It’s no secret that online dating has become increasingly popular in recent years. In fact, a recent Pew Research Center study found that 15 percent of Kiwi adults have used online dating sites or mobile apps. And, with the advent of dating apps like Meetme, Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, it’s only gotten easier to find a date.
But why exactly has online dating become so popular? There are a few reasons. First, it’s convenient. You can browse potential matches from the comfort of your own home (or office, or car… you get the idea). Second, it’s efficient. You can quickly weed out unsuitable partners without ever having to go on a bad date. And third, it’s anonymous. You can be as (or as not) open about yourself as you want to be.
Tinder
Tinder is a location-based social search mobile app that allows users to like or dislike other users, and allows users to chat if both parties swiped to the right. Tinder originally required a Facebook account in order to use the app, but it now allows users to sign up with just a phone number. The app is often used as a hookup app, but it can also be used to find dates or make new friends.
Tinder is most popular with people ages 18-25, but it can be used by people of all ages. It is especially popular among college students. The app has some pros and cons. Some pros are that you can meet new people outside of your normal social circle, and that it can be fun and easy to use.
Bumble
Bumble is an online dating app that works similarly to Tinder - users are presented with potential matches and can swipe right to like or left to pass. However, there is a key difference between the two apps: on Bumble, only women can initiate contact with men. This is intended to address some of the concerns around online dating, where women can feel unsafe receiving messages from men they don't know.
Bumble is free to use, though there is a paid version that gives users access to additional features like unlimited swipes and the ability to see who has liked you. It's available on iOS and Android devices.
Hinge
Hinge is an online dating app that allows users to connect with friends of friends. It is available for free on iOS and Android. Users can create a profile by linking their Facebook account. Once a profile is created, users can view other profiles and swipe left or right to indicate interest. If two users indicate mutual interest, they are able to chat with each other within the app.
Hinge is ideal for individuals who are looking for long-term relationships or friendships. It is also great for people who want to avoid the risks associated with online dating, such as catfishing or being scammed. Some potential drawbacks of Hinge include its limited availability (the app is only available in select countries), and its inability to search for specific types of relationship interests (e.g., polyamorous or kinky).
MeetMe
MeetMe is a social networking site that allows users to connect with new people in their area. It is similar to other dating sites, but it has some unique features that make it stand out from the rest. For example, MeetMe allows users to see who has viewed their profile, which can be helpful in finding potential matches. It also has a feature called "Lunch Money" that allows users to send virtual gifts to other users.
MeetMe is great for people who are looking to meet new people in their area. However, because it is a free site, there are some drawbacks. For example, there are a lot of fake profiles and scammers on the site. Additionally, because it is free, there is no screening process for new users, so anyone can join. This can be both good and bad depending on what you're looking for in a dating site.
Zoosk
Zoosk is an online dating app with a difference. It's designed to help you find matches with people who share your interests and who live nearby.
The app is free to download and use, but there are some in-app purchases that you can make if you want to upgrade your account. These include things like sending virtual gifts and unlocking extra features.
There are over 3 million members on Zoosk, so you're sure to find someone who catches your eye. The app is available on iOS and Android, and it's also possible to use the Zoosk website on your desktop computer.
One of the great things about Zoosk is that it uses behavioral matchmaking technology to help you find potential matches. This means that the more you use the app, the better it gets at finding people who are right for you.
OkCupid
OkCupid is a dating app that is similar to Tinder but with more features. OkCupid has a personality test that you can take to find matches. The app is free to use, but there are also paid features that you can purchase. OkCupid is mostly used by people in their twenties and thirties.
The main pro of OkCupid is that it has a lot of features, which gives users the ability to find matches that are more compatible with them. The con of the app is that it can be time-consuming to fill out the personality test and answer all the questions.
Which app is right for you?
It all depends on your preferences and needs. If you're more interested in casual dating, then Tinder or Bumble may be a better fit. These apps are more focused on providing quick matches and dates, rather than long-term relationships.
Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which app is right for you. Consider what you're looking for in a relationship, and then choose the app that best suits your needs.