| Attribute | Idleforest | Ecosia | TreeClicks |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it funds trees | Unused bandwidth monetization | Search ad revenue | Affiliate commissions |
| User action required | None after install (passive) | Use Ecosia for searches | Shop via partner links |
| Works with your current search | Yes | No (requires switching) | Yes |
| Runs while browsing | Yes (idle only, capped) | No (only searches) | Only when shopping |
| Security & privacy | Sessionless, encrypted, domain-verified, rate-limited | Search engine privacy commitments | Standard affiliate tracking |
| Real-time impact dashboard | Yes | Monthly reports | Partner updates |
| Can be used together | Yes — complements both | Yes with Idleforest | Yes with Idleforest |
Idleforest complements Ecosia
Idleforest provides passive tree funding while you browse, unlike Ecosia which funds trees only when you search. Use both: set Ecosia as your search engine and let Idleforest run in the background.
Idleforest vs. TreeClicks
Idleforest provides impact with zero purchase requirements, unlike TreeClicks which donates when you shop via partner links. Together they cover everyday browsing and shopping.
Is Idleforest secure?
Yes. Traffic is sessionless, encrypted, domain-verified, and rate-limited; no personal data is transmitted.
Does Idleforest work with Ecosia?
Yes. Use Ecosia for searches and Idleforest for passive browsing — they complement each other for more trees.
Idleforest vs TreeClicks — what's the difference?
Idleforest plants trees while you browse (passive). TreeClicks donates when you shop through partner stores (purchase-triggered). You can use both.
How much bandwidth does Idleforest use?
Minimal and capped, only when your device is idle. It pauses automatically to avoid impacting your experience.
Quick recap
- Idleforest: passive, sessionless, encrypted; plants trees while you browse.
- Ecosia: search-based planting; set it as your search engine.
- TreeClicks: shopping-based donations; use when purchasing online.
- Best results: use all three for searches, browsing, and shopping.