PeerTube vs YouTube
PeerTube
joinpeertube.org
YouTube
youtube.comSide by side
| Figure | PeerTube | YouTube |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Self-hosted | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 1 | 0 |
| Spec score · Video-Sharing Platforms | 8.0 (#4) | 7.5 (#8) |
| Spec score · Video Hosting Platforms | 8.1 (#42) | 7.6 (#82) |
| Creator tools | Creators can import or export content between PeerTube platforms, synchronize channels from YouTube or Vimeo, view analytics, edit videos, and stream with OBS or other RTMP software. | YouTube offers creators channel and video analytics, including views, watch time, audience retention, demographics, and traffic sources. |
| Privacy | PeerTube does not depend on advertising or track users, and its privacy guide says the core software without plugins is GDPR compatible under stated conditions. | YouTube says it does not sell personal information and provides controls to review and manage data saved and used across Google services. |
| Support | The project directs users to its community forum, Matrix and IRC chat, and documentation. | YouTube directs users to its Help Center, Help Community, and TeamYouTube for troubleshooting and updates. |
Plans
In their own words
PeerTube
PeerTube has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
YouTube
YouTube is a service for discovering, watching, and sharing videos and other content, as well as a platform for creators and advertisers. People can browse and search without a Google account, though some features require one. Channel owners can upload videos, comment, and make Shorts and playlists; YouTube Studio is the place to post videos and edit a channel. Shorts are vertical videos of 60 seconds or less, alongside longer videos. Recommendations use signals such as viewing behavior, likes, dislikes, subscriptions, and satisfaction feedback. Users can pause, edit, or delete their search and watch history. Developers can use YouTube APIs to embed playback, search and manage content, review analytics, add subscribe buttons, and manage live streams. Eligible Partner Program creators may access multiple revenue streams, subject to regional availability and program criteria. The free service is listed for Android, iOS, and web, with an API. YouTube Premium adds ad-free viewing on millions of videos, offline downloads, background play, and ad-free music in YouTube Music, though some creator and event promotions may remain. Premium plan options include individual, household family, and annually verified student plans.