Finding love in 2023 is not the easiest, nor was it any better in 2011 when I first met my husband. All it took was a bottle of wine, some liquid courage, and a popular dating app, and I was well on my way to a happy marriage.
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Today, however, the Internet can be both a blessing and a curse, with so many spammers and scams running rampant today. That exciting feeling of finding love can all too quickly plummet to crushing disappointment when you realize that the dating site (and your budding love) is not, in fact, legitimate.
That is where we can help. These are the best dating apps to help you find that perfect match you have been seeking, no matter what you are looking for.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Simple sign-up
- Free option
- Personalized dating advice
Cons
- Smaller membership pool than other services
- Limited free features
- No background checks
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Compatibility: Android, iOS
Hinge boasts some pretty impressive statistics, sharing that its connections lead to a second date three out of four times. It is not only available in the US but also in the UK, Canada, and Australia for greater global power.
It is a great choice for those who are searching for love quickly and without the drawn-out, complicated processes of other dating apps. You will not be given matches for anyone other than those who are a match based on recorded responses about things like religion, height, and politics. You can start a conversation based on a particular portion of someone's profile, making it super easy to find relatable and interesting things to converse about.
Hinge does not just match and disappear like a bad date; instead, it sticks around to check in with you every so often to see how you are liking your matches. You can also
Hinge does offer a free membership option as well as two tiers of paid membership: Hinge+ and HingeX. Both paid tiers give you the ability to see exactly who is visiting and liking your profile as well as to fine-tune your preferences and settings to narrow your search for the perfect partner. Where HingeX differs is that this membership level basically lets you pay to be noticed: your "likes" on other profiles are given priority, so it's more likely you'll be seen and messaged, giving you a better chance of finding a date or long-term partner.
And if you want to get more eyes on your profile without committing to a long-term membership fee, you can purchase a Boost, which is similar to a promoted Tweet. For about $10, you can promote your profile for one hour, which might be a great way to get a new profile noticed or get fresh matches if your inbox is a bit empty. And for $20, you can purchase a Super Boost, which promotes your profile for a full 24 hours. You can also purchase a 3-pack of Roses for $10, which are enhanced Likes, to send to potential matches in order to stand out from the crowd. But if you don't want to pay for special Likes, all Hinge users get one free Rose every Sunday.
Hinge+ memberships start at $35 per month, but you can get small discounts if you pay for 3 or 6 months at a time. HingeX memberships start around $50 per month.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Proactive approach for women
- Easy setup
- Blocking feature for unwanted messages
Cons
- Men cannot initiate conversations
- 24-hour time limit on matches
- Limited search features
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Compatibility: Android, iOS
Bumble boasts female empowerment by letting the women take the lead. Women have the power to initiate and maintain conversations, while men only have the chance to respond. It helps to rule out the Internet's creepy crawlers that are vastly inappropriate.
It works, too, with Bumble used by millions of people to find love and even friendship. It works for professional contacts, too, although that is often not what users seek. You will have to pay to access advanced features, but there is a free plan available to get you started. Matches work on a 24-hour cycle, so you have one day to start a chat or respond to a conversation.
Choose from Date, BFF, or Bizz to get started with unlimited swipes and chats to help you find that perfect match. You can also link your social media and Spotify accounts to help friends you already have or make new ones based on your interests.
Price:Bumble offers five plans, including one free and four paid plans, with a 14-day free trial.
Plan | Cost |
Free |
|
Bumble Boost |
|
Bumble Premium |
|
SuperSwipe |
|
Spotlight |
|
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Tons of positive testimonials
- Deep focus on compatibility
- Tends to attract more serious singles
Cons
- Can get pricey
- Lengthy sign-up process
- Must upgrade for best features
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Compatibility: Android, iOS
eharmony is one of the mainstays in the dating world, helping over 2 million members find their match on the platform. It helps to take the guesswork out of dating by using a proprietary Compatibility Matching System to pair couples based on unique preferences and characteristics.
Your responses reveal your own Personality Profile, which includes a complimentary report about your unique character, relationship preferences, and communication styles. Armed with this perspective, it could be much easier for you to find love when you are more acutely aware of what you need. Once you find a match, you can use an Icebreaker test to get the conversation going, or you can simply send a smile. Either way, dating is made secure with the help of secure, in-app Video Dates.
All in all, this is a dating app that is best for more serious users, people that are actively looking for a serious relationship.
Price:eharmony offers four plans, including one free and three paid plans.
Plan | Monthly cost |
Free | $0 |
Premium Light (6 months) | $69.90 |
Premium Plus (12 months) | $49.90 |
Premium Extra (24 months) | $39.90 |
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to use
- A mainstay in dating apps
- Built-in guarantee
Cons
- Extremely limited trial
- Many inactive users
- Billing process isn't made clear to users
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Compatibility: Android, iOS
Match has been around for 25 years, making it one of the longest-running dating apps in the world. I myself am partial to Match, having found my husband on the app. After a decade together, I have to admit that the app is doing something right because I am far from the only successful Match to have found love on the platform.
Match is a free service that offers daily matches. Once you find someone that sparks your interest, you can jump on a video chat, available in-app, or opt for a milder approach with Match's helpful conversation starters that help arm you with topics should the conversational well run dry during your date. It is your choice of how you want to mingle, whether it is via virtual or in-person events or simply messaging on the platform before an in-person date. If you need help, Match has dating experts available to boost confidence and equip you with all the tools you need to enjoy your next date.
Price:Match offers two paid plans, Standard and Premium, with a three-day free trial.
Plan | Cost |
Standard |
|
Premium |
|
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free version
- Great for casual encounters
- No longer age-based pricing
Cons
- Very short trial
- Needs to be used almost every day
- Limited number of swipes
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Compatibility: Android, iOS
You may find forever love on the platform, but Tinder is an app best designed for more casual connections. The newer Millennial dating app offers casual daters to find like-minded matches, although that does not mean there are no opportunities for serious relationships. As the app says, "You can be here for a long time, and a good time, too."
There have been 30 billion matches to date worldwide, further attesting to its convenient use and short-term compatibility. Free to use, you can designate your sexual orientation to narrow the dating pool and then wait for viewers, which you can easily track under the Likes You feature.
Matches are secured by Tinder's Photo Verification, a much-needed additional security measure. Plus, if you are a bit nervous about meeting your match, opt for Noonlight, which allows you to bring someone along with all your dates. Swipe right or left, but either way, Tinder can help you find a whole variety of matches, no matter what type of relationship you may be seeking.
Price:Tinder previously offered age-based pricing with two models for those over 30 and under 30. However, the company is now phasing out this practice and replacing it with a flat-fee model.
Plan | Cost |
Plus |
|
Gold |
|
Platinum |
|
Base | Free |
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What is the best dating app?
Hinge gets our vote for the best dating app for several reasons:
- This dating model is all about keeping things fuss-free and efficient.
- A free plan is available.
- Ongoing support is included to ensure you find the best match for you.
Hinge is easy to use and even easier to get started, plus it has successfully paired couples three out of four times. It is also affordable for those on a budget, offering several different plans to meet your individual needs. However, there are several other dating apps that may be a better fit for you. It simply depends on what you are looking for in a dating app.
To help you compare, here is a breakdown of the best dating apps today.
Dating app | Compatibility | Cost | Free Trial |
Bumble | Android, iOS | $0 - $230 | 14 days |
eharmony | Android, iOS | $0 - $70/mo. | - |
Hinge | Android, iOS | $0 - $50/mo. | - |
Match | Android, iOS | $0 - $240 | 3 days |
Tinder | Android, iOS | $0 - $108 | 3 days |
Which is the right dating app for you?
It can be confusing to sort between all of the different dating apps, so we offer our expert recommendations to help.
Choose this dating app... | When you... |
Hinge | Want an affordable app based on efficiency |
Bumble | Are a female ready to make the first move |
eharmony | Are looking for that forever love |
Match | Want a long-term relationship |
Tinder | Are seeking a hookup more than love |
How did we choose these dating apps?
We consider a number of factors in our expert studies that can all help you find the best dating app for your needs.
- Features: Whether it's swipe right or simply a click, it is important to consider what kind of features you need in an app to make you most successful in dating.
- Membership Diversity: Characteristics like age, gender, and race are all priorities for users. By ensuring the site you choose has the right kind of matches for you, you have a better chance of finding a match that much sooner.
- Cost: Price is always important, as many users are on a budget. While most dating apps are free, many also offer the option to upgrade to a paid plan in order to access unlimited or bonus features.
- Sign-up process: The sign-up process can vary significantly from app to app. Some may require a simple sign-up that includes basic information, while others, like eharmony, may require a lengthy questionnaire before you can begin exploring matches.
What is a dating app?
A dating app is a mobile service that allows users to find love -- temporary or permanent -- as long as they have an Internet connection. Because it is an app, it is available online or via your mobile device, allowing you to complete set up and find a match that much sooner.
Do dating apps work?
Your success on a dating app all depends on you, the match you are seeking, and the app you choose. eharmony, a mainstay among the best dating apps, says it has helped match over two million people find love.
Are there alternative dating apps worth considering?
There is no shortage of dating apps available in 2022. These are some dating apps that cater to tastes based on specific preferences and lifestyles, such as these popular apps.
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FAQs
Are dating apps worth it 2023? ›
Additionally, around one-in-ten U.S. adults say they have found long-term commitment or even marriage through a dating app. Despite the notion that virtual dating is for casual flings, one study finds couples who meet through smartphone dating apps are actually more likely to stay together.
What is the number 1 trusted dating app? ›Which dating site is best for serious relationships? eHarmony is our top pick for serious daters due to the long, robust profiles, which allow for better compatibility between matches. Plus it's expert-approved by marriage therapist Omar Ruiz, LMFT.
Which dating app has the highest success rate? ›What Dating Site Has The Highest Success Rate? eHarmony is a dating site that has the highest success rate. For people looking to build a serious relationship, it's reassuring to know that this dating site has seen more than 2 million users find love on its platform.
What is the most trusted dating site? ›- 4 Best Online Dating Sites of 2023.
- OkCupid.
- FriendFinder.
- Christian Mingle.
- Match.
- BlackPeopleMeet.
- Methodology: How We Picked the Best Online Dating Sites.
- How Do I Match With Somebody on a Dating Website?
- eHarmony - Best dating site in the USA overall.
- Dating.com - Best for international dating.
- FriendFinder - Popular site for casual dating.
- EliteSingles - Caters to single professionals.
- Seeking - Optimized for sugar dating.
- OkCupid - Best free dating app.
Tip #1: Focus on one or two dating apps.
To choose the right dating app for you, think about which you've had the most success on, which design you like the most, and the one on which you feel the best about yourself. Tinder: Great for a quick connection.
- eharmony. Meaningful connections. ...
- Match. Lasting relationships. ...
- Zoosk. Those who love travel. ...
- FriendFinder. Mix of casual and serious. ...
- Bumble. Best for women. ...
- Hinge. Best for quick, serious matches. ...
- OkCupid. Best for progressive dating. ...
- The League.
Which free dating site is best for serious relationships? OkCupid, Hinge, or Bumble are all good choices for free dating apps where you're likely to find people looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right rather than Mr. or Mrs.
Which dating app is best for guys? ›Which dating app has the highest success rate for men? Grindr is probably the app with the highest hookup rate, and eHarmony is the best long-term success for men, claiming to be responsible for 4% of U.S. marriages.
What dating app do millionaires use? ›Rich Meet Beautiful: Excellent wealthy dating app. Elite Singles: Not only successful but very educated professionals. The League: Premium millionaire dating site. eHarmony: Great for marrying attractive and successful people.
What is the number 1 hookup site? ›
- AdultFriendFinder - Best Hookup Site Overall. ...
- Ashley Madison - Hook Up Website for Discreet Connections. ...
- Tinder - Best Hook Up App. ...
- Bumble - Top Hookup App for Ladies. ...
- Zoosk - Best Hook Up App With Dating Insights. ...
- Grindr - Top Free Hookup App for Men. ...
- Feeld - Best Free Hookup App for Couples.
According to The Knot 2022 Engagement and Jewelry Study, Hinge is officially the best dating app, as it was responsible for pairing 30% of couples who met online—a 9% increase from 2021.
Which dating app is totally free? ›Online dating OKCupid, PlentyOfFish, and Zoosk are among the most popular dating sites that are completely free. Dating has been made much more easier and convenient.
What dating site do famous people use? ›Launched in 2015, Raya, prides itself on being “an exclusive dating and networking platform for people in creative industries.” Cara Delevingne, Ruby Rose, Alexander Wang, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Teri Hatcher, Elijah Wood, and Zach Braff are among the elite crew rumoured to be on the dating app.
What state has the most online dating? ›Final Rank | State | Demographics Rank |
---|---|---|
1 | New Hampshire | 5 |
2 | Minnesota | 3 |
3 | Colorado | 1 |
4 | Massachusetts | 4 |
Maximizing your scope and downloading multiple apps simultaneously will increase your chances of meeting someone special based simply on the ability to see more singles in your area. According to a recent study, Tinder tops the list of the best dating apps for marriage.
How long should you stay on a dating app? ›At Least Three Months
"You should wait at least three months before taking down your dating profile," New York–based relationship expert and author April Masini tells Bustle.
Sunday is the busiest day of the year for dating apps.
Do any dating apps actually work? ›For the sceptical among you, statistically speaking, dating apps have been found to work. According to Bumble, over two thirds of respondents use apps to find a steady relationship, and it's guaranteed that if you're a millennial, half of your friends have most likely met their partners via apps.
What age group is hinge for? ›The Hinge app is designed for 18 years of age or older. That said, the majority of Hinge's users are in the age range of 25 to 35, according to their statistics. This app requires a Facebook account to create a profile. Once you have completed your profile, you can start browsing through potential matches in your area.
Are paying dating sites better? ›
“It's absolutely possible to meet your ideal match using free services. However, if you're serious about this substantial area of life, then investing in dating is an act of commitment to show up at your highest level,” she says. “Paid subscriptions also tend to grant better search facilities, which can save time.
What is the average age for hinge? ›What is the average age of people on Hinge? Hinge's core user base is millennials, with around 49% of users between 18 and 29, with most of the remaining users between 30 and 49 years old. Only around 2% of Hinge users are over 50.
What is the best dating app for 23 year old? ›- Tinder. Tinder is a location-based dating app that allows users to select potential mates based on geographical proximity. ...
- Bumble. Bumble is a dating app that has become very popular in Australia, especially Bumble is a dating app with an emphasis on female control. ...
- Happn. ...
- Match. ...
- OkCupid. ...
- eHarmony. ...
- Zoosk.
Hinge is one of the best dating apps for your 30s because you really get a sense that the other users are looking for a true connection.
What months are best for dating apps? ›January is the best month to join a dating app according to experts.
What is the most popular dating app for 30 year olds? ›- eHarmony.
- Zoosk.
- Elite Singles.
- Christian Mingle.
- Match.
- Bumble.
- Tinder.
- Hinge.
- Best Dating Sites for Older Adults of 2023.
- SeniorMatch.
- eHarmony.
- Singles50.
- OurTime.
- OKCupid.
- Elite Singles.
- Christian Mingle.
Which free dating site is best for serious relationships? OkCupid, Hinge, or Bumble are all good choices for free dating apps where you're likely to find people looking for Mr. or Mrs.
What dating app is best for guys? ›eHarmony, OkCupid, Tinder, Grindr, and many other dating apps all have the ability to deliver positive results for men. What's important is being upfront about what you're looking for, honing your profile, and being courteous and open.
What dating app do smart people use? ›Sapio is an evolution in dating apps, where physical and intellectual attraction are put on an equal level. Sapio gives you the tools you need to find someone that stimulates your mind and makes your heart skip a beat.
Where do 30 year olds meet people? ›
- Join social groups or clubs that interest you. ...
- Attend local events, meetups, and happy hours. ...
- Volunteer for a cause you care about. ...
- Get a job in your field or at a company you admire. ...
- Use your existing network. ...
- Don't be afraid of small talk. ...
- Join an online community.
The Hinge app is designed for 18 years of age or older. That said, the majority of Hinge's users are in the age range of 25 to 35, according to their statistics. This app requires a Facebook account to create a profile. Once you have completed your profile, you can start browsing through potential matches in your area.
How many dating apps should I join? ›Tip #1: Focus on one or two dating apps.
To choose the right dating app for you, think about which you've had the most success on, which design you like the most, and the one on which you feel the best about yourself. Tinder: Great for a quick connection.
People in new relationships should wait three months before thinking long-term. Important discoveries about another are usually made in that three-month period. Don't bother worrying if a man is husband-material until you really know him.
What is the busiest day for online dating? ›Forget Cyber Monday, we're all about Dating Sunday. If you're looking for dating app success, you'll probably want to pencil this date in your calendar. In 2023, Dating Sunday – the busiest day for dating apps out of the entire year – will take place on Sunday, January 8.
What dating apps do people over 40 use? ›- Best for serious relationships. eharmonyGo to review.
- Best paid dating site. Match.comGo to review.
- Best free option. OkCupidGo to review.
- Best for women over 40. BumbleGo to review.
- Best for single parents. SingleParentMeetGo to review.
- Best for casual dating. ...
- Best for Christians.