researchers planning user experience testing with different generations

UX Testing Tips for Every Generation: Boomers to Gen Alpha

in User Experience Testing by Lisa Boughton

Running UX testing with just one age group won’t cut it anymore.

Whether you’re designing an app, website or digital service, different generations interact with tech in very different ways—and testing with a range of users is the only way to spot what’s working (and what’s not).

Testing with Baby Boomers is key because they represent a large, affluent, and digitally engaged demographic, but often have unique preferences around navigation, accessibility and communication. At the other end of the spectrum, Generation Alpha are digital natives shaping the future of tech, with entirely different expectations from design.

In this blog, we’ll break down top UX testing tips for every generation, so you can design research that works for real people, whatever their age.

Baby Boomers (Born 1946–1964)

Boomers are increasingly confident online. In fact, around 50% now browse the internet via smartphone, up from just 17% in 2019. And when it comes to mobile shopping, that figure has doubled too, rising to 35% in 2024 (YouGov). But that doesn’t mean you should design a one-size-fits-all experience.

UX testing tips for Boomers:

Don’t assume they’re only on desktops: include mobile (or tablet) tests too.
Prioritise accessibility: clear navigation, larger fonts, good contrast.
Boomers often prefer structured, moderated sessions where support is available.
Avoid patronising language: be respectful and patient.
Allow a bit more time: rushing = frustration.

ux testing with baby boomer

Gen X (Born 1965–1980)

Often dubbed the "forgotten generation," Gen X bridges the gap between analogue and digital. They're comfortable with both laptops and smartphones and often switch between devices depending on the task.

UX testing tips for Gen X:

Test across devices: Gen X isn’t tied to one platform.
Keep things efficient and purposeful: they value time.
Offer flexible timings: many are juggling work, family, and life admin.
Be clear about why you're collecting feedback and how it’ll be used.

Millennials (Born 1981–1996)

Millennials are tech-savvy, multitasking digital natives, but not necessarily mobile-only. When making important decisions, like large purchases, many prefer using laptops for the bigger screen and better detail review.

UX testing tips for Millennials:

Test both mobile and laptop platform choice depends on context.
Provide clear, no-nonsense instructions.
Be flexible with scheduling: many are busy parents or full-time professionals.
Speak their language: authentic, friendly tone > formal UX speak.
Choose incentives that feel relevant: think lifestyle or social impact.

Gen Z (Born 1997–2012)

Gen Z grew up with smartphones in hand and expect intuitive, frictionless digital experiences. While they often have shorter attention spans, they can be laser-focused when something captures their interest.

UX testing tips for Gen Z:

Go mobile-first: it’s where they live.
Keep it short and sharp: get to the point fast.
Use engaging formats: video, chat-style surveys, screen shares.
Let them express themselves: visual cues (emojis, reactions) go a long way.
Be transparent about privacy and data use: they’ll notice if you’re vague.

Gen Alpha (Born 2013 onwards)

The first generation to grow up entirely in a digital world, Gen Alpha are navigating smart speakers and tablets before they can even read. But designing research for this age group requires careful planning.

UX testing tips for Gen Alpha:

Parental consent (and usually participation) is essential.
Design tasks with playful, visual elements: keep things simple and fun.
Stick to short, structured sessions: attention spans are limited.
Think about gamification: it works brilliantly here.
Follow all safeguarding and ethical guidelines to the letter.

gen alpha with parent completing ux testing

Real users. Real feedback. Real insight.

Testing with every generation gives you a much more complete view of your UX, but it also brings added complexity. Different devices, different attention spans, different support needs… it’s a lot to balance.

That’s where we come in.

At Angelfish, we specialise in recruiting real people, not professional testers who know the drill inside out. That means no “UX experts” giving robotic feedback—just real reactions from people like your actual users.

We’ve built a diverse, engaged community across all age groups, and we handle everything from screening to safeguarding. Whether you need tech-savvy Boomers, time-poor Millennials, or a Gen Alpha and their parent, we’ve got you covered.

Need help with your next round of UX research?

Get in touch or download our guide to UX research recruitment to learn more about how we do things differently.

UX Testing Tips for Every Generation: Boomers to Gen Alpha

Running UX testing with just one age group won’t cut it anymore.