Arclight
Arclight: A free, open-source Java server implementation for combining mods and plugins. Ranked #3 of 25 in Minecraft Server Software by our editors (8.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for servers combining mods and plugins.
At a glance
- Editor score8.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forServers combining mods and plugins
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Edition supportJava
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports Bukkit and Spigot plugins with Forge, Fabric, and NeoForge
- Free, open-source software for self-hosted Minecraft Java servers
- Deploys as a downloadable JAR with Java command-line launching
Where it doesn't
- Limited to Minecraft Java Edition
- Requires self-hosted deployment and local Java command-line setup
- Compatibility depends on supported loaders and Bukkit/Spigot plugin APIs
Our verdict on Arclight
Arclight is an open-source Minecraft Java server implementation for administrators who want to combine Bukkit or Spigot plugins with mods. It supports self-hosted deployment on Windows and Linux, and is distributed as a downloadable JAR launched with Java. Its central appeal is the ability to bring plugin-based server functionality into environments built around Forge, Fabric, or NeoForge mod loaders.
The main technical strength is breadth across extension models. Arclight includes Bukkit and Spigot plugin support alongside Forge, Fabric, and NeoForge integration, using a Mixin-based server implementation. Plugin channel support, custom plugin world-generation support, and OBC/NMS class support provide additional compatibility-oriented capabilities for administrators working with more involved plugin setups. This makes Arclight a fit for servers that need both mods and plugins rather than a server focused on only one ecosystem.
Arclight is free and open source, with no paid tiers described. Deployment is administrator-led: the software is downloaded as a JAR and started through Java's command line in a self-hosted environment. That model suits operators comfortable managing their own server software, files, Java runtime, and loader configuration. It is less suitable for someone seeking a managed hosting service or a non-Java edition server. Choose Arclight when combined mod-loader and Bukkit/Spigot compatibility is the priority; choose another option when you need a managed platform or a Minecraft Bedrock-focused setup.
Your product? Our editors can test Arclight in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Arclight pricing
Arclight fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Edition support | Java |
| Extension model | Plugins_and_mods |
| Java–Bedrock cross-play | Not verified |
| Mod loader support | Yes |
| Plugin API | Yes |
| RCON support | Not verified |
| Server platforms | Multi_platform |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Arclight
- PumpkinA broad, free server option for cross-play worlds, plugins, and self-hosted deployment.9.4
- PaperA free, self-hosted Java server with strong performance work and plugin compatibility.9.2
- CuberiteA free, open-source choice for configurable, self-hosted Java servers.8.5
See all Arclight alternatives →
Arclight vs the competition
- Arclight vs Pumpkin
- Arclight vs Paper
- Arclight vs Cuberite
- Arclight vs Sponge
- Arclight vs Mohist
- Arclight vs Fabric
Compare Arclight with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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