Every year, Pornhub(a site for adult content) releases its Year in Review, which provides insights into trends on the platform. In 2024, the report revealed fascinating data about generational preferences, especially among Gen Z (ages 18-24). These younger users showcased unique habits that stand out from older generations. The report highlighted the categories that Gen Z engaged with the most, showing how their broader cultural interests and technological habits shape their viewing choices. Here is an in-depth look at these trends and what they reveal about Gen Z.
Vertical Video: A 392% Increase in Popularity The biggest surprise from the data was the overwhelming popularity of vertical videos among Gen Z. This format saw a staggering 392% increase in popularity compared to other age groups. The rise of vertical video is closely tied to the generation’s reliance on smartphones and platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, which favor this format. For Gen Z, vertical videos feel more natural because they are designed for mobile viewing. This reflects a broader shift in how younger people consume media, prioritizing convenience and the ability to watch on-the-go.
Hentai: A 193% Increase in Popularity Hentai, a form of animated adult content often inspired by Japanese anime, is another category that gained significant traction among Gen Z. Anime is a cultural phenomenon for this age group, and many of them grew up watching shows like Naruto, Dragon Ball Z, and One Piece. The appeal of hentai lies in its combination of fantasy, creativity, and vibrant art styles. It allows viewers to explore unique scenarios that may not be possible in real-life content. The rise of hentai also reflects Gen Z’s comfort with embracing non-traditional forms of entertainment.
Gaming: A 151% Increase in Popularity Gaming-themed content was also highly popular among Gen Z, with a 151% increase compared to other age groups. This is unsurprising, given that gaming is a central part of many Gen Z lifestyles. Whether it’s playing games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, or Minecraft, or watching gaming content on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, this generation has a deep connection to the gaming world. Pornhub’s gaming-related content often includes parodies, references, or characters from popular video games, making it a natural fit for this audience.
Cosplay: A 146% Increase in Popularity Closely tied to gaming and anime culture is cosplay. Cosplay involves dressing up as characters from games, anime, or movies. Gen Z’s love for fandoms, conventions, and creative expression makes this category particularly appealing. On Pornhub, cosplay content often features adult interpretations of beloved characters, blending nostalgia with fantasy. This aligns with the generation’s tendency to explore creative and niche interests online.
Virtual Reality: A 136% Increase in Popularity Virtual reality (VR) has revolutionized how media is consumed, and Gen Z is at the forefront of embracing this technology. Pornhub’s data showed a 136% increase in VR content’s popularity among this age group. Gen Z’s tech-savvy nature and interest in immersive experiences drive their engagement with VR. For them, VR offers a unique and interactive way to consume adult content, making it more engaging than traditional formats.
Cartoon: A 126% Increase in Popularity Cartoon-themed adult content was also notably popular, with a 126% increase in interest. For many Gen Z viewers, this content taps into a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. Growing up with animated shows and movies, they are familiar with the cartoon style. The blending of childhood nostalgia with adult themes creates a unique appeal for this demographic.
Music: A 121% Increase in Popularity Music-related adult content saw a significant boost as well. This could include parodies, scenarios inspired by popular music videos, or themes related to famous artists. Music plays a vital role in Gen Z’s identity, as they often connect deeply with their favorite songs and artists. This category allows them to engage with content that mirrors the music culture they love.
SFW: A 109% Increase in Popularity “Safe for Work” (SFW) content, which is non-explicit and often lighthearted, is another surprising trend. This type of content gained 109% more popularity with Gen Z than with other age groups. It reflects their love for internet humor, memes, and playful creativity. SFW content might include suggestive themes or comedic skits that don’t rely on explicit material, aligning with Gen Z’s preference for diverse and entertaining media.
What These Trends Say About Gen Z The Pornhub Year in Review highlights how Gen Z’s interests are deeply influenced by their digital habits, pop culture, and openness to new experiences. Categories like vertical video, hentai, and VR showcase their embrace of technology and innovation. Meanwhile, gaming, cosplay, and cartoon-themed content reveal their strong connections to childhood interests and modern fandoms. Music and SFW content demonstrate how they integrate their broader cultural passions into their adult content choices.
Overall, Gen Z’s preferences reflect a generation that values creativity, technology, and individuality. They are unafraid to explore unique niches and express their interests in unconventional ways, making their habits on platforms like Pornhub distinctly different from those of older generations.
