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May 28, 2026

QBCore vs ESX: Which FiveM Framework Should You Run?

A no-nonsense comparison of QBCore and ESX for FiveM roleplay servers — performance, community, scripts, and which one to pick in 2026.

If you're spinning up a new FiveM roleplay server, the first fork in the road is the framework. The two big names are QBCore and ESX. Here's the short version.

ESX

ESX is the veteran. It's been around the longest, so there are more tutorials, more legacy scripts, and a huge community. It's lightweight and battle-tested, but some of its age shows in the codebase.

  • Pros: massive script library, tons of documentation, lightweight core
  • Cons: older patterns, more boilerplate for modern features

QBCore

QBCore is the modern favorite. It ships with more features out of the box (metadata, inventory hooks, nicer player management) and has rapidly become the default for new RP servers.

  • Pros: feature-rich core, active development, modern conventions
  • Cons: slightly heavier, faster-moving (breaking changes happen)

So which one?

Starting fresh in 2026? QBCore is the safer default for a feature-rich RP server. Already invested in ESX scripts? Stick with ESX — it's not going anywhere.

Either way, you don't have to choose your weapons by framework: every Kyros weapon pack is standalone and drops into QBCore, ESX, QBox or OX without a fuss.