If you’re looking to dip your toes into the online dating pool and would rather not put a credit card on file, there are indeed some services that let you browse for free. Let’s take a deeper dive into a few of them:
1. OkCupid: You can count on OkCupid to offer a comprehensive free tier. It lets you set up a detailed profile, answer a wide array of personal questions (that can be quite fun to tackle), and even message potential matches without paying a cent. The site uses these answers to determine compatibility, so you’re not just randomly shooting arrows in the dark. However, if you want to see who likes you without them sending a message first, you’ll have to opt for the paid version.
2. Plenty of Fish (POF): With a moniker guaranteeing a sea of dating prospects, POF also offers a free messaging feature. This dating site allows you to search for users and send messages, which is more than what some paid sites offer! However, if you want to see who has ‘liked’ your profile or ‘meet me,’ a premium upgrade will be necessary.
3. Tinder: The ever-popular Tinder has a free version that allows users to ‘like’ a limited number of people every day, and you can message your matches too. For an unrestricted liking spree and the chance to see who liked you before you’ve liked them back, you’d need to consider their premium plans: Tinder Plus or Tinder Gold.
4. Bumble: Offering a fresh take on the dating scene, Bumble requires women to send the first message. This model can create a more comfortable environment for women and tends to filter out less serious candidates. You can use Bumble for free, but Bumble Boost, the premium version, offers several helpful features such as extending the 24-hour deadline for matches.
5. Hinge: Billing itself as the app “designed to be deleted,” Hinge encourages users to go beyond superficial swiping and foster deep connections. You can like and comment on specific parts of users’ profiles for free and engage in conversations without paying. However, for unlimited likes and other perks, there’s Hinge Preferred, the premium membership.
Remember, when using online dating platforms, safety is paramount. Be wary of sharing too much personal information upfront. When you’re ready to meet someone for the first time, choose a public place and let someone know where you’re going.
Also, be aware that the exact offerings and policies of these sites can change, so it’s always a good idea to review the most current information on each site before getting started.
6. Match: One of the oldest players in the online dating game, Match allows you to create a profile and browse through other user profiles for free. If you want to message someone, however, you’ll need to sign up for a paid subscription. The advantage of Match is its extensive user base and its in-depth profile setup, which can help you connect with matches on a deeper level.
7. eHarmony: Known for its comprehensive compatibility questionnaire, eHarmony allows you to set up a profile and view your compatible matches for free. This can give you a good sense of whether or not you’re likely to find the kind of person you’re looking for on the site before you pay for a subscription. To start conversations, though, you’ll need to sign up for a paid membership.
8. Coffee Meets Bagel: This app takes a unique approach to online dating by taking bits and pieces from some of the best sites and combining them into one awesome experience. Women receive curated matches, and the pool of potential suitors refreshes daily, giving a bit more control to women. Free users can browse and send messages, but premium features like read receipts require a paid subscription.
9. Zoosk: With its integrated approach to online dating, Zoosk allows you to browse for matches and send winks for free. The more you interact with the site, the better it can match you with potential partners. However, to unlock messaging and other premium features, you’ll need a paid membership.
10. Happn: This app shows you the profiles of other Happn users you’ve crossed paths with during your day, adding a touch of real-life mystery to online dating. You can like profiles for free, and if two users like each other, they “match” and can start chatting.
1. Q: What’s the most important feature of online dating? A: The ‘block’ button. Kidding! It’s definitely the ability to get to know someone before you meet them. Unless they’re an alien in disguise…then it’s definitely the ‘block’ button!
2. Q: Can I find ‘The One’ online? A: Well, you have a better chance of finding ‘The One’ than finding where you left your keys this morning. Just remember, ‘The One’ is probably just as nervous as you are!
3. Q: How many dating sites should I join? A: You know the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”? In this case, don’t put all your dates on one website! Try a few and see which ones feel right to you. Just don’t spread yourself too thin, like butter scraped over too much bread.
4. Q: How honest should I be on my profile? A: As honest as a mirror! Remember, honesty is the best policy, unless you’re talking about your secret identity as a superhero. Maybe keep that on the down-low until the second date.
5. Q: How can I stay safe while online dating? A: Keep personal details private until you’re comfortable sharing them, always meet in public places, and listen to your gut. Oh, and if your date asks for your social security number, alarm bells should be ringing louder than a fire truck!
6. Q: Should I pay for a premium subscription? A: If you’re serious about finding a match and want access to extra features, then sure. Just remember, you can’t buy love. But you can buy chocolate, and that’s pretty close.
Alternate payment methods are paypal and bitcoin.