ae2 vs refined storage

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

25-02-2025

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Both Refined Storage and Applied Energistics 2 (AE2) are popular Minecraft mods that offer advanced inventory management and automation. But which one is right for you? This in-depth comparison will help you decide. We'll cover features, complexity, and overall usability to guide your choice.

Understanding the Core Functionality: What Do They Do?

Both Refined Storage and AE2 fundamentally solve the same problem: managing massive amounts of items in your Minecraft world. They achieve this through sophisticated systems allowing for automated item sorting, filtering, and transportation. However, their approaches and user interfaces differ significantly.

Refined Storage: Simplicity and Ease of Use

Refined Storage focuses on providing a user-friendly experience. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible to players of all skill levels. Key features include:

• Simple Interface: Refined Storage boasts an easily navigable GUI, making it simple to understand and use.
• Wireless Transmission: Transfer items wirelessly across large distances with ease.
• Flexible Storage: Scale your storage capacity easily as your needs grow.
• Basic Automation: Provides sufficient automation tools for most players.
• Relatively Low Resource Cost: Doesn't require exceptionally high amounts of resources to get started.

Applied Energistics 2: Power and Complexity

AE2 offers significantly more complex functionality and customization options. It's a powerful tool for advanced automation but demands a steeper learning curve. Here's a glimpse of its features:

• Advanced Automation Capabilities: AE2 provides tools for incredibly intricate automation systems.
• Extensive Customization: You can finely tune almost every aspect of your setup.
• Massive Storage Capacity: Stores vastly more items than Refined Storage, potentially handling entire world inventories.
• Steep Learning Curve: The complexity can be daunting for new players.
• High Resource Demands: Requires significant amounts of resources to build and maintain advanced systems.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison: Refined Storage vs. AE2

Let's break down the key differences in a head-to-head comparison:

1. Ease of Use and Learning Curve

2. Storage Capacity

3. Automation Capabilities

4. Resource Cost

5. Mod Integration

Both mods integrate with other mods to varying degrees. AE2 often boasts broader compatibility due to its age and established place in the modding community. However, Refined Storage’s simpler design makes integration with certain mods simpler.

Which Mod Should You Choose?

The best mod for you depends entirely on your playstyle and experience:

• Choose Refined Storage if: You're a beginner, prefer simplicity and ease of use, don't need extreme storage capacity, and want a quick and easy solution for managing your inventory.

• Choose Applied Energistics 2 if: You're an experienced player, enjoy complex automation challenges, need massive storage, and are willing to invest time in learning its intricacies.

Conclusion: The Best Mod Depends on Your Needs

Both Refined Storage and Applied Energistics 2 offer powerful inventory management and automation solutions. However, they cater to vastly different preferences. Choose the mod that best aligns with your technical skills and desired level of complexity. Regardless of your choice, both mods can drastically improve your Minecraft experience.