What Is a 'Cyberdeck': Meet Gen Z's New DIY Obsession

What Is a ‘Cyberdeck’: Meet Gen Z’s New DIY Obsession - Newsweek Iran War Live Updates Fragile U.S.–Iran Truce Faces Tests Across the Region Nation News Politics Tech Fact Check Personal Finance Automotive Sports Better Workplaces World Russia-Ukraine Middle East China And Asia Better Planet All World News Lifestyle Family & Parenting Entertainment Travel Pets Relationships Science Health Opinion My Turn All Opinion Rankings Health Finance Products Education Workplaces Corporate Responsibility All Rankings Connect Newsletters Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Twitter/X Reddit Announcements Leadership Dev Pragad More Newsmakers Unconventional Events Podcasts Vantage Readers Choice Magazine CEO Circle By Claire Dodds Life & Trends Reporter Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. A growing number of Gen Z tech enthusiasts are turning to “cyberdecks”—custom-built, portable computers assembled from mismatched parts—as a hands-on alternative to mass-produced devices. The trend blends retro-futuristic aesthetics with practical computing , often using single-board systems like Raspberry Pi paired with small screens, keyboards and custom enclosures. Unlike traditional laptops , cyberdecks are typically built from thrifted or repurposed materials, giving each device a distinct look and function shaped entirely by its creator. Deeply Personal Creations TikTok creator ubeboobey described the philosophy behind the builds as deeply personal and resistant to commercialization , saying cyberdecks are meant to be “unique to their owner” and built for “your own purposes,” emphasizing creativity over mass production. The idea has resonated across social media , where users share designs ranging from rugged field devices to colorful, handcrafted machines. ... DIY Ethos of Early Computing Cyberdecks are not entirely new. The concept traces back to cyberpunk fiction like William Gibson’s Neuromancer , but modern builds reflect the DIY ethos of early computer modding communities. Sites like Cyberdeck Cafe describe them as portable systems that give users “total control over every piece” of their device, often prioritizing customization over convenience. Unlike off-the-shelf laptops , cyberdecks are open systems, meaning components can be swapped, modified or redesigned. That flexibility is part of the appeal for younger users who want to experiment with hardware and software without restrictions. On TikTok , creators have outlined a wide range of uses. Some build retro gaming consoles capable of running titles from the 1980s and 1990s, while others turn their devices into private servers for hosting websites or storing data offline. Others use them for coding practice or even as “off-grid” survival tools loaded with books, music and offline resources. 'Not what big tech keep making' Cybersecurity and tech hobbyist communities have also embraced the concept. A blog post from Eclypsium highlights how cyberdecks can function as portable hacking or testing platforms, offering flexibility without risking a primary computer. The post notes that traditional laptops can be “bulky to carry around” and less suited for specialized tools, pushing some users toward custom builds instead. Still, much of the current surge in interest appears rooted less in utility and more in creativity. The discussion frames cyberdecks as a form of self-expression —devices that reflect the builder’s personality, needs and available materials. TikTok users reacting to the trend echoed that sentiment. One wrote, “See, we’ve always wanted modular tech!!! Not what big tech keep making.” Another added their own inspiration saying, “I need an mp3 cyberdeck.” A third commented, “These are actually so cool, I want to get into making one.” The emphasis on individuality has also sparked debate about commercialization. Some creators argue that selling cyberdecks at scale would undermine the ethos of the hobby, which prioritizes experimentation and personal craftsmanship over profit. As interest continues to grow, cyberdecks are becoming less about replacing everyday devices and more about reclaiming control over technology—one handmade machine at a time. Newsweek has reached out to @ubeboobey and @tech.explain for comment via TikTok . We could not verify the details of the case. Newsweek’s reporters and editors used Martyn, our AI assistant, to help produce this story. Learn more about Martyn. 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