Choosing the Right Dating App

Now more than ever, America is addicted to dating apps. It’s become the normal way to meet people and ask them out, and it’s tough to avoid using them because everyone else is using them, trapping yourself in a never-ending cycle. To help navigate the dating culture and decide which dating app is best for you, here are some of the top apps.

OkCupid uses a comprehensive profile and series of questions to determine the percentage you’ll match with someone. The service features a massive user base and straightforward dating tools. OkCupid has messaging tools, personality quizzes, Instagram integration and other favorites. A premium subscription adds other features like refined search tools. The app interface is similar to Tinder, letting you swipe yes or no to the people around you.

Tinder was the creator of the swipe-and-scroll dating apps, allowing you to make snap judgments about potential partners. You create a profile connected by your Facebook page with a handful of photos and a short bio. The app displays people in your area and then it begins. If you like one, you swipe to the right and if not, swipe to the left. If you both swipe to the right, you then are able to send messages. New features include GIF messaging, uploading photos from your phone and the ability to like chat messages.

Happn sounds a tad creepy at first, although it is perfect for those who believe in love at first sight. When you open it on your phone, you are greeted by users with whom you’ve physically crossed paths with throughout the day. You can see the number of times you’ve been around someone, as well as the last place and time you both were in the same place. You can like someone privately and unless they like you, they won’t know. You will never receive a message from someone you haven’t liked first.

With Bumble, your account is linked via your Facebook page. This app takes Tinder to a new level, putting the power into the female’s hands. Females must make the first move after two people connect and are a part of the hive; the catch is there’s just 24 hours to make contact or the connection disappears forever, though you can get a 24-hour extension.

Coffee Meets Bagel brings you one bagel every day, a match that shares mutual Facebook friends. You have 24 hours to decide to like or pass, allowing the app to learn your preferences. If you both express interest, the app brings you in a private chatroom, allowing you to send messages. You have the ability to view your mutual friends by purchasing a virtual currency.