Do Gen Z still care about Black Friday?
1. TikTok Is the New Tech Reviewer
Forget long-form YouTube reviews and tech blogs, Gen Z is getting gadget advice from TikTok. Bite-sized videos that show real people unboxing, testing, and reacting to products have become the new word-of-mouth.
TikTok’s “#TechTok” community is massive, featuring everything from phone camera comparisons to smart home setup hacks. The algorithm rewards genuine reactions over polished ads, so Gen Z trusts creators who “keep it real.”
2. Micro-Influencers Drive Big Decisions
While other generations might follow celebrity endorsements, Gen Z listens to micro-influencers, those creators with smaller but deeply engaged audiences.
Why? Because micro-influencers feel like friends. They respond to comments, share honest pros and cons, and are often seen using the products they promote in daily life. This means a single recommendation from a trusted creator can drive huge sales, especially when paired with limited-time Black Friday codes or affiliate links.
3. The Rise of Secondhand & Refurbished Tech
Sustainability factors more buying habits than ever before – Gen Z in particular will often turn to refurbished and secondhand tech as a statement of values and practicality.
Refurbished devices from Apple, Samsung, and eco-conscious retailers are now mainstream, often backed by strong warranties and lower carbon footprints. Platforms like Back Market and Swappa have surged in popularity among younger buyers looking for premium devices without premium prices.
Expect to see Black Friday deals expand beyond “new” tech. Certified refurbished gadgets are now featured alongside new releases and Gen Z is proud to choose them.
4. Shopping as Entertainment
For Gen Z, buying tech is a form of content. Livestream shopping events on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram blend entertainment with exclusive deals, creating a digital version of doorbuster sales.
These streams allow shoppers to ask creators questions in real-time, watch demos, and grab early access to discounts. The result? A shopping experience that feels more like hanging out than checking out.
Pro Tip for Brands: Integrate interactive shopping features like polls, Q&As, and giveaways, to keep Gen Z engaged during campaign launches.
5. Beyond Black Friday: The Year-Round Deal Hunt
Gen Z doesn’t wait for one shopping day to score deals. With price-tracking tools, browser extensions, and discount codes circulating year-round, they’ve mastered the art of smart shopping.
They’re also loyal to brands that reward engagement, think points for social shares, referral bonuses, or early-bird drops. For this generation, value is about more than price; it’s about belonging to a brand’s story.
Final Thoughts
Gen Z’s tech-buying behavior in 2025 can be summed up in three words: authenticity, sustainability, and connection. Growing up with algorithms, influencers, and climate headlines, their shopping habits reflect both digital fluency and social awareness.
As Black Friday evolves into a more social, conscious, and year-round experience, tech brands face both a challenge and an opportunity. Those who lean into creator-driven storytelling, sustainable product cycles, and community-based marketing will find themselves at the center of Gen Z’s attention.
Looking ahead, the line between entertainment, content, and commerce will only blur further. The next wave of successful tech brands won’t just sell gadgets, they’ll build digital ecosystems that make customers feel seen, included, and empowered.
Get in touch with NewGen today to discuss how you can connect with Gen Z as your audience.