10 Best Game Server Hosting Providers for Optimal Play in 2024
We review various hosting services, including specialized Minecraft servers and platforms guaranteeing high performance with low latency, to guide you in finding a provider that aligns with your gaming needs. With an emphasis on flexibility, security, and performance, we aim to simplify this decision, ensuring you enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted online gaming experience. Whether you're a seasoned admin managing extensive gaming communities or a newbie setting up your first server, understanding the key factors like server performance, management ease, and cost implications will lead you to the ideal game server hosting solution.
1. Kamatera
394
4.2
Positive
Positive
| Storage | Cpu | Ram | Bandwidth | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 GB | 1 core | 1 GB | Unlimited | View Plan |
| 50 GB | 4 cores | 4 GB | Unlimited | View Plan |
Kamatera - Best Free Trial Game Server Hosting (Pricing from $4.00)
Pros
- Highly customizable plans tailored to specific needs.
- Contract-free with the ability to scale features quickly.
- Generous 30-day free trial for new users.
- Extensive global data center locations.
Cons
- Lacks game-specific features and support.
- Requires VPS management expertise for optimal use.
Kamatera offers a compelling and diverse range of cloud VPS hosting plans, appealing to a wide spectrum of hosting needs, from small projects to large-scale enterprise solutions. What makes Kamatera stand out in the crowded market of cloud hosting is its mix of flexibility, scalability, and affordability, starting at just $4.00.
For this starting price, clients can tap into the Express 1 vCPU plan featuring Linux CentOS 8, with 30GB of storage, 5TB of bandwidth, 1 vCPU, and 1GB of RAM. This foundational package is designed for those launching new projects or in need of a versatile test environment, offering a solid starting point without a hefty initial investment.
Kamatera stands out for its customizable plans. There's no one-size-fits-all, as clients have the liberty to tailor their hosting environment to their exact specifications - selecting their preferred OS, the required amount of RAM, storage, monthly bandwidth, and even the number of processor cores and dedicated IP addresses. Kamatera's hosting solutions are free from contracts, providing further freedom by allowing clients to adjust their resource allocation or the scale of services as their needs evolve, without being tied down.
The free 30-day trial offers an excellent opportunity for users to test the waters, ensuring Kamatera's services align with their specific requirements before committing financially. This level of customer-centric flexibility is a rarity in the hosting domain and serves as a testament to Kamatera's confidence in their services.
While Kamatera's offerings are comprehensive, they may not be the best fit for clients without VPS management experience. The absence of game panel integration or game-specific support might deter some users, although the option to add managed support to any plan can mitigate this concern for an additional fee.
2. ScalaHosting
2.3k+
4.9
Positive
Positive
| Storage | Cpu | Ram | Bandwidth | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 GB | 2 cores | 2 GB | $14.95 / mo. | View Plan |
| 50 GB | 2 x 3.60GHz | 4 GB | Unlimited | View Plan |
| 100 GB | 4 x 3.60GHz | 8 GB | Unlimited | View Plan |
ScalaHosting - Best Minecraft-specific VPS plans (Pricing from $29.95)
- Pros
- Multiple Minecraft edition support including Java and Bedrock.
- Dedicated system resources offering superior storage, true DDR4 RAM.
- Free domain and dedicated IP address on all plans for personalized hosting.
- Comprehensive automatic backups and 1 Gbps uplink ports for fast and secure connections.
- Cons
- Higher pricing compared to other providers despite the premium services.
- Limited focus on Minecraft with no support for hosting other games.
ScalaHosting presents itself as a premium choice for Minecraft server hosting, beginning its pricing at $29.95. This entry-level plan offers users 50 GB NVMe SSD storage, 2 CPU cores, 4 GB RAM, and unmetered bandwidth. The service scales up to a high-tier option providing 200 GB NVMe SSD storage, 12 CPU cores, and 24 GB RAM at $180, designed for the most demanding of Minecraft servers. While renewal prices maintain these starting rates, the clear advantage is in ScalaHosting's investment in powerful and modern hardware, ensuring minimal lag and downtime for gamers. This provides a cost-effective bridge for gamers and server admins, offering a robust foundation for hosting Minecraft servers without compromising on performance or security.
Choosing ScalaHosting for your Minecraft hosting requirements means benefitting from a partnership with Amazon AWS and ensuring your game runs on powerful cloud VPS servers. This setup guarantees fast connections thanks to 1 Gbps uplink ports and a stable Minecraft environment with an automatic world check-and-repair feature. Moreover, free domain and dedicated IP address on all plans further cement ScalaHosting as a top-tier provider. Though the price point is on the higher end compared to competitors, the quality of service, hardware, and included extras like an advanced cybersecurity system and LiteSpeed web server offer tangible value.
ScalaHosting's approach is tailored for those not only venturing into Minecraft server hosting but also for seasoned admins aiming for a commercial use case such as reselling, hosting extensive gaming communities, or running esports tournaments. Their focus on performance and security, coupled with educational resources to aid beginners in cloud technology, makes ScalaHosting a comprehensive solution.
A unique feature distinguishing ScalaHosting is its Minecraft-specific VPS plans, managed by a support team ready to assist 24/7, ensuring smooth operation, maintenance, and backup management.
However, interested users should note the absence of game panel integration or game-specific support outside Minecraft hosting, which could be a limiting factor for those hosting multiple types of game servers.
3. ZAP-Hosting.com
16.9k+
4.7
Positive
Positive
ZAP-Hosting.com - Recommended FiveM Server Hosting (pricing from $3.90)
- Pros
- Competitive starting price for hosting services
- Wide range of server configurations and support for numerous games
- Features like DDoS protection and instant setup enhance security and convenience
- 24/7 customer support for uninterrupted assistance
- Cons
- Lack of clear information on renewal pricing
- Money-back guarantee details not readily available
- May require additional costs for certain premium features or higher configurations
ZAP-Hosting.com positions itself as a go-to solution for gamers and developers seeking reliable server hosting, with an impressive starting price of $3.90. At this entry level, users can expect a solid foundation for hosting, including essential features such as a specific amount of storage, RAM, and bandwidth tailored for smaller projects or game servers. While the site does not specify renewal prices upfront, the consistency in affordability across its diverse server options suggests a commitment to maintaining competitive rates for its services.
Choosing ZAP-Hosting.com offers several advantages, especially for those involved in gaming or complex development projects. The platform provides a wide array of server configurations, which can effectively support different types of online interactions, from multiplayer gaming sessions to development environments. Additionally, the hosting service includes features specifically designed to optimize the performance and reliability of game servers, such as DDoS protection and instant setup, to get users online without delay.
One of the most appealing aspects of ZAP-Hosting.com is its versatility. The provider caters to numerous popular games and can also accommodate custom projects, making it a flexible choice for various hosting needs. Although information on money-back guarantees was not readily available, their round-the-clock customer support and extensive documentation suggest a reliable avenue for troubleshooting and inquiries, ensuring users can seek guidance whenever needed.
In conclusion, ZAP-Hosting.com offers a robust and flexible solution for game server hosting and other specialized hosting needs, with an attractive starting price that makes it accessible to a broad audience. Its range of server options and dedicated features designed for gaming make it a strong contender for those looking to host online games or complex development environments. While potential users should consider the need for clarity on renewal costs and the specifics of money-back guarantees, the overall value proposition remains compelling.
4. Apex Hosting
742
4.7
Positive
Positive
Apex Hosting - Best Support Game Server Hosting (Pricing from $5.99/month)
Pros
- Global network of data centers
- User-friendly control panel specific to game server management
- One-click installations for mods and plugins
- Ex Series plan includes high-performance hardware
- Comprehensive customer support and knowledge base
Cons
- Limited to primarily Minecraft hosting
- Additional fees for dedicated IPs and premium support
- No free domain name registration
Apex Hosting is premier choice for Minecraft enthusiasts and gamers seeking reliable, high-performance server hosting solutions. With pricing starting at $5.99 per month, Apex Hosting offers a range of plans designed to meet the diverse needs of its user base, from casual gamers to seasoned server administrators. The entry-level plan includes 1 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for a small group of players, and prices scale up depending on the resources like RAM and storage, catering to larger, more demanding server setups.
The renewal prices maintain the initial sign-up cost, ensuring transparency and predictability in billing. However, it's worth noting that certain add-ons, such as dedicated IPs and premium support, are available at an additional cost. This a la carte pricing model means you only pay for what you truly need, allowing for a customized hosting experience.
Apex Hosting boasts a global network of data centers, ensuring low latency and high performance regardless of where you are in the world. Each plan comes with unlimited player slots, dedicated live chat support, automated backups, and a free subdomain. Notably, for those seeking peak performance, their Ex Series plan offers dedicated vCores and high-performance Ryzen processors, along with NVMe SSD storage for rapid data retrieval and processing.
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Apex Hosting is its user-friendly control panel. Designed with gamers in mind, it simplifies server management and makes it easy to install mods and plugins with just a few clicks. Additionally, their extensive knowledge base and 24/7 customer support are invaluable resources for troubleshooting and optimizing your server.
Despite its many advantages, Apex Hosting is primarily focused on Minecraft, which may be a limitation for those looking to host servers for other games. The platform also doesn't provide a free domain name, though it does offer a free subdomain to get started.
5. PingPerfect
991
4.7
Positive
Positive
PingPerfect - Cheap Game Server Hosting Option (pricing from $1.22)
- Pros
- Competitive pricing starts at $1.22/month.
- Extensive selection of games and mods supported.
- Options for up to 64 GB of RAM and 500 GB SSD storage.
- Responsive customer support with a quick turnaround.
- Advanced backup system for data loss prevention.
- 32 server locations globally for best connection speeds.
- Cons
- Additional costs for specific server locations and hardware options.
- Some users find the custom game server control panel challenging to navigate.
- Performance concerns with dedicated hosting plans have been noted.
- Only a 24-hour refund policy, limiting comprehensive service assessment.
When exploring options for game server hosting, PingPerfect emerges as a noteworthy contender, with pricing that begins at an attractive $1.22 per month. This entry-level price offers a solid foundation for gamers looking to host their favorite titles without breaking the bank. Although the exact specifications at this starting price point vary depending on the game and server needs, clients can expect to find options for various storage, RAM, and bandwidth requirements tailored to their gaming demands. Those considering PingPerfect will be pleased to find that the company extends a 48-hour free trial to test out their services, ensuring that the server's performance meets their expectations before any financial commitment is made.
Why should someone choose PingPerfect for their hosting needs? Beyond competitive pricing, the company shines with its hardware offerings, including up to 64 GB of RAM, 500 GB SSD storage, and processors that reach speeds of up to 5 GHz. This ensures that games run smoothly, with quick load times and minimal lag, enhancing the gaming experience. Another significant advantage is the selection of 32 server locations worldwide, allowing for optimized connection speeds regardless of where players are located. However, it's crucial to note that selecting specific server locations and hardware configurations may incur additional costs.
The company also distinguishes itself with responsive customer support and an advanced in-house backup system designed to prevent data loss. For those wary of commitment, PingPerfect's only 24-hour refund policy offers a brief period to decide if their services are the right fit, which may feel limiting for comprehensive evaluations.
In sum, PingPerfect provide support for over 175 games and mods. The company’s focus on providing a lag-free gaming experience, combined with responsive customer support and protective measures against data loss, makes it a strong choice for gamers of all types. However, potential users should consider the additional costs for certain configurations and the limited refund policy when making their decision.
6. ScalaCube
4.4k+
4.3
Positive
Neutral
ScalaCube - Free Plan Game Server Options (Pricing from $2.00/month)
- Pros
- Free plan available with unlimited player slots
- Custom Minecraft launcher for enhanced gameplay
- Global server locations for reduced latency
- Robust DDoS protection and web-based firewall
- Cons
- Premium plans are more expensive than competitors
- Additional charges for certain features
- Online only support, potentially limiting direct interaction
ScalaCube emerges as an enticing option for game server hosting, offering a suite that caters particularly to the Minecraft, Hytale, Valheim, and Project Zomboid communities. With pricing that kicks off from as low as $2.00/month for premium plans, ScalaCube provides a free plan ideal for those wanting to test their servers before making a commitment. This free offering includes unlimited player slots, although it's limited by memory and disk capacity. For those ready to upgrade, ScalaCube's premium servers boast more resources, including 32GB of RAM for Minecraft, designed to meet the requirements of both new and experienced server admins alike.
ScalaCube's commitment to ensuring a high-quality gaming experience is underpinned by features such as one-click plugin installers, a user-friendly control panel for server management, and custom Minecraft launchers (available for an additional fee). Servers are protected with advanced DDoS protection and a web-based firewall, addressing the vital need for security in today's digital environment. The addition of a server monitoring dashboard allows admins to track performance metrics easily, enhancing the management experience.
However, the journey with ScalaCube isn't without its costs. Beyond the free plan, the premium options present a price tag that's considerably higher than some competitors, alongside potential additional fees for features like the custom Minecraft launcher. Another point to consider is ScalaCube's exclusive online support, which could pose limitations for those seeking more personalized assistance.
Why should users pick ScalaCube? Its blend of scalable plans suited to a wide range of server sizes, combined with the allure of unlimited traffic and slots within the allocated memory and disk capacity, offers a package that’s hard to overlook for the gaming community. For parents or individuals managing servers for smaller gaming circles, the free plan provides a testing ground with no upfront financial commitment, while the advanced options cater to growing or established online communities.
7. Nodecraft
1.3k+
4.3
Positive
Positive
Nodecraft - Wide Range of RAM Game Servers (Pricing from $9.98)
- Pros
- User-friendly control panel for easy management
- Mobile app available for server management on the go
- Automatic DDoS protection and backups
- Customizable plans with a wide range of RAM options
- Generous bandwidth for smooth multiplayer gameplay
- Cons
- Higher starting price point compared to some competitors
- Money-back guarantee period is not clearly defined
Nodecraft offers a competitive entry point into the game server hosting arena, with plans starting at $9.98. At this starting price, users can expect 2 GB of RAM which is suitable for smaller servers and games. They also offer higher-tier plans for those needing more resources, with options extending up to 12 GB of RAM for larger and more demanding game servers. Storage is SSD based, ensuring quick data retrieval and smooth gameplay, and bandwidth allocations are generous to support multiple players simultaneously without lag. For those curious about committing, Nodecraft provides a money-back guarantee, though the specifics such as the duration of the guarantee period may vary.
Why Choose Nodecraft as your game server hosting? Their user interface is designed to be intuitive, making server setup and management accessible to users of all technical skill levels. Nodecraft uses a custom control panel, NodePanel, which simplifies tasks such as server configuration and mod installation. Another highlight is the mobility of their service, allowing server management from mobile devices via an app, which is not commonly offered by other providers.
Security features are robust, including DDoS protection and automated backups, ensuring game progress is never lost. Nodecraft's support team is readily available, providing assistance through various channels including live chat and tickets, ensuring help is on hand whenever it's needed.
8. Host Havoc
879
4.7
Positive
Positive
Host Havoc - In-Depth Review (Pricing from $5.00/month)
- Pros
- Compatibility with over 20 different games for broad appeal.
- 99.9% uptime guarantee to ensure game servers are almost always available.
- Instant setup feature for quick game server deployment.
- Robust DDoS protection to guard against cyber threats.
- User-friendly control panels for hassle-free server management.
- Exceptional customer support available 24/7.
- Cons
- Limited server locations for certain games, potentially impacting latency.
- Performance can suffer under heavy loads or high player counts.
- The three-day trial period might be too short for some users to make a definitive evaluation.
Host Havoc stands out in the competitive landscape of game server hosting, with offerings that cater to various popular games like Minecraft, Arma 3, and DayZ. Established in 2013, this provider has carved a niche for itself, thanks to its proprietary control panels that streamline the game server management process. Starting at $5.00/month, clients can enjoy plans that are not only budget-friendly but also packed with features designed for optimization and security.
At the core of Host Havoc's offering is the promise of instant server setup, which means players can get their servers up and running minutes after payment, minimizing downtime and hassle. This ease of use is further complemented by the flexibility of the proprietary control panels, including a specialized Minecraft panel, making it a preferred option for gaming enthusiasts of all technical abilities.
Customer support is another area where Host Havoc shines. Available 24/7 via tickets, live chat, and email, their team is equipped to handle inquiries with efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring that any potential issues are resolved swiftly. The addition of a three-day money-back guarantee provides extra peace of mind for new users, allowing them to test the service risk-free.
For those needing more substantial resources, Host Havoc also provides dedicated server plans. These are ideal for high-traffic games or large communities, offering enhanced performance and storage capabilities. Although the exact pricing for renewal is contingent on the plan selected, users can expect competitive rates that reflect the quality and reliability of the service.
Choosing Host Havoc means tapping into a user-friendly platform that spans multiple international server locations. This global reach is vital for reducing latency and enhancing the overall gaming experience, crucial factors for gamers everywhere.
9. ActiveGameHost
114
4.3
Positive
Positive
ActiveGameHost - In-Depth Review (pricing from $5/month)
Pros
- Competitive pricing starting at $5/month with a 7-day money-back guarantee
- Flexible server plans that range from 10 slots to large-scale options with up to 32GB of RAM
- User-friendly control panel interface, simplifying server management
- High-performance hardware ensures smooth and reliable server operation
- Responsive and helpful customer support team
Cons
- Limited game support compared to other hosting providers
- Advanced features and larger server plans can become quite expensive
- Renewal pricing remains consistent, which may be higher than introductory offers from competitors
ActiveGameHost offers a tailored approach to game server hosting, catering primarily to Minecraft, ARK: Survival Evolved, and Conan Exiles communities. Starting at an accessible price of $5/month, customers get an initial package that includes 10 slots, 5GB of storage, and unlimited bandwidth, designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized gaming groups. For users looking to upgrade, ActiveGameHost provides options that scale up to 32GB of RAM, catering to much larger communities and more demanding games. One notable feature of this hosting service is its commitment to high-performance hardware, ensuring that game servers run smoothly with minimal lag.
When considering renewing your server hosting with ActiveGameHost, the prices remain competitive, making it an attractive option for long-term gaming communities. The company also offers a 7-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test their services risk-free. This policy reflects their confidence in the quality of the services they provide and their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Choosing ActiveGameHost can be a smart decision for those prioritizing server performance and reliability. The flexibility in their plans ensures that there's something suitable for most sizes and types of gaming communities. Moreover, the simplicity of their control panel makes server management accessible to both novices and experienced server administrators. Their customer support team is readily available to assist with any questions or issues, further enhancing the overall hosting experience.
10. GameServers
177
3.0
Neutral
Neutral
GameServers - In-Depth Review (pricing from $0.34/month)
- Pros
- Affordable entry-level pricing.
- Global data center presence ensures low-latency gaming.
- Supports over 200 game mods for enhanced customizability.
- User-friendly control panels tailored to popular games.
- Five-day refund policy provides peace of mind.
- Cons
- Limited game support with up to 20 servers.
- No explicit uptime guarantee mentioned on the website.
- Some users report dissatisfaction with customer support.
When it comes to choosing a game server host, GameServers shines with affordable pricing starting at just $0.34 per month. This entry-level price makes it an attractive option for gamers looking to host popular games like Conan Exiles, Rust, and Minecraft without a large financial commitment. Despite the low starting cost, GameServers does not compromise on quality or performance. The service prides itself on providing high-quality hardware to ensure smooth and responsive gameplay, especially in demanding multiplayer scenarios. For those concerned about long-term commitments, the company offers a five-day refund policy, allowing customers to explore its services risk-free.
One of GameServers' strengths lies in its global network. With data centers located across six continents, including in underrepresented regions like Africa, players around the world can enjoy low-latency gaming experiences. The broad geographical distribution of servers is crucial for multiplayer games, where every millisecond counts. Furthermore, GameServers enhances the gaming experience by supporting over 200 mods, enabling players to customize their game servers extensively. Additionally, the inclusion of hosting for voice communication platforms such as TeamSpeak, Ventrilo, and Mumble adds another layer of convenience for gamers looking to coordinate with friends during multiplayer sessions.
Despite its competitive pricing and features, GameServers is tailored towards a more specific segment of the gaming community, given its focus on some of the most popular titles and its limitation of supporting up to 20 game servers. This focus has allowed it to specialize and offer optimized experiences for these games, reflected in user-friendly custom control panels designed specifically for different games, simplifying server management and enhancing gameplay.
2 Most Reviewed Game Server Hosting Providers (Oct 2024)
| Hosting Name | User Satisfaction In % | Number of Reviews | Promotions |
|---|---|---|---|
 GameServers |
60% | 208 | |
 eFlame Hosting |
97% (less than 25 reviews) |
13 |
1 Cheapest Game Server Hosting Plans (from $69.99 to $69.99)
| Starting Price | Plan Type | Plan Name | Promotions | Hosting Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $69.99 / mo. | Dedicated Server | DEDICATED GAME SERVERS 1 | GameServers |
Choosing Game Server Hosting: Factors to Consider
Finding the perfect game server hosting provider involves weighing several critical aspects to ensure a seamless online gaming experience. Key considerations include server performance and reliability, vital for maintaining a smooth, uninterrupted game play. You'll also want to explore the range of server locations offered, as proximity to servers can drastically reduce lag and improve game responsiveness. Another factor to weigh is scalability; as your gaming community grows, your server's capabilities should grow with it. Security cannot be overlooked, with protection against DDoS attacks being particularly important to keep your gaming sessions uninterrupted.
Customization options offer the freedom to tailor your gaming environment exactly to your liking, while control over server settings allows for fine-tuning performance and gameplay. Strong customer support is invaluable, ensuring that any technical issues are promptly addressed. Community features such as forums or Discord channels can enrich the gaming experience, fostering a sense of community among players. Finally, while cost is a significant consideration, the goal should be to balance affordability with the quality and range of services provided.
Game Server Hosting FAQs
Choosing the right game server hosting can bring a significant improvement to your online multiplayer gaming experience. Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you in selecting a service that fits your gaming needs.
What is Game Server Hosting?
Game server hosting is a service that provides the necessary technology and support to run multiplayer video games on the internet. These services offer servers that allow gamers to connect and play together regardless of their location. The hosting can vary based on the type of server, the games it supports, and the available customizations and controls.
Can I Host a Game Server for Free?
Yes, you can find providers like ScalaCube that offer limited free game server hosting options. However, these free services usually come with restrictions such as limited player slots or reduced customizability. For a more comprehensive and satisfying gaming experience, paid plans are recommended.
How Much RAM Do I Need for a Game Server?
The ideal amount of RAM for a game server depends on the number of players and the complexity of the game. A basic guideline is to have around 100 MB per player. However, if you plan to add mods or host more demanding games, you'll need additional RAM and processing power to ensure smooth gameplay.
Which Type of Server is Best for Hosting Games?
The best type of server for hosting games depends on your needs. Shared hosting works for basic games with few players and mods. VPS hosting is better suited for hosting games with more players and additional requirements. For large-scale gaming environments, a dedicated server provides the most resources and control.
How Much Does Hosting a Game Server Cost?
The cost of game server hosting varies widely, starting from a few dollars to over a hundred dollars per month. The price depends on the server type, shared, VPS, or dedicated, and the resources you choose, such as RAM and storage. For example, ScalaCube offers both free and paid options, with their larger deployments catering to hundreds of players.
By understanding the basics of game server hosting, you can make an informed decision on the best service for your gaming needs. Consider how many players you expect, what games you'll be hosting, and whether you'll be using mods or extra plugins to find the perfect hosting plan for you.