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The 5 Best Dating Apps for Relationships
![Zoe Williams](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2Fperson%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2FZoe-Williams.jpeg&w=384&q=85)
Zoe Williams
Published on October 10, 2023
Hi there, love seekers! Are you tired of endless swiping and hollow conversations that lead nowhere? Are you looking for something real, something meaningful, something that could lead to a blossoming romance, a lifelong commitment or even a walk down the aisle? If so, you've come to the right place. This is your go-to guide on the best dating apps for relationships. And by relationships, we mean serious, long-term love stories, not just flings or casual hookups. So, buckle up and let’s dive into the world of digital dating together, where love might just be a swipe away!
![Match](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2Fnet.ilius.android.match_2024-08-23-223316_angu.jpg&w=384&q=85)
Match
Swipe-based dating apps
3.3
Match
Kicking off our list is Match, one of the original game-changers in the world of online dating. It's a serious contender for those looking for a long-term partner. As one of the top dating apps for serious relationships, Match has been playing cupid since 1995 – that's longer than some of us have been around! It really says something about their algorithm and the kind of people who use this app. You know, the ones who are serious about finding someone special.
The real charm of Match is in its detailed profiles. This app isn't for those who shy away from a bit of effort. If you're willing to take the time to build an in-depth profile, believe me, it pays off. The more you share about yourself, the better your chances of finding that perfect match. This app is perfect for folks who are in it for the long haul, ready to invest their time and energy to find someone truly compatible. Plus, Match gives you a bunch of cool ways to show someone you're interested. You can send likes, shoot over a message or even get involved in events that Match organizes. These events are a fantastic opportunity to meet several potential matches at once. It's a great way to test if those online sparks translate into real-world chemistry.
![Hinge app main image](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_732x411_crop_center-center_none%2Fhinge-app-main-image_2024-08-23-223818_emna.jpg&w=3840&q=85)
![Hinge](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2Fco.hinge.app_2024-08-23-223818_kzhp.jpg&w=384&q=85)
Hinge
Niche dating apps
3.4
Hinge
Next up on our list is Hinge, famously known as the app that's designed to be deleted. That's right, Hinge's whole mission is to help you find a relationship so good that you won't need the app anymore. It's a bold statement, but they're all about getting you into a committed relationship, which is cool when you think about it.
Now, why is Hinge a top pick for those looking for something serious? Well, for starters, their unique algorithm doesn't just throw random people at you. Instead, it uses your Facebook friends to find potential matches. This increases the chances of having more in common with your matches, paving the way for better conversations and deeper connections. And here's the kicker: Hinge is big on storytelling. It nudges you to share bits and pieces of your life through different prompts. This isn't just fun; it's a clever way to get a glimpse into someone's personality before even saying 'hi.' It’s like flipping through a mini biography of their life before diving into a chat.
![Okcupid app main image](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_732x411_crop_center-center_none%2Fokcupid-app-main-image_2024-08-23-222150_kmxb.jpg&w=3840&q=85)
![OkCupid](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2Fcom.okcupid.okcupid_2024-08-23-222149_ufzn.jpg&w=384&q=85)
OkCupid
Swipe-based dating apps
3.4
OkCupid
We're halfway through our list and here comes OkCupid, the app that's all about deep connections. OkCupid's approach is neat: it uses questions to calculate your compatibility with potential matches. The idea is simple: the higher your compatibility percentage with someone, the better the match. It's like having a little cupid calculating your chances of hitting it off with someone.
What I really dig about OkCupid is its versatility. It doesn't matter what you're looking for – a casual fling, a serious relationship or even a life partner – OkCupid has your back. This kind of inclusivity is what makes it a top contender for those seeking long-term connections. Plus, it's packed with features that make your search easier. You can use search filters, hide profiles and fine-tune your way through the dating pool. This makes it a breeze to sift through potential partners and zero in on the one that's just right for you.
![Coffee Meets Bagel](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2Fcom.coffeemeetsbagel_2024-08-23-134838_wojv.jpg&w=384&q=85)
Coffee Meets Bagel
Dating and relationships apps
3.2
Coffee Meets Bagel
Sliding into the number two spot on our list is Coffee Meets Bagel, a dating app that's all about making online dating a more personal experience. What sets it apart? Instead of bombarding you with an endless stream of profiles, Coffee Meets Bagel sends you a handpicked list of potential matches (adorably referred to as "Bagels") every day at noon. This approach lets you take your time to really look at each profile, removing the rush to make a snap decision based on a quick glance.
Now, let's talk about the magic behind Coffee Meets Bagel. It's not about throwing as many profiles at you as possible. Instead, it's about quality. The app uses your Facebook connections to find friends-of-friends as matches and it considers your profile and preferences to ensure these "Bagels" are something for you. This means the matches you get are more likely to be compatible with you. And let's not forget the profiles themselves – they're super detailed, giving you a real glimpse into the person's interests, hobbies and what they're looking for. This way, you get a solid sense of who they are before you even think about starting a conversation.
![Eharmony app main image](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_732x411_crop_center-center_none%2Feharmony-app-main-image_2024-08-24-061532_tjml.jpg&w=3840&q=85)
![eHarmony](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2Fcom.eharmony_2024-08-24-061532_eldz.jpg&w=384&q=85)
eHarmony
Swipe-based dating apps
3.1
eHarmony
We've finally reached the pinnacle of our list and taking the top spot is none other than eharmony. This app is like the wise old guru of the online dating world, having been around for ages and boasting a stellar record in forging relationships that go the distance. We're talking serious, long-term stuff here. It's no wonder it's often praised as one of the best apps for those looking to tie the knot.
eharmony isn't just about swiping left or right based on someone's photo. Nope, it dives deep with a comprehensive personality test that feels like a journey into the depths of your soul. This test is the secret sauce of eHarmony; it helps you match with people who really align with your beliefs, values and life plans. It's like having a cupid that knows you better than you know yourself. The best part? You don't have to go through endless profiles. eharmony does all the sorting and presents you with matches that have real potential. All you must do is chill and watch the magic happen. It's a game-changer for anyone serious about finding love and not just a date for Friday night.
Why these apps are better for Relationships
Alright, so why are these apps the cream of the crop for finding real, lasting relationships? Here's the deal: each of these apps, from Match's time-tested algorithms and in-depth profiles to Coffee Meets Bagel's curated daily matches, focuses on quality over quantity. They're not about mindless swiping; it's about connecting with people on a deeper level. Hinge's unique storytelling approach, OkCupid's compatibility-based matching and eHarmony's soul-searching personality tests all ensure that you're not just meeting someone – you're meeting the right someone. These apps are designed to foster meaningful connections, making them perfect for those looking to go beyond casual dating and dive into something that's meant to last. It's like having a digital wingman that really gets what you're looking for in a partner.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Whether you're dipping your toes into the dating pool for the first time or diving back in after a break, these apps are your go-to for finding something more meaningful than a fling. Each app brings something unique to the table, from eHarmony's deep compatibility checks to Hinge's refreshing storytelling angle. Remember, finding 'the one' isn't just about swipes or likes; it's about making real connections. So, set up your profile, be true to yourself and who knows? Your perfect match might just be a few taps away. Happy dating and here's to finding your happily ever after!
My Personal Recommendation
“If I had to pick one, I'd lean towards Hinge. Why? It strikes the perfect balance between serious and laid-back. The way it encourages users to share parts of their stories through prompts really resonates with me. It's not just about judging a book by its cover; you get to peek into someone's life, their humor, passions and quirks before even starting a conversation. Plus, the connections being based on friends-of-friends through Facebook adds a level of familiarity and trust that's comforting. It feels more like meeting someone at a friend's party rather than a blind shot in the digital dark. For me, Hinge feels less like a dating app and more like a way to meet someone cool in a natural, authentic way.”
![Zoe Williams](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.bestofapps.com%2Fimages%2Ftransforms%2Fperson%2F_100x100_crop_center-center_none%2FZoe-Williams.jpeg&w=384&q=85)
Zoe Williams
Verified Reviewer
Writer for Best of Apps since October 10, 2023