Paper
Paper: A free, self-hosted Java server with strong performance work and plugin compatibility. Ranked #2 of 25 in Minecraft Server Software by our editors (9.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for most Java server operators.
At a glance
- Editor score9.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forMost Java server operators
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Edition supportJava
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Performance optimizations for chunks, lighting, hoppers, and entities
- Bukkit, Spigot, and Paper API compatibility with plugin support
- RCON, configurable worlds, runnable JARs, and migration support
Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted software requires server administration
- Supports Java Edition rather than a hosted multi-edition service
- Does not provide built-in mod loader support
Our verdict on Paper
Paper is open-source Minecraft: Java Edition server software for administrators and developers who want to run their own server. Based on Spigot, it focuses on server performance, gameplay and mechanics consistency, and extensibility through Bukkit, Spigot, and Paper APIs. It runs on Windows and Linux in self-hosted environments, and its runnable server JAR downloads provide the core deployment format. Paper is a fit for operators who want control over server configuration and access to a broad plugin ecosystem rather than a managed hosting service.
Performance and extensibility are the central reasons to consider Paper. Its published feature set includes asynchronous chunk loading and optimizations for lighting, hoppers, and entities. Bukkit and Spigot API compatibility can help existing plugin setups transition, while Paper adds plugin loading and plugin development APIs. Administrators install plugins through the server’s plugins directory, and configurable server properties and world settings provide control over how the server operates. RCON support adds remote console configuration for administration workflows.
Paper is also positioned for migration: support covers Vanilla, CraftBukkit, and Spigot servers. That makes it a practical choice for operators moving between established Java server implementations while retaining plugin-oriented extensibility. The tradeoff is that Paper is server software, not hosted infrastructure, so deployment and ongoing administration remain with the operator. Its category specifications identify Java Edition support, plugins as the extension model, and no mod loader support. Choose Paper for a self-hosted Java server with performance tuning, plugin APIs, and administrative controls; choose another option if you need hosted service management, built-in mod loader support, or verified Java–Bedrock cross-play.
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Paper pricing
Paper fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Edition support | Java |
| Extension model | Plugins |
| Java–Bedrock cross-play | Not verified |
| Mod loader support | No |
| Plugin API | Yes |
| RCON support | Yes |
| Server platforms | Multi_platform |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | papermc.io |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Paper
- PumpkinA broad, free server option for cross-play worlds, plugins, and self-hosted deployment.9.4
- ArclightA free, open-source Java server implementation for combining mods and plugins.8.9
- CuberiteA free, open-source choice for configurable, self-hosted Java servers.8.5
Paper vs the competition
Compare Paper with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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