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Best Minecraft Server Software 2026
Facts read 21 Sep 2026 – 15 Oct 2026
Minecraft server software runs the server that hosts a Minecraft world and its players. This list helps you compare tools before choosing a setup for a Java or Bedrock server.
The standings: top 10
| Name | Record score | Price from | Try it free | Runs on | Facts read |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 SpigotMC Resources | 5.3 | Free plan | Free plan | Web, Windows, Mac, Linux | 15 Oct 2026 |
| 02 Cuberite | 5.1 | Free plan | Free plan | Android, Windows, Mac, Linux | 30 Sep 2026 |
| 03 Pumpkin | 4.9 | Free plan | Free plan | Android, Windows, Mac, Linux | 30 Sep 2026 |
| 04 Fabric | 4.8 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux, API | 4 Oct 2026 |
| 05 Gale | 4.8 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux, Self-hosted | 8 Oct 2026 |
| 06 PocketMine-MP | 4.8 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux, API | 5 Oct 2026 |
| 07 Minecraft Forge | 4.7 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux | 3 Oct 2026 |
| 08 Allay | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Linux, Self-hosted | 7 Oct 2026 |
| 09 Glowstone | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux, Self-hosted | 9 Oct 2026 |
| 10 Leaf | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux, API | 7 Oct 2026 |
The page is ordered by newest releases first, using figures the makers publish. Nothing is scored; compare free plans, paid options, edition support, extensions and server features for your setup.
Before you choose
Check the cost and code
A free plan is available from tools in this category. Check whether the plan fits your server needs before comparing paid options.
Open-source code is available from tools in this category. If you need to read or change code, review the licence and extension model.
Match Minecraft editions
Compare edition support and Java–Bedrock cross-play before choosing software. These details affect which players can join the server together.
Plan your extensions
Compare the extension model, mod loader support and plugin API. Use the option that matches how you plan to add or manage server features.
Check administration tools
RCON support can matter when you want remote server control. Check this field alongside the administration tools your setup requires.
Choose a server platform
Check the server platforms supported by the software. Options in this category can run on self-hosted systems, Linux, Windows, macOS, API services or Android.
Questions
Is Minecraft server software free?
A free plan is available from tools in this category. Check the listed pricing model and any paid option before choosing.
Can these tools run on Linux or Windows?
Server platforms in this category include Linux and Windows. Check the platform field for the software you are considering.
Do these tools support Java and Bedrock together?
Compare the Java–Bedrock cross-play field. Support depends on the software you choose.
What is the difference between mods and plugins?
Mod loader support and plugin API are separate comparison fields. Check both against the extensions you plan to use.
What does RCON support do?
RCON support concerns remote server control. Check the listing when remote administration is part of your setup.
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