7 Best Dating Apps To Find Love On, Ranked

Today's search for romance may look a bit different than 10 years ago. Traditional courting has been transformed into a simple swipe right or left. But that doesn't mean there is no hope. In fact, it isn't unheard of to find love through online dating. Some swipes even end in marriage. Which dating app is the most effective? Should you try out Bumble or Tinder? Of course, we at EdNews have researched across 10 expert sources to bring you today's list of the top seven best dating apps. We compile our lists by combing through existing consumer rankings and weeding out the consensus recommendations. Don't agree with our list? We would love to hear your recommendations in the comments down below.

The List: Best Dating Apps, According to Relationship Experts

1. Match

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Match is a revolutionary dating app that has transformed the way people meet and connect with potential partners. Looking for a dating platform that goes beyond superficiality and helps you find genuine connections? Match might be your answer. PC Magazine emphasizes Match's focus on meaningful connections, with its detailed profiles that allow you to assess compatibility before sparking a conversation. The innovative “Vibe Check” feature adds another layer by enabling live video chat for interested parties in existing conversations.

Glamour highlights Match's rich history and diverse user base. With its user-friendly app, inclusive profile options, and evolved algorithms, Match caters to a wider range of singles, especially those over 30 and single parents. The platform caters to mature users seeking serious relationships.

Mashable points to Match's experience and advanced technology, ensuring its algorithms go beyond the “swipe-and-forget” model of other apps. They also appreciate the platform's commitment to safety and authenticity, evident in the required profile photos and anti-fake profile measures. Additionally, premium features like unlimited likes and visibility control can enhance your chances of finding the right match.

How Match.com works:

• Create a Profile:
  • Fill out information about yourself, including interests, lifestyle, and what you're looking for in a partner.
  • Upload photos to showcase your personality.
• Matching:
  • Use Match's algorithm to get matched with compatible profiles based on your preferences.
  • You can also browse profiles independently using various search filters.
• Communication:
  • Send “winks” to express interest.
  • With a paid subscription, send messages and chat with your matches.
  • Utilize “Top Picks” to prioritize specific matches you're particularly interested in (free feature with limited daily uses).
• Additional Features:
  • Participate in “Daily Matches” to see curated matches each day.
  • Use the “Stir” feature to refresh your potential matches.
  • Access “Events” to connect with other singles in your area through group activities.

2. eHarmony

eHarmony is a popular online dating app that aims to connect individuals based on compatibility and long-term relationship potential. With its unique approach to matchmaking, GQ emphasizes eHarmony's serious dating focus, boasting a 70 percent success rate in pairing users for long-term relationships within a year. Their in-depth compatibility quiz and personalized matching algorithm go beyond superficiality to find partners with shared values and goals.

If you're looking for a dating platform dedicated to long-term success, eHarmony is worth a shot. Glamour highlights its strong reputation and track record, with over two million love stories blossoming on the platform in its 20+ years of existence. The free basic membership allows you to take the compatibility quiz and see basic profiles, but deeper connection requires a paid membership.

Mind Body Green appreciates the platform's commitment to seriousness and authenticity. The 20-minute profile setup deters casual users, and the monthly subscription fee fosters a sense of shared investment among members seeking committed partnerships.

How eHarmony works:

• Compatibility Quiz:
  • Take an in-depth compatibility quiz with over 80 questions designed by psychologists.
  • Questions cover personality traits, communication styles, values, and relationship goals.
  • Your answers create a personalized Personality Profile used to match you with compatible partners.
• Discover Matches:
  • Based on your quiz results, eharmony presents you with a daily “Discover List” of compatible singles.
  • You can see basic information about each match, including photos and interests.
• Communication (Free Features):
  • Send “Smiles” and “Icebreakers” to express interest in potential matches.
  • Respond to one message received from another member.
• Communication (Premium Features):
  • Upgrade to a premium membership for full access to features like:
    • Unlimited messaging with your matches.
    • View all photos of your matches.
    • Use advanced search filters to narrow down your search.
• Additional Features:
  • See who has visited your profile.
  • Browse profiles anonymously.
  • Participate in events and workshops offered by eharmony to connect with other singles.

3. Bumble

For Anjana and David, first came love. Then came long-distance. pic.twitter.com/27G7Cs4FLK

— Bumble (@bumble) October 28, 2023

Bumble is a popular dating app that has gained significant attention in recent years. Launched in 2014 by Whitney Wolfe Herd, one of the co-founders of Tinder, PC Magazine likes Bumble's unique approach to empowering users, particularly women and non-binary individuals. By requiring them to initiate contact, the platform creates a space free from unsolicited messages and unwanted advances. Additionally, features like audio notes, virtual badges, and video chat options offer diverse ways to connect and build rapport.

Looking for a dating app that prioritizes safety, respect, and user agency? Bumble is just that! What makes it stand out, according to Forbes, is the holistic approach to relationships. Beyond seeking romantic connections, users can also explore business networking and friendships, fostering a sense of community and purpose. The platform also encourages engagement with in-person events and an ambassador program, offering avenues for deeper connections beyond the app.

Mashable emphasizes Bumble's commitment to safety and control. By flipping the script and empowering women and non-binary individuals to make the first move, the app helps filter out unwanted messages and create a more respectful environment.

How Bumble works:

• Swiping:
  • Browse profiles based on location and set preferences.
  • Swipe right on profiles you like, left on those you don't.
• Matches:
  • A match occurs when two people swipe right on each other's profiles.
• Initiating Contact:
  • In heterosexual matches, the woman has 24 hours to send the first message.
  • In same-sex matches, either person can initiate the conversation within 24 hours.
  • If the message isn't sent within the timeframe, the match expires.
• Communication:
  • Once a conversation starts, both parties can message freely.
• Additional Features:
  • Bumble Bizz: Dedicated section for professional networking.
  • Bumble BFF: Mode for finding platonic friendships.
  • Extend Match (premium feature): Extend the 24-hour window for initiating contact.
  • Super Swipes (premium feature): Show someone you're really interested.

4. Tinder

Tinder, the revolutionary dating app that has taken the world by storm, is changing the way people meet and connect with potential partners. With its simple yet addictive swiping feature, PC Magazine likes Tinder's young, tech-savvy user base comfortable with forming connections online. They credit Tinder with pioneering the now-popular “swipe-right-or-left” interface, making online dating more accessible and casual. When swiping fatigue sets in, the innovative “Face and Face” video chat feature allows consenting matches to connect on a more personal level.

This app has certainly become a name synonymous with online dating, and has carved its niche in the world of virtual connections. Mashable emphasizes Tinder's position as a leading platform for casual dating and spontaneous encounters. With 1.6 billion daily swipes, it pulsates with a vibrant and dynamic energy.

Forbes delves into the platform's freemium model and diverse features. While basic swiping and matching are free, paid subscriptions like Tinder Plus, Gold, and Platinum offer additional perks, such as seeing your admirers, sending unlimited likes, and even changing your location to match with people elsewhere. This caters to users seeking more control and flexibility in their dating experience.

How Tinder works:

• Swiping:
  • Browse profiles based on location and set preferences.
  • Swipe right on profiles you like, left on those you don't.
• Matches:
  • A match occurs when two people swipe right on each other's profiles.
• Communication:
  • Both parties can message freely once matched.
• Additional Features:
  • Super Likes (limited per day): Show someone you're really interested.
  • Boosts (limited per day): Increase your profile's visibility for a short time.
  • Passport (premium feature): Change your location to swipe profiles anywhere in the world.
  • Rewind (premium feature): Undo your last accidental swipe.

5. OkCupid

OkCupid is a popular dating app that was founded in 2004 by four Harvard math majors. PC Magazine loves OkCupid's comprehensive profile system, featuring a range of questions that delve into your values, interests, and even dealbreakers. This information-rich approach allows for more informed matches and increases your chances of finding someone truly compatible.

Quickly gaining traction for its unique approach to matchmaking, Mind Body Green commends the platform for its inclusivity and diversity, offering a wide range of gender and sexuality options and catering to non-monogamous individuals. The platform also boasts keyword search functions, detailed profiles, and personality quizzes, shifting the focus from quick swipes to deeper connections.

But, wait! There's more! Glamour showcases its success stories and strong reputation. OkCupid has facilitated over 91 million connections annually, with 50,000 dates happening every week. Its mention in the New York Times wedding section speaks volumes about its ability to foster long-lasting relationships.

How OkCupid works:

• Profile Creation:
  • Fill out information about yourself, including interests, lifestyle, and what you're looking for in a partner.
  • Answer optional personality quizzes to provide further insights and refine your matches.
• Matching:
  • OkCupid's algorithm uses your profile information and answers to match you with compatible users based on shared values, interests, and dealbreakers.
  • You can also browse profiles independently using various search filters.
• “Like” System:
  • Similar to Tinder, you can “like” profiles you find interesting.
  • Matches occur when two people like each other's profiles.
• Communication (Free Features):
  • Once matched, you can send messages and chat freely.
  • Double Take feature lets you see who has liked your profile.
• Communication (Premium Features):
  • Upgrade to a premium membership for additional features like:
    • Boosts: Increase your profile's visibility for a set time.
    • Super Likes: Show someone you're really interested.
    • Incognito Mode: Browse profiles anonymously.
    • Read Receipts: See if your messages have been read.

6. Hinge

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Tired of endless swiping with no real connections? Hinge is a dating app that aims to revolutionize the way people meet and connect with potential partners. Mashable commends Hinge's commitment to meaningful relationships, evident in its “designed to be deleted” tagline. The platform curates matches based on your preferences and shared interests, fostering deeper connections beyond superficial swipes. Detailed profiles with unique prompts about personality and hobbies encourage understanding and compatibility. Additionally, voice prompts, photos, and icebreakers offer fun ways to showcase your personality.

Unlike other dating apps that focus solely on superficial attributes or swiping through endless profiles, Hinge focuses on serious relationships and ethical matchmaking. Utilizing a Nobel-Prize-winning algorithm and emphasizing values like authenticity, courage, and empathy, Hinge fosters genuine connections and respectful interactions. Free features like weekly “Roses” and profile revisits allow you to express interest and explore potential matches further (Forbes).

Women's Health praises Hinge's innovative features and user-friendly experience. The ability to add voice notes to your profile adds a personal touch and helps potential matches connect on a deeper level beyond just text. The brand's effective marketing and positive reputation further contribute to its appeal.

How Hinge works:

• Profile Creation:
  • Fill out information about yourself, including interests, lifestyle, and what you're looking for in a partner.
  • Answer optional prompts to provide insights and showcase your personality.
• Discover Feed:
  • Browse profiles based on the app's algorithm and your preferences.
  • Unlike other apps, you can “like” specific aspects of someone's profile, such as a photo or a prompt answer.
  • You can also leave comments on their prompts to spark conversation.
• Matches:
  • A match occurs when two people “like” each other's profiles.
  • Hinge also shows you “Most Compatible” matches based on your profiles and preferences.
• Communication:
  • Once matched, you can message freely and chat with each other.
• Additional Features:
  • Roses: Send a Rose to someone you're particularly interested in, bumping you to the top of their queue.
  • Standouts: A daily list of users deemed most compatible with you based on your profile.
  • Likes You: See who has liked your profile without needing to match first.
  • Free vs. Premium:
    • Free: Limited daily likes, basic features.
    • Premium: More daily likes, additional filters, ability to see who has sent you a like.

7. HER

HER is not just another dating app. It is a platform that celebrates and empowers queer women and non-binary individuals, providing them with a safe and inclusive space to connect, date, and build meaningful relationships. CNET emphasizes the importance of a dedicated LGBTQ platform, highlighting HER's ability to provide a safe and welcoming space for queer women to connect. Their positive experience with the app underscores its potential for fostering genuine conversations and meaningful connections.

Brides describes HER's key features, including its swiping-based matching system and over 30 community groups, reflecting its focus on building a supportive and inclusive environment.

Tom's Guide provides a comprehensive overview, outlining the app's sign-up process, matching mechanics, and additional social features like news, events, and discussions. They also mention the availability of a premium subscription for enhanced functionality.

How HER works:

• Profile Creation:
  • Fill out information about yourself, including your pronouns, gender identity, sexual orientation, and what you're looking for (relationships, friendships, etc.).
  • Add details like interests, hobbies, and fun facts to personalize your profile.
• Swiping:
  • Browse profiles based on your set preferences and swipe right on those you're interested in.
• Matches:
  • A match occurs when two people swipe right on each other's profiles.
• Communication:
  • Once matched, you can message and chat freely with your matches.
• Unique Features:
  • Specificity: Unlike other apps, HER allows you to specify what you're looking for (hookups, relationships, etc.) on your profile.
  • Communities: Connect with other LGBTQ+ individuals through various communities based on interests or locations.
  • Events: Participate in virtual or in-person events hosted by HER to meet other members.
  • Friend Requests: Send friend requests to connect with people platonically.
  • Premium Features:
    • View who has liked you.
    • Use incognito mode to browse profiles anonymously.
    • See who is online in real-time.
    • Filter by specific sexualities.

Best Practices for Dating Apps: Swipe Your Way to Success

• Create a strong profile. Your profile is your chance to make a good first impression, so take the time to craft a thoughtful and informative bio. Include clear and recent photos that accurately represent you. Be honest about who you are and what you're looking for in a partner.
• Be active and responsive. Check in regularly to swipe on new matches and respond to messages. The more active you are, the more likely you are to find someone compatible.
• Be yourself. It's tempting to try to be someone you're not on dating apps, but it's important to be authentic. People can tell when you're being fake, and it's off-putting. Just be yourself and let your personality shine through.
• Don't be afraid to make the first move. Feel free to send the first message, especially if you're interested in someone.
• Be safe. When meeting someone you've met online in person for the first time, always meet in a public place and let a friend or family member know where you're going. Trust your gut and don't be afraid to walk away if something feels off.
• Bonus tip: Use filters to narrow down your search results. Most dating apps allow you to filter your matches by age, location, interests, and more. This can save you time and help you find people who are more likely to be compatible with you.

Sources:

• PC 
• Glamour
• Mind Body Green
• Forbes
• Mashable
• Women's Health
• Tom's Guide
• Brides
• CNET
• GQ

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. EdNews is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.