Best online dating platforms

Everyone knows someone who met their “Love Of My Life ” through online dating. But just like dating itself, finding the right site for you can take some trial and error. There are a lot of stats that support this claim.

But because not all of us make decisions based on numbers alone, we also rounded out this list with a few other options that may suit your specific situation. Some of these cater for users of a certain age, Black or BIPOC users, those with specific interests in common and others that might not find their perfect date on one of the most popular apps.

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But the truth is, online dating can feel overwhelming. It’s not just having to make judgements based off a couple of photos and one-line bios, or the awkwardness of sending direct messages (or DMs) to strangers only to be ghosted. The sheer number of apps and users can make simply swiping seem like a daunting task.

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Whether you’re looking for a casual fling, a rebound to get over a breakup or your next long-term relationship, you can start by downloading one of these dating apps or visiting one these dating platforms.

1.    OurTime

According to a particular survey, 25 percent of internet users between the ages of 50 to 65 have used a dating app or service. OurTime turns the idea of hookup culture on its head; instead, it encourages users to search for pen pals, friends, dates, long-term relationships and marriage partners.

The free-to-download app lets you send emails, flirt, and match with potential partners, and a premium subscription ($38 per month) allows for additional features like the ability to see who has liked your profile.

2.    Match

Match is the most popular online dating app in about 20 states according to PCMag’s survey of 2,000 people. As one of the OG dating services, it’s moved from website-only to a website and app.

Match has a specific appeal to those between 40and 60 looking for a serious relationship.

3.    OKCupid

This popular dating website and app is free, allowing you to browse profiles and reach out to anyone you want to connect with. That said, you can pay for premium services, and those premium services can make the site a little easier to navigate. For instance, with the paid version, there are unlimited likes and no outside ads. You can also see who “likes” you before you like them. However, with the free version, you don’t know who has clicked “like” on your profile unless you also “like” them. Prices vary.

4.    Bumble

Similar to Tinder, Bumble enables users to find a match by swiping right if you like the person or left if you don’t. The major differentiating factor is, for heterosexual couples, the woman must send a message first. Conversely, with same-sex couples, either person can initiate contact.

5.    Tinder

With this popular app which is also available on desktop, you can simply swipe through profiles, albeit with scant information on each potential match. 

As you look at photos, you can select a heart icon or an X; alternatively, you can swipe to the right if you like a profile or swipe to the left if you don’t. If you like somebody who also likes your photo, then you’ll be alerted that you have a match, and you’ll be able to message your potential date.