How much RAM a Rust server needs
Updated 8 November 2026
In short
Facepunch, the developer of Rust, gives 12 GB of free RAM and notes that a 6000 map uses more and that the exact figure depends on the server. 8 GB plans are below that. For bigger maps and dozens of players, hosts recommend 16–24 GB.
What the hosts say
| Host | Entry plan | Middle | Top | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Expanse | 8 GB: 20 or 30 players (the page gives both) | 16 GB: 20–50 players | 24 GB: 50–100 players | |
GameServerKings | 12 GB: maps up to 4000 | 16 GB: maps 4250–4500 | 20 GB: maps 5000–6000 | |
Sparked Host | 10 GB: maps 1000–2000 | 16 GB: maps 2000–4000 | 24 GB: maps 4000–6000 | |
RackGenius | 8 GB: 50 players, maps 1000–3000 | 12 GB: 110 players, maps 4500–5500 | 16 GB: 160+ players, map 6000 |
Why the numbers differ
For 8 GB, Expanse says 20 or 30 players and RackGenius says 50. These are sales recommendations, not measurements, and the hosts use different CPUs. We have not load-tested these servers ourselves.
How to choose
- A server for friends. Aim for 12 GB: that is the developer's figure. Hosts sell 8 GB plans for small servers, but that is below it.
- A public server. Go by the lower estimate and keep headroom: when players pile in, the server runs out of both RAM and CPU.
- A big map. Use the map-size advice from GameServerKings and Sparked Host.
Sources: Facepunch wiki on creating a server, Expanse Rust page, GameServerKings Rust page, Sparked Host Rust page, RackGenius Rust page.