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We Found The Best Dating Apps Of 2023 (After 1000+ Hours Of Swiping)

Julie Nguyen
Author: Expert reviewer:
Julie Nguyen
Relationship Coach
By Julie Nguyen
Relationship Coach
Julie Nguyen is a relationship coach, Enneagram educator, and former matchmaker based in New York. She has a degree in Communication and Public Relations from Purdue University.
Myisha Battle, M.S.
Expert review by
Myisha Battle, M.S.
Sexologist & Dating Coach
Myisha Battle, M.S., is a certified clinical sexologist and sex and dating coach, educator, and speaker. She has a master's in Psychology from The New School in New York City.
We carefully vet all products and services featured on mindbodygreen using our commerce guidelines. Our selections are never influenced by the commissions earned from our links.

Dating in 2023 is wild. Instead of meeting your soulmate at the coffee shop, you spend a Saturday night swiping through strangers' dating profiles, hoping that a shared interest in rock climbing or photography is enough to build a lifelong connection. And don't get us started on the struggle to create a compelling bio that summarizes your entire personality in less than 55 characters.

But while online dating is not for the faint of heart, it's not a hopeless endeavor either. A 2023 report from Pew Research found that at least 79% of people using dating apps have experienced excitement about the people they've seen on the apps (which is more than we can say about the very rare singles that we've met in real life).

What's more, there's a dating app for everyone, whether you're looking for the one or the one for tonight. From apps that practically schedule your first date for you (First Round's On Me) to private apps popular with celebs (Raya), we've been blessed—and maybe cursed—with every dating app your heart could desire. The hardest part is knowing which one is right for you.

Instead of downloading every app under the sun, you can rely on our vetted guide of the best dating apps, curated with the help of dating experts and input from online serial daters. After all, we know what it's like to swipe for love, and we haven't yet given up on finding the connections that are key to our longevity1.

The best dating apps of 2023:

The best dating apps of 2023

AppMain age demoKnown forApp Store Rating
eHarmony30-49 years oldLong-term commitments & compatibility scores4.0/5.0
Match30-49 years oldDetailed profiles & fast-growing user base of seniors3.8/5.0
Feeld18-30 years old Kink-based hookups4.4/5.0
OkCupid30-49 years old Great free app with loads of features4.3/5.0
Bumble18-30 years oldWomen always start the chat4.3/5.0
Hinge18-30 years oldCreated for relationships & offers limited likes4.5/5.0
Tinder18-30 years old O.G. swipe-based app for hookups3.8/5.0
Her18-30 years oldCommunity-based app for queer connections4.4/5.0
Grindr18-30 years oldLocation-based app for anonymous meet ups4.6/5.0
The League30-49 years oldExclusive app for working professionals 4.1/5.0
Christian Mingle30-49 years oldFaith-based app3.6/5.0
How we picked:
  • Active users: A larger (and active) user base is essential to finding your match. We stuck with services that have at least 1,000 ratings on the App store.
  • Recommendations: We tapped dating experts for their recommendations on the best dating apps.
  • Testing: The only way to know how an app truly works? By using it. We tested every app to see how long it takes to set up, how easy it is to use the app, and whether the app actually leads to in-person dates.
  • Variety: Research shows about 44% of people in the U.S. use dating apps hoping to find something serious, while at least 40% of people want to keep things casual. Whichever bucket you fall into, you'll find a dating app catered to your preferences below.
Best for serious relationships

eHarmony

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View on eHarmony | Price varies
Known for
Serious relationships
Main age demographic
30+
Available on
IOS, Android

eHarmony is one of the o.g. dating apps, and still insists that online connections are about more than an instant physical attraction. Instead the app pushes you to create an in-depth profile by forcing you to fill out an entire questionnaire, complete with polls and an image selection game that vaguely reminds us of a Rorschach Inkblot Test.

Still we have to admit there's a benefit to in-depth profiles. Even though your eHarmony profile takes at least 25 minutes to fill out, it ensures everyone swiping on the app is putting in the same amount of time and effort to meet "the one." We'll also be the first to say eHarmony isn't cheap—because you do need a paid profile to make the most of this app—but we link to think of it as another way to filter out those who aren't serious (and not willing to put their money where their mouth is).

The app does skew towards an older demographic—which means you may experience more scammers—but it's also such a well-known online dating site that you're more likely to find other users in remote locations.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Compatibility scores for every potential match
  • Ability to see who viewed your profile & vice versa
  • Most users focused on long-term matches
Cons
  • Many people still don't have detailed profiles
  • Profile takes a long time to set up
  • Almost no capability with free membership

Setting up your profile

Expect to take at least 25 minutes to set up your profile on eHarmony. It requires you to complete an 80-question compatibility quiz, including queries about your personality type and communication style.

We'll warn you: Some prompts are quirky, but we considered it a fun little break in the midst of some serious soul-searching.

These in-depth profiles are key to making eHarmony' one of the best dating sites for serious relationships, per marriage therapist Omar Ruiz, LMFT. "The profile list is limited since it's for [the people] who don't want to deal with the ups and downs of dating app culture and want to settle down," he says.

Just note one tester seeking a serious relationship found a few of the prompts were old fashion and didn't allow for her full expression as a polyamorous person seeking a serious commitment.

Matching process

The app's main screen scrolls vertically through potential matches. You'll then "heart" profiles that you're into. Unlike other apps, swiping left reveals your level of compatibility with another member (rather than rejecting them).

We also love that you don't have to say "no" to a profile if you're not feeling an instant connection. You can simply scroll past the profile or return to it at a later time if you want. Hey, it's not always love at first swipe!

By using compatibility scores to match members, the dating app sets the groundwork for a more serious connection—based on your personality, political views, and interests—instead of appearance. The free version even blurs profile photos like a modern-day blind date.

Cost

eHarmony premium
  • 6 months: $359 ($59.84 per month)
  • One year: $388 ($32.25 per month)
  • 2 years: $699 ($29.13 per month)
Best dating app for longterm relationship

Hinge

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About
An app designed for relationships with limited likes (but has evolved for hookups)
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
18 to 30 years old

Three dating apps seem to dominate conversion for young adults: Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge. Now a mainstream app for those in their 20s to 30s, Hinge was original the o.g. relationship-focused app that was "designed to be deleted."

In reality, Hinge has moved away from that less-inclusive tag-line to be a place where you can seek something casual or a life partner (both actual selections on the app). You can also share your relationship type–monogamous vs non-monogamous—to ensure you're aligned with a partner before you meet.

We think Hinge stands above its counterparts because it really leans into showing off your personality alongside photos. The app has built-in conversation prompts that help share your interests and facilitate conversion with your matches. (No more basic "how are you" messages here.)

Online dating coach Perri Schneider says this also makes the app great for people who are new to the online dating scene, as there's less pressure around starting a conversation.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Limited likes to encourage thoughtful matches
  • Fresh interface with videos & prompts on profiles
  • Allows you to share dating intentions & relationship type
  • Last active status to find other active users
Cons
  • Must sort through matches in order
  • Best matches hidden behind paywall
  • Recently removed audio feature

Setting up your profile

Creating a unique profile on Hinge doesn't take long—simply add your basic information, select your favorite photos, and answer at least three prompts. You can spend less than 5 minutes creating a profile, though we suggest taking a bit long if you're trying to attract a serious match.

We were big fans of Hinge's audio and video features, which allowed you to showcase even more of your personality. While the brand recently removed these additions, we think they're likely to come back in the brand's premium subscriptions. Luckily, the optional photo prompts are still around to add some voice to your profile.

Matching process

Hinge comes with limited swipes (unless you pay for a premium account), but this feature is a good thing. A smaller number of likes will motivate you to slow down and see each profile as a person, instead of another face in a sea of faces. We're over mindless swiping!

Another feature that we can't get enough of? The option to "Show Last Active" status, which shows other potential matches whether you're currently active or were online that day. This helps weed out inactive users, so you're not sending your "like" to a graveyard of other interested profiles. A

nd no, your current matches will not see your status—a great safety feature that takes off the pressure to respond to a match right away instead of creating a thoughtful reply.

When you do decide to go on a date, be sure to let Hinge know about your interactions. As the app learns more about your preferences, it will adjust your algorithm to recommend better matches. The only downside? A few of these top matches may be located it the "Standouts" section of the app, which requires you to send a rose to match.

You only receive one rose per week with an option to pay for additional roses (starting at $3.33 per rose). These curated profiles may occasionally enter the regular batch of potential matches or "Discover" section after you delete them from the stand-out section, but it's rare.

Despite Hinge putting some of its most eligible matches beyond a paywall, our testers still raved about the quality of their matches; most offered a level of maturity that she hadn't seen on apps previously. They also called out the apps flexibility, which allows you to select alternative location settings without paying (though this led to a negative interaction with a scammer abroad).

Cost

Hinge X
  • One week: $24.99 per week
  • One month: $49.99 per month
  • 3 months: $99.99 ($33.33/month)
  • 6 months: $149.99 ($24.99/month)
Best dating app for seniors

Match.com

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About
Website & app with detailed profiles and fastest-growing user base for seniors
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
50+

We like to think of Match.com as the in-between of eHarmony and Hinge. It pushes in-depth profiles to help serious daters find a long-term relationship through compatibility, but it still brings the fun of Hinge's personality driven prompts. The end result is a solid app that's quickly gaining training with senior daters.

In fact, a 2018 report found that Match.com's fastest-growing demographic is the 50+ age group—making it one of the best dating sites for those over 50. It also earned a shoutout from online dating coach Schneider who called it a "solid choice" for those who "live in a suburb or somewhere remote" due to the apps ability to attract users from all over.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Free one-on-one sessions with dating coaches to build profile
  • Personalized match recommendations
  • Detailed profiles with up to 26 photos
Cons
  • Need membership for app's best features
  • Not as many active users as some other dating apps
  • Time-consuming set up process

Setting up your profile

Match.com is about serious connections, so you should expect to spend at least 20 minutes setting up your profile. The app even allows you to work with a dating expert to build the best profile.

When setting up your profile, you'll fill out a bio and answer prompts or questions, such as "your best scar story." Our favorite part? You can upload up to 26 photos to really showcase your profile.

Matching process

Building an in-depth profile pays off. You can search around the database and check out members with similar preferences as yours on Match.com. You can also see when other members were last online, so you won't waste your time on people who are no longer active on the app.

True to its name, Match also offers a handful of ways for you to match with other members. Mutual matching only shows people who fit your specific criteria, while reverse matching only shows people who are specifically looking for someone with your likes or interests.

We found fewer time wasters on Match, due to the time needed to make a compelling profile. This bodes well for making a serious connection—but it also means there might be fewer people to connect with on the app.

Cost

Standard Membership
  • One month: $44.99
  • 6 months: $118.99 ($19.84/month)
Premium Membership
  • 3 months: $116.99 ($39/month)
  • 6 months: $129.99 ($21.67/month)
Best dating app for kink

Feeld

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About
A swipe-based app for kink-specific hookups
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
25 to 35 years old

Fun fact: Feeld was originally called "3nder" with a focus on helping couples find a third. It's evolved into an inclusive space for different sexualities and gender identities searching for connection, supporting users as they seek threesomes, polyamory, swinging, casual sex, kink, or other alternative steamy encounters. 

Because of Feeld's transparency and refreshing openness, it's simpler to have honest conversations about your sexual preferences without feeling creepy or unsolicited. We believe Feeld is one of the best hook up apps you can find for casual sex, and it does a great job of helping your explore a more casual sex life.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Sex-positive without being sleazy
  • Option to link your profile with partners' profiles
  • Choice to go by pseudonymCons
Cons
  • Not as many users as some of the bigger apps
  • Allows profiles with no faces
  • App is still slightly bugger; if you unmatch a connection they can still read your convo
  • You end up seeing the same profile over and over again unless you reject it

Setting up your profile

Creating a profile on Feeld can take as little as 5 minutes depending on how much information you want to share. You'll have the option to upload up to 6 photos with the option to make select photos private to matches.

Every user can go by an imaginary name to protect their identity with options to share up to 10 desires from your match, such as kink, BDSM, and GGG (i.e. good in bed, giving of pleasure, and game for trying new things). You can also write a mini bio about yourself and tag up to 10 hobbies or interests to showcase on your profile.

Matching process

Feeld thinks attraction is a process that often takes time—something most apps don't account for in their algorithms. Instead of swiping away a profile for good, Feel gives you the option to simply pass for now—kind of like strolling by a stranger.

When you are into a profile, you can use the like button in the bottom-left corner. If they like you back, a connection is created.

We'll be honest: In the world of swiping, the UX can feel a little confusing. Even our tester noted initial confusion with the app, but found it more intuitive after six months of scrolling.

One way to reduce the number of potential matches crossing your path is by filtering for distance, age range, genders, and/or partner breakdown (couples vs solo daters).

You'll also have the choose of one "core," which is either a virtual or physical location. The latter is ideal for travelers planning a big trip with cores in a handful of major metropolis.

Of course, paid "Majestic" members get access to a few more perks, like the ability to filter by desires and recent activity. This ideal for people with specific kinks hoping to find likeminded companions.

Our takeaway? Matching on this app is not an easy process, and seeing the same profile over and over again can make rejecting it even harder. But making use of the filter and special "Ping" feature—which lets you skip the line into a potential matches inbox—is an easy way to make the most of the app.

While you'll come across an occasional pen pal on Feeld, the dating app's sex-positive vibes means most matches want to meet in person as quickly as possible.

We love the push for in-person connection—and consider Feeld a great option for those hoping to explore their sexuality.

Cost

Majestic Membership
  • One month: $19.99 per month
  • 90 days: $39.99 ($3.11 per week)
  • One year: $99.99 ($1.92 per week)
Best dating app for young adults

Tinder

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About
The original swipe-based app focused on quick hookups
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
18 to 30 years old

While you can meet people for casual dates or casual sex on any of these apps, Tinder reigns supreme in this category. The app is extremely straightforward to use, though that does mean people make quicker snap judgments, which can devolve into focusing more on someone's photos instead of their bio and interests.

Tinder still has some viable dating prospects on the app; you may just have to weed through a lot of matches to find them. Although plenty of people these days have met their forever partners on Tinder, Schneider says it generally may not be the best app for serious dating due to its saturation of options.

But Tinder's strong reputation is also its strong suit: "I find with my clients that it's still widely used, which can be helpful if you're not in a city and live in a more remote area," she says. 

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Largest user base
  • Can see location of all matches
  • Free version is excellent
Cons
  • Most users are looking for something casual
  • Can be superficial due to swiping process
  • Raunchy without the honest dialogue seen on Feeld

Setting up your profile

Creating your Tinder account can take as little (or long) as you'd like. Upload up to nine photos to showcase your profile with a short bio under 500 characters.

You can also add up to five interests to reveal a little more about yourself—but in reality Tinder is primarily a visual app. Your photos are more likely to attract a match than your hobbies.

Matching process

The UX for Tinder is simple; swipe left to pass and swipe right to connect. If another person swipes right, you'll match and enter the chat stage.

Our tester found it lives up to the hype for finding causal interactions (or consistently casual relationships). They find most users are upfront about their intentions and the app is the epitome of "what you see if what you get."

Like any dating app, you might run into people who only want to chat—and nothing more. But we found that Tinder often had a shorter lead time before the date, with many connections leading to meetups in less than 24 hours.

Cost

Tinder Plus
  • One month: $8
  • 6 months: $24 ($6 per month)
  • 12 months: $32 ($2.60 per month)
Tinder Gold
  • One month: $24 per month
  • 6 months: $75 ($12.50 per month)
  • 12 months: $96 ($8 per month)
Tinder Platinum
  • One month: $30 per month
  • 6 months: $90 ($15 per month)
  • One year: $120 ($10 per month)
Best free dating app for features

OkCupid

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About
Swipe, backtrack, and sort potential matches with a free app
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
30 to 49 years old

OKCupid is for relationships friendships, flings, relationships—and everything in between. We love OkCupid caters to a diverse group, with additional gender and sexuality options for users, along with settings for nonmonogomous folks.

"OKCupid does an amazing job at being inclusive for all," says Schneider.

The dating side is widely known for its keyword search options, long-form profiles, and interactive personality quizzes. It's a popular dating site if you want to get away from plain swiping and meet others with a high match percentage and shared interests.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Detailed profiles & compatibility scores
  • Queer & poly-friendly
  • Loads of features even on free version
Cons
  • Lengthy profile set up
  • ewer active users as other apps
  • Complex UX that's less intuitive to use

Setting up your profile

When you join OkCupid, you'll be prompted to add up to six photos, write a bio, and take a 15-question compatibility quiz. These initial responses will be used to start gauging your compatibility score with others—and you'll have the option to see exactly where you align (or disagree).

If certain requirements are a dealbreaker, you can inform the app; otherwise you may end up receiving a high compatibility score with someone seeking marriage when you're seeking a hook-up. [Pro tip: OkCupid offers 500+ compatibility questions; the more you answer, the better the matches.]

Matching process

The UX is a little less intuitive on OkCupid than other dating apps; you still swipe left or right to "like" another user, but you'll need to click the bottom of the screen to open their profile. Once in the profile, you can swipe through photos and open the compatibility feature.

We love that OkCupid makes so many of its features free—and we think it's one of the best free dating sites you can find right now.

What's not free? The ability to see who already "likes" your profile (unless they sent an "intro") or view certain match filters, like "new users" or "popular users."

There are 70 million users on OkCupid in 2023, and every person approaches getting offline in a different way. However compatibility score makes it easier to find a common interest or activity to get off the app sooner.

Even though a match with 95% compatibility ended up ghosting our tester after their first date, she still considers OkCupid one of the best free dating apps.

Cost

OkCupid Basic
  • One month: $29.99
  • 3 months: $59.99 ($19.99 per month)
  • 6 months: $89.99 ($14.99 per month)
OkCupid Premium
  • One month: $39.99
  • 3 months: $79.99 ($26.66 per month)
  • 6 months: $119.99 ($19.99 per month)
Best dating app for women

Bumble

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About
A swipe-based app where women always start that chat
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
18 to 30 years old

Made for women, by women, Bumble is a user-friendly app that strives to create a positive experience for its daters with its zero-tolerance policy toward hate speech and body shaming.

"I find that Bumble has the most active users on its platform–which is great to increase the chances of matching with someone you really like," Schneider says. "The women must initiate the conversation [when matching with men], but with same-sex matches, either can begin the chat." 

You don't have to just look for a romantic match on Bumble either. They have other features for business and BFF connections, too.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • No need to upgrade to a paid subscription
  • Super active userbase
  • Simple UX that feels more elegant than other designs
Cons
  • Women always have to make first move
  • Must send first message within 24 hours

Setting up your profile

Don't expect to spend more than 10 minutes setting up your Bumble profile. Simply choose your six best photos, select a few interests, add a short bio, and answer a prompt (the last few are optional).

If you're hoping to have better conversations with a match, you can also add an "opening question" to ensure you chat about topics that interest you.

We're personal fans of the ability to connect you Instagram and Spotify, which add more dimension to your profile in a low effort way.

Matching process

Similar to Tinder, you match on Bumble by swiping left or no and right for yes. If a match also likes your profile, then it starts a chat.

If you're female, we recommend having your opening line ready to go right after you match. Otherwise you'll have to exit the profile and re-find it in the chat section of the app after looking through their profile again.

Our tester loves Bumble so much, they paid for a lifetime premium subscription to make the most of the dating app. One of their favorite aspects is the timed connection.

Once you match, women have 24 hours to start the conversation. While not ideal for those with limited time (like single parents), this feature creates a sense of urgency and reduces the number of interactions you have with time-wasters.

Try using these expert-recommended conversation starters on Bumble to make the most of your connection.

Cost

Bumble Premium
  • One week: $24.99
  • One month: $49.99 ($11.66 per week)
  • 6 months: $99.99 ($7.78 per week)
  • Unlimited: $249.99
Best dating app for gay men

Grindr

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About
A location-based app for anonymous meet ups
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
18 to 30 years old

"Grindr is a social networking app with a goal to connect its gay, bi, trans, and queer users," Schneider says. Although any type of relationship can come from the app, one-night stands are typical for the user experience. "It is still very much notorious for being a hook-up-focused app." 

Grindr consists primarily of a bio, pictures, and an ability to favorite others to keep track of the people you're interested in. It also has an efficient geo-social location-based feature to connect with others within a close radius.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Upfront & straight to the point
  • Millions of active users
Cons
  • Focused purely on hookups
  • Can be superficial

Setting up your profile

Grindr is about efficiency, and it only took our tester one minute to set up their profile. Just add up to five photos and write a quick bio to get started.

Matching process

Other user profiles will show up in your feed based on their distance from your location (making it a great option for those who want to meet right away). You can swipe left to pass or swipe right to connect.

While Grindr may have your geo-location, you have the option to hide your distance from other users using "Invisible mode." This discretion extends to the app icon, which can be changed to another logo.

We love that Grindr shoes a green dot for active profiles, so you can tell if your preferred match is online or no longer interested in connecting. Just be warned: Your profile may show up in the grid for up to one hour after you go offline.

By pushing matches based on location, Grindr sets you up for success with in-life connections—no matter how short-lived.

Cost

Grindr XTRA
  • One month: $19.99
  • 3-month: $39.99 ($13.33 per month)
  • 1-year: $99.99 ($8.35 per month)
Grindr Unlimited
  • One month: $39.99
  • 3-month: $79.99 ($26.66 per month)
  • 1-year: $239.99 ($19.99 per month)
Best dating app for lesbians

Her

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About
A community-based app for LGBTQ+ folks seeking connections
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
18 to 30 years old

Her is a dating and community app for lesbian, queer, bisexual, and straight women; GNC folx; and nonbinary people. It's created for queer people, by queer people, making it one of the most popular lesbian apps on the market. 

Her strives to create an inclusive interface that actively bucks against heteronormative narratives, with the app encouraging its users to be open about their intersecting identities and relationship orientations.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • No screenshots to protect privacy
  • All members can send messages for free
  • Offers in-person events
Cons
  • Best features behind pay wall
  • Still a swipe focused app

Setting up your profile

Our tester spent less than 5 minutes creating their profile, which included photos, a bio, and selecting interests.

Unlike other apps, adding your interests is essential to making the most out of this dating app. Along with a feed to match with others, the app has a hub (called the FEED) sorted by interests to help connect you with other people in the LGTBQ+ community.

Think of it like part dating app, part social network.

Matching process

The dating experience is relatively uncomplicated—you can view profiles, "like" other users, match with people, and get to know someone via chat.

As mentioned, romantic connections aren't the only option here. You can find new friends to meet up with or spaces to discuss your interests in the Feed, which is less about swiping and more about typing.

We consider HER ahead of the curve when it comes to supporting more than virtual connections. Sure, you can take a date offline, but. the app also encourages community.

HER hosts local events and parties that bring together its 13 million users for in-person events.

Cost

Her Premium
  • One month: $14.99
  • 6-month: $59.99
  • 12-month: $89.99
Best dating app for working professionals

The League

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About
An exclusive app curating just 5 potential matches per day
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
30 to 49 years old

"The League is an exclusive dating app for the modern-day working professional. It's [considered] the LinkedIn of dating," Ruiz says. It has a waiting list, and once you're in, the matches are set up similarly to an IRL networking event.

Every day at "happy hour," you're given a limited list of profiles to review. The success of the app may come down to your age and location, meaning you'll probably have better chances in a metropolitan city. 

He notes there's a paid membership that can be much pricier than other dating apps, so it's probably better suited for those who can financially afford the ongoing cost of a premium experience. For both free and paid users, it comes with a live feature where you can go on video speed dates.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Only 3 potential matcher per day
  • For love & professional networking
  • Also hosts events in person
Cons
  • Wait list required to join app (can pay to skip line)
  • Connections tend to be slower
  • Membership is pricey

Setting up your profile

The issue with the League isn't setting up your profile, it's getting on the app. All users are sent to a "waiting list" upon application, where they must be approved. Wealthier users can pay to skip the queue, but this lengthy process earns the app a low score for "ease of setup."

Once you're accepted, the rest of the process is straightforward.

You can upload up to 5 photos and record a quick 35-second "intro video." Our tester has been on the app for almost a year and has never seen a video in action—so we'd skip the upload.

As the name (and exclusivity suggest), you must upload your workplace and education information as part of your profile. It feels a little elitist, but we know it suits a certain crowd.

Matching process

The League won't put you into information overload. It only serves five new profiles every day—there used to be just three—and options for a few different curated events.

When a match is deemed "desirable," the League will prompt you to "skip the line" to get seen by the profile sooner. And yes, it's expensive.

Our aforementioned tester has never actually been on a date from the League even though there's been months of swiping. Matches rarely turn into conversations, which means an actual date is almost impossible.

While the idea of fewer matches seems great in theory, it's best suited to a small demographic: wealthy and busy with limited time to explore romantic options.

Cost

  • Member subscription: $299.99 per month
  • Owner subscription: $399.99 per month
  • Investor subscription: $999.99 per month
Best dating app for Christians

Christian Mingle

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Image by mbg creative
Image by mbg creative
About
A faith-based app to find fellow religious daters
Available
IOS, Android
Main age demographic
30 to 49 years old

Although other apps filter for religious preferences, it's not their primary focus. If religion is important to you, we recommend finding the app that aligns with your views. For example, we recommend, JSwipe for Jewish singles and Salams for Muslim singles.). If you are Christian, we think your best bet is Christian Mingle.

The app collects information about the user's upbringing, education, interests, and relationship to spirituality, which ensures you're not only connected by your hobbies but your relationship to God.

Other important features include the ability to sort matches based on age and location, as well as enhanced privacy features. Christian Mingle takes fake profiles and harassment seriously, which makes it a solid pick for those who are worried about safety.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Users share religious beliefs
  • Largest dating app for Christian
  • 60,000 signups per month
Cons
  • Smaller use base than apps not faith-based
  • Requires photos

Setting up your profile

Christina Mingle profiles don't take the longest to set up, but they're not the shortest either. Our tester found that it takes about eight minutes to complete a profile with photos and a bio.

Be prepared to share details about your faith; the app asks for your religion and denomination to help curate the best matches. Naturally, profiles will also ask info about how often you go to church—but there are also standard questions about interests and hobbies.

Matching process

Similar to other apps, you can scroll through a feed of all users or sort potential matches based on activity, proximity, and compatibility.

Each profile shares basic info about a match and their photos. If you like a profile and the interest is mutual, then you'll be notified of a new match.

We think Christian Mingle is a great option for those who consider faith to be essential to their romantic connections, but we wouldn't recommend to non-religious users.

Beyond a focus on faith, there isn't much that sets this dating app apart from others. While Christian Mingle isn't known for ghosting, it's known for getting people off the app quickly either.

Cost

Christian Mingle Premium
  • One month: $49.99
  • 3-months: $95.99
  • 6 months: $149.99

How do dating apps work?

All dating apps share a basic premise: to help you match with a potential suitor. However, the process for finding your match differs by app.

Most apps operate on a swipe system, which allows you to either swipe left (no) or right (yes) on a profile. Some apps offer minimal information before the swipe, such as Tinder, which makes vetting your potential suitors all about looks.

Others incorporate fun features like profile prompts, videos, and audio to help you get a better sense of the person on the other side of the screen.

If you're really picky about the way you vet potential suitors, you might want to opt for apps that offers a compatibility score based on your profile; while it's an algorithmic guess, these scores often reflect interests and values instead of physical appearance.

When you swipe right on a potential match, the app will let you know if it's a match. If you don't get a match right away, don't stress. Your profile may not have appeared in another person's line-up just yet, especially if your profile is new. Once two people both swipe right or express interest in each other, the app typically will send a prompt notifying you of the match.

How do dating apps match you with people?

Similar to the UX design of different dating apps, the actual matching algorithm varies. Profiles can appears based on your location, algorithm-based compatibility, or at complete random. For this reason, you'll often hear about people attempting to "hack" the algorithm to find the best matches.

The general rule of thumb? The more you use an app, the quicker it will learn your preferences and understand your type—which is ideal for apps that promote profiles based on compatibility.

That being said, there are a few ways to filter who pops into your swiping feed. Almost all apps allow you to set a preferred age and location range with the basic or free version of the app.

Additionally, most apps will give you a chance to place filters on height, politics, and education, but these metrics are not as strict (so you will find a few people that make it into your feed).

If you're on an app, you should general expect your profile to be public to all users with a few exceptions. Dating apps like Bumble and Lex allow you to swipe in incognito mode, which only shows your profile to potential matches that you've already liked.

This can be helpful for those with privacy concerns, especially if you're concerned about matching on the app with people you know IRL. Of course, this also allows room for sketchy online behavior from those who are cheating on their current partner(s).

Why do you pay for dating apps

You'll often have to pay up to get the most curated selection of potential suitors. These advanced features will typically create a more intense vetting process with the ability to mark filters like race and religion as "dealbreakers" to ensure every match that makes its way into your feed meets these basic requirements.

Online dating tips

We've got a whole rundown of the best online dating tips — but here are a few of our favorites:

1. Use dating apps with a clear goal (and write your profile accordingly). It's important to know whether you want to find "the one" or simply want a casual fling before trying the apps. Otherwise you might end up falling for another person who doesn't have the same romantic goals. Be sure your profile reflects what you're looking for!

2. Be honest and transparent. Authenticity and vulnerability help you build authentic relationships. Be upfront about who you are and what you hope to get from the dating apps—otherwise you might become the person who is leading someone on!

3. Make your first date as quickly as possible. Experts say the best way to know if you're attracted to someone is by meeting them in person. You don't want to waste weeks talking to someone only to discover there's no chemistry when things go offline.

How to stay safe on dating apps

As you enter the world of online dating, be sure to keep these red flags in mind. These users might be scammers trying to steal your information—or push online daters who don't have our best interest at heart.

Avoid anyone who:
  • Asks you to send money
  • Asking for personal information like your address or banking info
  • Makes excuses to avoid meeting up in person
  • Refuses to do video calls
  • Becomes too affection early on (especially before meeting)
  • Has profiles on different sites with different names
  • Message you constantly & demands answers back immediately

What is the most successful dating app?

At least 30% of adults in the United States have used a dating app, per a 2020 report by Pew Research.

The definition of dating success varies by person. Some people are seeking relationships, while others want a quick meet up. Find your most successful connections by staying honest about your intentions—and only matching with people who actually share your end goal.

Ultimately, a large database will provide the biggest pool of potential matches. If you don't have a specific requirement for your spouse (i.e. religion or age), we recommend focusing on the most popular apps, like Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder with the most active (and expansive) user databases.

Some of our other favorite dating apps

Still unsure about the best dating app for you? Check out our additional dating guides, which are catered to specific demographics:

FAQ

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 is best for beginners?

The best dating app for you will correlate with your dating goals. However the lower lift required to start a profile on Tinder, Bumble, or Hinge makes them great options for people just beginning to explore the world of online dating. Plus, their popularity means you're likely to find more potential matches regardless of your location.

What is the best free dating app?

The best free dating app for you depends heavily on what you’re looking for from your connections. Many popular apps are free, such as Hinge, Bumble, Tinder, and even OKCupid. However many of these offer added features, whether it be unlimited likes or reconnections, for a small fee. A few apps we'd avoid trying for free are eHarmony and Match, which are best with paid features.

What is the #1 used dating app?

Tinder has historically dominated the app space with more than 500 million users (and it’s no. 2 on the list for the top free lifestyle apps on the Apple App Store). If you’re looking for the to paid subscribers, Bumble takes the lead. And if you find neither of these swipe-based algorithms is quite for you, Hinge comes in as the third most popular dating app.

Is Tinder or Bumble better?

When deciding between Tinder and Bumble, the best dating app for you will come down to your intentions. Bumble puts the power to start the connection in women’s hands by having them making the first move in 24 hours. Our relationship experts say this creates a smaller chance of conversation fading out. Tinder is great for those seeking a more casual encounter. Online dating coach Perri Schneider also considers it a good recommendation for those in more remote areas due to its widespread usage.

How hard is it to get accepted into Raya?

Raya is a celebrity networking and dating app that famously accepts only 8% of applicants. Your chance of getting accepted into Raya is fairly low—but it’s not impossible. If you have the right job (or connections), you might make it through Raya’s strict vetting process.

You’ll notice Raya is not included in our list of the best dating apps. We felt the low acceptance rate would not make it the best option for most people seeking a dating app.

The takeaway

The best dating app for you depends on what you're looking for. We think eHarmony is best for serious datings seeking a long-term commitment, while Hinge is one of the most popular apps for young adults. And if you're still trying to explore and expand your sex life, we'd recommend going with Feeld over Tinder (where dates tend to be more respectful).

RELATED: Ready to ask someone out on a date? These online-dating rules form experts will help prepare you for your first interactions—and when you're there, be sure to ask some of these first date questions.

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