What Are The Best Dating Apps?

If you're single, you may be curious about trying dating apps. Individuals often use dating apps to find potential matches, whether looking for serious or casual relationships. There may not be a single best dating app because different people have different needs and preferences. However, some have more positive user reviews than others. Below, explore the definition of dating apps, and summaries of some of the top dating apps with details about the features.

How to choose the best dating app for you

Choosing the right dating app may come down to knowing your dating goals and what you’re looking for. Here are some things to consider:

Defining your dating intentions

Before choosing a dating app, it can help to figure out your dating intentions. Whether you’re a single person or have a more complicated relationship status, take some time to figure out what you want. Are you looking for something serious or casual? Are factors like religion, children, or lifestyle factors deal breakers that you need to filter for upfront? Ask yourself, what do I want, right now, for just me?

Location, lifestyle, and stage of life

There can be other factors to consider, too. For example, where you live can have a significant impact on your options. If you live in a small town, you may have to accept fewer matches or match with people you may already know, unless you expand the area where you’re looking. On the other hand, if you just moved to a new city, you may be able to experiment more with people close by since you likely don’t know many people in the area. 

When it comes to lifestyle, some things may be deal breakers. For example, if you’re vegan, are you okay with dating someone who isn’t? If you aren’t sure if you want children, are you willing to date a single parent? 

Stages of life can also be a significant factor in what you’re looking for. While some people may be open to an age gap relationship, others may not. Whether you just graduated from college and are heading into the next phase of adulthood or you just retired and are looking for someone to spend your golden years with, life stage can be a significant factor for some.

Types of dating apps explained

Mainstream dating apps

Mainstream apps are generally the most popular, which can have pros and cons. While these apps have large volumes of users, the sheer number of people can make dating feel like a numbers game. Here are quick overviews of some of the most popular mainstream apps. 

Tinder

• Tinder has been around since 2012 and is the most popular dating app in the US. 
• This app brought "swipe right" into the cultural lexicon, and both its profile-swiping and location-based design features have greatly influenced other dating apps. 
• While Tinder's feature of showing users the potential matches physically nearest to them earned the app a reputation as a hook-up app, people have also found long-term relationship happiness on the app.
• Tinder has free and paid versions. Users tend to be younger, and some claim the app's format encourages making connections based primarily on appearances. Video chat is available for people who want to get to know each other better.

Bumble

• Bumble launched in 2014 and has been called the best dating app for women by many.
• Originally, Bumble stood out from other apps by only allowing women to make the first move, thereby eliminating unsolicited messages women might be bombarded with. 
• In 2024, Bumble switched to an "opening moves" feature, which allows women and non-binary members to choose whether they want to make the first move or set an opening move question that all matches can reply to.
• On Bumble, people must interact within 24 hours of matching, or the match expires. This feature can encourage people to talk instead of endlessly swiping, but it may also result in the occasional missed connection if a person isn't checking the app daily. 
• Bumble offers a free and paid version.

Hinge

• Hinge has been around since 2012, but has especially gained popularity since 2020.
• Founder Justin McLeod says, "The app was built to help people find love." Its tagline is "designed to be deleted." Hinge is primarily geared toward people in their 20s and 30s.
• The app shows potential matches based on shared interests and personal preferences. 
• Hinge has a free version available, but this plan limits the number of profiles you can "like." If you match with someone you like but aren't ready to meet up yet, video chats and voice notes are available to get to know each other better. 
• Hinge stands out because the app focuses more on long-term love than casual connections.

Apps for serious relationships

Some dating apps are designed to help users make meaningful connections. They may use various tools to increase match compatibility or offer ways to connect akin to meeting up in a virtual coffee shop, fostering an environment that is unhurried and thoughtful, emphasizing quality over quantity.

eHarmony

• Like Hinge, eHarmony markets itself as the best dating app for people who want serious relationships. In contrast to Hinge, eHarmony users tend to be a bit older, so there are more people in their late 30s, 40s, and 50s. 
• This dating app, founded in 2000, may be ideal for a person ready to get married or settle down and stop dating.
• While eHarmony is one of the free dating apps, the free version lacks features compared to other apps. Some users pay for a subscription, though this option costs more than many competing apps. This choice might be inspired by eHarmony boasting a higher relationship success rate. 
• The app includes a system that asks users to complete in-depth questionnaires to match people with similar core beliefs.

Match

• Founded in 1993, Match may be the longest-standing dating site. 
• While people of all ages use the app, it most heavily appeals to those aged 35 to 45. 
• While Match doesn't focus as much on marriage as sites like eHarmony, it is geared toward people wanting to find their perfect match for a long-term relationship.
• While Match began as a website, it's also available as a mobile app. Both free and paid accounts are available. 
• Match offers video chatting, which people can try out as part of a "vibe check" feature to see if they want to continue their conversation in person.

Coffee Meets Bagel

• Coffee Meets Bagel launched in 2012 and focuses on providing users with fewer, better matches. The app sends users curated lists of matches (called Bagels) every day to encourage thoughtful interaction rather than quick swiping.
• Profiles on Coffee Meets Bagel tend to be more detailed than on some of the mainstream apps, so users can get a better idea of who they are talking to. The app is designed to be used in short, intentional sessions rather than for long browsing sessions or quick swipes.
• Coffee Meets Bagel has both free and premium versions. Free users can interact with their daily matches using an in-app currency called Beans, while premium users get access to additional features, like the ability to see everyone who has liked their profile.

Casual and hookup-focused apps

A casual or hookup app is generally designed to help users make new connections without expectations. If this is what you’re looking for, these apps can be refreshing as they may allow you to drop the pretense and be more honest about what you’re interested in.

Grindr

• Perhaps one of the best-known casual apps, Grindr has been called the Tinder for gay and bisexual men, though it's older than Tinder, having been founded in 2009. 
• This app caters to men and non-binary people seeking men. As with Tinder, the app's emphasis leans toward appearance and nearby location, but some users have used it to find "the one."
• Grindr is available in free and paid versions. Unlike other apps, there is no website version, so only those who download a mobile app can use the platform. 
• Users warn that sharing explicit photos on the app is common, so the app may be a good match for those comfortable seeing such images.

Niche and inclusive dating apps

Members of specific communities may find that apps that cater to their preferences make them feel more comfortable. For example, if you’re a member of the LGBTQIA community who is looking for a safe and inclusive space, or you practice ethical non-monogamy and want to connect with people who understand your relationship style right from the start, these apps may be a little more inclusive.

OKCupid

• OkCupid, sometimes called OkC, has been around since 2004. OkCupid may be an effective app for people who want to find people with similar social and political beliefs and other values. The app allows users to answer various questions and see what percentage of their answers overlap with each potential match's answers. 
• While all the apps featured in this article are inclusive, OkCupid puts this inclusivity at the forefront, allowing people to pick from 22 gender identities and 13 sexual orientations. 
• In addition, users can indicate what type of relationship they seek, allowing the app to show non-monogamous users to each other. 
• OkCupid is available in both free and premium versions. Free users are shown ads, however. Unlike other apps, OkCupid doesn't offer video chat.

HER

• HER is a dating and social app designed exclusively for queer women, nonbinary people, LGBTQIA+ people, and the sapphic community. Founded in 2013, it is now one of the most widely used platforms within the LGBTQIA community.
• HER offers community feeds and opportunities to attend local and virtual events, encouraging users to engage with others beyond the context of dating. It can be a meaningful and welcoming option for people who are newly out or looking to expand their queer social circle, not just find a romantic match.
• HER profiles allow users to specify gender identity, pronouns, and the type of relationship they're looking for, making it a genuinely inclusive space from the start. 
• The app is available in both free and premium versions. Free users have access to core matching and community features, while premium subscribers unlock additional filters and the ability to see who has liked their profile.
• HER is available in most countries, though its user base is strongest in larger cities. For those in smaller towns, the community features can still offer connection and new friends, even if local matches are limited.

Features that impact match quality

The app that you choose matters, as the different features each offers can have an impact on your experience.

Profile depth and prompts

Detailed profiles and advanced filters can help you meet people you can really connect with, making the experience more comfortable and productive. Creative prompts and detailed questions can reveal aspects of your matches’ personalities, giving you more insight into who they are. A simple prompt or a statement in a detailed profile can become a great conversation starter, giving you an opening to start a connection.

Matching systems and compatibility

Different apps use different methods of matching users. For example, some apps use a compatibility score, relying on in-depth questions and answers to match users with someone they have a lot in common with, while others may use a more user-directed system with swipes and likes. For those who are looking for successful matches over volume, looking for an app that focuses more on compatibility may be a more suitable option.

Filters, likes, and control

Filters give users a way to tailor their matches based on criteria such as age, location, lifestyle factors, and relationship intentions. That said, many apps require a subscription for features like unlimited likes or advanced filters, so you may have to pay extra to have more control.

Staying safe while using dating apps

There are several guidelines to keep in mind regarding safety and online dating. While many apps may try to remain a safe and inclusive space, ultimately, it can be up to you to ensure your safety. For example, you may want to ask questions to start conversations and get to know someone before sharing your personal information, like a phone number or social media handle. Similarly, choosing photos with care may reduce risk. Don't post pictures that show where you live or work. If you post the same photos you have on social media profiles, be aware that a person could use reverse image search to find those profiles.

Block and report anyone who is acting suspiciously or harassing you. If someone asks you for money, refuse, then block and report them. While dating apps can be fun, some people may use them with bad intentions. When you decide to meet up with someone, do so in a public place, and tell a friend when and where you are meeting in advance.

Success stories and real-world outcomes

Behind every app are users with real-life experiences, some of whom have had positive outcomes and made genuine connections. Many apps share the success stories of users who have made a love connection on their platforms, such as Tinder Love, which shares Tinder success stories, and Matchmade Stories, which shares stories of relationships that started on Match. 

From matches to meaningful relationships

Many couples can trace their beginnings back to meeting on a dating app. What separates meaningful connections from fleeting matches can be how individuals approach the relationship. Even if you get a perfect match, turning it into a viable relationship can take honesty, openness, patience, and a willingness to be yourself rather than a curated online version of who you are.

Dating and mental wellbeing

Whether on apps or in person, dating can be a stressful experience and may, at times, feel like nothing more than a numbers game. If you're struggling with stress or anxiety related to dating, therapy is an option available to let you talk about your concerns in a safe space. Remote therapy may be uniquely accessible, allowing you to attend from the comfort of your home or anywhere you choose that is wi-fi enabled. Through online platforms like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a therapist for therapy based on your unique preferences, often within 48 hours. 

There isn't yet a therapy specifically geared toward dating experts helping people struggling with dating apps. However, those struggling with dating apps may be dealing with a more general issue called dating anxiety. Research has found that dating anxiety is often linked to anxiety about one's appearance. Because cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been found to help with body dissatisfaction in the past, experts argue that CBT could also help with dating anxiety. Online therapy, in particular, has been shown to be a cost-effective option for anxiety and depression treatment.