Palworld runs fine with a handful of players, but the server is hungry for memory and the defaults are not always the best choice. Here is what it needs and which settings genuinely make a difference.
What a Palworld server asks for
Budget at least 8GB of memory for a small group. Usage climbs as the world ages: every base built, every Pal caught and every object placed persists and has to be loaded. A world that runs for months needs more than the same world on day one.
| Players | Memory | Our plan |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 4 | 8GB | Lamball |
| 4 to 8 | 12GB | Chikipi |
| 8 to 16 | 16GB | Depresso |
| 16 to 32 | 20GB and up | Anubis or Jetragon |
The settings that make a difference
Everything lives in PalWorldSettings.ini. These four have the most influence on how your server feels.
Server performance over cosmetics
The most important dial is the number of bases allowed per guild. Every base with working Pals costs continuous processing time, even when nobody is nearby. Set this high and server performance drops without anyone understanding why.
Adjusting rates
The default grind is steep. If you want players to make progress without it becoming a second job, raise capture and experience rates slightly. Doubling them is usually too much: the world gets played out within two weeks.
Automatic saving
Do not set the save interval too short. Every save writes the full world state and causes a brief hitch. Every ten to fifteen minutes strikes a good balance between limiting loss and staying smooth.
Player versus player
If PvP is on, say so up front. Enabling it later on a server where people have built bases reliably causes arguments.
Backups are not optional here
Palworld worlds are prone to corruption after a hard stop. Make sure automatic backups run and that you know how to restore one. With us that is on by default, and you can buy extra backup slots if you want to reach further back.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move my singleplayer world over?
Yes, the world folder can be transferred over SFTP. Back up both sides before you start.
Why does my server slow down after a few weeks?
Almost always the number of bases and placed objects. Clear abandoned bases or scale memory up.
What is the maximum player count?
Technically 32, but past 16 memory becomes the limiting factor. Pick a roomier plan at that point.
All plans and specifications are on Palworld hosting. Unsure about the location, measure your ping first on server locations.
