Are you looking for a meaningful, lasting relationship? Online dating might be a good option for you. Many dating apps and websites offer ways to find true love. They use detailed questionnaires and sophisticated matchmaking algorithms to foster deep connections.
In fact, research by the Pew Research Center shows that nearly three-in-ten U.S. adults have used online dating. A lot of them have formed long-term relationships and have even since tied the knot.
We’ve thoroughly reviewed and compared the best dating sites and apps. We looked at things like site usability, user reviews, costs, and the their matching processes.
Our research has resulted in a list of the top 10 best dating platforms. This list aims to make it easy and effective to find the right partner, enriching your path to a happy love life.
Our Top 10 Best Online Dating Sites and Apps to Meet Singles:
- Zoosk – Best dating site and app overall
- eharmony – Best for a long-term relationship
- SilverSingles – Best for seniors
- EliteSingles – Best for professionals
- Tawkify – Best for hand-selected matching
- Stir – Best for single parents
- Dating.com – Cross-culture dating, travel partners
- Ourtime – Best for singles over 50
- Match – Best for finding a variety of relationship styles
- BlackPeopleMeet – Best for black singles
Compare With Top10.com, Choose the Best for You
At Top10.com, we recognize the importance of thorough and accurate product and service reviews in guiding your choices. Our team, comprising editors and industry experts, conducts extensive research to provide comprehensive insights. Our content is continually updated to reflect the latest market trends, offering current information.
We provide a range of services including comparison lists and in-depth reviews, all tailored to meet your specific needs. Our goal is to empower you to make confident and informed choices.
52 Dating Services Evaluated | 6 Evaluation Criteria | 10 Best Dating Sites
Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best Online Dating Sites and Apps
Guided by Suzannah Weiss, a noted dating writer and certified sex educator, and verified by Top10.com’s editors, our methodology provides a thorough review of over 50 online dating brands. Our team personally tested each service, ensuring reviews reflect real user experiences and functionality. We conducted extensive research, merging academic studies, customer reviews, and industry insights for a balanced view. Finally, we compared each brand’s Key Differentiating Features (KDFs), emphasizing their unique strengths for a comprehensive evaluation.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Pricing: We scrutinized each service’s cost, focusing on value for money and affordability.
- Free Version Quality: The availability and effectiveness of free features were assessed to determine service accessibility.
- Membership Base: We analyzed active member numbers to understand each service’s popularity and user engagement.
- User Demographics: The age range of users was examined to identify the target audience of each platform.
- Communication Tools: We evaluated the variety and effectiveness of communication options, essential for user interaction.
- User Feedback: Customer reviews were closely reviewed to measure user satisfaction and pinpoint common issues or notable features.
Our Top Online Dating Sites
Zoosk
Zoosk, initially part of Facebook in 2007, has evolved into a distinct platform for those seeking serious relationships, boasting over 35 million users as both a website and mobile app.
The highlight of Zoosk is its Behavioral Matchmaking™ engine, which refines matches based on your preferences, becoming more accurate with each use. This feature streamlines the search for compatible partners, saving you time by focusing on potential serious relationships.
While Zoosk offers a free version, subscribing allows direct messaging to express genuine interest. Subscription plans range from $29.95 for one month to $119.99 for a year (equivalent to $10 monthly).
Why we chose Zoosk: What makes Zoosk stand out for those seeking meaningful connections is its blend of interactive dating features like live stream engagement, virtual speed dating, and the “carousel” game for potential matches. Importantly, Zoosk mandates profile verification via social media, phone, or photo, enhancing safety and authenticity.
Our experience: Our experience with Zoosk revealed an efficient sign-up process, with the option to connect via Facebook. The platform’s “dating insights reports” are particularly valuable, offering clarity on what to look for in a serious partner. However, the profiles tend to be brief, requiring more direct communication to truly understand your potential match.
Zoosk
eharmony
eharmony is for daters ready to find love and looking for others who are on the same page. With detailed questionnaires and profiles, compatibility scores, and icebreaker questions, it’s easy to match with a potential long-term partner and initiate contact.
On top of that, the site screens users to make sure none of them are on criminal registries—something that’ll be reassuring to those concerned about getting pulled into an online dating scam
eharmony requires you to spend a significant amount of time creating a profile. Its detailed questionnaire stretches out the sign-up process but allows the site to find truly compatible matches and keeps out people who aren’t serious about exploring meaningful connections.
Why we chose eharmony: Its patented algorithms consider several factors, from personality traits to daily living habits, making it a fantastic choice to find long-term relationships. It’s been around since the year 2000 and has matched over 2 million people, refining its processes along the way.
Our experience: We found it helpful to be able to specify things like your faith and morals so you can find a match on all levels: physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional. When we browsed profiles, both on mobile and desktop, we really felt like we got to know the other members, even before we started talking to them.
eharmony
SilverSingles
Most dating apps target younger people, but SilverSingles gives the over-50 demographic plenty of opportunities to find companionship.
SilverSingles matches members based on a personality test designed by psychologists and relationship experts. This test has over 100 questions and scores your answers on four traits: openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism. These are used to assess your personality type and find matches whose interests and lifestyles are compatible with yours.
The matching process values quality over quantity. After answering the test questions, the site identifies three to seven matches per day. So while taking a test initially may sound like a lot of work, it will save you the trouble of searching for dates later down the line.
Why we chose SilverSingles: This service is available as an app and a website. Both are easy to navigate and use with well-organized tabs and big and bold fonts. Plus, if you’re not well-versed in writing dating profiles, you can request someone to help you write yours for an additional fee. This site is the ideal choice for singles over 50 seeking long-term relationships.
Our experience: We felt that SilverSingles’ personality test was particularly useful to develop self-knowledge. And while you do have limited control over who you can connect with, we liked that all potential matches are curated specifically for you.
SilverSingles
EliteSingles
If you haven’t been able to click with people on most mainstream dating apps, consider a more specialized service like EliteSingles. This site is aimed at intellectuals who value their professional lives and are looking for someone to have deep conversations with.
Since SilverSingles and EliteSingles are owned by the same company, they have a lot in common. EliteSingles also asks users to take a research-based personality test and shows them three to seven matches a day based on their answers. The quiz allows users to state what qualities are most important to them in a partner.
Like most apps and sites we’ve evaluated, EliteSingles offers free memberships but requires users to pay in order to message others.
Why we chose EliteSingles: Due to the extensive quizzes members have to take, the sign-up process can become quite lengthy. But we believe this is a good thing because it ensures that the site only attracts users who are serious about finding relationships with like-minded people. Plus, for members’ safety, profiles are manually verified, and photos cannot be copied or downloaded from the site, so your personal information stays confidential.
Our experience: We liked using the “Have We Met” feature, which allowed us to browse other profiles on top of our daily matches. We also liked that we could swipe “yes” or “no” to other users. But we were frustrated that there wasn’t an instant chat or phone option for support—you’ll have to wait up to two days to get a response over email.
EliteSingles
Tawkify
Tawkify takes the time and hassle out of dating—for an expensive price. If you can invest thousands each month, you’ll benefit from a dedicated matchmaker who will find matches and arrange dates for you. Tawkify also has the advantage of customizable plans so you can create a package that suits your needs.
With over a million users, there are lots of opportunities to find your perfect partner. However, you must wait for a matchmaker to choose a suitable person for you to meet and can’t perform searches yourself.
Why we chose Tawkify – The site has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot and has created over 200,000 successful matches. It has strong privacy and safety features, including background checks.
Our experience – We found the application process straightforward and benefited from the free consultation to choose the most suitable package.
Tawkify
Stir
Stir is mainly for single parents and people open to dating someone with kids. With features like AI-powered profile insights, they make it easy to set up your profile and start connecting.
The “Stir Time” function helps users coordinate their schedules so they can meet up when they’re away from their kids. Users can also set up video chats with other members to screen them before meeting in person, which helps them protect themselves and their children.
A free plan gives you access to view and like profiles, and potentially get a message after lots of browsing. However, if you’d like to communicate with other members, you’ll need a paid membership.
Why we chose Stir: This app creates a space where single parents, who are often misunderstood, assumed to be too busy, or judged for the fact that their previous relationships didn’t work out, can connect with each other. The app also ensures that single parents don’t waste their free time wading through a bunch of profiles of people who consider children to be a deal breaker.
Our experience: Stir is made by the same company as Match, so its profiles are also very inclusive. But the sign-up process is less intense, which we think is ideal for busy parents. We also liked that the specific profile prompts let us share things that we felt were important, such as our drinking habits.
Stir
Dating.com
Dating.com uses a credit system to make use of its communications features. Credit bundles start at $49.99 per month.
Dating.com
Ourtime
Ourtime is geared toward giving the 50-and-up crowd a chance at love. But you don’t have to be in your 50s to sign up; anyone interested in dating people who are 50 and over is welcome to join.
With a premium plan, you can send messages, virtual gifts, or even “flirts” to show interest, but you won’t have access to these features unless you pay for a monthly subscription.
Ourtime users say they like the focus on user privacy and security. The site ensures its members stay safe while exploring possible connections by providing safety tips for both online and in-person dating. However, some have complained about technical problems and a lack of racial diversity among its active members.
Why we chose Ourtime: Singles over 50 are a large and growing demographic. Ourtime gives singles a way to date without worrying about being rejected because of their age.
Our experience: We saw many profiles with generic bios on other apps. We liked Ourtime’s unique prompts that ask users to answer three quirky questions so others can get to know them better. These questions include: “What’s your favorite kind of date?”, “Which do you prefer – morning or night?” and “Which do you prefer – sweet or savory?” We also appreciated the option to search for various match criteria, including religion and zodiac signs, to find people whose beliefs and interests were compatible with ours.
Ourtime
Match
Match is one of the most popular online dating platforms out there, with millions of users in over 60 countries. This site is a fantastic choice for those seeking serious relationships because profiles include many prompts to learn about users’ personalities, lifestyles, and interests.
After creating a profile on Match, you’ll get access to limited free functionality. However, you need to become a paying member to send messages. Plus, you’ll need to devote time to this app by uploading photos, writing a detailed bio, and answering a lot of questions.
Users seem very happy with Match’s customer service, particularly the expert dating coaches who are available to all paying members.
Why we chose Match: Match has an inclusive user base, which allows its users to identify as various genders and sexual orientations and connect with a lot of different people. In addition, social media and phone verification keep fake users to a minimum.
Our experience: We enjoyed taking advantage of the features that make Match stand out from other dating apps and sites, such as read receipts on messages and unlimited video chatting.
Match
BlackPeopleMeet
BlackPeopleMeet has been around since 2002 and, as the name suggests, is catered primarily toward members of the black community. But it’s also designed for people of other races who are interested in finding a black partner. In fact, it’s suitable for anyone looking for a serious relationship, travel partner, or friendship.
BlackPeopleMeet makes it easy for users to locate others whose desires match theirs with a wide variety of search features. The most unique is the keyword search option, which locates profiles that contain specific words or phrases. But there aren’t any questionnaires so you won’t get match scores as you might with other apps.
The free version has all the standard functions you’d expect and all members can view profiles, match, send messages to “Top Picks” and rate daily matches. A premium membership is required to access the messaging feature, but the cost is relatively low at just $2.99 per week if you purchase a six-month plan, compared to other apps.
Why we chose BlackPeopleMeet: Given the racism some people experience on general-interest dating apps, it’s invaluable to have a space where African American singles can meet one another—and others who are open to exploring interracial relationships.
Our experience: We thought the “Message Ideas” feature, which provides conversation-starter suggestions for tongue-tied users, was super helpful. We also liked how the site prompts users to write what kind of relationship they’re interested in on their profile, with options including “travel partner” or “pen pal.” But we thought it was sketchy that there were many profiles without photos.
BlackPeopleMeet
How to Compare the Best Online Dating Sites and Apps
The chart below provides a guide to different factors you should consider when comparing dating sites. These include cost, messaging options, user base, ease of use, matching methods, niche interests, and more.
When comparing different dating services, it’s a good idea to first determine which factors are most important to you and zero in on apps matching your priorities. If you want to meet people of a specific cultural group or age, for instance, pay special attention to the app’s demographics and recommended age range.
How Online Dating Sites Work: A Comprehensive Guide
With online dating sites and apps, users can create personal profiles that share information such as their name, age, interests, and preferences for potential partners. This has become increasingly relevant, as a Pew Research study found that nearly half of U.S. adults believe dating has become more difficult in the last decade, making the role of online platforms more crucial for those seeking a long-lasting relationship.
These platforms use algorithms to suggest matches based on compatibility factors like shared interests and location. User feedback and interactions help refine the matching algorithms and adjust features. You can also actively search for matches using specific criteria and communicate through the platform with messaging or video calls.
Many sites have safety measures, such as profile verification and encrypted communications, to protect users’ privacy and security. User experience on these sites is often enhanced by subscription models that offer premium features, like seeing who viewed your profile or unlimited messaging.
Overall, online dating sites provide a digital space to make it easier for people to find and connect with potential partners.
Who Should Use Online Dating Apps? Finding Your Perfect Match
Online dating apps are not just about casual encounters; they are powerful tools for individuals seeking serious, long-term relationships. These platforms cater to a wide range of age groups, interests, and relationship goals, making them ideal for adults looking to expand their social circles with meaningful connections.
For those specific about the qualities they desire in a partner, dating apps and sites are particularly beneficial. Whether you identify as Black, Asian, LGBTQ+, over 50, or have other specific preferences, niche dating platforms can connect you with individuals who share your background, values, and relationship goals. This specificity fosters deeper connections based on mutual understanding and shared experiences.
The ease of accessing a diverse pool of potential partners outside one’s regular social circle is a major advantage, especially for busy professionals or those with limited socializing opportunities. Online dating platforms provide the flexibility and convenience to meet and engage with potential serious partners at any time, breaking geographical barriers and fitting into even the busiest schedules.
Many dating sites have evolved to focus on fostering serious relationships. They offer detailed profiles, compatibility tests, and advanced algorithms designed to match individuals based on deeper levels of compatibility, not just physical attraction. This approach enhances the likelihood of forming lasting, meaningful relationships.
Online dating sites and apps are invaluable for anyone seeking a serious, committed relationship. They offer a convenient, effective, and tailored way to meet potential life partners who align with one’s personal preferences and relationship goals.
What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Dating Site
Before choosing a dating site, there are a few key factors that are important to consider to find the right platform for your goals and preferences.
The first thing you should do before picking a site is figure out what type of relationship you’re seeking. Different sites cater to different needs, from one-night stands to serious relationships.
There are thousands of dating platforms out there. After specifying what type of relationship you are looking for, it’s valuable to consider the target audience of different sites and pick one that suits your age, lifestyle, or cultural background.
While you have to do some soul-searching before settling on a specific site, you should remember that many platforms are set up to work for you with matching methodologies. Understand the site’s approach to matchmaking, as some use algorithms while others allow more freedom in searching.
Beyond checking out how the site works, research the site’s reputation. Read reviews and testimonials to gauge user satisfaction and success rates.
Know that it’s normal not to have immediate success on dating apps. If you send a message but don’t get a response—stay positive even if things look a little too quiet right at the start. If you do match with someone, know that conversations don’t always go somewhere.
How Much Do Online Dating Sites and Apps Cost?
While many dating sites and apps have free versions or offer free trials, paid memberships can go as low as less than $10 per month for some sites and can reach up to around $100 per month for others, depending on the features and length of the subscription.
Free dating sites and apps like OkCupid, Tinder, and Grindr offer basic services at no cost, including profile creation and messaging. These platforms often feature optional paid upgrades for enhanced functionality. Paid sites generally provide a more curated experience with advanced matching algorithms and features for users seeking serious relationships. Free versions may be sufficient for casual dating and initial exploration.
Finding the one can take time and cost money. For example, women across 50 US cities spend, on average, $524 before meeting ‘the one.’ In more expensive cities like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle, men will likely spend an average of $722 before finding their match.
Before spending on dates, it’s valuable to understand how much dating sites and apps cost. Depending on the platform and subscription plan, online dating sites and apps vary in cost.
What Kind of Dating Sites and Apps Are Out There For Your Needs?
- Best Dating Sites for Black Singles: Sites like BlackPeopleMeet and EbonyFlirt allow users to connect with a community that understands them.
- Best Dating Sites for Asian Singles: Asian Date and Coffee Meets Bagel are great apps that are either specifically catered toward the Asian community or allow for filtering by ethnicity.
- Best Dating Sites and Apps for Muslim Singles: If you want to meet singles who share your religious values, a dating site for Muslim singles like Muzz is a terrific place to start.
- Best Dating Sites and Apps for Jewish Singles: On a site like Jdate, you can specify religious preferences, and EliteSingles lets you search for other members based on their religion.
- Best Dating Sites for Christian Singles: If Christianity is important to you, mainstream apps like Tinder may not be the best fit. Instead, try platforms like ChristianMingle and ChristianCafe.
- Best Dating Sites for Seniors: Dating sites for seniors offer features like professional profile writing assistance to help people who aren’t as tech-savvy get noticed by potential companions.
- Inclusive LGBTQ+ Friendly Dating Sites: While the LGBTQ+ community is steadily growing, not all dating apps are inclusive. Platforms like Her or Grindr can expose you to the person you’re looking for.
- Dating Sites for Single Parents: Single parents may be frustrated when they match with people on dating apps who don’t want to date someone with kids. You may want to turn to Stir, a dating app designed for single parents.
- Best Dating Sites for Hookups: AdultFriendFinder or sites like BeNaughty have many users seeking hookups and casual dating. These apps focus on profile photos so you can find people you’re physically attracted to without wasting time on unnecessary processes.
How to Stay Safe and Avoid Scams on Dating Sites: Protect Your Heart
Dating site scams include but are not limited to, catfishing or robot profiles aimed at getting your information or money. To find true love beyond the dangers, it’s worthwhile to avoid scams not only by running background checks but also by following these dating safety tips:
- Be wary of profile pictures that look too staged or professional. You can do a reverse google search on any image and check to see whether the image is actually of a celebrity or influencer.
- Request video chat with other users before meeting.
- Ask for your date’s social media profiles, and check out their pages before agreeing to meet.
- Suggest meeting in person sooner rather than later so you don’t get sucked into a false and addictive online relationship.
- Totally avoid sharing nude photos or videos of yourself, especially if they include your face.
- If the dating app you’re using supports this function, make sure the people you match with have verified profiles.
Additional Online Dating Sites We Reviewed: Broadening Your Options
Beyond the ten sites in the list above, we reviewed over 40 top-rated dating sites and apps available in the US. If you’re looking for more options, check out these reviews:
- Plenty of Fish – Best for finding different types of relationships
- Bumble – Best for making new connections
- OkCupid – Best for using free and low-cost paid features
- Tinder – Best for using a simple, engaging interface
- Coffee Meets Bagel – Best for singles who like to take things slow
Explore These Interesting Articles: Dive Deeper into the World of Dating
- 10 Flirty Emojis to Help Improve Your Dating Game
- 10 Tips for Taking a Good Dating Profile Picture by Yourself
- Top 10 Tips to Make Your Dating Profile Stand Out (for Men)
- Looking for an Alternative to Ashley Madison? Check out These Flirty Hookup Sites
- 10 Notable Green Flags in the Talking Stage of Dating
Find Love Today – It’s Out There: Your Journey Begins Now
The modern dating scene isn’t easy to navigate. But with so many apps available for different kinds of connections, your chances of finding love online are better than ever.
If you’re looking to meet new people, choosing the platform that’s best for you can save you a lot of time. You may not meet your perfect match right away, but these apps can help narrow your dating pool—and let you have a little fun along the way.
