Twitch vs YouTube

This comparison uses the current IdleForest model for Twitch and YouTube: their category, modeled CO2 per use unit, methodology notes, key drivers, and assumptions.

Supporting comparison page

Twitch

Streaming

55g

CO2 / HOUR

Higher emissions

YouTube

Streaming

46g

CO2 / HOUR

Data-backed comparison

Summary

When comparing Twitch and YouTube, Twitch generates significantly more CO2 emissions per hour (55g) than YouTube (46g). Both applications rely on devices, networks, and server infrastructure, which all contribute to their environmental impact.

Why the gap happens

Twitch is modeled at 55g CO2 per unit, while YouTube is modeled at 46g, so the visible gap is 9g 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.
Device choice can be as important as the platform itself, especially when a TV or console is involved.

What to act on first

Because Twitch is higher in the current model, start there: Stream at the lowest quality that still feels good for the context.

Twitch is currently modeled at 9g CO2 more per unit of use than YouTube.

Deep dive into their footprints

Read the full Twitch report Read the full YouTube report

Comparison takeaways

Twitch is modeled at 55g CO2 per unit, while YouTube is modeled at 46g, so the visible gap is 9g 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.

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.

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