Who Are Zoomers: Generation Z Explained

Who are zoomers — a question that concerns many people today. Zoomers represent a unique generation of digital natives whose values and lifestyle differ significantly from those of their predecessors. Let’s explore the characteristics of Generation Z and find out why they are called “digital people.”

Zoomers — who are they: a generation defined

Who are zoomers in simple terms? They are representatives of Generation Z — people born approximately from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s. The term emerged within the framework of generational theory by American researchers Neil Howe and William Strauss, who described different age groups in their book “Generations: The History of America’s Future, 1584 to 2060.” The name “zoomer” comes from the English verb “zoom,” meaning “to magnify” or “to move closer.” This metaphor accurately reflects the essence of a generation that grew up with technologies allowing them to literally zoom in on and expand the surrounding world through device screens.

Alternative names for the generation

In addition to the term “zoomers,” Generation Z representatives are also called:

• Centennials — from the word “century,” emphasizing their birth at the turn of the millennium
• Homelanders — reflecting their tendency toward staying at home
• iGenners — derived from the generation’s name on social networks
• Pluralists — for their openness to diversity
• “The new silent generation” — drawing a parallel with the Silent Generation
• Digital natives — for their innate fluency with technology

Birth years of zoomers: generational time frames

Who are zoomers by birth year? The exact boundaries of the generation vary by source:

• 1995–2010 — the classic Strauss–Howe version
• 1997–2012 — according to the Pew Research Center
• 2000–2015 — based on Australian researcher Mark McCrindle
• 1996–2010 — a compromise used by many sources

In 2025, zoomers are approximately 13 to 30 years old. This means that a significant portion of Generation Z is in the prime of youth and actively influencing modern society, culture, and the labor market.

Key characteristics of zoomers: what sets Generation Z apart

Digital literacy as a way of life

Who are zoomers in the context of technology? They are the first truly digital generation, for whom smartphones, tablets, VR/AR technologies, and high-speed internet are a natural part of everyday life. Many zoomers never experienced a world without high-tech innovations and perceive gadgets as naturally as air for breathing.

Clip thinking and multitasking

Zoomers are accustomed to rapid information flow through short videos, memes, and social media posts. The average attention span of Generation Z is only eight seconds. They easily switch between tasks and prefer to consume information in small chunks, reflecting their adaptation to the digital environment.

Values and priorities of zoomers

Who are zoomers in terms of values? This generation is characterized by:

• Honesty and openness — they value sincerity in personal communication and interactions with brands
• Social awareness — interest in sustainability and environmental issues
• A drive for self-expression — they are not afraid to stand out and show individuality
• Critical thinking — the ability to filter information and distinguish truth from fake news
• Sensitivity — attentiveness to their psychological well-being
• Hard work — a willingness to work on things they genuinely care about

How zoomers differ from other generations

Zoomers vs. boomers

Baby boomers (1946–1964) grew up during a period of economic growth and value stability, traditions, and long-term goals. Zoomers, on the other hand, are more flexible and focused on individuality and conscious consumption. For boomers, digital technologies became a challenge later in life, whereas zoomers are digital natives for whom gadgets are natural.

Zoomers vs. millennials

Millennials (1981–1996) experienced the transition from an analog to a digital world and often tend toward idealism. Zoomers were born in an era of full digitalization and are more pragmatic about finances. While millennials focus on self-expression, zoomers are oriented toward tangible achievements and results.

Zoomers vs. Generation Alpha

Generation Alpha (born from 2011 onward) is surrounded from birth by artificial intelligence, voice assistants, and smart devices. Zoomers, however, witnessed the transition from button phones to smartphones and entered the digital world gradually, making their experience more conscious.

Zoomer slang: the language of Generation Z

Who are zoomers can also be understood through their unique slang, shaped by social networks and internet culture. Here are some popular expressions:

• Base — something obvious, indisputable, and correct
• Vibe — the atmosphere or mood of a place, person, or event
• Relatable — a life situation that feels familiar or relevant
• Crush — an object of affection or strong attraction
• Cringe — a feeling of awkwardness or embarrassment for oneself or others
• Chill — to relax or spend time calmly
• Toxic — an unpleasant person who poisons communication
• Abuse — manipulative or cruel behavior
• Flex — to show off or demonstrate one’s coolness

Zoomer fashion: the style of Generation Z

Unlike previous generations that drew inspiration from glossy magazines, zoomers find ideas on TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram. Their fashion preferences include:

• Comfort and practicality — oversized silhouettes, loose pants, hoodies, and sportswear
• Y2K aesthetics — a revival of 1990s and early 2000s fashion with crop tops and wide-leg jeans
• Eclecticism — mixing sportswear, classic pieces, and vintage in one outfit
• Bold accessories — large jewelry, unusual bags, and expressive headwear
• Conscious consumption — interest in sustainable fashion, thrift stores, and vintage items

Zoomers at work: a new approach to careers

Work preferences

Who are zoomers in the professional environment? They are a generation that prefers remote or hybrid work formats, values clear goals, and wants to understand the real impact of their work. They feel more comfortable communicating via messengers than in long meetings and respect managers for expertise rather than position.

Boundaries between work and personal life

Zoomers firmly defend work-life balance. Overtime is the exception, and business calls during vacations or sick leave are considered unacceptable. They do not cling to jobs they dislike and are ready to change positions quickly if expectations are not met.

Freelancing and alternative employment

According to studies, about 70% of zoomers have switched to freelancing or plan to do so. This format gives them freedom and potentially faster income than traditional employment. For zoomers, work is not just a source of money but a means of self-realization.

Why it is important to understand who zoomers are

Understanding who zoomers are is critically important for business, education, marketing, and intergenerational communication. This generation is already actively influencing the labor market, shaping consumer trends, and defining the cultural agenda. Their values — technological literacy, individuality, social responsibility, and pragmatism — are becoming the norm in modern society. Zoomers are not just young people with gadgets. They are a generation changing the rules of the game in all areas of life, from fashion and entertainment to politics and economics. Their pursuit of honesty, balance between practicality and creativity, and ability to adapt to a rapidly changing world make zoomers a driving force of modern times.