Entity Cramming
Easy1.11+Also known as: Mob Cramming, Cramming XP, Entity Kill
Use the entity cramming mechanic to kill mobs by pushing more than 24 entities into the same block space. Mobs take suffocation damage when too many occupy one position, providing a hands-free kill method.
How It Works
Minecraft has a built-in limit (default 24) for how many entities can occupy the same block space. When more than 24 entities are crammed into one block, the excess entities start taking suffocation damage at a rate of 6 damage per second.
In speedrunning, this is used to passively kill mobs (especially for XP or specific drops) without wasting weapon durability or time fighting. You funnel mobs into a small space, and the game's built-in mechanic handles the killing.
This is most useful in longer categories like All Advancements and 100%, where you need large quantities of mob drops or XP without spending time on individual fights.
Step-by-Step Execution
Build a collection area that funnels mobs into a 1x1 block space (use water streams or piston pushers).
Ensure the space has walls on all sides so mobs cannot escape.
Lure or spawn more than 24 mobs into the cramming space.
Once the count exceeds 24, excess mobs automatically take suffocation damage and die.
Collect the drops and XP from the killed mobs.
Use hoppers underneath to automatically collect drops if desired.
Tips
- +The default cramming limit is 24 entities per block on Java Edition
- +Entity cramming works with all mob types, including passive mobs
- +This is especially useful for killing large numbers of cows or pigs for food in long runs
- +Combine with a breeding farm for infinite passive mob drops
Common Mistakes
- -Not funneling mobs into a small enough space, so the cramming limit is never reached
- -Forgetting that dropped items also count toward performance issues in cramped spaces
- -Building the farm in a location with poor mob spawning rates
- -Standing in the cramming area yourself and taking damage