The definitive 2026 comparison for FiveM server owners. We break down performance, scripts, community, and migration so you can decide with confidence.
TL;DR — Quick Verdict
Starting fresh? Use QBCore. Migrating an existing server? Stick with ESX.
Every key dimension, side by side.
| Feature | QBCore | ESX |
|---|---|---|
| First released | 2020 | 2017 |
| Script library | 400+ scripts | 600+ scripts |
| Performance | Excellent | Good |
| Learning curve | Easy | Moderate |
| Community size | Very large | Massive |
| Best for | New servers | Existing servers |
| TypeScript support | No | No |
| Active development | Yes | Yes (Legacy) |
| Database | oxmysql | oxmysql |
| Default inventory | qb-inventory | esx inventory |
What each difference actually means for your server.
QBCore is lighter and better optimized. Built with modern Lua patterns, it uses fewer server ticks and has a smaller memory footprint compared to ESX.
ESX carries more overhead from its older architecture. Legacy code patterns and broader compatibility layers add to resource usage, though it remains stable for most servers.
QBCore is catching up fast. Most major scripts (jobs, housing, banking, police) are now available for both frameworks. The gap has narrowed significantly since 2023.
ESX has 3+ years more scripts in the ecosystem. The sheer volume of available resources is still an advantage, especially for niche or legacy scripts.
QBCore has a very active GitHub with frequent updates and a large Discord. Development is transparent and community-driven.
ESX has a massive community with more YouTube tutorials and long-standing documentation. Easier to find help for specific older scripts.
Migrating to QBCore from ESX requires rewriting most scripts due to different event systems and data structures. Budget 2-8 weeks for a full server.
Staying on ESX is the right call if you already have a running server with custom scripts. Migration cost usually outweighs the benefits for established servers.
QBCore is more actively developed and QBOX — the next-generation framework — is built directly on QBCore. Choosing QBCore now makes a future upgrade path smoother.
ESX Legacy is still maintained but the pace of innovation is slower. The framework is mature, which means stability but fewer cutting-edge features.
Use this as your decision guide.
Find premium and free scripts for your chosen framework.
Common questions about QBCore vs ESX.
No, they use different event systems and data structures. Most ESX scripts cannot run on QBCore without significant rewrites. Some popular scripts ship separate versions for each framework.
Not replacing, but QBCore is the preferred choice for new servers in 2026. ESX Legacy is still actively maintained and runs thousands of servers. Both frameworks will coexist for years.
For a full server with custom scripts, expect 2–8 weeks depending on how many custom resources you have. Servers running mostly off-the-shelf scripts can migrate faster.
Yes, both QBCore and ESX are supported. You can filter by framework on the shop and free mods pages to find resources for your specific setup.
QBOX is built on QBCore with TypeScript support and better module isolation. It is recommended for new servers wanting cutting-edge features. QBOX scripts are largely compatible with QBCore.
Browse premium and free scripts for QBCore, ESX, and QBOX — all vetted and ready to install.