By James Mclauren
Online dating is a modern phenomenon that is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. In fact, the initial stigma around online dating has transformed into a normal, go-to option for many single women out there in today’s app-obsessed climate. If a few taps on an app can result in a dream date, then why not?
Not all dating apps are worthwhile, though. The space has become fairly saturated as companies aim to take a slice of the pie and tap into what is a hugely lucrative market these days. Generally, most of the main dating apps are good to use and make dating far less daunting. They’re easy to grasp, they can be downloaded within seconds, and they can accompany us throughout the day.
Despite the claims that “people find love every 12 minutes on such-and-such an app”, there are no guarantees, of course, and no dating app is perfect. And, it’s worth noting that dating apps aren’t for everyone. Until you try one, though, you’ll never know if they’re for you. With that in mind, here is a look at some of the top dating apps of 2021.
Tinder
We thought we’d kick things off with a dating app everyone has heard of but might not have necessarily used before. Tinder certainly has a reputation, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t discover a partner using it. Whether you’re looking for a hook up or a long-term relationship, Tinder has your back. The profiles on the app are brief and easy to read, you simply swipe right on someone you’re interested in, and then from there see who piques your interest.
Happn
A dating app you might not have heard of, Happn is fairly popular at the moment. The app essentially works by matching you with people who are nearby physically. Should you cross paths with a fellow Happn user and end up matching each other, then the app will let you know. From there, you can get chatting and see how things progress. That might seem that the chances of love will be as random as making a wish for riches with Aliyah’s Wishes slot, but Happn is popular for those who trust in luck. The concept does divide people, though, but it can work for some.
OKCupid
A dating app that has been around for a while now, OkCupid is a tried and tested dating resource for single humans. The profiles on OkCupid are more in-depth and detailed than most other dating apps, therefore allowing you to gain a clearer picture of someone before you potentially meet up with them. Users have to answer a variety of questions too, and then from there, the app will pair you with compatible people. You can also message any user, although it won’t reach them unless you eventually match.
Hinge
Another widely-used dating app these days, Hinge is specifically designed to make user profiles more engaging than other dating apps such as Tinder. Essentially, users can display what they want on their profiles, be it your religious beliefs, political views, favourite alcoholic beverage, and a whole lot more. Ideal for people who are looking for a long-term relationship, the app does an excellent job at providing users with a detailed insight into a potential partner.
Bumble
It’s probably best to end on Bumble, an app that essentially empowers women and allows them to be in charge. With Bumble, it requires women to initiate the contact. As a result, you’ll receive no odd messages from odd men. Should you find someone you like the look of, you can message them first, and then the recipient has 24 hours to reply before the match gets lost.
About the Author
James Mclauren is a journalist who lives in Oxford, with his wife Soren, and their three children. When he is not writing in his favorite coffee shop, James spends most of his time reading and cooking.