Carbon Footprint Comparison
Amazon Prime Video vs Spotify
This comparison uses the current IdleForest model for Amazon Prime Video and Spotify: their category, modeled CO2 per use unit, methodology notes, key drivers, and assumptions.
Supporting comparison page
Amazon Prime Video
Streaming
CO2 / HOUR
Spotify
Streaming
CO2 / HOUR
Data-backed comparison
Summary
When comparing Amazon Prime Video and Spotify, Amazon Prime Video generates significantly more CO2 emissions per hour (55g) than Spotify (2g). Both applications rely on devices, networks, and server infrastructure, which all contribute to their environmental impact.
Why the gap happens
- Amazon Prime Video is modeled at 55g CO2 per unit, while Spotify is modeled at 2g, so the visible gap is 53g in the current dataset.
- Both products sit in the Streaming category, so the difference comes from the per-product estimate and page-level methodology fields rather than a category change.
- The estimate uses the same one-hour video-on-demand benchmark applied to streaming services, with device choice and resolution treated as the biggest variables.
- Device choice can be as important as the platform itself, especially when a TV or console is involved.
What to act on first
Because Amazon Prime Video is higher in the current model, start there: Stream at the lowest quality that still feels good for the context.
Deep dive into their footprints
Comparison takeaways
About IdleForest
IdleForest is a desktop app that plants trees in the background while your computer is idle. It uses your unused internet bandwidth to fund reforestation projects.
Connect Desktop App