Which FiveM Framework to use in 2025?

Selecting a framework is one of the most important decisions for your FiveM server. Your choice affects development speed, server performance, mod compatibility, and long-term maintenance. In this guide, we'll compare six popular approaches: ESX, QBCore, QBox, vRP, ND-Core, and Standalone.

What we'll compare

We'll evaluate each framework (or style) based on:

• Performance & resource usage

• Ecosystem & script availability

• Developer experience / learning curve

• Community support & documentation

• Scalability & future readiness

1. Frameworks Compared

1. ESX

The OG in the space, some will call it the grandfather of all frameworks. ESX is a large, and mature framework for any server.

• Pros

  • Large existing ecosystem - many scripts, mods, tutorials already built for ESX.

  • Strong community presence and long history.

• Cons

  • Can get heavy with many modules - potential performance drag.

  • Fragmentation: different forks and versions may lead to compatibility issues.

  • Less modular - harder to strip out unused features.

ESX is a great option for server that want to hit the ground running, leaning on existing scripts and community support.

2. QBCore

The biggest competitor to ESX, with a modern features and design, and an ever-growing ecosystem surrounding it.

• Pros

  • Balanced and modular design - you can include only what you need.

  • Growing ecosystem and community support.

  • More maintainable structure for expanding or customizing.

• Cons

  • Some scripts may still only target ESX first; you may need conversions.

  • Slight learning curve for those used to older frameworks.

QBCore is a great option for server with moderate customization needs and a desire for stability and maintainability.

3. QBox

The new kid in town, backwards compatible with QBCore resources, it is showing a promising future of FiveM frameworks.

• Pros

  • Designed for performance and optimization - leaner overhead than many older frameworks.

  • Fully backwards compatible with QBCore, so most QBCore scripts work with minimal or no changes.

  • Flexible structure; better suited for modern development patterns and modular setups.

  • Good for servers that want to grow without excessive bloat.

• Cons

  • Smaller ecosystem compared to ESX or QBCore - some scripts may still require adaptation to fully utilize its features.

  • Smaller community

QBox is a great option for server that value performance and want to leverage the QBCore ecosystem while moving to a more optimized, modular core.

4. vRP

Another OG in the space you don't hear about often, vRP is a super mature framework for servers that want a stable framework.

• Pros

  • Simpler by design - less overhead for basic RP servers.

  • Useful built-in features for identity, roles, and permissions.

• Cons

  • Slower updates and fewer modern utilities (inventory UIs, targeting, etc.).

  • Smaller community and fewer new scripts.

vRP is a great option for smaller or niche RP servers seeking simplicity and minimal maintenance.

5. ND-Core

A more niche framework in FiveM, you really don't hear about. ND-Core is a hidden gem in the FiveM framework game.

• Pros

  • Lightweight core, focusing on essential functions only.

  • Useful when resource efficiency is critical.

• Cons

  • Fewer ready-made scripts; many systems may need to be built or adapted.

  • Less documented; smaller support base.

ND-Core is a great option for servers with tight performance constraints and a skilled dev team.

6. Standalone

What is it?
Standalone means that no full framework is provided. You build systems by combining individual scripts or writing your own, using minimal shared libraries.

• Pros

  • Maximum control and flexibility.

  • Only include what you need - no wasted overhead.

• Cons

  • Much more development work and maintenance.

  • Fewer off-the-shelf scripts; more risk for bugs or integration issues.

Building standalone is a great option for experienced teams building custom experiences that don't fit standard frameworks.

2. Decision Guide

When deciding on which framework to choose (or none at all), ask yourself:

• Do I want to launch quickly or build from the ground up?

• How many custom systems will I need?

• What scale (player count / features) do I expect?

• How reliant will I be on community scripts and support

• Do I foresee the need to migrate or expand later?

If you favor speed and ease, ESX or QBCore are solid choices. If you prioritize performance and control, Qbox, vRP, ND-Core, or even Standalone might be better.

3. Final Thoughts

There's no one-size-fits-all framework. The best one is the one that aligns with your server's goals. Try small prototypes, test performance under load, and evaluate how easily you can build the features you need. Over time, experience will guide you to the right tools.

Once you pick a framework, start building and refining - and list your server on 5m.network to reach more players and devs