Tinder and its unique way of connecting people have taken the world by storm since its release. Tinder has become well known as a hookup app for more casual encounters, although in essence, it is a dating app at its core. Many individuals have found meaningful connections and relationships on Tinder.
But maybe you’re looking for Tinder alternatives? While Tinder is available on Android and iOS platforms, maybe it isn’t the app for you. There are many similar apps to Tinder that you can consider.
Why Choose an Alternative to Tinder?
Tinder works hard to keep the app fresh and interesting for users. Whether it is by introducing 48-hour ‘Vibes’ events, or features that protect the LQBTQ users, they keep improving their offers along the way. Unfortunately, the push to monetize the app has caused many people to look for Tinder alternatives. The premium version does have many added benefits, but some want a simple dating app without the hassle of paying for it.
It is not uncommon to get bored of Tinder. Maybe the ‘swipe right’ system is no longer as entertaining as it used to be, and the push to get the premium version can be annoying. Or perhaps you’re no longer getting matches, or the matches you do get end up as disasters. No matter the reason, you can take a break from Tinder and explore some of these other dating apps that some would argue are better than Tinder.
Similar Dating Apps Better Than Tinder
Maybe you’re sick of Tinder, or maybe you’re just wondering if there are any better alternatives out there. Luckily for you, Tinder has a lot more competition now than it used to. If you’re looking for love and a long-term relationship potential dates, or maybe just a meetup, try these Tinder alternatives.
Hinge
If you’re looking for a more meaningful relationship, give Hinge a shot. It claims to have a more thoughtful approach to matchmaking than Tinder or other alternatives. Unlike other dating apps, Hinge uses your Facebook profile to connect you with others, such as friends of friends. These quality matches can be a good option, if you’re nervous about sending that first message to a complete stranger online. But if you’re not into connecting with mutual friends through Facebook, Hinge now offers the option to simply log in with your phone number. Although it’s a free app to use, you can upgrade to a preferred membership with a monthly fee for additional features.
Badoo
Over 330 million people use this app worldwide, operating in 190 countries in 47 different languages. There’s no pressure, either as you can use this app for more serious dating, casual dating, or for making new friends. Badoo is frequently updated with new features to help you in your dating search, and you can even connect with other users who are currently nearby, whether you’re at a bar or movie theater. The app also has the option to look for celebrity lookalikes, if you’re into that sort of thing.
Coffee Meets Bagel
Coffee Meets Bagel promises to be a simpler, less time-consuming dating app. Instead of manually going through matches or swiping right, Coffee Meets Bagel uses an algorithm to match you with users who meet your basic criteria or share your interests. The app will even help you break the ice with conversation starters. It’s also LGBTQ-friendly—no need to use a separate app! A premium option is available, too, if you’re looking for more information about your matches or are having issues with ghosting.
PlentyOfFish
PlentyOfFish is one of the most downloaded free dating apps, boasting nearly 100 million users worldwide. It’s easy to match with other users and start conversations immediately, though the questionnaire is more in-depth and can be time-consuming. You can take a Chemistry Test to find other personalities with similar, long-lasting emotional needs, or even discover some relationship needs of yours for which you might not have been aware.
Better yet, the app features unlimited messaging, so chat away! If you want to receive better matches, fill out as many personality questionnaires as possible. Like many other alternative dating apps, you can choose to upgrade your account for a fee.
Bumble
This free dating app has over 20 million users. It differs from many other options out there in that only women can initiate contact, and men only have 24 hours to respond. Although you might match with fewer numbers on Bumble than other apps, the matches are considered to be better quality, so you’ll likely experience fewer corny pick-up lines.
Like Hinge, you can now log in with a phone number instead of a Facebook account, if you wish. Even better, Bumble is more than just a dating app now. It can also help you to make new friends and network in your field with the help of its Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz features. If you’re looking for a dating app that can do more, Bumble is the way to go.
Happn
If you want your love affairs to start with something a little more personal than a swipe with potential matches, Happn could be what you’re looking for. Happn’s unique way of doing things involves a hookup with people you’ve encountered in real life. Unlike other online dating sites, Happn will only let you match with other users you’ve passed in the real world. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, you can download Happn on Android and iPhones now.
OkCupid
OkCupid is similar to Tinder but more personalized. You start off by answering a fairly extensive questionnaire. The more questions you answer and the details you share, the better your experience on OkCupid will be. Once you’ve answered the questions, the app will match you with potential dates. This app really lets you weed out people with traits that are really a no-go for you, such as those with specific religious or political preferences.
Elite Singles
Elite Singles is aimed at working individuals who struggle to find time to meet new people. The app includes ice-breaking questions that can be used when first meeting someone new, which is ideal for those that are a little awkward when meeting a new person. With Elite Singles, you will also receive a new match daily, so you’re guaranteed to meet new people making it one of the best Tinder alternatives. All matches are also based on your preferences.
Skout
Skout is a much more open dating app that allows users to connect with a wide range of people. You also don’t have location restrictions, which means you can connect globally. While Skout is still relatively unknown, many users have reported that they prefer Skout to more popular dating apps like Tinder and Grindr.
Ship: Dating Matchmaking
Ship: Dating Matchmaking has a fascinating approach to their dating app. Not only can you add your preferences and swipe on any matches received, but you can also allow friends to help with your matchmaking. This means that if you want friends, family or your parents to be involved in choosing your next date, this app is for you.
They can only swipe on matches provided based on the preferences you enter at the start. Once a ‘crew member’ has swiped on a profile they feel matches you; the conversation is opened. However, your crew members will not be able to see your conversations – thankfully. This is one of the best Tinder alternatives.
In a Nutshell
To make the process of finding dating apps better than Tinder, here is a scannable table with our top recommendations for you to consider.
| Dating App | Ideal For: | Best Features | Available on Play Store | Available on App Store |
| Hinge | Those attracted by personality | Can connect with friends of friends. Location-based. Users can like and comment on specific sections of a profile | Yes | Yes |
| Badoo | Those who enjoy experimenting | Meet people close by Video chat function from within the app. Any explicit images are automatically blurred. Can only match with genuine profiles | Yes | Yes |
| Coffee Meets Bagel | Those looking for the real deal | Activity reports. Meet with those who liked you. Can browse through other profiles | Yes | Yes |
| PlentyOfFish | Those new to dating | Simple interface. Messaging on the app is free. Can live stream and have virtual dates. Can enable or disable messages | Yes | Yes |
| Bumble | Proactive daters | Have to respond to matches in 24 hours. Verified profiles. Different modes (date, bff, business). Can share music | Yes | Yes |
| Happn | Meeting people you’ve already met | Cross-path timeline notifications. Location is kept private. Crush-time, similar to super like on Tinder. Send secret likes | Yes | Yes |
| Ok Cupid | Free dating | Matches with those with the same interests. Requires mutual swipe to start messaging. Fun questionnaires | Yes | Yes |
| Elite Singles | Working individuals | Icebreaker questions. Can upload Facebook photos from the app. Receive daily matches. Matches based on preferences | Yes | Yes |
| Skout | Those wanting to make global connections | Watch other’s streams. Matches based on preferences and your chosen proximity. Get updates about other users nearby | Yes | Yes |
| Ship: Dating Matchmaking | Those looking for a fun and easy experience | Can set profile as dater or matchmaker. Set matches for yourself or your friends/family. Can arrange group chats with your crew to discuss prospects. Follow crew members dating activity | Yes | Yes |
