Difference Between Dedicated Server Ark and Non-Dedicated Server ARK

Comparison Dedicated Server Updated on : March 23, 2026

When playing ARK: Survival Evolved, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing between a dedicated server and a non-dedicated server.

Each option offers a different multiplayer experience, affecting performance, flexibility, and gameplay stability.

In this guide, we’ll compare dedicated vs non-dedicated ARK servers to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Let’s first understand: What is Ark?

Ark: Survival Evolved is an adventure game developed by Studio Wildcard in 2017, where players have to survive on an island among dinosaurs, leviathans, and other monstrous creatures while fighting against them.

It is backed by major platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS. ARK allows you to choose between two modes: you can play the game from either a first-person or third-person perspective, no matter the type of dedicated or non-dedicated server. ARK offers multiple game modes, including ARK single-player and multiplayer options. While the single-player mode lets you explore solo, multiplayer requires choosing a server type. 

ARK allows for single or multiplayer options, and depending on the server, the number of players can vary significantly. There are multiple hosting options available for both dedicated and non-dedicated ARK servers, and you can choose the one that best fits your gameplay needs.

Why Do You Need a Server to Play ARK?

ARK is unique because it supports different gameplay experiences depending on the server and mode you choose. Depending on the server and mode you select, your gaming experience can be different from that of other players.

The primary benefit of a server to play Ark is that it helps to decrease latency. It also offers a seamless gaming experience with enhanced security and increased adaptability to accommodate larger gaming parties.

Most players experience these advantages when they go with ARK server hosting. A dedicated server may be the better option, but there are some obstacles where players may opt for a non-dedicated server. Let’s understand both dedicated and non-dedicated server Ark. If you play in ARK single player mode, you don’t need a server. However, for multiplayer sessions, a dedicated or non-dedicated server ensures better performance and stability.

Benefits of Dedicated Servers in ARK 

• Better performance and stability – Dedicated servers use full resources, reducing lag and improving gameplay smoothness.
• No tethering limitation – Players can explore freely without distance restrictions.
• Full customization – You can install mods, adjust settings, and control gameplay rules.
• 24/7 uptime – The server remains online even when the host is offline.

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What is a Dedicated Server in ARK?

A dedicated server in ARK: Survival Evolved is a private or hosted game server that runs independently of a player’s local device. Instead of one player hosting the game session, a dedicated server provides a stable, always-online environment where multiple players can join, play, and progress together.

Unlike non-dedicated or local hosting, dedicated servers offer better performance, reduced lag, and full control over game settings. Players can customize gameplay elements such as mods, player limits, world rules, and progression speed, making it ideal for communities, clans, and long-term gameplay.

Pros and Cons of a Dedicated Server

While dedicated servers sound appealing, they also come with some drawbacks you should consider.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of an Ark dedicated server:

Pros of a Dedicated Server

• Reduce delay during gameplay due to unrestricted access to bandwidth resources.
• Your gameplay will run more seamlessly as you are not depending on random party hosts to support your Ark lobby.
• You are less likely to be the target of a cyberattack because the only things on your server are Ark gaming software and the software to run your server.
• By simply scaling the resources of their server, players can adjust the size of their party.

Cons of a Dedicated Server

• Running a dedicated server can be expensive, as dedicated servers run around the clock.
• If you choose to develop your own server, you may need to purchase another PC or console to play Ark.
• If you are running your own server, you may be responsible for regular hardware and software maintenance checks.

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What is a Non-Dedicated Server in ARK?

A non-dedicated server is hosted on a player’s device, where the host plays and runs the server at the same time. It has limitations like tether distance and depends on the host’s system performance.

Pros and Cons of Non-Dedicated Server

Pros of Non-Dedicated Server

• You can host and play on the same device with a non-dedicated server, eliminating the need for a separate machine.
• The setup ARK server cost for a non-dedicated server is usually lower.
• Although resources are shared, there are usually few security problems.

Cons of Non-Dedicated Server

• Non-dedicated servers don’t offer much possibility for expansion as the server resources like software, OS, bandwidth, and hard drive space are pre-set.
• A non-dedicated server’s gameplay may have choppy, slower gameplay with frequent disconnections.
• Non-dedicated servers do not always guarantee availability, in contrast to dedicated servers.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose a Dedicated Server if you:

• Want lag-free gameplay
• Play with large groups
• Need 24/7 uptime
• Want full control (mods, settings)

Choose a Non-Dedicated Server if you:

• Play casually with friends
• Want a quick setup
• Have a low budget
• Don’t need long-term servers

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Dedicated vs. Non-Dedicated ARK Server

Dedicated ARK Server	Non-Dedicated ARK Server
Hosting costs are high	Hosting costs are low
Allows continuous gameplay without requiring the host to be online.	Simultaneous gameplay, along with hosting, may not be possible
Highly scalable, you can adjust resources as per requirements.	Limited scalability, preset resources
Higher performance and dedicated resources for gameplay.	Lower performance and shared resources may cause lag
More secure due to exclusive resource allocation	Shared resources, but security concerns are minimal

Final Verdict: Ark Dedicated Server Hosting vs Non-Dedicated Server Hosting

Hosting dedicated or non-dedicated ARK servers has its own advantages and drawbacks. Dedicated servers can be the most costly, but they offer more control and dependability. While non-dedicated ones are less expensive, they could have problems. Overall, the decision to choose between them is ultimately yours. If you are confused about selecting the best dedicated server, HostingSeekers has a list of the best dedicated server groups that will help you select the game hosting server as per your requirements.

For those seeking an affordable and reliable option, Hostinger offers a cheap and reliable VPS Hosting for Ark.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q 1: Dedicated servers vs. non-dedicated servers in ARK gameplay: What is the primary difference?

Ans: Dedicated servers provide better performance and run independently, while non-dedicated servers depend on the host and may have limitations like lag and tethering.

Q 2: Which server is more expensive, dedicated or non-dedicated?

Ans: A dedicated server can be more expensive, but it can give you a plethora of benefits and features. Non-dedicated servers can be economical but have many drawbacks.

Q 3: Which server offers more scalability?

Ans: Dedicated servers provide better scalability as resources can be adjusted as required. Also, non-dedicated servers have limited scalability options.

Q 4. What’s the difference between single player and non-dedicated server Ark

Ans: In Single Player mode, the game runs entirely on your own device. You play alone in a private world, and everything (creatures, structures, time) is paused when you log out. It’s ideal for players who want to experience the game solo without any external interference or needing an internet connection.  

In contrast, a Non-Dedicated Server is a multiplayer mode hosted by one player, allowing friends to join their game session. However, there’s a tether distance, which means other players cannot move too far from the host. If they do, they’re pulled back toward the host’s location. It’s great for casual co-op play, but limited in freedom and performance.

Q 5. Is it better to run a dedicated server in ARK?

Ans: Yes, if you’re looking for the best multiplayer experience, it’s better to run a dedicated server. A dedicated server allows multiple players to join a persistent world without the limitations of tethering. The server can run 24/7, supports mods, and offers full control over settings (e.g., taming speed, XP rates, PvP rules). It also improves stability since it’s not tied to a player’s device. You can run it on a separate machine or rent one from hosting providers.

Q 6. What happens when you host a non-dedicated server in ARK?

Ans: When you host a non-dedicated server in ARK, your game becomes a temporary multiplayer session where friends can join. However, players are restricted by a tether distance, meaning they must stay close to the host, or they’ll be pulled back 

Q 7. What is a Dedicated Server in ARK?

Ans: A dedicated server runs on a separate system and stays online 24/7, allowing players to join anytime with better performance and control.

Q8. Does a non-dedicated server have a tether limit?

Ans: Yes, players must stay within a certain distance from the host, or they will be pulled back.