The discussion revolves around whether a 2-core CPU is necessary to run Discourse. koltl is deciding between a 2GB 2-core server with 25GB storage and a 2GB 1-core server with 20GB storage, with the latter being $1 more expensive. Dannii suggests that 1 core is sufficient for low-traffic forums and recommends prioritizing more storage and RAM. pfaffman agrees that 25GB storage may still be too tight. koltl is aware of the potential limitations but prefers the OVH package due to its price and resources. Dannii advises that either option will work for low traffic and suggests considering the provider’s upgrade paths. codinghorror ultimately advises that more memory or disk space is usually a better trade-off than an extra core, assuming the core is fast and modern.
I am looking to purchase a VPS for Discourse and I have two options to choose from. A 2GB 2 core server with 25GB of storage and a 2GB 1 core server with 20GB of storage just a dollar more. Question is; would it be worth if I paid for for the extra core? This forum will be the only thing running - maybe a separate website down the road on Ubutunu server. Just gathering thoughts to make the right decision.
Thank you.
If you’re just starting 1GB RAM and 1 core is fine, but a 20GB harddrive is on the small side. You will often not be able to do the one-click upgrades as you’ll have to frequently log in via ssh to do a cleanup action before upgrading. Unless you know that you will definitely have a lot of traffic I’d recommend (as the Discourse guides do) Linode or Digital Ocean’s 5USD/month 1GB RAM, 1vCPU, 25GB SSD options.
Even 25gb is a little tight.
I am familiar with setting up Discourse and I am not expecting much traffic at all. I am aware of DigitalOcean’s plan but the package I am looking at is cheaper with more resources going through OVH which I trust more than DigitalOcean
Well if you don’t expect much traffic either option will be acceptable. If it’s only a $1/month more it’s probably quite a good deal. And you can upgrade later if traffic demands it. So that’s another consideration - make sure your provider’s upgrade paths are reliable and smooth.
What are you really asking? How much disk space is needed?
No, I am asking if the extra core is worth it.
More memory or disk space is usually a better trade off assuming the core is fast and modern.