Paper vs. Fabric vs. Vanilla: Which Server Software is Best?
Confused by the options? We break down the differences between Paper, Fabric, and Vanilla to help you get the best performance for your server.
The Engine Under the Hood
When you start a Minecraft server, you aren't just running "Minecraft". You're running a server executable. The choice of which executable to run has a massive impact on your server's speed, plugin support, and limitations.
1. Vanilla
This is the official server software provided by Mojang.
- Pros: 100% accurate vanilla mechanics. Newest features immediately.
- Cons: extremely poor performance. No plugins.
- Verdict: Only use this for very small, private servers (1-3 players) where you need specific technical mechanics (like extensive Redstone farms) to work exactly as they do in singleplayer.
2. Paper (and Spigot)
Paper is the gold standard for public servers. It acts as a wrapper that optimizes thousands of tiny code interactions to make the server run smooth.
- Pros: Incredible performance. Supports standard plugins (EssentialsX, WorldEdit, etc.).
- Cons: Changes some complex vanilla mechanics (like mob farm rates) for performance.
- Verdict: Recommended for 90% of users. If you want a lag-free SMP, choose Paper.
3. Fabric
Fabric is a newer, lightweight mod loader.
- Pros: Allows for "Mods" rather than "Plugins". Can run optimization mods like Lithium and Phosphor which rival Paper's performance without changing vanilla mechanics.
- Cons: Compatibility can be trickier. Setup is slightly more complex.
- Verdict: Choose Fabric if you want to run specific content mods (like Origins) or want a "Technical Vanilla" server with heavy optimization.
Conclusion
For most users starting a free server on Arcane Host, we recommend Paper. It gives you the immediate flexibility to add land claiming, permission, and chat plugins that are essential for a good multiplayer experience.