CPU & RAM Calculator
Calculate the optimal CPU and RAM requirements for your game server based on player count, mods, world size, and additional features.
Select Game
Player Count
World Size
Extra Features
Mods / Plugins
Recommended Hardware
Calculation Breakdown
Minecraft Java Tips
- •Paper/Spigot servers are more efficient than Vanilla
- •Modded servers (Forge/Fabric) need 50-100% more RAM
- •View distance significantly impacts RAM usage
- •Pre-generate chunks to reduce CPU spikes
These are estimated requirements based on typical usage. Actual requirements may vary based on specific configurations, player activity, and game updates. We recommend starting with the suggested tier and scaling up if needed.
Features
10 Popular Games
Accurate calculations for Minecraft, Rust, ARK, CS2, Valheim, FiveM, and more
Detailed Calculations
See the full breakdown of how requirements are calculated
Mod Support
Factor in plugins, mods, and modpacks for accurate estimates
Understanding Server Hardware
🧠 RAM (Memory)
RAM stores active game data including player information, loaded chunks/areas, entity data, and plugin/mod data. More RAM allows your server to handle more concurrent activities without lag.
- • Too little RAM: Crashes, lag spikes, failed chunk loading
- • Just right: Smooth gameplay, quick loading, stable performance
- • Too much RAM: Wasted resources, but no negative impact
⚡ CPU (Processor)
The CPU handles game logic, physics calculations, AI behavior, and network packet processing. Most game servers are single-threaded, meaning they primarily use one CPU core.
- • Single-thread performance: More important than core count for most games
- • Multi-threading: Some modern servers utilize multiple cores
- • Clock speed: Higher GHz generally means better performance
RAM Guidelines by Game
| Game | Small (1-10) | Medium (10-30) | Large (30+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ⛏️ Minecraft Java | 2-4 GB | 4-8 GB | 8-16 GB |
| 🔫 Rust | 6-8 GB | 8-12 GB | 12-16 GB |
| 🦖 ARK | 8-10 GB | 10-14 GB | 14-20 GB |
| 🎯 CS2 | 2-3 GB | 3-4 GB | 4-6 GB |
| ⚔️ Valheim | 2-3 GB | 3-4 GB | 4-6 GB |
| 🚗 FiveM | 4-6 GB | 6-10 GB | 10-16 GB |
| 🐾 Palworld | 8-10 GB | 10-12 GB | 12-16 GB |
* Values shown are for vanilla/lightly modded servers. Heavy modpacks may require 50-100% more RAM.
Performance Optimization Tips
Start Conservative, Scale Up
Begin with the minimum recommended specs and monitor performance. It's easier to upgrade than to downgrade.
Monitor Resource Usage
Use tools like htop, Task Manager, or your hosting panel to track actual RAM and CPU usage during peak times.
Optimize Before Upgrading
Before adding more resources, try optimizing your server config, reducing view distance, or removing unused plugins.
Use Optimized Server Software
Paper/Purpur for Minecraft, DXVK for Proton games - optimized forks can dramatically improve performance.
Regular Maintenance
Schedule regular restarts, clean up old data, and keep your server software updated for best performance.