It’s no secret, online dating has become one of the top dating methods of this age. However, with the abundance of online dating sites, it can be hard to know which ones to try. Here’s an overview of the best dating sites on the market. These recommendations are based primarily on my own experiences as a woman who occasionally uses online dating sites, with some word-of-mouth impressions from friends thrown in for good measure.
OkCupid
For those who are looking for hookups, serious relationships, or anything in between, OkCupid is an excellent choice.
One thing I love about this dating site is that they allow for more in-depth profiles, which makes it possible for you to know more about the person before ever messaging them. By answering a wide variety of questions, the site provides you with a wide variety of potential matches based on your interests.
Additionally, it’s virtually stalker-free as it allows you to weed out potential matches and won’t allow others to send you messages unless you have already shown interest in them.
Nevertheless, it can be a bit of a hit or miss kind of app. There are plenty of fake profiles on this app and there are some people who sign up for the site to catfish and troll. Beware!
eHarmony
I am actually not a super fan of eharmony; however, I do realize that it is a great online dating site in general.
On the one hand, I do have one friend who met her boyfriend (of 3 years) on eHarmony and a cousin of mine found his wife on the site!
However, in my opinion, this site is best for those who are looking to get into a serious relationship immediately.
While I obviously use dating sites to find a serious partner, I am an introvert and very “slow to warm” in terms of who I date (or even allow in my presence). So, if I meet someone online and I feel the chemistry, I will want to meet them immediately. If not, I am the type that will want to move to text messaging, social media, etc., before I decide if you’re a potential romantic partner, friend, or nothing at all.
In my experience, those who use this site are looking to link up immediately. Which is fine, in some instances. However, if you’re like me, and have a more complex way of filtering your potential partners, you may feel pressured by some of the people on this site.
Also, I do love that the site refunds your money if you haven’t found at least 5 matches after a few months.
Match
OK, so this can be a fun way to meet new people, but all the good features are under the paid subscription. There is nothing wrong with paying for a subscription to a dating website. However, there are so many free ones as well as sites, such as eHarmony, that will give you your money back if you do not find enough suitable matches within the first few months.
I do feel like this is a great site for those who are looking for serious dating prospects and are seeking working professionals. Either way, as I said, I feel there’s plenty of ways to date online without necessarily shelling out your money upfront.
Tinder
If you haven’t heard of Tinder, you must be living under a rock. This is one of the most popular online dating sites of this age.
This is a very millennial-friendly app as it embraces those who are looking for hookups, dates, relationships, marriages, open relationships, etc.
This is a great online dating app if you are seeking to meet as many people as possible, before deciding if you want to settle and with who.
This site is very social-media friendly as the profiles are kept brief to allow you to make a decision on a person within a few seconds. Nevertheless, although finding a long-term relationship is possible, there are plenty of people who use this site as a place to make friends and for casual dating.
Bumble
If you’re a woman who believes in equality and being empowered, there is no reason you shouldn’t be on Bumble!
This is the first site of its kind that puts women in the power position. This is a free dating app that requires the women to express interest and message the guy first. Also, if the guy does not respond within 24 hours, he loses his chance.
Designed in such a way that encourages everyone to communicate without the games, this is an excellent dating app for any woman who loves to go on the hunt and is not afraid of a little rejection. Hey, it happens…
Hinge
If you like your Tinder with a little substance on the side, Hinge might be the app for you.
The site was designed to allow users to make quick decisions but also allows users to display a wide variety of details and information that will allow others to learn more about you in an instant.
In particular, you can display information that many would consider as “deal-breakers”. For instance, you can display religion, political affiliation, etc.
This is a great dating site for those who are ready to get out and date, but still have certain standards in terms of who they will even entertain.
Coffee Meets Bagel
On the other hand, if you like your breakfast with a side of romance, Coffee Meets Bagel may be the site for you.
This site sends out potential matches (bagels) at noon daily. They also help by suggesting ice-breaker questions, to allow users to get to know each other better from the very first message.
Also, they don’t let you forget about potential matches, as they send you reminder messages daily. Although the site has lots of features, it can get a tad tedious at times, and it can also be somewhat confusing. Nevertheless, it’s a pretty decent site for anyone looking to meet new people, go on a few dates, or even find love.
Happn
If you are looking to make it happen with those who are located in your area, Happn is a happening dating site. It’s a pretty unique app that allows people to meet others in an organic manner.
The site shows you a list of people who you may have crossed paths with, and allows you to contact them if they are also using the site.
Since it’s a lesser-known app, there are not a lot of users on here at this point. However, this is a great option for those who may be searching for that cute guy or gal they almost met in the grocery store.
Her
I have several friends who are in the LBGTQ community who love this app.
This app is geared towards women who are lesbians, bisexual or have other “alternative” dating preferences. Although there are still some issues that need to be worked out, this app is ideal for any woman who is looking for love and tired of filtering through a ton of men just to find that one special lady.
Overall, there are plenty of online dating apps to choose from these days. Although these are some of my faves, this list is by no means exhaustive. If you are looking for the best online dating sites for you, be sure to give these a try but also don’t be afraid to try any others that catch your attention.