A FiveM framework is the core system that powers your roleplay server. It provides the essential building blocks — jobs, inventory, banking, vehicles, housing — that all your scripts depend on. Choosing the right framework determines what scripts you can use, how easily you can find developers, and how well your server performs under load.
There are three major frameworks in 2026: ESX (the original, largest script ecosystem), QBCore (modern architecture, most popular for new servers), and QBOX (the newest, best raw performance). This guide breaks down each one so you can make the right choice from the start.
Compare ESX, QBCore, and QBOX at a glance
| Feature | ESX | QBCore | QBOX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Established Servers | New Servers | Modern, Lightweight |
| Learning Curve | Medium | Easy | Easy |
| Community | Large | Very Large | Growing |
| Performance | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Templates | ESX Templates | QBCore Templates | QBOX Templates |
The original FiveM roleplay framework. ESX has the largest existing script library and is ideal for servers migrating from legacy setups or wanting maximum script compatibility.
The most popular choice for new servers in 2026. QBCore offers modern architecture, excellent performance, and the most active development community today.
The newest framework with the lowest resource usage. QBOX is ideal for performance-focused servers and developers who want TypeScript support and modern tooling.
Average resource usage measured on a 64-player server
| Metric | ESX | QBCore | QBOX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base CPU (ms) | 0.8-1.2ms | 0.4-0.6ms | 0.2-0.4ms |
| Memory Usage | High | Moderate | Low |
| Boot Time | 45-60s | 30-45s | 20-30s |
| Max Tested Players | 100+ | 100+ | 100+ |
Planning to switch frameworks? Here's what to expect.
The most common migration path. Requires converting scripts, database schema, and player data. Best handled incrementally with a staging server.
QBOX includes a QBCore compatibility layer, making this migration significantly easier. Most QBCore scripts run on QBOX with minimal changes.
Use the framework decision to choose the right commercial and setup path next — server base, migration workflow, launch bundle, or baseline configuration.
Starting point
Once you know your framework, start from a ready-made base instead of assembling economy, jobs, and core dependencies by hand.
Browse server templatesMigration
Use the converter when this guide points you toward QBCore but your live server still depends on ESX resources and custom logic.
Open the converterCore stack
Move from framework choice into curated packs for economy, jobs, police, and the launch-critical systems most new servers need first.
See bundlesConfiguration
Lock in the framework decision with a starter config you can extend as you add scripts, templates, and bundles.
Open server.cfg generatorFind answers to common questions about VertexMods
Yes, but it requires significant work. Plan for 2-4 weeks of migration time.
ESX has the largest library due to its age. QBCore is catching up quickly with modern scripts. QBOX is growing but currently has a smaller selection.
Yes! MLOs (interiors) are framework-agnostic and work with ESX, QBCore, and QBOX without modification.
QBCore is most commonly used for NoPixel-inspired servers due to its modern features, active development, and large community of shared resources.
Generally no. Scripts are built for specific frameworks. However, some standalone scripts work across all frameworks, and QBOX has a compatibility layer for QBCore scripts.
QBCore has the gentlest learning curve and best beginner resources. Its modern architecture and extensive documentation make it ideal for those new to FiveM development.
Build and configure your FiveM server with our free tools.
Create custom jobs for ESX, QBCore, and QBOX servers.
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Generate optimized server.cfg files for your FiveM server.
Translate FiveM scripts between ESX, QBCore, and QBOX.
Convert your ESX scripts to QBCore format.
Find the IP address of any FiveM server.