There's something cool about growing up in the 1990s. Something that felt simpler and yet, made you feel special. Something that will never come back.
Yes, even back then, technology was part of everyday life, but... it didn't take over. You could enjoy it without being constantly online, and it didn't demand your attention every minute of the day. Compared to today's digital world, the 90s offered a slower, more balanced life.
Do you feel that growing up back then was better — especially when it comes to tech? I do. And here's why.
The Internet Was a Treat, Not a Habit
In the 90s, going online was an event. You'd go to your local 'Internet Cafe', and make yourself comfy in front of one of the many computer screens the shop had to offer. Switch it on, and listen to the dial-up tone, while patiently waiting to connect to a new world that lived somewhere inside that chunky box.
Websites were basic, so you wouldn't do much beyond reading, chatting, or sending emails. Besides, your time in the virtual world was limited as payment was per minute. You wouldn't spend hours scrolling — after an hour or so, you logged off and went outside.
Today... well, the internet is everywhere. It's cheap, fast, constant, and often overwhelming. Social media, notifications, and endless content — all make it hard to disconnect. What was once exciting now feels like a chore.
Phones Were for Talking
Mobile phones in the '90s were simple. You used them to call somebody or maybe send a short text. There were no apps, no social media, no pressure to be available 24/7. If someone couldn't reach you, they left a message and waited.
Now, smartphones are always with us. They're useful, but also create stress. Constant messages, emails, alerts, and updates that never stop. It's harder to focus, harder to relax, and harder to be present.
Entertainment Had Limits (And That Was Good)
If you wanted to watch a movie in the 90s, you'd have to rent a VHS tape from your local video rental shop. Music came from radio, cassettes, and later CDs. Video games were played on consoles placed in the same room as you and your friends. You had fewer choices, but you appreciated them more.
Today, entertainment is instant. You can stream anything, anytime. There are so many options out there, no wonder we often feel distracted or unsatisfied. Today's experience is less about enjoying and more about consuming.
Computers Were Tools, Not Distractions
Home computers in the ’90s were used for writing, learning, or playing simple games. You shared one computer with the family, and you didn’t spend all day on it. Software came on disks, and you had to install it yourself.
Now, computers are everywhere. Laptops, tablets, and phones are used for work, school, and entertainment. They’re powerful, but they also make it harder to unplug. Everything is online, and everything feels urgent.
Your Life Was Happening Offline
In the ’90s, most things happened offline. You went to the bank, the shop, or the library. You met friends in person. You weren’t expected to reply instantly or be available all the time.
Today, life is digital. It’s convenient, but it’s also demanding. You’re expected to respond quickly, stay updated, and manage everything through a screen. It’s efficient—but it can be exhausting.
What's Next?
Technology is impressive — especially today. It's faster, smarter, and more capable than ever. But growing up in the '90s had its advantages. Life was slower. Tech was simpler. And people spent more time in the moment.
Maybe we don't need to go back — maybe we can just learn from the past. A little less screen time, a little more patience, and a reminder that not everything needs to be instant.
Read more: How to Stay Sane in a World That Never Logs Off
