine data center locations around the globe to choose from. Plans vary depending on resources provided and start at a basic 1GB RAM supporting 12 player slots.
7. Apex Hosting
https://apexminecrafthosting.com/
Apex Hosting is only focused on Minecraft and they offer 15 locations for servers worldwide with more coming. Their plans start small with a basic 1GB of RAM, but all plans come with a custom subdomain.
Their claim to fame lies in extensive support for Minecraft, featuring an easy to use control panel, video tutorials and the ability to get Minecraft servers up and running in a mere five minutes. Help is also available via live chat and a ticketing system.
What is Minecraft server hosting?
Minecraft server hosting is a game server hosting service that provides dedicated server space for players to run their own Minecraft game instance. This type of hosting ensures a stable and scalable environment for multiplayer gameplay in contrast to needing to rely on peer-to-peer connections which can be unstable or limited in capacity. With Minecraft Server Hosting, players customize game settings, mods, and plugins. They also control who joins and enjoy a more consistent and lag-free gaming experience.
What are the different types of Minecraft server hosting?
There are two types of Minecraft Server Hosting and these are:
- Java Minecraft server hosting Java server hosting is a service that caters to the original version of Minecraft (Minecraft Java Edition). It operates on Java and supports cross-platform play among Windows, macOS, and Linux. Use this if you prefer a more classic experience and want more freedom to customize and modify gameplay. Players who regularly engage in large-scale modding projects or those who run Minecraft communities centered around unique game modifications find Java Minecraft server hosting particularly beneficial.
- Bedrock Minecraft server hosting Bedrock server hosting is a service that supports Minecraft Bedrock Edition which was designed for mobile devices, consoles, and Windows 10. It has a more limited modding scope compared to the Java Edition, but it offers cross-play between different devices. This makes it easier for friends on various platforms to play together. Use Bedrock Minecraft Server Hosting if you’re a gamer who prioritizes cross-platform interactions, especially those involving consoles and mobile devices.
Does Minecraft server hosting support mods and plugins?
Yes, Minecraft server hosting does support mods and plugins because it gives users root access to their server. Root access gives players the necessary permissions to install, update, and manage a wide variety of mods and plugins. This capability ensures that server owners can tailor gameplay, enhance in-game features, and introduce new mechanics for their player base.
What is the difference between Minecraft server hosting and Minecraft realms?
Minecraft Server Hosting is a hosting service that offers dedicated servers for players to run Minecraft game instances. These servers are customizable with mods, plugins, and settings to create unique gameplay experiences.
Minecraft Realms is a subscription-based service provided by Mojang that allows players to create and manage their own private Minecraft servers. With Realms, players invite friends and play in a safe, private environment without the need for technical setup or expertise. It offers a straightforward way for casual players to engage in multiplayer gameplay with a select group.
The key difference between Minecraft server hosting and Minecraft Realms lies in the level of customization and control. Minecraft server hosting gives players extensive flexibility. It allows users to modify the game with mods and plugins and adjust intricate server settings. This provides a deeper and more tailored gameplay experience. In short, you can do a lot more with Minecraft Server Hosting than with Minecraft Realms.
How much should Minecraft server hosting cost?
Minecraft server hosting costs $2.50-9/month for basic plans. There are also free plans available with limited features. Keep in mind that the cost can increase significantly based on factors such as the number of players accessing the server, the total number of servers you’re operating, and the volume of mods and plugins installed. Plans are often differentiated by RAM and CPU allocations. The more players, servers, mods, and plugins you have, the more RAM and CPU you’ll need to guarantee a seamless gameplay experience.
Should I use free Minecraft server hosting?
Yes, you should use free Minecraft server hosting if you’re looking to host a small Minecraft server for casual gaming purposes. It’s ideal for fewer than 10 players and for a limited amount of mods and plugins. However, the most significant drawback of free hosting is that the server might not be online 24/7. This can disrupt the gaming experience. Players seeking continuous uptime should explore paid alternatives.
Which is the best Minecraft server hosting?
The best Minecraft server hosting offers strong uptime, large player capacity, easy mod and plugin use, good server locations, quick customer help, and fair pricing.
Let’s have a look at our top brands that meet this criteria.
| Features | Hostinger | ScalaHosting | InMotion Hosting | Shockbyte | BisectHosting | GGServers | APEX Hosting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan | Alex | Zombie | Gold | Iron | Budget 4GB | Gold | 4GB RAM |
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| No. of players | $70.00 | Unlimited | $20.00 | Unlimited | $48.00 | $48.00 | Unlimited |
| Storage | 40GB NVMe SSD | 80GB NVMe SSD | 100GB NVMe SSD | Unlimited NVMe SSD | Unlimited NVMe SSD | Unmetered SSD | Unlimited SSD |
| DDoS protection | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price/mo | $6.99 | $61.95 | $24.00 | $10.00 | $11.96 | $12.00 | $14.99 |
| See all features |
Our #1 recommendation is Hostinger due to its reliable performance, robust support, and competitive pricing. It’s crucial to assess your unique requirements, such as the size of your player base, geographical location, and technical know-how when selecting the best Minecraft host for your needs.