---
title: "YouTube RPM vs CPM Explained | Finoraa"
description: "What YouTube RPM and CPM mean, how they differ, a worked earnings example and the factors that move each number."
url: https://finoraa.com/guide-youtube-rpm-vs-cpm.html
updated: 2026-11-02
---

# YouTube RPM vs CPM Explained

What YouTube RPM and CPM mean, how they differ, a worked earnings example and the factors that move each number.

By Finoraa · Updated November 2, 2026

## Key takeaways

- CPM is what advertisers pay per 1,000 ad impressions.
- RPM is what a creator earns per 1,000 video views, after YouTube’s share.
- RPM is usually lower than CPM and is the better number for planning.
- Your real RPM is in YouTube Studio Analytics.

## Definitions

CPM, or cost per mille, is the amount an advertiser pays for 1,000 ad impressions. RPM, or revenue per mille, is the amount a creator earns for every 1,000 video views, after YouTube takes its share.

## A worked example

A video gets 100,000 views and earns $400 in ad revenue. Divide the views by 1,000 to get 100, then divide $400 by 100. The RPM is $4. You can try your own numbers in the [Money Calculator](https://finoraa.com/money-calculator.html).

## Why RPM is lower than CPM

- Not every view shows an ad.
- YouTube keeps a share of ad revenue.
- Some viewers use ad blockers.

## What moves RPM

- Audience location.
- Niche and advertiser demand.
- Season, with higher demand late in the year.
- Video length and ad formats.
- Content type, since Shorts earn far less per view than long videos.

## Which number should you watch?

Watch RPM. It describes what you earn, while CPM describes what advertisers pay. Compare RPM across your own videos to learn which topics and formats pay best.

Try it yourself with the free YouTube Money Calculator.

[Open the Money Calculator](https://finoraa.com/money-calculator.html)

## More guides

### How to Find a YouTube Channel ID (3 Easy Ways)

Three ways to find a YouTube channel ID: copy it from the About section, read it from the channel URL, or find it in the page source.

[Read guide](https://finoraa.com/guide-find-youtube-channel-id.html)

### YouTube Monetization Requirements Explained

The YouTube Partner Program thresholds explained: subscribers, watch hours, Shorts views and the other requirements to earn ad revenue.

[Read guide](https://finoraa.com/guide-youtube-monetization-requirements.html)

### YouTube Thumbnail Size and Dimensions

The recommended YouTube thumbnail size, aspect ratio and the five sizes YouTube generates, plus design tips that hold up on small screens.

[Read guide](https://finoraa.com/guide-youtube-thumbnail-size.html)

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