Best Dating Apps for 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Modern Matchmaking
Dating in 2025 is more dynamic than ever, and the right dating app can make all the difference.
- Whether you’re seeking long-term love, casual connections, or new friendships, there’s a platform tailored to your style.
- After testing dozens of apps, our team selected the most reliable, feature-rich, and user-friendly options across categories.
From free platforms to niche apps, here’s a curated list of the best dating apps this year and what makes each one stand out.
Bumble
Best dating app for bold women
Bumble empowers women to take the lead, requiring them to send the first message.
- This setup tends to attract confident women and more passive men, fostering a respectful balance.
- Its Bumble BFF feature is also great for finding friends in new cities.
Downsides include expiring matches and limited engagement for shy users.
- You have 24 hours to message before the match disappears.
Monthly cost: $33
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Hinge
Best dating app for relationship seekers
Hinge encourages users to build profiles through detailed prompts and interests, making it easier to find genuine connections.
- You can see who liked your profile, making the experience feel more intentional.
Limitations include a daily like cap and extra charges to see your top matches.
- Users must add at least three prompts, promoting personality over pictures.
Monthly cost: $33
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
OkCupid
Best dating app for those on a budget
OkCupid offers a deep personality quiz that creates compatibility scores with other users.
- Its thoughtful questionnaire helps match users based on shared values and interests.
Recent updates have leaned toward a swipe-based experience, making it feel less unique.
- You can still send messages, but they only appear if the recipient matches with you.
Monthly cost: $30
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Tinder
Best dating app for casual chat and hookups
Tinder is famous for its swipe-left, swipe-right interface and quick match system.
- Great for casual encounters, first-time app users, and those looking for flirty chats.
Though often seen as hookup-focused, Tinder now allows users to specify relationship goals.
- Profile verification adds a layer of authenticity and safety.
Monthly cost: $8
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Coffee Meets Bagel
Best dating app for serious relationships
CMB delivers curated daily matches (called “bagels”) based on your preferences and profile.
- The app encourages thoughtful conversations by suggesting ice-breakers.
However, the interface can be confusing, and the app’s tone may feel a bit forced.
- Pushy notifications can overwhelm users not checking in daily.
Monthly cost: $9
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Happn
Best dating app for local dating
Happn connects users who’ve physically crossed paths, making matches feel more spontaneous.
- Ideal for people who want a more organic dating experience in their immediate surroundings.
Some accuracy issues arise when it reports nearby matches despite no actual proximity.
- Works best in densely populated areas.
Monthly cost: $25
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Her
Best dating app for lesbian, bisexual and queer women
Her is a queer-focused platform built specifically for women and nonbinary users.
- While most apps are LGBTQ-inclusive, Her offers a safe, dedicated space.
Bugs and glitches sometimes hamper the experience, and users often return to more mainstream apps.
- Still, it’s a valuable option for visibility and community.
Monthly cost: $15
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Raya
Best dating app for social media influencers
Raya caters to professionals in creative fields, offering both dating and networking.
- Applications are vetted thoroughly, adding a layer of exclusivity.
Users must wait to be approved, sometimes for weeks or months.
- It’s also one of the priciest apps, but ideal for those in the public eye.
Monthly cost: $25
Free version: No
Available on: Android, iOS
Plenty of Fish
Best dating app for conversations
POF features robust messaging options, attracting users who prefer in-depth chats.
- However, it suffers from a high volume of fake accounts and bots.
Despite being one of the oldest dating platforms, it struggles with modern UI and user quality.
Monthly cost: $20
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Match
Best dating app for someone with money to spend
Match.com is a premium service with tools tailored for serious relationship seekers.
- While the free version exists, most users opt for the subscription for better matches.
Its pricing suggests commitment, but many users now expect free or lower-cost options elsewhere.
Monthly cost: $18
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
eHarmony
Best dating app for marriage seekers
eHarmony uses an extensive compatibility quiz to pair users based on 29 key dimensions.
- Ideal for users with long-term commitment goals.
While it now includes same-sex dating, access to full features requires a paid membership.
- Comes with a satisfaction guarantee, refunding users who meet basic usage criteria.
Monthly cost: $36
Free version: Yes
Available on: Android, iOS
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dating App
Choosing the best app comes down to your intentions, budget, and personal comfort level.
- Are you seeking commitment or casual fun?
- Do you want in-depth matches or a fast-paced swiping experience?
Instead of jumping across platforms, invest your time in one or two apps that align with your goals.
How We Tested
Every app on this list was tested firsthand by our team.
- We created profiles, explored features, and interacted with users to evaluate performance.
- Feedback from friends, colleagues, and community members also helped shape our assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best overall dating app?
That depends on your goals. For a mix of serious and casual, Hinge is a strong all-around option. For commitment, eHarmony and Match lead the way.
What should I include in my dating profile?
Show your true personality—photos of hobbies, a mix of solo and group shots, and honest prompt answers make great conversation starters.
Are dating apps worth it?
Yes, if you’re ready to put yourself out there. While success isn’t guaranteed, every swipe brings you closer to the right person—or at least a memorable story.
