When it comes to enjoying Minecraft to the fullest, having your own server can make all the difference. However, finding a reliable hosting provider that won't empty your wallet can be quite the challenge. Don't worry, we've got you covered! For information on whether your system can run Minecraft, check out our guide to Minecraft system requirements. If you're new to multiplayer, learn how to play multiplayer Minecraft first.
We've put together a list of 7 free Minecraft hosting providers that combine reliability and performance without costing a thing. We've tested these providers ourselves, so you can be confident they're legit. Whether you're building epic structures or embarking on adventures with friends, these options will help you get started without any hassle. For a complete guide on setting up your server, see our Minecraft server setup guide.
PS. If you have a serious community, check out our best Minecraft server hosting post that includes paid, premium providers.
Should You Use Free Minecraft Hosting over Paid Options?
When deciding whether to use a free Minecraft hosting provider or invest in a paid option, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each to determine which best suits your needs.
Pros of Free Hosting
-
No financial burden, allowing you to start a server without initial investment.
-
User-friendly interfaces simplify server setup and management. This includes using Minecraft console commands for easier control.
-
Easy entry point for beginners not ready to commit to paid services.
-
Active user communities provide support and share tips.
Cons of Free Hosting
-
Limited resources like restricted RAM, storage, and player slots can impact performance.
-
Free hosts may experience more frequent downtimes and less reliable uptime.
-
Free services are often funded by ads, which can be intrusive.
-
Generally offer limited customer support, relying mainly on community forums.
In our expert opinion, if you have a serious community or group who cares about your world, then you should be using a paid service. If it's just to mess around with on a weekend for fun and you don't care about losing your world, a free Minecraft host can be a good option. Looking for specific server types? Check out our guides for the best Minecraft survival servers or best Minecraft creative servers.
EU Game Host
EU Game Host specializes in game server hosting with a focus on European locations and gaming-optimized hardware.
Pros:
- Gaming-optimized
- Good EU coverage
- Specialized support
Cons:
- Limited global locations
- Higher pricing
Aternos
Aternos offers completely free Minecraft server hosting supported by ads.
Pros:
- Completely free
- No time limits
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Queue wait times
- Limited performance
- Ads required
ScalaCube
ScalaCube provides reliable game server hosting with a user-friendly control panel.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Good uptime
- Multiple game support
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Support response time varies
Godlike
Godlike offers premium game hosting with high-performance hardware and DDoS protection.
Pros:
- High-performance hardware
- Excellent DDoS protection
- 24/7 support
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Overkill for small servers
Minefort
Minefort provides affordable Minecraft hosting with automated backups and mod support.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Automated backups
- Mod support
Cons:
- Limited to Minecraft
- Basic control panel
- Resource limitations
FreeMcServer
FreeMcServer offers free Minecraft server hosting with optional paid upgrades.
Pros:
- Free tier available
- Easy setup
- Beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Limited resources on free tier
- Ads on free servers
- Performance limitations
AxentHost
AxentHost specializes in game server hosting with competitive pricing and reliable performance.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing
- Good performance
- Game-specific optimizations
Cons:
- Limited support hours
- Fewer location options
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding a reliable and cost-effective Minecraft server hosting provider can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for a free option like Aternos or FreeMcServer, which offer essential features with some limitations, or a more premium service like Minefort, which provides robust performance and extensive customization, there's a solution to fit every need and budget. AxentHost presents a unique middle ground with its credit-based system, offering flexibility and high-end hardware, though it comes with the trade-off of frequent renewals. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific requirements, whether it be ease of use, customization options, or budget constraints. Happy gaming, and may your Minecraft adventures be ever exciting and lag-free!