What is the difference between Spigot, Paper, and PurPur?

Choosing the Right Minecraft Server Software: Spigot, Paper, and Purpur

Running a Minecraft server with plugins requires specialized server software. Among the popular options are Spigot, Paper, and Purpur, each catering to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore these three choices to help you decide which one is best for your server.

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Spigot

Spigot is a widely used fork of CraftBukkit that offers improved functionality and compatibility with most plugins.

• Pros:

  • Easy to install and serves as a direct replacement for CraftBukkit.

  • Extensive plugin support thanks to its long-standing use in the community.

• Cons:

  • Spigot's performance optimizations are limited compared to newer alternatives.

  • Servers running Spigot may experience lag under heavy load, making it less ideal for large-scale servers.

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Paper

Paper, formerly known as PaperMC, is a high-performance fork of Spigot that builds on its foundation with additional optimizations and features.

• Pros:

  • Highly optimized server code to reduce lag and improve overall performance.

  • Enhanced configuration options for fine-tuning your server's behavior.

  • Regular updates that address vulnerabilities and bugs, making it a more stable choice.

  • Compatible with most Spigot plugins.

• Why Choose Paper? Paper is often considered the superior choice for those seeking both performance and compatibility, especially for servers with high player counts.

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Purpur

Purpur is a fork of Tuinity, which itself is a fork of Paper, and it focuses on enhancing gameplay features rather than performance.

• Pros:

  • Introduces unique gameplay tweaks and customization options.

  • Comes with a new lighting engine and other innovative features.

  • Designed to maintain stability even with a large number of players.

• Cons:

  • Fewer performance optimizations compared to Paper.

  • Primarily aimed at adding features rather than improving raw server speed.

• Ideal Use Case: Purpur is best suited for servers that prioritize gameplay enhancements and customization over maximum performance.

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Which Should You Choose?

• For Performance and Stability: Choose Paper. It offers the best balance between speed and plugin compatibility.

• For Basic Plugin Support: Spigot is a reliable entry-level option, though its performance may falter under heavy usage.

• For Enhanced Gameplay Features: Opt for Purpur, especially if you’re looking for unique customization options to improve player experience.

By selecting the server software that aligns with your goals, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable Minecraft experience for you and your players.