I'm curious as to which is worse, root canal treatment or tooth extraction?

RCT or EXT?: Worse in what way? Pain? Cost? Chair time? Etc. I will make the assumption you are referring to discomfort or pain. Either one should be totally pain free for the procedure ; anywhere from no pain to moderate discomfort afterwards. This varies from individual to individual ; on a case by case basis depending upon the skill of the dentist ; the specific circumstances. Better to save tooth if u can.

Extraction is worse: Many people consider extraction of infected tooth a better option than root canal treatment. Root canal treatment is tooth preservation procedure. Root canal treatment with dental crown will be less expensive and more predictable than getting tooth extraction done followed by replacement of missing tooth with dental implants. Both procedures are painless and safe.