Rust Map Sizes Explained: Which One Is Right for Your Server?
Choosing the right map size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when setting up a Rust server. Go too big, and players might never see each other. Go too small, and it turns into chaos. This guide breaks down Rust map sizes, how they impact gameplay, and which one is best for your server's goals — whether it's casual PvE or sweaty PvP.
What Is “Map Size” in Rust?
In Rust, the map is procedurally generated. When creating or wiping a server, you specify the map size using the +server.worldsize parameter.
- Measured in meters (in-game units)
- Affects the amount of landmass, monuments, and player spread
- Typical sizes range from 2000 to 6000 — but you can go custom
Common Rust Map Sizes
| Size | Type | Ideal Player Count | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Tiny | 10–20 | High PvP, quick raids, fast-paced |
| 3000 | Small | 20–50 | Balanced action + exploration |
| 3500 | Medium (default) | 50–100 | Great for vanilla servers |
| 4000 | Large | 100–150+ | More spread-out gameplay |
| 4500+ | Extra-Large | 150–200+ | Long travel times, big clans |
| 6000+ | Huge | 200+ | Best with teleport mods or vehicles |
💡 Tip: Facepunch recommends 3500 for most servers. But it really depends on your setup and audience.
How Map Size Affects Gameplay
Performance & Load Times
- Larger maps require more RAM and CPU to load.
- On underpowered servers, large maps may cause lag or crashes.
- BerryByte’s Rust hosting includes plans optimized for all map sizes.
Monument Distribution
- Smaller maps may exclude important monuments like Launch Site or Oil Rig.
- Use tools like RustEdit or Beancan.io to preview monument placements.
PvP vs PvE
- PvP-focused servers benefit from tighter maps where players encounter each other often.
- PvE or roleplay servers often prefer larger maps for base building and exploration.
Choosing the Right Map Size Based on Server Type
| Server Type | Recommended Map Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solo/Duo Only | 2500–3000 | Keeps bases close, promotes tension |
| Monthly Vanilla | 3500 | Default size, good monument distribution |
| Modded PvP | 3000–4000 | Depends on teleportation and wipe frequency |
| RP/PvE Servers | 4000–4500+ | Gives players space to explore and build |
| High-Pop Clans | 4500–6000 | Big map for zergs and alliances |
How to Set Map Size on Your Server
If you're using BerryByte's game panel panel, you can easily change your map size:
- Log into your game panel
- Go to
Startup Parameters - Set
World Sizeto your desired number (e.g.3500) - Save and restart your server
Alternatively, you can edit your command line:
+server.worldsize 3500Map Size and Wipes
- Smaller maps may need more frequent wipes due to faster progression.
- Larger maps can stretch wipe cycles to 2–4 weeks, especially for PvE setups.
For help automating wipes and custom maps, check out:
🔗 Related Resources
- Rust Server Hosting at BerryByte
- Rust Server Setup Guide
- Rust Map Tools – Beancan.io
- RustEdit for Custom Maps
- Facepunch Rust Devblog
Final Thoughts
Picking the right map size is a small tweak that makes a big difference. Think about your player count, server goals, wipe frequency, and performance. And if you’re hosting with us — we’ll make sure your server performs great, no matter what size you choose.
🧾 Ready to spin up your Rust server? Start your Rust journey with BerryByte.