Minecraft server vs Realm: which is better for you?

A Realm is the easiest way to play with a small group, while a server is better when you want plugins, mods, custom rules or a larger community. The right choice depends on how much control you need.

Realms

• Official and easy to set up.
• Designed for small groups of invited players.
• Limited customization compared with servers.

Check Mojang's official Realms page for current player limits and details, as these change.

Servers

• You choose the software, such as vanilla, Paper, Forge or Fabric.
• Plugins and mods are possible.
• You edit files and settings directly.
• You can scale for more players.

Which one?

• Choose a Realm for a quick, low-effort world with a few friends.
• Choose a server for plugins, minigames, public communities or modpacks.

Hosting a server with us

Tabi Cloud supports Java and Bedrock from the Cobble plan up. You manage the server in the panel with Files and Console tabs, and order on Discord.

Moving between them

You can usually download a Realm world and upload it to a server. Our world upload guide shows the steps for a Java server.

Common mistakes

• Expecting plugin support on a Realm.
• Picking a server for just two friends when a Realm would do.
• Forgetting to download a backup before cancelling anything.