ECNETNews reports on a recent survey that unveils the shifting social media habits across five generations, offering essential insights for businesses aiming to connect with their audiences in 2025. The study identifies the preferred platforms of Generation Alpha, Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers, shedding light on digital engagement trends.
Generation Alpha: The Video Enthusiasts
Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, leads the charge on video-driven platforms, with 93% favoring YouTube and 85% using TikTok. Their affinity for quick, captivating content reflects their upbringing in a dynamic visual landscape.
Generation Z: The Visual Storytellers
For Generation Z (1997–2010), visually-oriented platforms are paramount. Instagram (65%), YouTube (63%), and TikTok (58%) are the top picks. Notably, 46% of Gen Z respondents utilize these platforms as their main search tools, highlighting an evolving approach to information access.
Millennials: Merging Social and Professional Engagement
Millennials (1981–1996) predominantly engage on Facebook (68%) while also maintaining active profiles on Instagram and LinkedIn. Their platform usage illustrates a blend of personal and professional networking.
Generation X and Baby Boomers: Preference for Familiarity
Generation X (1965–1980) and Baby Boomers (1946–1964) show a strong inclination towards Facebook and YouTube, valuing the reliability these platforms provide. Baby Boomers especially exhibit a robust presence on Facebook (50%), while Generation X diversifies their interests with 42% on Instagram.
| Platform | Gen Alpha | Gen Z | Millennials | Gen X | Baby Boomers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40% | 56% | 68% | 64% | 50% | |
| 75% | 65% | 60% | 42% | 20% | |
| 8% | 20% | 48% | 38% | 15% | |
| X (Twitter) | 12% | 30% | 35% | 28% | 10% |
| 20% | 48% | 40% | 30% | 22% | |
| Snapchat | 70% | 60% | 30% | 10% | 2% |
| YouTube | 93% | 63% | 85% | 75% | 60% |
| 10% | 25% | 42% | 32% | 20% | |
| 35% | 50% | 32% | 15% | 5% | |
| TikTok | 85% | 58% | 50% | 25% | 8% |
The findings stress the necessity for businesses to adapt their marketing strategies to align with generational preferences:
- Generation Alpha and Gen Z should focus on visually engaging, fast-paced content primarily on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
- Millennials are best reached through integrated strategies across Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
- Generation X and Baby Boomers prefer content that is easily accessible on Facebook and YouTube, emphasizing familiarity and simplicity.
This survey provides actionable intelligence for businesses seeking to fortify their connections with each generation online. By aligning marketing initiatives with these insights, brands can enhance engagement and visibility in today’s competitive digital landscape.
The survey was conducted from December 16 to December 31, 2024, utilizing a representative sample of U.S. adults across all five generations.
