Short version
Paper (and forks like Purpur) is the common path for plugin-based public servers. Fabric is a mod loader ecosystem—great for modded play, not a drop-in Paper plugin host.
Paper when
You want Spigot/Paper plugins, economy/chat/moderation stacks, and many public SMPs. Paper is tuned for server performance relative to vanilla, but plugins still dominate tick time if you install carelessly.
Fabric when
You are running a Fabric modpack or Fabric-only mods. You will use Fabric API and mod jars, not Bukkit plugins. Expect different JVM flags, different update rhythms, and different RAM pressure from content packs.
Do not mix casually
You cannot assume Paper plugins run on Fabric. Cross-loader bridges exist in niche cases—treat them as advanced and test on a copy first.
Hosting implications
State the loader in your plan decision. Modpacks often need more RAM than a light Paper lobby. Use the modpack RAM guide and a trial rather than guessing from player slots alone.
Also see Paper vs Forge if you are choosing between plugin servers and Forge/NeoForge packs.
Related: Minecraft hosting · Modpack RAM
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