Java Edition
Minecraft Java Edition is the original PC version. It has the largest mod community, the most plugin options, and is the version used by most competitive and content creator servers. Java servers run on Paper, Spigot, Forge, or Fabric.
Bedrock Edition
Bedrock Edition runs on mobile, console, and Windows 10+. Players on Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and mobile can join Bedrock servers. Bedrock servers run on software like GeyserMC (a proxy) or dedicated Bedrock server software.
Cross-Play: Geyser
GeyserMC is a popular plugin that lets Bedrock players join Java servers. Install it on your Paper server and Bedrock players can connect using the Java server address. This is the most popular way to support both editions.
CraftNodes Focus
CraftNodes specialises in Java Edition hosting optimised for the Paper ecosystem. All plans come with Paper pre-installed. Bedrock support is available through GeyserMC which can be installed on any plan.
Which Should You Host?
Java Edition for most use cases. If your friends play on mobile or console, add GeyserMC to bridge the gap without running a separate server.