Whether you’re looking for a one-night stand or a romantic relationship, online dating platforms are a great place to start. No matter what you’re searching for, there are many types of dating apps out there to suit you. LGBTQIA+, casual, and traditional apps are just some of your options.
In this ultimate guide, we’re covering every type of online dating app available to you. That way, you can find exactly what you’re looking for and not waste any of your valuable time.
What Are the Different Types of Dating Apps?
With over 1,500 dating apps and sites live right now, online connections are a big business. Because of this, entrepreneurs are constantly creating new and innovative ways to meet people.
Every app you see will fall into one of these eleven different types of dating apps below.
1. Traditional Dating Apps
Traditional dating apps are a broad and versatile platform for people looking for all different types of relationships.
This includes long-term commitments, casual relationships, and even friendships. They normally cater to all sexual orientations and let you search based on your interests and preferences.
Traditional dating apps were the first of their kind. All other dating apps usually include some or all of the same features. For instance, many apps copy Tinder’s swiping function. Some copy Plenty of Fish and its easy-to-use interface.
Typical features of traditional dating apps include:
- Broad platforms for plenty of relationship types
- Options for long-term commitments, casual relationships, and even friendships
- Inclusion of all sexual orientations
- Search depending on interests and preferences
2. Niche Dating Apps
A niche dating app caters to smaller communities, interests, and lifestyles. Think of it as a more targeted approach to finding potential matches. It may include options for singles from different religious groups, like Jdate, or LGBTQIA+ groups, like HER.
These dating apps make it easier for people to find their perfect match from a smaller pool of singles.
Features include:
- A focus on smaller communities
- Targeted approach for specific groups
- A smaller pool of singles which makes it more precise
3. LGBTQIA+ Dating Apps
Dating apps for LGBTQIA+ individuals create a safe and inclusive space for the queer community to connect and build relationships. They typically include features to accommodate all different gender identities and sexual orientations. Apps like Grindr, Scruff, and HER are just some examples of sites specifically for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Each of these platforms offers its users the chance to find anything from friendships to serious relationships.
Typical features of these apps are:
- Safe and inclusive environments for the queer community
- Options for all gender identities and sexual orientations
- Options for friendships, casual relationships, and serious connections
- Safety features for users
4. Casual Dating Apps
Casual dating apps for men or women aim to connect individuals looking for short-term and non-committal relationships. Users who want spontaneous meetups and hookups find these apps ideal for quick matches. You don’t need to fill out a long dating profile. Instead, these casual dating apps focus on photos first.
Apps like Tinder and Bumble are popular choices for finding casual connections. Location-based matching means it’s easy for users to find potential sex partners nearby.
Features of casual dating apps include:
- Specific options for short-term and non-committal relationships
- Focus on photos rather than writing detailed profiles
- Quick swiping and location-based matching
5. Serious Relationship Apps
Serious relationship apps cater to people seeking long-term relationships and genuine connections. These platforms are for those who want more than just a casual fling. Users take the time to create detailed profiles that showcase their personalities and values.
Apps like eHarmony, OkCupid, and Hinge use advanced algorithms to match compatible people together. They focus on providing in-depth compatibility tests so users can find potential partners.
Their main features focus on:
- Individuals looking for long-term relationships
- Detailed profiles showcasing personalities and values
- Advanced algorithms for matching compatible people
6. Matchmaking Apps
A matchmaking app blends traditional matchmaking with modern technology to offer a more personalized dating experience.
Professional matchmakers will take the time to review profiles and make suggestions on who’s compatible with whom. They will pair users depending on their physical and emotional preferences to boost the chance of getting a successful match.
Elite Singles and The League are both examples of apps where matchmaking meets exclusivity. They connect people seeking serious, long-term relationships.
Features of matchmaking apps include:
- Blending traditional matchmaking with modern technology
- Professional matchmakers will review profiles and make suggestions
- Pairing users depending on physical and emotional needs
7. Gamified Dating Apps
To encourage users to engage, gamified dating apps turn the dating experience into a fun game. Users can do challenges and quizzes to earn rewards and badges to improve their experience with the app. All of these elements make the dating process feel like a fun game rather than a chore.
Coffee Meets Bagel is a prime example of an app that uses gamification to keep users happy. This approach aims to create a more relaxing atmosphere where the pressure is off.
The main features of these apps will:
- Turn dating into a fun and interactive game.
- Offer challenges, quizzes, and rewards.
- Include winning badges and gaming elements.
8. Social Discovery Apps
Social discovery apps are all about expanding your social circle by connecting with new people. They are all about meeting friends first and forming romantic relationships later.
These apps encourage users to make new friends and join groups with people who have similar interests. Users can connect depending on their hobbies.
Apps like Meetup and Bumble BFF are popular for forming friendships and building new groups. This approach allows users to build genuine friendships and then potentially form romantic relationships with them. But romance is an afterthought.
Features include:
- Options to expand social circles and connect depending on interests
- Focus on making friends first
- Event meetups to connect in person
9. Video Dating Apps
Rather than texting matches, video dating apps offer Facetime features to make the dating experience more authentic. These apps allow users to meet face-to-face virtually to reduce the risk of catfishing. They also emulate how a first date might go in real life.
Apps like Bumble and Hinge have integrated video call options to meet the demand for virtual dates. This was popular in the pandemic and is still a popular way for people to get to know each other.
The typical features of video dating apps are:
- Video calls for face-to-face interactions
- Simulations of real-life dates
- Integration of video options for virtual meetings through the app
10. Event-Based Dating Apps
Event-based meetups are all about organizing real-life events and gatherings for singles to meet and connect. Users can both browse and attend events like speed dating mixers or group activities. These apps provide a more fun environment for singles to meet people in person.
Features of event-based dating apps include:
- Opportunities for in-person gatherings for singles
- Options to browse and attend these events, like speed dating
- Provision of a fun, social environment for in-person connections
11. Anonymous Dating Apps
Anonymous dating apps give users the option to stay incognito for privacy and discretion purposes. These apps mean users can connect and chat without revealing who they are until they’re ready.
Singles can share photos and details at their own pace and on their own time so they can feel safe and secure. Apps like Pure prioritize anonymity so users can protect their identities.
Features include:
- Allowing users to remain incognito for privacy
- Options to connect and chat with revealing identities initially
- Sharing of photos and details at their own pace
12: Over 50 Dating Apps
For senior daters looking to meet people in their age category, over 50s apps are available. They cater to older singles looking to form either casual or serious connections in their local area. The goal is to show seniors that they’re never too old for love.
Over 50s dating apps include Silver Singles and Senior Dating.
Features of senior dating apps focus on:
- Seniors looking for connections
- Casual and serious relationship seekers
- Easy-to-use interfaces to make them easier for older singles
What Type of Dating App Is Hinge?
It can be hard to know what type of dating app is Hinge. After all, the app can facilitate all types of connections.
Hinge mainly positions itself as an app for more serious relationships. It focuses on finding meaningful connections rather than casual flings.
The app encourages its users to showcase their personalities with detailed profiles and engaging prompts. You can like certain parts of a person’s profile to spark interesting conversations and facilitate true connections.
Hinge also has a matchmaking feature, which gives you the most compatible profile every day. The app’s slogan is “designed to be deleted,” setting it apart from other dating apps of its kind.
What Type of Dating App Is Tinder?
Are you wondering what type of dating app is Tinder? Then keep reading!
Tinder is mainly known as a casual dating app, popular for users seeking quick matches and spontaneous meetups. It has a simple swiping interface, making it easy for users to find potential partners depending on location.
With such a vast user base and a straightforward approach, Tinder is the number one dating app for casual encounters.
Despite having a reputation for being casual, plenty of users have found long-term relationships through the app. Tinder’s versatility and wide reach contribute to its popularity in the dating app scene.
Types of Online Dating Apps for Hookups
The different types of online dating apps for hookups are for people looking for casual or physical relationships without any long-term commitments. These apps prioritize fast matches so users can connect quickly for sex. They also normally include location-based matching for spontaneous meetups.
Some of the best apps for hookups are:
- Tinder
- Pure
- Feeld
- Ashley Madison
- AdultFriendFinder
- Grindr
And many more!
How To Choose the Right Dating App for You
Consider what you’re really looking for when you start to think about choosing a dating app. You won’t use eHarmony if you’re looking for casual sex or AdultFriendFinder if you want something serious. Read our quick guide below to help you choose the right dating app for your unique needs.
Define What Kind of Relationship You Want
Before picking an app, think about your relationship goals. Are you looking for something long-term or just casual fun? For relationships, apps like eHarmony and Hinge offer compatibility tests. If you’re after casual connections, apps like Tinder and Pure might work better for you.
Consider Your Interests
Your interests and how you identify can influence which app is best for you. For niche communities, like religious groups, try apps like Jdate. Grindr is also a great option for gay hookups.
Evaluate the User Experience of Apps
Different apps offer wildly different experiences. Gamified apps like Coffee Meets Bagel add elements of fun and engagement to make dating more enjoyable. If you’d prefer a traditional app that allows swiping and searching, Tinder might work better for you. Think about what will keep you the most engaged.
Think About Matchmaking vs Swiping
Some matchmaking apps, like Elite Singles, offer personalized service, blending traditional methods with tech. If you prefer the opinion of the experts, this might work best for you. Do you like a simple approach and to make your own decisions? Then, a traditional dating app might be more your style.
Consider Your Budget
Most dating apps offer some kind of free version, but to use all features, you need a premium account. Think about your budget and whether you have money to spend on a paid account. If you don’t, apps like Hinge and Tinder have free versions with plenty of features.
Check Out User Reviews and Success Stories
Check out the user reviews and success stories for the apps you’re looking into. This could give you an idea of how effective the app is and if users are satisfied. Look for testimonials and reviews to understand people’s personal experiences better.
FAQs
How many types of dating apps are there?
There are 12 types of dating apps available. However, most apps fall into more than one category. For instance, Tinder is a traditional and casual dating site. Hinge is a serious relationship and matchmaking app. Look for categories that you’re into and go from there to find your next dating app of choice.
Are dating apps for young people only?
Dating apps are for people of all ages. In fact, there are plenty of apps that cater to older singles. For instance, SilverSingles and OurTime are for over 50s and provide a comfortable environment for finding love and relationships. It’s never too late to start looking for meaningful connections again.
Can you find long-term relationships on dating apps?
Yes, there are plenty of options for meeting singles who are serious about finding a relationship. Platforms like eHarmony and Hinge focus on compatibility and meaningful connections first over hookups. By using these apps, you’ll find like-minded people and boost your chances of finding a romantic partner.
Do dating apps work for introverts?
Dating apps can relieve the pressure on introverts, as they can connect with someone at their own pace. Favorite dating apps for introverts might be Bumble and OkCupid. Both offer options for more thoughtful conversations, enabling introverts to comfortably show their personalities.
Are video dating apps safer for meeting new people?
Video dating apps provide a much safer way to meet new people. They allow for face-to-face interactions before meeting in person. Facetiming beforehand helps users gauge whether there’s chemistry and the person is who they say they are. Thanks to profile verification, catfishes are less common in these apps.
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