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12 Best Dating Apps & Sites 2025, Reviewed by Relationship Experts | Glamour

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Over the past decade, I’ve tried many— too many—of the best dating sites. Let’s be real: Using the apps sucks. A great first date is wonderful, but weeding through the sea of selfies and talking stages to get there can feel excruciating, especially as a busy woman. Still, a dating app is one of the only tools I have to actually meet people—and if you’re reading this, you likely relate. Maybe you’re looking for a committed long-term partnership that could turn into marriage down the line, or maybe you desire a casual hookup, to bring a third into your existing relationship, or simply hope for a new friend. Perhaps you’re seeking someone who shares your religious or political beliefs, who understands your lifestyle as a single parent, or who’s excited to travel the world (or rot at home) with you. Whatever your preferences, the best dating apps can help you find exactly what you want.

Curious to try online dating but have no idea where to begin? I did the digging for you—I signed up for over 15 different dating sites; talked to psychologists, therapists, and professional matchmakers; and polled my network of single and settled friends and editors to curate the most worthwhile ones. I answered 70-question quizzes and waded through countless pop-ups urging me to purchase features like Roses and Winks and to upgrade my profile to a paid subscription—confusingly tiered memberships that require payment in order to access features like messaging and to see who’s liked you, and are absurdly pricey. At the end of it all, I feel confident in sharing with you the best dating sites, broken down by what they’re suited for—including LGBTQ+, faith-based, polyamorous , and age-specific dating apps . Don’t lose hope, friend. There’s a platform out there for you (and me too).

The best dating sites, at a glance

Best Dating Site for Relationships : Match Best Dating App for Marriage : eHarmony Best Dating App Overall : Hinge Best Dating App for Casual Dating and Hookups : Tinder Best Dating Site for Inclusivity : OkCupid Best Dating App for Social Networking : Bumble Best Dating Site for Over 50 : SeniorMatch Best LGBTQ+ Dating App : Grindr

Jump to dating-apps FAQs.

1. Best Dating Site for Relationships: Match

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 30+ looking for serious relationships Special features: Private mode; ability to see who’s viewed you; email read receipt; dating-expert webinars; in-person events Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan and package, with monthly subscriptions starting at $43 for Platinum, $28 for Silver, and $6.66 for Bronze Availability: Match.com , App Store , Google Play

Match is one of the most recognizable online dating sites. Started in 1995, the platform offers inclusive profile options, a user-friendly app, and algorithms that help singles find the relationships they’re seeking. It also boasts over 96 million users, so chances are low you’ll run into the same people over and over. “With Match, you can clearly see if someone is worth your time before matching,” online-dating coach Megan Weks tells Glamour . “That’s the beauty of its long-form profile. You can utilize a whopping 4,000 characters, in comparison to 300 with Bumble.”

After setting up a profile, you can include up to 26 photos (way more than with competitors) and preferences about your potential date. There are screening questions about lifestyle, relationship status, education, and faith, plus icebreaker prompts. According to the brand’s website, 44% of members are between ages 30 and 49, 37% are over 50, and 59% are single parents —making it a great option for more mature users. Its various tiered subscriptions and paid bonus options let you add on various features (like a handy read receipt, so you can see if someone you liked opened your message). You can like up to 50 profiles per day with its free version, too, which is way more than many competitors.

“I liked that Match was less focused on image and offered more context about people right off the bat,” says Glamour contributor and shopping writer Brigitt Earley . “It did take a little bit more time to weed through profiles and screen messages, but the effort paid off: I met my now husband less than two months after joining the dating service.”

Pros Cons Wide variety of add-on features Challenging to access free version 50 likes per day with free version Only paid subscribers can send unlimited messages Access to one-on-ones with dating experts Wonky desktop experience Visit Match

2. Best Dating Site for Marriage: eHarmony

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 30+ looking for serious relationships and marriage Special features: Ability to save a list of profiles; members receive a free profile review with tips; compatibility scores Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $65/month for 6-month Premium plan Availability: eHarmony.com , App Store , Google Play

According to eHarmony, more than 2 million people have found love on the platform. It’s been one of the most highly trusted dating apps for over 20 years and is “one of the best dating apps for serious-relationship seekers who want to find a compatible partner based on a comprehensive personality test and a matching algorithm,” says LeMeita Smith, PhD , director of clinical services at United Health Services. “It is ideal for people who are searching for long-term commitment and marriage.”

When I signed up for eHarmony, I was impressed by the 70-question compatibility quiz that everyone takes before deciding between a free basic membership and a subscription. The survey offered detailed questions that got down to the nitty-gritty of who I am and what I’m looking for, and tackled the nuances of a real-life partnership by presenting scenarios and asked how I’d react (e.g., if I attended a wedding with a person, would I worry most about the gift, how attractive we look together, or what my friends might think of them). Its prompts ranged from the significant to the more mundane: “Why do you think you’re still single?”, “What’s your approach to planning things?”, or “What’s your ideal temperature for the house?” Once my profile was complete, I could browse my potential matches (anonymously, even) and send and receive unlimited likes at no charge—with caveats. No photos! And limited messaging. I could send icebreakers, greetings, replies to prompts, and up to five messages with someone before having to pay. And in order to view someone’s pictures, I had to pay. It was refreshingly Love Is Blind, in a way, to not see my match, but ultimately rather annoying.

Still, if I were on a quest to find a long-term partnership or marriage, I’d turn to eHarmony as my one of my first stops. Its reputation draws in people after a similarly meaningful goal in a way that it doesn’t with Tinder, say, and it’s built up its pool over decades. I also like its compatibility score, which shows on profiles and is based on communication, organization, and personality.

Pros Cons Thorough compatibility quiz and matching process Can’t view photos with free version High success rate Pricey Visit eHarmony

3. Best Dating App Overall: Hinge

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 25–40 looking to casually or seriously date Special features: Conversation prompts and starters; voice prompts; one free super-like (a Rose) per week; transparent likes; reply reminders Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $35 for Hinge+ and $50 for HingeX Availability: App Store and Google Play

Out of all the dating apps I’ve tried with free versions—and so many do—I find Hinge to be the most straightforward, easy to use, and thoughtful (as did many of the people I spoke to for this story, experts included). I enjoy its creative fill-in prompts (“A recent shower thought I had…” and “Two truths and a lie” to name a couple), conversation starters, and its voice memo feature. The latter is so helpful as a way to read someone’s tone, and its convo starters give me ways to get to know someone beyond their profile and pictures.

“I like to recommend Hinge for busy professionals because it’s low effort and doesn’t require you to initiate conversations,” says marriage and family therapist Suzannah Weiss, AMFT , resident sexologist for Biird and author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject . It also helps you avoid dating-app burnout, Weiss says. Connections are made when you like or comment on a specific element of someone’s profile, such as a photo of them skydiving or a caption about their “perfect Sunday”—a method that, according to Hinge’s research , leads to better matches and more dates in the long run.

The app has transparent likes—meaning you can see who likes you without both matching (though on the free version, you can only see one profile at a time; you can only scroll through all of your likes in a grid if you have a subscription). The flip side is that the people you like can see your interest, but I’m okay with that since I’m usually swipe-shy (especially since Hinge’s free version caps your available likes to eight per day). This is a slight bummer, but at least Hinge’s award-winning matchmaking algorithm seems to really respond to and curate potential matches based on my preferences and history. The quality seems considerate, even if the quantity I can actually like is not (without paying, anyway). The same cannot be said for other apps, unfortunately.

Pros Cons Interesting prompts allow for more quality conversations Limited number of swipes on the free version Ability to see who likes you Easy to use Visit Hinge

4. Best Dating App for Casual Dating and Hookups: Tinder

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 25–40 looking for hookups and casual dates Special features: Passport feature for traveling; incognito mode; unlimited rewinds Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $25 for Tinder+, $40 for Tinder Gold, and $50 for Tinder Platinum Availability: Tinder.com , App Store , Google Play

Jess Carbino, PhD , former sociologist for Tinder and Bumble , calls Tinder the gateway app: “It’s highly democratized in general, and you can see the overwhelming swath of the population and people trying to find a variety of relationships.” With more than 55 billion matches to date, it’s no secret that Tinder is one of the most popular dating apps around (it pioneered the swipe function, after all). It’s known as the hookup app, but plenty of people have found significant others.

“I’m on five different dating apps, and I always revert back to Tinder. I really think it’s best for everything, from solid dinner dates to fun, wild nights. How could it not be? Everyone is on it,” says one Glamour reviewer, who lives in New York City. “I feel like it has the greatest range of people, and I can really find whatever I’m looking for and clearly set my wants. It’s also far easier to determine geographically-accurate matches. Unless the other person is using the app’s Passport feature (which shows up on their profile), my matches are from the area where I actually am in the moment. Tinder’s only flaw is its reputation—sometimes I’ll match with the exact same person on Tinder and another dating app, and they’ll totally switch up their tone and approach. That said, when they do that, it’s easier for me to weed out the inauthentic people.”

The app is a top choice for mature age groups too. “I’ve talked to many, many seniors who’ve had wonderful dating experiences on Tinder because it’s simple to use and very accessible,” Carbino says. Its massive user base spans 190 countries, so you can find connections wherever you are in the world. You have the flexibility of signing up on a weekly basis, should the mood strike, as well.

Pros Cons Wide range of users and dating goals May not be best suited for serious relationships Passport mode for travel Weekly subscription option Visit Tinder

5. Best Dating Site for Inclusivity: OkCupid

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 25–45 looking for long-term relationships Special features: Deal-breaker filter; boosts that promote your profile; compatibility score; incognito mode Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $35 for Basic and $45 for Premium Availability: OkCupid.com , App Store , and Google Play

In 2003, four friends from Harvard University created OkCupid, an online dating platform dedicated to helping people find love and happiness through meaningful connections. According to the brand’s website, more than 91 million connections are made on OkCupid every year, with 50,000 dates made every week—and apparently, it has more mentions in The New York Times wedding section than any other app.

OkCupid was the first dating app to introduce 22 gender and 13 orientation choices (in 2013, before competitor apps made similar updates). It’s known for its in-depth questionnaire that includes deal-breakers, ultimately generating a compatibility score, and is ideal for people who want their unique interests and personalities to align, with lots of opportunities to share what matters to you. “The site is best for people who are looking for diversity and inclusivity, as it caters to different sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship styles,” Smith says. The basic version (which you have to pay for) offers unlimited likes and rewinds, and the ability to filter out deal-breakers. Upgrade to Premium if you want to see who’s liked you, send three Super Likes per week, and view their answers to public questions.

“I’ve found myself coming back to OkCupid in different phases of my life,” says Glamour reviewer Tasneem Anjarwalla . “The app worked best in helping me narrow down the seemingly endless pool of potential partners. It’s great that most dating sites now are more inclusive of gender identities, sexual preferences, and relationship styles (which OkCupid has been for a long while), but that feels like the bare minimum of info. Through OkCupid’s questionnaire, I could filter by my dealbreakers—from big-picture things like religion, kids, marriage, monogamy—to more granular compatibility stuff, like feelings on jealousy, sleeping routines, and political issues. What’s more, I could rank how important those things were to me, and how important I wanted them to be for the other person. The questions felt like fun BuzzFeed quizzes, and the more I answered, the more I saw the algorithm suggesting potential matches that really felt like people I’d be into. Until eventually, four years ago, it introduced me to my current partner.”

Pros Cons Large, inclusive user base Very limited profile access with free version Fun personality quizzes Challenging to find more info about costs Deal-breaker filter Visit OkCupid

6. Best Dating App for Social Networking: Bumble

Courtesy of brand Who it’s for: Ages 25–35 looking to casually or seriously date, make friends, or network Special features: Bumble BFF and Bizz modes; extend for one match per day; question game; video/audio calls; backtrack; incognito mode Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $30 for Boost, $50 for Premium, and $60 for Premium+ Availability: Bumble.com , App Store , and Google Play

Founded by Whitney Wolfe Herd in 2014, Bumble was designed to challenge heterosexual dating norms by empowering women to send the first message. “It’s excellent for women who don’t want to wait around for men to message them, and for men who appreciate confident women,” says Smith. “It also has options for finding friends and networking.” Today, in hetero matches, women are still required to make the first move (in same-gender matches, either party can), and once a match is established, you’ll have 24 hours to chat or the connection expires. Your profile can include details about education, work, photos, and cute profile badges, along with engaging prompts—and you can even link your Instagram and Spotify accounts. It’s a free dating site, but you can pay extra for Bumble Boost and Bumble Premium plans that give you features like backtracking, the ability to extend your match time, and unlimited swipes.

I’ve used Bumble on and off for a couple years now. I’ve always liked being able to make the first move because it nudges me to get out of my comfort zone and also prunes my messages of the cheesy pickup lines and “Sup?” that often serve as conversation starters on other apps. You can set your intentions for dating, and I find it’s a reliable place to just get to know someone without the pressure of a longer-term commitment or dating. The people I’ve matched with on Bumble Date seem more open to casually dating and making new friends (in fact, it has a Bumble BFF mode you can turn on that lets you look just for friendship, and I’ve made a couple friend connections this way. There’s a Bumble Bizz mode for networking too). Bumble really plays into the friendly, sociable vibe by letting each user link their profile to their Instagram or Spotify. I like how easy the app’s swipe interface is to use. Hinge makes me physically tap an X or a heart that specifies which piece of a profile I relate to, which gets tiring, but Bumble keeps the flow moving by letting me just swipe left or right on an entire profile. The annoying thing about Bumble, however, is that my matches expire if I haven’t spoken to them within one day (which is a lot of pressure for me!). The cost, as well. To see who’s liked me or to like any of the highlighted For You profiles that the app tailors for me, I have to pay—and $50 is a hefty price.

Pros Cons Clean, easy-to-use interface Not suited for users who don’t want to make the first move Ability to casually date, network, and make friends You must check daily or lose matches Visit Bumble

7. Best LGBTQ+ Dating App: Grindr

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: LGBTQ+ (particularly gay and bi men) looking to hook up and casually date Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $20 for Grindr Xtra and $40 for Grindr Unlimited Availability: Grindr.com , App Store , Google Play

This is the largest social networking app for gay, bi, trans, and queer people. With millions of daily users and a global presence, Grindr provides an easy way to meet new romantic interests—usually quick, casual encounters and hookups. Instead of swiping, you get a collage of people who are close to you location-wise, and you can use tags, create private photo albums, filter your searches, and easily chat with people near you. The Grindr for Equality initiative is dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ people around the globe through education and advocacy.

One Glamour reviewer describes his and his partner’s experience with the app: “Years ago, we told our parents we met on Hinge, since Grindr obviously has so many other associations that have nothing to do with finding a partner. They were blown away by the ‘coincidence’ that we happened to live just a block away from each other, but that is, of course, one of the perks of Grindr—that you can find someone nearby. We didn’t necessarily know that there’d be a love connection, but three years later—with one beloved dog and a home we share, plus we’re newly engaged—we have an app that’s better known for hookups to thank. We also have plenty of friends who have similar Grindr stories—and loads who happily regularly use it just to hook up—so you never know, you just might find whatever it is you’re looking for.”

Pros Cons Helpful for finding casual hookups Many reviewers complain about ads and catfishing on the app Popular, engaged base Visit Gindr

8. Best Sex-Positive Dating App: Feeld

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: People, couples, or groups looking for hookups, polyamory, sexual exploration Special features: Paired profiles; group chats; incognito mode Free version available: Yes Cost : Prices vary, starting at $25 per month for Majestic Availability: Feeld.co , App Store , and Google Play

Labeled a “dating app for the curious,” Feeld is perfect for open-minded, sex-positive people seeking to explore ethical nonmonogamy , kink , polyamory, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a specific type of relationship or aren’t entirely sure what you want yet, Feeld is designed to be a safe space to explore your sexuality , dip your toes or jump fully into the poly lifestyle, and meet connections in an inclusive space. Feeld allows you to choose from 20-plus sexualities and gender identities, create paired profiles, and create group chats so everyone can stay connected. The app is free to download, but you can upgrade to access additional photos, see who has liked you, and more.

Several of my ethically nonmonogamous friends recommended I give Feeld a go when I wanted to have some casual fun. You can set up a profile as a couple (or as a group up to five), or on your own. You can also become part of a group chat with multiple profiles. I was impressed with how direct everyone was about their wants in their profiles—and about asking that partners provide STD panels. It was refreshing to get to the point instead of dancing around desires (though I did have to learn quite a few acronyms I’d never heard before). Anonymity is a major part of the app’s appeal; you can have a pseudonym, select to keep certain photos private, and browse incognito with a Majestic membership. The drawback? There’s no verification process, so I wound up talking to some questionable people before finding better matches. Personally, I was hoping to figure out what I preferred sexually without any check-boxes in mind (like having a threesome or bondage). It was challenging to express that when the pool of people was overwhelmingly, unswervingly specific about their kinks (none of which was usually “vanilla,” as users call it). Still, that’s what many users want, and it’s wonderful that Feeld provides an environment and community for exploration.

Pros Cons Ability to link your profile with a partner/partners Glitchy interface Can choose a pseudonym for privacy No verification process Wide range of relationship types, sexualities, genders, and kinks to choose from Visit Feeld

9. Best Exclusive Dating App: Raya

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 25–40 looking for an exclusive dating experience (and to network) Special features: Places; slideshow profile; global matching; social and networking modes Free version available: No Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $25 for Raya and $50 for Raya+ Availability: App Store

What’s most striking about Raya is how divisive it is—“inaccessible,” as Carbino puts it. Perhaps best known as the dating app for celebrities, it functions a bit like a gated community that filters intensely for talent and career. It’s invite-only, isn’t free, requires approval from the administrators, and is so private that you can’t even take screenshots to protect its members’ privacy (should you, you know, run into Pete Davidson on there). Though Raya may not be for everyone, it’s tough to overlook its buzzy status—and the creative, high-performing people who might be attracted to it.

Glamour reviewer Brandi Thompkins says she prefers Raya for the people she finds on it. “Nearly everyone feels comparable to where I am professionally and is also very attractive and interesting,” she says. “With apps like Hinge, it takes me a long time to find a single profile with a person I think is an actual match (and I feel vulnerable because they can see I like them before liking me back). With Raya, the set-up feels less vulnerable. It has the simple yes-or-no swipe interface of Tinder and the intentionality of Hinge. The people on there are in similar professional places in their lives as me, and I think that’s led to more matches.”

A unique feature of Raya is its activity feature, which Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro enjoyed using. “There’s this Places list that’s curated for wherever you set your location, so you can check out restaurants, bars, and sites you might not know. You can also make your own recs for people to check out and add.”

Pros Cons Curated dating pool Extremely exclusive Social and networking modes No free version Visit Raya

10. Best Dating Site for Over 50: SeniorMatch

Courtesy of brand Who best it’s for: Ages 40+ looking to casually date, seriously date, and hook up Special features: Private album; winks; ability to search with filters Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $35 for Premium Availability: SeniorMatch.com , App Store , Google Play

With more than 6,000 active members daily, SeniorMatch is a great dating site for people over 40 . SeniorMatch doesn’t allow members under the age of 40 to join, so you’re guaranteed to find someone in your age range or older. Whether you’re focused on dating and relationships after the loss of a partner, are looking for loving companionship (or a sexy rebound), or finding a travel or activity partner, SeniorMatch has a sophisticated system that allows members to filter for exactly what they want. Its free version lets you create a dating profile, browse, send winks (replies to fun fill-in questions), and reply to messages sent to you by Premium members. In order to start conversations with users you’re interested in, however, you’ll need to upgrade your subscription. This membership lets you keep a private photo album that you can grant others access to and allows you to search for more specific criteria in matches (like religion, political beliefs, hobbies) beyond age range, region, and gender. The platform has been around since 2001, and there are more than 36,000 (adorable) success stories .

Pros Cons Curated dating pool Extremely exclusive Social and networking modes No free version Visit SeniorMatch

11. Best for Flirting: Flirtini

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: People age 25+ who enjoy playful banter while dating Free version available: Yes Cost: Varies by country; starts at $14.99 for Premium Availability: App Store and Google Play

Petition to bring back flirting, please. Flirtini is a playful dating app that helps you express yourself freely, show off your personality, and engage in witty banter with potential matches. While Flirtini is particularly ideal for casual fun and flirtatious convos, you can also use the app to find a long-term relationship or simply make new friends. It features engaging prompts and even has a built-in AI friend, Fliry, who helps you strike up conversations by suggesting topics and icebreakers tailored to you and your match. It’ll also analyze your profile and highlight common interests from the very first message, so you’ll start the convo on the right foot. (And if you think AI is creepy, don’t worry—Fliry shows up in the app as an adorable robot or bunny there to help you make the right impression!)

If you’re not already impressed, the app also uses AI technology to detect and blur out inappropriate content, so you can stay in control of your convos and safety. The app helps you keep things lighthearted and sexy—so if that’s what you’re into, this could be a good option for you.

Pros Cons Modern design and easy-to-use app interface Some reviewers say conversations can feel scripted Designed to encourage flirting and witty conversations Others say it might skew a bit too sexual for their taste Creatively uses AI to help you spark connections Has an astrology feature to help you assess compatibility Visit Flirtini

12. Best for Informed Dating: Tea

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Women 18–65 who want to prioritize safe dating Free version available: Yes Cost: Starts at $14.99 for Tea Pro Subscription Availability: App Store and Google Play

If you’ve ever texted your group chat to get the “tea” on someone you’re interested in, this is the app for you. Tea is built on the premise that you shouldn’t have to compromise your safety when dating, and that engaging with a community of fellow women can help you navigate the dating scene more confidently. On the app, users can share their experiences, add anonymous dating reviews, and more. There are a number of features that make this app unique, from reverse-image search (so you can make sure you’re not getting catfished!) to background checks (so you can clarify that your future BF does not, in fact, have a criminal record).

It’s also built on trust, so screenshots are blocked and reviews are anon. The app also donates 10 percent of its profits to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. You love to see it!

Pros Cons Specifically designed to help you date safely Designed for women, so not the best fit for men Proceeds from the app support a good cause You can read real dating “reviews” about potential matches Built-in features allow you to do background checks and more Encourages community and trust among women Visit Tea

Other dating apps to consider:

13. Plenty of Fish

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 25–40 looking to casually date Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $20 per month for a 3-month POF Premium Availability: POF.com , App Store , Google Play

Plenty of Fish is a well-known online platform designed to make dating more welcoming and less awkward. The site has come a long way since its creation in 2003—from its modern rebrand to new features like livestreaming and dating games to keep things interesting—and the platform claims to have millions of active members. One of the app’s unique features, Cue’d Up, is a fill-in-the-blank dating game with quirky questions that help you share your personality and flex your sense of humor. Similar to other online dating apps, POF still gives you the ability to swipe right, DM, and Super Like potential matches—but its approach still feels fresh and fun (see this cheeky campaign ).

Pros Cons Ability to join livestreams Free platform can have ads and fake profiles Fun features and games Visit POF

14. Coffee Meets Bagel

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 30–50 looking for serious relationships Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at $35 for Premium Availability: CoffeeMeetsBagel.com , App Store , Google Play

The app “for serious daters,” Coffee Meets Bagel was founded in 2011 by sisters Arum, Dawoon, and Soo Kang. The platform claims to offer a curated, high-quality community with daily batches of people picked just for you—along with detailed profiles, icebreakers, and elements like its in-app currency Beans that can help you purchase additional likes, celebrate relationship milestones, and unlock new features. Its dating pool is smaller than that of other dating apps, but it’s a nice option if you’re seeking quality over quantity.

Pros Cons App encourages users to meet IRL Limited likes per day Easy-to-use free version Chats can expire Visit Coffee Meets Bagel

15. Her

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Queer women and nonbinary and trans people looking to casually and seriously date and make friends Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $15 per month for Premium Availability: App Store and Google Play

Her was founded in 2013 by Robyn Exton, who was frustrated with the lesbian dating apps and sites she was seeing at the time. Many dating sites claim to be inclusive, but there’s often still a focus on cisgender, heteronormative relationships—and Her aims to let users make new connections without that feeling of alienation. “The features are accordingly LGBTQ+ friendly, with the opportunity to add your pronouns and sexual orientation to your profile,” says Weiss. The app serves over 15 million lesbian, bi, queer, nonbinary, trans, and gender-nonconforming users worldwide.

“Her offers a safe and supportive space for women to connect with other women, as well as access to LGBTQIA+ news, events, and communities,” says Smith. As WeAreHer reads, “True love may not be guaranteed, but good vibes and gayness definitely are.” Its core features are free (including joining communities and adding friends), while a membership offers benefits like an ad-free experience, the ability to see who’s online in real time, filtering, and incognito mode.

Pros Cons Designed specifically for queer dating Must upgrade to avoid ads Has community events Visit HER

16. OurTime

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 50+ looking for long-term relationships, marriage, or companionship Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $25 per month for Premium Availability: OurTime.com , App Store , Google Play

With more than 9 million visitors per month, OurTime is a popular dating app designed to help singles in their 50s, 60s, and beyond find meaningful connections. Whether it’s marriage, romance, friendship, or companionship you’re seeking, the app can help you find what you’re looking for. It’s also helpful for folks who are widowed, divorced, or separated, or who haven’t dated in a while. After creating an account and answering a few questions, users can search for their own matches based on criteria or have the platform recommend people instead. The “like or pass” feature is straightforward, and the app’s design is simple to keep the experience stress-free. Our Time offers a site and an app (for both iPhone and Android users), and it’s free to set up a profile, search, and message a premium member. Its large dating pool makes it well worth checking out.

Pros Cons Designed for people 50+ Free members cannot message Focused on love instead of just hookups Wide selection Visit OurTime

17. SilverSingles

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 50+ looking for long-term relationships and marriage Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $45 per month for 3-month Premium plan Availability: SilverSingles.com , App Store , Google Play

“OurTime or SilverSingles are apps that are ideal for those over 50 , as they has potential matches in the same age range,” says Lisa Lawless, PhD , a clinical psychotherapist. “Such apps may also offer more user-friendly tech, as many older generations find that being high-tech is more challenging to use.”

On SilverSingles, you set up a profile and take a personality test; the platform will use the results to match you with compatible singles over 50. Instead of displaying an overwhelming number of matches, the app presents you with three to seven new matches every day. You can send smiles and likes, read and text icebreakers, upload photos, and filter for specific preferences like mature dating, older-women dating,” or gay senior dating. Plus, the many sweet success stories on the website will make you smile.

Pros Cons Exclusively for adults over 50 Basic membership is very limited Match curation Users must rely on the site’s prompt suggestions instead of their own Data security encryption Visit SilverSingles

18. JDate

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Jewish singles looking for long-term relationships and marriage Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $60 per month for Premium Availability: JDate.com , App Store , Google Play

JDate works to pair Jewish singles with others who share the same faith and values, and has facilitated thousands of romances, engagements, and marriages over the years. After uploading a bio and up to six photos, members can identify specific Jewish affiliations (e.g., Conservative, Hasidic, or Reform) as part of their search and narrow down online daters by physical features, religious practices, and more. The Jewish dating app’s LookBook feature makes it easy to keep track of who has liked you and who you’ve liked in return. Similar to other dating apps, JDate is free to join and browse, but you’ll have to pay to send and receive messages, browse anonymously, and see who has liked your profile. The site surveyed almost 1,000 married Jewish internet users and found that JDate was the starting point for 52% of the marriages that began online.

Pros Cons Curated specifically for Jewish singles Only has binary gender options High proven success rate Visit Jdate

19. Muzz

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Muslim singles looking for long-term relationships and marriage Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $35 per week for Muzz Gold Availability: Muzz.com , App Store , Google Play

As the largest free Muslim dating website, Muzz helps singles find an ideal partner who will respect their religious beliefs. The platform has 8 million members, claims over 400,000 successes, and brings together more than 500 Muslim couples every day, making it a great option if you’re ready to find your perfect match. According to the Muzz website, it’s always free to see profiles, match, and chat on the app, and with free video calling, you never have to share your phone number (unless you want to). For added discretion, you have the ability to keep your photos hidden and can use a nickname to remain anonymous to friends and family, if you’d like. The app also includes selfie verification, religious filters, and a chaperone option that lets you share weekly transcriptions of your conversations with a Wali. Muzz states that “good behavior is rewarded” on the app, and users can earn profile badges if they receive positive feedback from others.

Pros Cons Designed specifically for Muslims seeking relationships Matching algorithm isn’t as advanced as other dating apps Offers a chaperone and safety features Visit Muzz

20. Christian Mingle

christian mingle Who it’s best for: Christian singles looking for long-term relationships and marriage Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $25 per month for Premium Availability: ChristianMingle.com , App Store , Google Play

Christian Mingle is the top dating site for single people who want a Christianity-centered relationship. Since its debut in 2001, the site has built a community of more than 15 million users, making it one of the most successful niche dating sites out there. To sign up, you’ll need to register for an account and upload at least one photo that will be reviewed by the site. Eventually you’ll be asked to provide your religious denomination and level of education, along with details about your lifestyle, personal interests, how often you go to church, and more. You’ll then be able to browse and use filters to specialize your search. The Christian dating app has both free and paid subscriptions based on your needs.

Pros Cons Large user base Must pay to send and receive messages Easy to align with matches who share your beliefs Visit Christian Mingle

21. Stir

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Single parents looking for understanding partners Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $40 per month for Premium Availability: Stir.com , App Store , Google Play

Dating as a single parent is challenging. Your priorities very likely look different—and “having kids” is often a dealbreaker for casual daters. Stir puts those needs front and center. In order to join the site (which was created by Match), you must be single or separated from your spouse and seeking romance with others who respect or share your concerns. As on other dating apps, you’ll be matched with potential partners through questions about your personality and values. There’s an extensive background-check process , and the company has partnered with the anti-sexual-violence org RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) to improve its features. A really nice perk is the app’s scheduling feature, called Stir Time, that lets you easily coordinate dates around your calendars (an invaluable tool for parents).

Pros Cons Dedicated space for single parents Smaller dating pool Scheduling tool A little buggy Visit Stir

22. Lex

Who it’s best for: Queer people looking to casually and seriously date and make friends Cost: None Availability: App Store and Google Play

The queer-owned, queer-run dating site and free dating app Lex is text-based—meaning that it functions a bit like a blend between an old-fashioned message board and a social media feed. Users can post copy to the forum, with invites to meet up or connect (“I have a skateboard—teach me how to use it”; “Come to my potluck”; “Anyone wanna hit up a punk show tonight?”) or even just random, relatable thoughts. You can reach out to the person who posted to take them up on their offer, say hi, or glance at their profile. The app stands out for the spirited, safe space it creates for LGBTQ+ people—whether you’re after something casual, a serious relationship, new friends, or all of the above. Did we mention it’s totally free?

Pros Cons Free! Some users say there are scam accounts Queer-owned Easy to use Visit LEX

23. The League

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Ages 25–40 looking to date and network with high-earning people Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, with monthly subscriptions starting at up to $300 for Members, $400 for Owners, $1,000 for Investors, and up to $2,500 for VIPs Availability: TheLeague.com , App Store , Google Play

If the thought of matching with a mutually ambitious CEO, doctor, or company founder gets you going, The League might be a fun option to try. To join, you have to apply and will be placed on a wait-list—and while the company accepts diverse members, its overall preference appears to be for people with “a drive to succeed.” The League offers video chat, live speed-dating, and everyone’s profile is verified with LinkedIn (but don’t worry, there’s an option to hide your profile from your boss).

Pros Cons Intense vetting of users Extremely expensive Visit The Leaugue

24. Inner Circle

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: People looking for a vetted pool of people to date Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $14 per week and $40 per month for Premium Availability: TheInnerCircle.co , App Store , Google Play

If you’re tired of endless swiping and dead-end conversations, you might appreciate Inner Circle, an elite app that focuses on quality and authenticity. Since it was founded in 2012, Inner Circle has grown to a global community of over 4.8 million members , and the app claims to carefully screen every profile to maintain an intentionally limited community—so you don’t have to worry about scrolling through profile after profile of randos. The brand welcomes users who are “genuine and willing to make an effort,” so if you’re ready to seriously date and want someone with the same intentions, this one might be one to try. A perk of membership is that the company holds its own parties and meetups around the world.

Pros Cons Curated community makes scammers less likely Approval process can take time Visit Inner Circle

25. #Open

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Queer people and couples interested in ENM, polyamory, and open relationships Free version available: Yes Cost: Prices vary depending on plan, starting at $10 for Supporting Membership Availability: HashtagOpen.com , App Store , Google Play

This dating app is ideal for folks interested in ethically nonmonogamous, poly, and/or open relationships. Similar to other queer-friendly apps, #Open is committed to inclusivity—it accepts members of all gender identities and orientations, encourages users to identify themselves with labels that feel good, and works to promote education, respect, and community. The app is great for those who want to date solo, with a partner, or both—and you can easily switch between solo and partner profiles. According to the #Open website, you can use hashtags to communicate your boundaries, and the app offers virtual and in-person community events for a deeper connection.

Pros Cons Poly-friendly Small user base Can search using hashtags Sex-positive Visit #Open

26. Hily

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Daters 18–35 who enjoy authentic connections, psychology, and fun prompts Free version available: Yes Cost: Premium starts at $24.99 Availability: App Store, Google Play

With over 35 million users worldwide in over 62 countries, Hily (pronounced “highly” and inspired by “Hey, I like you”) has become one of the top dating apps in the US. The app was developed with 40 scientifically backed questions addressing relationship orientation, lifestyle preferences, and community styles to help you identify who you’re compatible with. There’s also an option in the app to check out zodiac synastry (a.k.a. whether or not your signs and stars are aligned!), so you can see if there’s a potential cosmic connection.

“To help spark conversation, Hily offers playful prompts and features compatibility quizzes, allowing users to explore shared interests and values,” says therapist Marisa T. Cohen, PhD, LMFT , the dating and relationship expert at Hily. “One of its standout features, Icks&Clicks, which created by a by a clinical psychologist, helps users identify their true relationship deal-breakers while distinguishing them from minor, surface-level preferences that may have led them to overlook potential partners in the past,” she says.

Pros Cons App is easy to use overall Most premium features are blocked by the paywall Users report finding long-term matches on the app Users say the search filter can be clunky Visit Hily

27. Plura

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: Polyamorous folks looking for consensual nonmonogamous dating and relationships Free version available: Yes Cost: Price varies depending on plan, starting at $14.99 for SuperBloomer Availability: App Store , Google Play

Ideal for polyamorous dating, the Plura app was made by and for poly and nonmonogamous people. Their community is all about consent, communication, and respect (as all apps should be!). “I really like the app Plura for connecting with sex-positive people one-on-one and also meeting people at events,” says Weiss. “This app is unique in that you can meet individuals and plan dates or hookups with them, but you can also meet people in person by going to different sex-positive parties, workshops, and get-togethers. This can make the task of going from online to in-person less daunting.”

Pros Cons Virtual forums make it easy to connect with new people Some users report that IRL events aren’t always free to attend Specifically for polyamorous and nonmonogamous people Easy-to-use app interface Helpful for finding events and building community Visit Plura

28. Happn

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: People who want to date locally or are having trouble meeting people in their area Free version available: Yes Cost: One-month subscription starts at $19.99 Availability: App Store , Google Play

What if your next romance was (literally) right around the corner, and you didn’t even know it? Or what if you’ve secretly crossed paths with someone cute at Trader Joe’s a million times without realizing it? This dating app creates connections based on places you’ve visited before, and when you cross paths with a fellow user in real life, their profile appears on your app. But don’t worry, they can’t follow you around at the coffee shop or anything—your location remains invisible to other members and only your crossing points are indicated (plus, you won’t be able to receive messages from anyone you’re not interested in).

Some reviewers say they met the love of their life on Happn after crossing paths their entire lives without realizing it. How cool is that?

Pros Cons Good for people who want to find love locally Might be difficult to find matches if you live in a small town Designed to help prevent “missed connections” in your area Despite safety measures, it could be a concern for users Trendy design and straightforward to use Visit Happn

29. After

Courtesy of brand Who it’s best for: People who are over being ghosted Free version available: Yes Cost: $9.99 for 1-week subscription, $24.99 for 1-month subscription, $59.99 for 3-month subscription Availability: App Store and Google Play in Texas and New York

Known as the “anti-ghosting” dating app, After helps users prioritize authenticity and meaningful connections. To combat the frustration that comes with getting ghosted, the app requires users to share a reason for unmatching before they can keep swiping. The idea is to reduce abrupt disconnection and confusion, and instead promote healthier communication in dating. Apart from combating ghosting culture, After also features daily mantras and positive affirmations and educational dating guides for a more mindful, intentional experience.

The app’s founder, Katie Dissanayake , started her career in customer service for dating apps and has seen it all when it comes to the dating app journey. She spent her 20s on the apps (and eventually found love online!) and wants to keep dating safe and fun for all.

Pros Cons You have to provide a reason for unmatching someone Only available in two states so far Designed intentionally to promote healthy communication Features daily mantras and positive affirmations for encouragement Visit Affter

Your dating-site questions, answered

What’s the best way to date in 2025?

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Some expert-approved advice:

Have standards, but be flexible. “It’s fine to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for—whether it’s values, lifestyle, or relationship goals—but don’t be so specific that you shut the door on someone great just because they don’t check every single box,” says Melissa Legere, LMFT , clinical director and cofounder of California Behavioral Health. Sometimes people can surprise you, so give them a chance. You never know who you might click with! Don’t ignore red flags. When you’re on the apps, watch out for what Legere calls the “watermelon effect”: where someone appears to be a green flag on the outside, but has red flags on the inside. “In 2025, especially with dating apps where people can curate how they present themselves, it’s easy to meet someone who looks like a great match at first—but just because someone checks boxes in the beginning doesn’t mean they’re right for you long-term,” Legere says. Seek out in-person connection too. “In most cities, you can find speed-dating and other singles events on Meetup.com,” says Weiss. You can also potentially meet people at the gym, yoga or dance classes, religious events, sporting events, and more, she adds. (Or, try the classic head-to-the-bar night with a friend and see what connections appear!) Don’t force it. Don’t force what isn’t there, Legere says. “It’s easy to want to make something work just because you’ve invested time/energy, but if things don’t flow naturally, don’t push it.” If a connection feels off or you’re constantly second-guessing yourself, it’s probably not the right fit!

Are dating apps worth it?

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“I absolutely believe that dating apps and sites are worth it,” says Carbino. “They have become the number one way individuals have met their romantic partners over time.” The caveat is that you have to be willing to put in the effort—from buffing up your profile to prioritizing communication. Adelle Kelleher , a certified dating and relationship coach, compares it to dedicating time to working out. “Utilizing apps should be looked at in the same way; give yourself a certain amount of time every day—let’s say 20 minutes—to be productive,” she says. “Go in, respond to messages, and also be active in reaching out to people.”

Which dating app is right for me?

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Using a new dating app can feel intimidating at first (even for A-list celebs ), but psychologists and professional matchmakers say it’s all about finding what works for you.

Figure out what your goals are. “Take a moment to figure out what you’re looking for in a relationship,” says Smith. “Whether it’s a sizzling summer fling or a long-term commitment, defining your dating goals and discovering what you truly seek in a relationship is the compass that will guide you to the right app.” Try a few different dating apps (and don’t give up too quickly). “Tinder and Bumble are ideal for both casual and serious relationships,” says Lawless. “OkCupid, eHarmony, and Hinge ask for more profile details, which helps offer more in-depth compatibility metrics.” Though these apps may take time to filter through, they can offer many potential love matches, Lawless says.

“Your profile serves as a basis not only to allow you to indicate who you are to potential partners, but also as the jumping off point for future communication,” says Carbino. “So it’s vital to have information at your fingertips that allows people to know who you are, what you’re about, and that provides them with a basis to jump off for conversations.”

What should I put in my dating profile?

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Choose photos that showcase as much about you as possible (and that make you stand out). “Try to highlight what makes you different from other people in your demo,” says Carbino. Experts we spoke to recommended picking five to seven well-lit, recent pictures that show you up close as well as full-length, and that don’t obscure your face (that means no hats or sunglasses). Skip pics of you and your friends, opting instead for photos of you alone that tell a story and can spark convo.

Try to be specific when writing about yourself. “If you start looking at profiles, you realize everyone loves to travel, hike, and try new restaurants,” Kelleher says. “I want to know: Is it because you’re an adrenaline junkie? Because you like taking your dog? If you travel, where and why?” Not only can these details spark convos, but they make you memorable.

Keep your tone light. Remember that your humor might not translate to people who have no context for your personality—and negative statements often shut down topics to talk about. “Focus on the positive. A lot of times people will write things such as, ‘If you don’t like cats, keep swiping,’” says Kelleher. “Now I know two things about this person: They like cats—and they can be rude. Try: ‘I really love dogs. Maybe your dog and mine can have a play date.’”

Last, have an open mind. “Cast a wide net,” says Susan Trombetti , professional matchmaker and founder of Exclusive Matchmaking . “Please don’t narrow by something like height or a very small distance range. You want to rule in as many people as possible.”

Meet the experts

AccordionItemContainerButton Jess Carbino, PhD , former sociologist for Tinder and Bumble LeMeita Smith, PhD , director of clinical services at United Health Services Lisa Lawless, PhD , a clinical psychotherapist and founder of online sexual-products purveyor Holistic Wisdom Adelle Kelleher , certified dating and relationship coach and founder of Coaching Hearts Consulting Susan Trombetti , professional matchmaker, relationship expert, and founder and CEO of Exclusive Matchmaking Megan Weks , online dating and relationship coach Suzannah Weiss, AMFT , resident sexologist for Biird and author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject Marisa T. Cohen, PhD, LMFT , therapist and the dating and relationship expert at Hily Melissa Legere, LMFT , clinical director and cofounder of California Behavioral Health Malia Griggs is the commerce editor at Glamour, who specializes in writing about sex toys, gifting, fashion, wellness, beauty, and deals. Her 14-year career spans across digital media, including reporting and editing shopping content for SELF; covering breaking news and the 2016 election as The Daily Beast s director of social Read More Topics dating site shopping online dating dating dating apps dating app dating profile internet dating Read More Are You in a Delusionship?  By Bianca London This Site Will Tell You If Your S.O. Is on Tinder By Suzannah Weiss How to Be Or Find A Sexual Unicorn By Hanna Lustig Sex-Love-Life The Best Clitoral Vibrators, Tested & Reviewed by Us By Malia Griggs Gift Guides The Ultimate Gemini Gift Guide By Meghan Rose Entertainment Jessica Biel & Elizabeth Banks Take A Friendship Test Books The Best Books for Book Clubs in 2025 By Stephanie McNeal Shopping We Found the Absolute Cutest Dresses on Amazon By Jake Henry Smith Style These Are the Best Lululemon Leggings Period By Renee Cherry Entertainment 63 Best Movies of the 2000s That Are Due for a Rewatch By Alyse Whitney Shopping The Coolest Gifts for Husbands (That Won’t End Up in Storage) By Jake Henry Smith Gift Guides The Best Gifts for New Dads That Aren’t Just for the Baby By Barry Samaha

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Posted by Jack Read more Comments (15) 2025.06.23 15:05