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Godlike.Host is listed first among the 6 hosting providers for Minecraft gaming servers in 2026, for Java, Bedrock and modded servers on its own game panel, followed by BisectHosting for most managed and modded servers, Apex Hosting for beginners, Shockbyte for low-cost entry, PebbleHost for value and control, and ScalaCube for larger communities. The right choice depends on edition, software, players, location, and support needs.

There is no universal winner. A small vanilla world for five friends has very different requirements from a public modded SMP, a Bedrock family server, or a community that needs several connected servers. The recommendations below are editorial best-fit labels based on published features and comparison coverage, not claims from controlled performance testing.

Pricing note: Hosting prices, promotions, renewal rates, locations, and included resources change frequently. The research available for this guide showed conflicting 2026 starting prices, so treat price figures as signals rather than permanent rates and verify the provider’s checkout page for your country before purchasing.

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Key takeaways

  • Godlike.Host is listed first here for Minecraft Java, Bedrock and modded servers on a Pterodactyl-based game panel, with up to three free backups a day, one-click modpacks and 10 data-center locations.
  • BisectHosting is a strong default for most readers who want managed Minecraft hosting, modpack tools, backups, file access, and a broad choice of advertised locations.
  • Apex Hosting is the easiest beginner choice when guided setup, tutorials, automated backups, one-click installers, and live support matter more than the lowest price.
  • Shockbyte is the strongest low-cost and Bedrock-oriented option, but the cheapest tier should not be assumed suitable for demanding modpacks or a growing public server.
  • PebbleHost offers strong value and custom control for administrators who are comfortable managing files, JARs, versions, and configurations themselves.
  • ScalaCube suits larger or feature-heavy communities, with extras such as a MySQL database, free subdomain, and website options on some offerings.
  • RAM alone does not determine performance: CPU single-thread performance, server software, world activity, view distance, simulation distance, storage, and player latency can all become bottlenecks.

What are the 6 best hosting providers for Minecraft gaming servers in 2026?

Godlike.Host is listed first here for Minecraft Java, Bedrock and modded servers on a game panel. BisectHosting is a strong default for managed and modded servers, Apex Hosting is better for first-time owners who want more guidance, Shockbyte and PebbleHost compete on price, and ScalaCube is more suitable for larger communities.

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Provider Best fit Published feature signal Main caution
Godlike.Host Minecraft Java, Bedrock and modded servers with a full game panel Java, Bedrock and modded hosting, one-click modpacks, up to three free backups a day with restore, free DDoS protection, and 10 data-center locations See the current plans for pricing; the free 2 GB server must be extended every 3 hours and has limited panel features and one location
BisectHosting Most modded or managed servers Java and Bedrock hosting, one-click modpacks, console and file access, seven days of backups, DDoS protection, and 21 advertised locations Verify renewal pricing and CPU allocation for the selected plan
Apex Hosting Beginners One-click pack installers, automated backups, DDoS protection, live chat, full file access, and beginner-oriented guidance Usually not the lowest-cost option; low-end plans may not suit demanding packs
Shockbyte Budget buyers and Bedrock users Java and Bedrock support, automatic updates, mod/plugin installation, DDoS protection, and advertised 24/7 support Check the lowest tier’s resources and backup retention before buying
PebbleHost Value and custom configurations Advertised AMD Ryzen hardware, NVMe storage, custom JAR/version installation, file control, and multiple locations Regional hardware and features may vary; more self-management is expected
ScalaCube Larger communities and bundled features One-click modpacks, multiple plan sizes, and review coverage mentioning MySQL, subdomains, websites, and forums Higher tiers can become expensive and advertised slots are not guaranteed capacity

Comparison coverage disagrees on the order of providers because different publications use different methods. A 2026 comparison ranks Apex, BisectHosting, Shockbyte, and ScalaCube in that relative order, while TechRadar’s Minecraft-hosting overview highlights different providers for different use cases. Those differences support a use-case recommendation rather than a universal performance ranking.

How were these Minecraft hosting providers compared?

The useful question is not simply which host advertises the cheapest gigabyte of RAM. A suitable Minecraft host must support the required edition and server software, provide enough CPU and memory for the workload, offer a nearby location, make backups restorable, and let the owner leave with the world if the service becomes unsuitable.

  1. Compatibility: Check Java, Bedrock, Paper, Spigot, Purpur, Forge, Fabric, NeoForge, custom JARs, and the exact modpack or plugin versions.
  2. Hardware: Look for CPU information, storage type, dedicated or shared resource language, and upgrade options. A 4 GB allocation is not a complete performance specification.
  3. Management: Compare the panel, console, file manager, scheduled tasks, startup settings, version switching, and one-click installers.
  4. Reliability tools: Check backup retention, restore controls, downloads, DDoS mitigation, and whether backups are independent of the game node.
  5. Support: Separate billing and infrastructure support from help with Minecraft configuration, mods, plugins, and custom code.
  6. Commercial terms: Compare the regular renewal price, billing period, taxes, dedicated IP charges, migration costs, cancellation terms, and upgrade price.
  7. Exitability: Confirm that the owner can download the world, configuration, plugins, mods, and databases before cancelling.

This guide uses provider-published features and secondary comparison or review coverage. It does not claim a controlled benchmark of tick rate, latency, uptime, or real-world player capacity.

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Which Minecraft hosting provider is listed first?

1. Godlike.Host — Minecraft Java, Bedrock and modded servers with a full game panel

Godlike.Host is listed first here for readers who want Minecraft hosting on a dedicated game panel with a choice of locations. Godlike.Host Minecraft hosting covers Minecraft Java, a separate Bedrock Edition product and modded Minecraft, plus servers for more than 40 other games. Its ping page lists 10 data-center locations: US West Coast, US East Coast, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Poland, Ukraine, Finland and Singapore. Free DDoS protection and a personal firewall for player access and IP filtering are included.

The panel is Pterodactyl-based and adds a task scheduler, sub-users with permissions, a config editor that shares a settings file by link, SFTP/FTP access, and server management through a Discord bot. A built-in mod installer and updater, one-click modpacks (CurseForge, FTB, Technic and ATLauncher; Forge, Fabric and NeoForge) and upload of custom server packs cover modded setups, and up to three free backups a day can be restored from the panel. In our own test on 13 October 2026, a Minecraft Java (Paper) server on a 16 GB plan in Amsterdam reached “Done” on first start in 6.25 seconds (world preparation 2.58 seconds), with a status ping of about 1 ms from Amsterdam, 10 ms from Germany, 84 ms from the US East Coast and 171 ms from India. That was a single Java configuration, not a Bedrock benchmark.

Choose Godlike.Host when: the server uses a modpack or custom pack, the group is spread across several regions, or you want scheduled tasks, sub-users and Discord-based management in one panel. A free 2 GB Minecraft server (20 slots) is available for trying the panel.

Watch for: the free server must be extended every 3 hours, has limited panel features and one location. Prices change with region and on-page offers, so see the current plans. Plans can be upgraded or downgraded from the panel with prorated billing, and the money-back guarantee is voluntary, for a first purchase only, within 3 calendar days.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

2. BisectHosting — managed and modded servers with broad management features

BisectHosting is a strong fit for readers who want specialist Minecraft hosting with broad management features. BisectHosting advertises Java and Bedrock hosting, one-click modpack installation, instance management, console access, file access, DDoS protection, seven days of backups, and 21 locations on its Minecraft server hosting page.

The feature combination is particularly useful for modded SMPs and groups that do not want to install every component manually. File and console access also leave room for custom configuration when a preset installer is not enough. BisectHosting says its dedicated Minecraft servers use NVMe SSD storage, although a listed hardware family should not be treated as proof of superior tick performance without controlled testing.

Choose BisectHosting when: the server uses a modpack, the group is spread across regions, the owner wants a specialist Minecraft panel, or reliable restore options and file access are important.

Watch for: promotional pricing, renewal pricing, plan-level CPU allocation, and whether the required location and software are available on the chosen tier. “Unlimited” slots or storage, where advertised, should not be read as unlimited practical performance.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

3. Apex Hosting — best for beginners and guided setup

Apex Hosting is the easiest recommendation for a first-time server owner who values guided setup and support. Current review coverage describes one-click pack installers, automated backups, DDoS protection, a free subdomain, advertised unlimited player slots, live chat support, and full file access. The TechRadar Apex Hosting review also notes that lower-end plans are aimed at basic servers and may not be appropriate for demanding modpacks.

Apex is a sensible choice for family and friend groups that want to start quickly, follow tutorials, and use a familiar management workflow. A beginner-friendly dashboard can reduce setup mistakes, but convenience does not remove the need to select an appropriate Java version, mod loader, memory allocation, or backup strategy.

Choose Apex Hosting when: this is the first server, the owner wants tutorials or live assistance, or the group prefers guided deployment over the absolute lowest monthly price.

Watch for: entry-tier limitations and renewal costs. “Unlimited player slots” is a plan label, not a guarantee that a server can smoothly simulate any number of players.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

4. Shockbyte — best low-cost entry point and broad edition convenience

Shockbyte is a strong low-cost starting point, especially for small servers and readers who need Bedrock support. Shockbyte advertises Java and Bedrock plans, automatic updates, DDoS protection, an instant modpack and plugin installer, and 24/7 support on its Minecraft hosting page. Shockbyte’s Bedrock hosting information explains that Bedrock uses behavior packs and add-ons rather than the Java mod ecosystem.

The broad edition support makes Shockbyte relevant to mixed-device households and small groups that want a quick launch. The lowest-priced plan should not be selected for a large modpack or public community without checking the pack’s server-side memory requirements, CPU resources, backup retention, and upgrade path.

Choose Shockbyte when: price, quick setup, Java/Bedrock availability, and an installer for common plugins or modpacks are the main priorities.

Watch for: different price signals across comparison pages. Reported starting prices vary because of promotions, currencies, billing terms, and plan revisions. Confirm the official checkout price, renewal price, and the exact Bedrock or software configuration before ordering.

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5. PebbleHost — best value for technically confident users

PebbleHost is the best value-oriented option for an administrator who wants control over custom files, JARs, versions, and modpacks. PebbleHost’s U.S. Minecraft page advertises AMD Ryzen hardware, NVMe storage, DDoS mitigation, multiple datacenter locations, full server-file control, one-click modpack installation, and support for custom modpacks, JAR files, or Minecraft versions.

That flexibility is valuable when the required server software is not available as a simple preset. Full file control also helps experienced administrators manage custom plugins and configurations. The trade-off is that the owner may need to understand loader versions, Java compatibility, startup flags, file permissions, logs, and manual backups.

Choose PebbleHost when: cost matters, the owner is comfortable administering a server, or the server requires a custom JAR or configuration.

Watch for: regional differences. Hardware described on the U.S. page may not apply to every plan or datacenter, so verify the selected location and tier. A budget plan’s advertised RAM does not establish the quality of its shared CPU resources.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

6. ScalaCube — best for larger communities and feature-heavy setups

ScalaCube is a better fit for a growing community that wants more than a single small game world. Review coverage describes one-click modpack installation, multiple Minecraft plan sizes, and features such as a MySQL database, free subdomain, website, and forum options on some offerings. TechRadar’s ScalaCube review covers the service and its feature set.

A 2026 comparison positions ScalaCube toward larger servers and heavy modpacks. That is secondary editorial assessment rather than an official performance guarantee. A community owner should still check CPU resources, memory, player workload, backup terms, and whether the desired website or database feature is included in the specific plan.

Choose ScalaCube when: the server is becoming a community project, the owner needs bundled web or database features, or the plan must scale beyond a basic private world.

Watch for: cost at higher tiers and the difference between advertised slot counts and sustainable concurrent-player capacity.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How much RAM does a Minecraft server need?

RAM requirements depend on server software, mods, world activity, view distance, simulation distance, and concurrent players. The figures below are practical starting ranges, not guarantees. Modpack documentation should take priority over a generic table.

Workload Sensible starting point What can increase the requirement
Vanilla private world, 2–5 players 2–4 GB High view or simulation distance, rapid exploration, entities, and large farms
Vanilla or Paper SMP, 5–10 players 4–6 GB Plugins, redstone, farms, exploration, and active chunks
Plugin-heavy SMP, 10–20 players 6–8 GB Many plugins, high entity counts, minigames, and CPU contention
Light modpack, 5–10 players 6–8 GB Loader overhead, dependencies, world generation, and pack-specific requirements
Large modpack, 5–10 players 8–12+ GB Pack documentation, complex machines, dimensions, exploration, and chunk generation
Public server, minigames, or 20+ players 8–16+ GB Player activity, multiple worlds, proxies, databases, plugins, and CPU limits

More RAM does not automatically fix lag. Minecraft can be limited by a single overloaded server thread, inefficient entities or redstone, disk activity, network latency, poor configuration, or an unoptimized mod. Start modestly, monitor memory use and tick time, and upgrade CPU or optimize the workload when CPU saturation—not memory pressure—is the bottleneck.

What should you check before choosing a plan?

Edition and server software

Confirm whether the plan supports Java Edition, Bedrock Edition, or both as separate server types. Then confirm the exact software: vanilla, Paper, Spigot, Purpur, Forge, Fabric, NeoForge, or a specific prebuilt modpack. A provider listing both Java and Bedrock does not prove that Java and Bedrock clients can connect to the same world.

Java–Bedrock crossplay

Java–Bedrock crossplay generally requires a compatible server or proxy/plugin arrangement. Crossplay is not automatic merely because a host sells both editions. Verify the provider’s current instructions, supported Minecraft versions, required plugins or proxies, and whether the desired mods or add-ons remain compatible.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Java mods and Bedrock behavior packs or add-ons are different ecosystems. A Bedrock behavior pack cannot be treated as a Java Forge or Fabric mod, and a Java plugin cannot automatically run on a Bedrock server.

CPU and storage

Ask whether CPU resources are shared, dedicated, guaranteed, or burstable. Ask what processor family applies to the selected plan and location, and whether storage is NVMe SSD, SATA SSD, or unspecified. CPU single-thread performance is especially important when one Minecraft server thread is processing the simulation.

Location and latency

Choose a datacenter near most players, but distinguish network latency from server tick performance and client FPS. A nearby overloaded node can lag, while a powerful distant node may process the simulation well but feel less responsive to players.

  1. List the countries or regions where most players live.
  2. Choose the nearest available datacenter for the actual plan, not merely the provider’s global location list.
  3. Ask whether changing location requires migration, downtime, or a new order.
  4. Consider a different host if the provider cannot place the server near the majority of players.

BisectHosting advertises 21 Minecraft server locations, but readers should still verify location availability for the chosen plan and region on the order page.

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Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Backups and restoration

Check the retention period, number of restore points, whether backups are automatic or manual, whether backups are stored independently, whether the full world and configuration are included, and whether the owner can download a backup. BisectHosting advertises seven days of backups, but advertised backup retention does not remove the need for independent copies.

Create and download a separate backup before updating Minecraft, changing loaders, adding or removing major mods, changing world generation, migrating hosts, or installing plugins that alter inventories and worlds. A backup stored on the same failed node may be unavailable during an outage.

Panel, files, and support

A useful control panel should make server start, stop, restart, console access, file management, scheduled tasks, startup flags, version switching, backups, modpack installation, user permissions, and world downloads straightforward. A one-click installer simplifies deployment but does not guarantee that every pack is stable, current, compatible with the selected Java version, or correctly configured for the allocated RAM.

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Separate infrastructure support from Minecraft troubleshooting. A provider may help with a failed node, panel, network, or storage issue while declining to debug a third-party mod, custom plugin, or faulty configuration. Shockbyte advertises 24/7 support, and several providers make similar support claims; support availability is not the same as guaranteed expert debugging.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

DDoS protection and account security

DDoS protection helps mitigate attacks against the hosting network or server address. Shockbyte advertises DDoS protection, and BisectHosting says DDoS protection is included on its servers.

DDoS mitigation does not prevent griefing, stolen operator accounts, malicious plugins, cracked clients, or incorrect permissions. Use a whitelist for private servers, strong unique passwords, two-factor authentication where available, least-privilege operator access, regular backups, and careful plugin management.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

How do promotional prices and “unlimited slots” mislead buyers?

Promotional prices are not reliable comparison figures unless the billing term, renewal price, currency, region, and included resources are identical. One 2026 comparison reported approximate starting signals of $7.49 per month for Apex, $2.99 for BisectHosting, $2.50 for Shockbyte, $2.50 for ScalaCube, and $7.99 for MCProHosting. Another 2026 comparison reported different baselines, including $5.99 for BisectHosting, $3.99 for Shockbyte, and $7.99 for Apex. See the 2026 provider comparison for those published signals.

The conflicting figures likely reflect different billing cycles, promotions, currencies, regional storefronts, or plan revisions. Do not average those numbers into a new “current price.” Before ordering, record the checkout date, country storefront, currency, billing period, introductory rate, renewal rate, RAM, CPU/resource tier, backups, dedicated IP charges, taxes, and cancellation terms.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

“Unlimited player slots” also does not mean unlimited simultaneous players. Sustainable capacity depends on CPU, memory, server software, world activity, network conditions, view distance, entities, and configuration. A workload-based estimate is more useful than a marketing slot limit.

How can you avoid lag on a hosted Minecraft server?

Preventing lag requires matching the workload to CPU, memory, software, location, and configuration rather than simply buying more RAM.

  • Choose server software appropriate to the workload, such as an optimized plugin-compatible server when the plugin ecosystem supports it.
  • Keep view distance and simulation distance at reasonable values for the player count and hardware.
  • Pregenerate worlds where practical so exploration does not force constant terrain generation during peak play.
  • Limit unnecessary entities, uncontrolled farms, expensive redstone systems, and plugins that repeatedly scan large areas.
  • Monitor tick time, CPU saturation, memory use, disk activity, and player count.
  • Upgrade CPU resources when one server thread is overloaded instead of adding RAM without evidence of memory pressure.
  • Use a nearby datacenter for the majority of players.
  • Keep server software, Java, mods, plugins, and dependencies on compatible versions.

What should you do before changing mods or migrating hosts?

Before a version or mod update

  1. Stop the server cleanly.
  2. Create a manual backup and download it.
  3. Record the Minecraft version, loader version, Java version, mod list, plugin list, and startup settings.
  4. Test the update on a copy of the world when possible.
  5. Keep the previous files available until the new configuration has loaded successfully.

If the server crashes after an update

  1. Read the latest log and crash report.
  2. Find the first meaningful error rather than focusing only on the final shutdown message.
  3. Check Minecraft, loader, Java, mod, plugin, and dependency versions.
  4. Remove or update the suspected component in a test copy.
  5. Restore a known-good backup if the world or configuration was changed.
  6. Contact the host for node, panel, network, or storage problems, while recognizing that third-party code may be outside the provider’s support scope.

Before cancelling or moving providers

  • Download the complete world directory.
  • Save server properties, whitelist files, operator files, and configuration folders.
  • Save the plugin and mod lists, plus the exact versions.
  • Export any databases used by plugins or community features.
  • Confirm that the destination uses a compatible Minecraft version and loader.
  • Keep the old server active until the new server is tested.

Which provider is best for each Minecraft server scenario?

Scenario Best starting choice Why Alternative
First private server for friends or family Apex Hosting Guided setup, tutorials, installers, and support emphasis Shockbyte for a lower-cost start
Most managed or modded SMPs BisectHosting Modpack tools, console and file access, backups, and many advertised locations Apex Hosting
Small budget Java or Bedrock server Shockbyte Broad edition support and quick setup PebbleHost
Custom JAR or hands-on administration PebbleHost Custom files, versions, JARs, and advertised hardware options BisectHosting for a managed panel
Growing public community ScalaCube Broader plan sizes and community-oriented extras on some offerings BisectHosting, after checking upgrade options
Mixed Java and Bedrock group Verify a crossplay-capable setup first Both editions being sold does not automatically provide crossplay Shockbyte is relevant because it advertises both editions, but crossplay still requires configuration verification

What are the main alternatives?

MCProHosting is a credible alternative for readers who value established managed hosting, support, or modpack convenience over the lowest price. MCProHosting should not replace the six recommendations unless current plan features and pricing make it a better fit. Its official site is MCProHosting.

Sparked Host may interest highly price-sensitive buyers. A 2026 comparison lists Sparked Host as a low-cost performance-oriented option, but current plan details should be checked before making a recommendation. Its official site is Sparked Host.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Self-hosting can be an alternative for technically capable owners with suitable hardware and internet service. Self-hosting requires network exposure, port and firewall management, security maintenance, backups, and sufficient upload bandwidth. Self-hosting also lacks the datacenter redundancy and professional network-level DDoS mitigation associated with established hosting providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2 GB enough for a Minecraft server?

2 GB can be a sensible starting point for a small vanilla private world with roughly two to five players, but 2 GB is not a universal capacity guarantee. Plugins, mods, high simulation distance, exploration, entities, and the host’s CPU resources can require more memory.

Can Java and Bedrock players play together on a hosted Minecraft server?

Java and Bedrock players can play together only when the server uses a compatible crossplay setup, such as an appropriate server or proxy/plugin arrangement. A provider supporting both Java and Bedrock as separate server types does not automatically provide Java–Bedrock crossplay.

Is more RAM always better for Minecraft hosting?

More RAM is not always better. Once a server has enough memory for its world and software, lag may instead come from single-thread CPU load, inefficient plugins or mods, entity counts, disk activity, network latency, or excessive view and simulation distance.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Can I install any Minecraft modpack on a hosting plan?

You cannot assume that every modpack works on every hosting plan. Verify the Minecraft version, loader, Java version, server-side memory requirement, dependencies, custom JAR support, and whether the host’s installer supports the specific pack.

Can I move my Minecraft world to another host?

You can usually migrate a world when you can download the world directory and relevant configuration, plugin, mod, and database files. Before cancelling, record the software versions, test the destination, and keep the original host active until the new server works.

What happens when a Minecraft hosting introductory price expires?

The monthly charge may change to the provider’s regular renewal rate after the introductory period or promotional billing term. Compare the official checkout price, renewal price, billing period, taxes, add-ons, and cancellation terms before purchasing.

The Bottom Line

Godlike.Host is listed first here: Godlike.Host Minecraft server hosting offers Java, Bedrock and modded servers on a Pterodactyl-based game panel, and its free 2 GB Minecraft server (extended every 3 hours, with limited panel features and one location) lets you try the panel first. BisectHosting suits most managed and modded servers. Choose Apex Hosting if ease of use and guided support are the priority, Shockbyte if low entry cost or Bedrock support matters most, PebbleHost if you want value and hands-on control, and ScalaCube if you are building a larger feature-rich community.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Before paying, verify the exact edition, loader, modpack, RAM, CPU resources, datacenter, backup retention, renewal price, and migration process for the selected plan. Those details matter more than a generic “unlimited slots” claim.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 3
Dell OptiPlex 7050 Micro Computer, Intel Quad Core i5-6500T up to 3.1GHz, 16G DDR4, 256G SSD, Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit (Renewed)
Dell OptiPlex 7050 Micro Computer, Intel Quad Core i5-6500T up to 3.1GHz, 16G DDR4, 256G SSD, Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit (Renewed)
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.