New quality productive forces, as a new type of productive forces centered on technological innovation, exert a significant influence on rural revitalization. Based on panel data from 31 provinces in China during 2012–2022, this study thoroughly investigates the impact of new quality productive forces on rural revitalization and its underlying mechanism. The findings reveal that the development of new quality productive forces significantly promotes rural revitalization. Mediation effect analysis demonstrates that new quality productive forces can further advance rural revitalization by fostering education equity. Drawing on these conclusions, it is recommended to strengthen the driving role of new quality productive forces to consolidate the technological foundation for rural revitalization, deepen the “technology education revitalization” mediation pathway, and amplify empowerment effectiveness through education equity.