papermc-docker vs Zero-K

A side-by-side comparison of two self-hosted game servers options — licensing, setup difficulty, resource needs, and what each one replaces.

Not the right match-up?
Featurepapermc-dockerZero-K
CategoryGame ServersGame Servers
LicenseApache-2.0GPL-2.0
LanguageShellLua
Setup difficultyEasyHard
Min. RAM1,024 MB2,048 MB
Deploymentdocker, kubernetesbare-metal, binary, source
GitHub stars★ 14,076★ 820
First released20142010
ReplacesMinecraft RealmsSupreme Commander

Why pick each one

Choose papermc-docker if…

  • Extremely easy Minecraft hosting
  • Excellent documentation
papermc-docker details

Choose Zero-K if…

  • Deep strategy
  • Completely free
Zero-K details

Frequently asked questions

Is papermc-docker or Zero-K better?

papermc-docker is the stronger all-round pick: it has both the larger community and the simpler easy setup. Consider Zero-K if its specific feature set fits your needs better.

Are papermc-docker and Zero-K free and open-source?

Yes. papermc-docker is licensed under Apache-2.0 and Zero-K under GPL-2.0. Both can be self-hosted at no software cost.

Can I run papermc-docker and Zero-K with Docker?

papermc-docker: yes. Zero-K: check the project docs for container support.

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