Key Factors to Consider

1. Server Type

   • Vanilla: MinimalModerate resource usage, perfect for unmodified Minecraft.
   • Optimized Servers:
     • PaperMC and Purpur reduce CPU strain and memory usage, supporting more players with the same RAM.
     • These options are recommended for plugin-heavy or high-player-count setups.
   • Modded Servers: Resource-intensive due to mods and custom worlds.
     • These server types also lack the optimizations provided by server types like PaperMC, making them more resource intensive even without any mods installed.

2. Player Count

   • More players require more RAM. The recommendations above align with typical usage scenarios.

3. Modpacks and Plugins

   • Modpacks like those from CurseForge or Feed The Beast demand higher RAM. Plugins also increase memory requirements.

4. World Size and Activity

   • Large builds, Redstone mechanisms, and extensive exploration all consume additional memory.