🔥Best Dating Sites in USA | November 2024
# | Website | Sign-Up |
1 | Zoosk | Free Trial |
2 | EliteSingles | Free Trial |
3 | SilverSingles | Free Trial |
4 | Jdate | Free Trial |
5 | ChristianMingle | Free Trial |
6 | Eharmony | Free Trial |
7 | Match.com | Free Trial |
8 | Dating.com | Free Trial |
9 | POF.com | Free Trial |
10 | Badoo.com | Free Trial |
Zoosk
- Best for social media and online game fans who feel awkward dating online
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 30M+ |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | Founded in 2007, Zoosk is one of the top-10 dating sites in the US, with over 80% of American members among a global user base of over 40 million. And while new users can sign up and try the app for free, there’s also a premium subscription option with rates ranging from $10.00 to $29.95 per month, depending on the plan’s duration. |
Dating toolset: | The dating app relies on a smart matching algorithm that fine-tunes the recommendations the more likes and passes users share. Besides, Zoosk enjoys multiple social-media-like features, including live streams, comments, and instant messaging, providing enough options for every dater. |
Site | zoosk.com |
I’d happily declare Zoosk the best free dating site if only the free version had all the features a premium membership provides. I liked the way the app combines the best online gaming and social media to make online dating less awkward and more enjoyable. So it’ll likely be a great option for Gen Z, millennials, and people who haven’t dated in a while.
I’d happily declare Zoosk the best free dating site if only the free version had all the features a premium membership provides. I liked the way the app combines the best online gaming and social media to make online dating less awkward and more enjoyable. So it’ll likely be a great option for Gen Z, millennials, and people who haven’t dated in a while.
- Fun, entertaining online dating experience
- Smart matching algorithm fine-tuning recommendations
- Lots of profiles are verified via social media, phone, etc.
- Limited free version functionality
- Sparse profile photos and personal details
eHarmony
- Best for 30-somethings interested in long-term relationships
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 29M |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | First launched in 2000, eHarmony remains among the top 10 dating apps in the US, with around 5 million monthly visits and over 750,000 premium members. Geared towards serious relationships, it’s less popular among younger people, but users over 30 make up over 60% of the dating pool. And while there’s a free version, premium plans start at $29.95. |
Dating toolset: | eHarmony seeks to help every user build a serious relationship, so aside from an extensive personal questionnaire, there are compatibility scores, icebreaker suggestions, and video chats for virtual dates. And the background checks the service runs to limit the number of fake profiles to ensure a safe and comfortable dating experience for everyone. |
Site | eharmony.com |
Although eHarmony has limited functionality as a free dating site, it’s worth a try if you’re seeking long-term relationships or marriage. I suggest you do some navel-gazing and are honest on your relationship questionnaire—if you hurry or tweak your responses, you may receive unsuitable matches, wasting your time.
Although eHarmony has limited functionality as a free dating site, it’s worth a try if you’re seeking long-term relationships or marriage. I suggest you do some navel-gazing and are honest on your relationship questionnaire—if you hurry or tweak your responses, you may receive unsuitable matches, wasting your time.
- Detailed personality test to generate automatic matches
- Thorough user verification process, including background check
- Safe video chat option for people nervous about going on the first date
- No manual search or matching options
- The signup process is pretty lengthy and complex
Match
- Best for daters over 30 seeking serious relationships
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 20M+ |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | Although Match has been around since 1995, it remains among the most popular online dating apps in the US, with over 20 million online daters using it monthly. 80% of the dating pool is over 30, and most are interested in serious relationships. While it’s not a free dating app, the monthly subscription rate is relatively moderate, starting at $19.99. |
Dating toolset: | After filling out a detailed questionnaire, users can use the advanced search with multiple filters to find potential matches. They enjoy unlimited messaging, video chat sessions, conversation starters, and virtual events. Premium members can also consult dating experts’ advice to improve their chances of success. |
Site | match.com |
Match can become a one-stop online dating solution. It combines the best features of other dating sites, like eHarmony’s personality test and Tinder’s variety. I suggest you make the most of its unique features, like unlimited video dates and local singles meetups, to get fast results.
Match can become a one-stop online dating solution. It combines the best features of other dating sites, like eHarmony’s personality test and Tinder’s variety. I suggest you make the most of its unique features, like unlimited video dates and local singles meetups, to get fast results.
- Video chat, virtual and offline dating events
- Flexible advanced search parameters to find a perfect match
- Open to LGBTQ+ relationships
- Lengthy signup process
- Limited free features
Elite Singles
- Best for highly educated professionals seeking like-minded partners
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 1M+ |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | EliteSingles is a part of the Spark Network, founded in 2008. And it’s also among the top dating apps, with over a million active users spread across 20+ countries. Designed for professionals interested in romantic relationships with like-minded people, EliteSingles offers free registration and basic membership. And premium monthly subscription costs range from $19.95 to $37.95, depending on the plan’s duration. |
Dating toolset: | Like other dating apps on this list, Elite Singles relies on a signup survey and profile data to generate matches, providing up to seven connections daily. All users can browse matches’ profiles and send likes and winks, but only paid membership unlocks unlimited instant messages. |
Site | elitesingles.com |
I appreciate EliteSingles‘ dedication to security—like most paid dating sites, it almost does have fake profiles, but only a few. And the automatic matching algorithm is a thing of beauty, especially if your profile is detailed enough. However, the one thing I sorely missed was video chat, though hopefully, it may become available sometime in the future.
I appreciate EliteSingles‘ dedication to security—like most paid dating sites, it almost does have fake profiles, but only a few. And the automatic matching algorithm is a thing of beauty, especially if your profile is detailed enough. However, the one thing I sorely missed was video chat, though hopefully, it may become available sometime in the future.
- Verified user profiles with a focus on privacy
- Science-backed matches generated daily
- Expert dating advice and tips to boost your dating game
- Unlimited messaging without video chat
- Smaller user base than on other dating websites
Silver Singles
- Best for 50-something singles seeking companionship
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 1M |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | As a part of Spark Network, Silver Singles specializes in matching older adults and seniors interested in romance, companionship, or fun. The platform enjoys around 1M monthly visits. And while registration and the basic feature set are free, premium membership comes with many perks and only costs $24.95 to $44.95 per month. |
Dating toolset: | Based on the registration questionnaire and profile data, Silver Singles’ smart algorithm provides three to seven matches daily, letting users view each others’ full profiles and exchange instant messages. Besides, the app runs thorough profile verification protocols to prevent dating scams from preying on older adults. |
Site | silversingles.com |
Thanks to a detailed personality survey and matching generation, I believe SilverSingles is the right dating site for people over 50, including single parents, looking for a committed relationship and genuine connection. The app makes it easy to transition between virtual and real-life dating, though I’d still like a video date option to be present.
Thanks to a detailed personality survey and matching generation, I believe SilverSingles is the right dating site for people over 50, including single parents, looking for a committed relationship and genuine connection. The app makes it easy to transition between virtual and real-life dating, though I’d still like a video date option to be present.
- Up to 7 daily personalized matches
- Unlimited messaging, likes, smiles, etc.
- User profile verification and other safety protocols in place
- Limited communication options
- The relatively small dating pool
Dating.com
- Best for singles interested in international romance
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 1.5M |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | Since its inception in 1993, Dating.com has spread over 32 countries and developed an impressive fan base of about 8M monthly users across the globe, from Mexico and the US to Brazil and the Philippines. The app is most popular among millennials and Gen Z, though around 25% of its users are over 45. And unlike other apps on this list, Dating.com relies on a credit-based system with rates ranging from $0.20 to $0.33 per credit. |
Dating toolset: | It’s among the top dating sites thanks to an impressive mix of communication features few other apps can boast. Aside from chatting, users can also watch live streams, go on virtual dates, call, and exchange private photos and videos. There’s even the option to send virtual gifts. As expected, most private communication tools are only available to paid members. For instance, while anyone can watch a live stream, users need to spend credits to initiate a video call. |
Site | dating.com |
Dating.com has much to offer, but you must be mindful of the cost. Even if you invest in the largest credit package, daily video chats will burn through it within a week. I recommend using your welcome bonus to test as many features as possible to decide which ones are worth the expense. For example, in my experience, live streams were just as engaging as video calls, but they were free.
Dating.com has much to offer, but you must be mindful of the cost. Even if you invest in the largest credit package, daily video chats will burn through it within a week. I recommend using your welcome bonus to test as many features as possible to decide which ones are worth the expense. For example, in my experience, live streams were just as engaging as video calls, but they were free.
- All the communication features: chat, mail, calls, video chat, live streams
- Stickers, smiles, virtual gifts, and private photos are available
- AI-powered user verification and moderation
- No unlimited messaging for premium users
- The relatively small American dating pool
JDate
- Best for Jewish singles in search of romance and companionship
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 300K+ |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | With over twenty years in the online dating arena, JDate attracts over 400K monthly visits, most of which come from the US. As the name suggests, the popular dating site is tailored for Jewish members, who can sign up and test the platform and mobile apps for free. But if they wish to enjoy all the benefits of JDate, they’ll need to invest in a premium subscription, starting at $19.99 per month. |
Dating toolset: | Like most popular dating apps, JDate requires a detailed profile to help you find matches. However, the platform lets you use swiping and search filters if none of the automatically generated suggestions fit your requirements. JDate users can exchange “Flirts,” instant messages, and photos, but not videos. On the other hand, the platform provides a broad array of privacy features, including anonymous browsing, read receipts, removal from search results, etc. |
Site | jdate.com |
Although the dating website isn’t limited to Jewish users, you can use it to find a like-minded match sharing your religious beliefs. I recommend specifying your preferences in your profile and using search filters to narrow down the options. Otherwise, swiping may be a more fun alternative for finding potential matches.
Although the dating website isn’t limited to Jewish users, you can use it to find a like-minded match sharing your religious beliefs. I recommend specifying your preferences in your profile and using search filters to narrow down the options. Otherwise, swiping may be a more fun alternative for finding potential matches.
- Automated matching and search filters are available
- Instant messaging with photo exchange
- Activity feed to keep track of messaging and updates
- Limited communication tools for free users
- No video date or chat options
POF
- Best for casual online flirting and fun for all ages
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 10M |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | Plenty of Fish launched in 2003 and joined Match Group in 2015. As of 2023, the dating app boasts around 20 million monthly users, half of whom are American. Unlike other online dating sites, it’s pretty popular across all age groups, with a nearly equal distribution from 18 to 65+. The popularity can be attributed to the variety of free features, even if users can upgrade to a premium account for $25 per month. |
Dating toolset: | POF makes online dating exciting and fun, thanks to the many connecting ways. Members can play matchmaking games, explore circles, join live streams, exchange messages, and set video dates. However, most of these options are extremely limited for free accounts. For example, basic membership allows for a minimum number of profile photos and daily connections, while the Live! feature is exclusive to paid users. |
Site | pof.com |
I had fun exploring POF and testing different features; live streams were especially enticing. After a thorough trial, I believe it’s a great app for casual connections, flirting, and chatting that doesn’t have to go anywhere. It’s worth a try if you’re not looking for anything serious but want to make your nights less lonely.
I had fun exploring POF and testing different features; live streams were especially enticing. After a thorough trial, I believe it’s a great app for casual connections, flirting, and chatting that doesn’t have to go anywhere. It’s worth a try if you’re not looking for anything serious but want to make your nights less lonely.
- Live streams and video chats to make dating more intimate
- Access to lots of profile photos and extended details for premium users
- Flexible messaging, privacy, and matching settings
- Lots of limitations for free members
- Free messaging may lead to spam without a minimum word count limit
Badoo
- Best for casual online dating and chatting with local and international matches
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 15M |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | Launched in 2006, Badoo is now the fourth most downloaded Android dating app in the US, with an average of 60 million monthly users globally and an overall user base of over 300 million. Although the app is free, like most dating sites, it requires a premium subscription for full access to all features. Luckily, the rates are reasonable, ranging from $0.79 for a 1-day subscription to $59.99 for a lifetime of premium use. |
Dating toolset: | Badoo offers a generous mix of dating and social media-like features. For example, you can swipe or use search filters to find suitable partners. But you can also post your mood to see if you’re on the same wavelength as other singles. Aside from short video clips posted in your profile, you can also exchange instant messages and enjoy video calls. |
Site | badoo.com |
I like Badoo mainly because of its dedication to a comfortable dating experience. Like other dating apps, Badoo runs profile verification, but the smart algorithms take it to the next level by automatically blocking unsolicited intimate photo messages and offensive language. I also quite enjoyed a chance to browse profiles anonymously to avoid an influx of notifications.
I like Badoo mainly because of its dedication to a comfortable dating experience. Like other dating apps, Badoo runs profile verification, but the smart algorithms take it to the next level by automatically blocking unsolicited intimate photo messages and offensive language. I also quite enjoyed a chance to browse profiles anonymously to avoid an influx of notifications.
- Instant messaging, video chat, and more communication options
- Matching, search filters, and local meetups are available
- Multiple ways to spruce up an account: clips, intentions, moods, etc.
- Somewhat convoluted subscription model with extra credit expenses
- Glitchy mobile app search filters, especially location-wise
Christian Mingle
- Best for meaningful connections between Christian singles of all ages
Free version: | Yes |
Users in the US: | 10M |
Available on: | Web, App Store, Google Play |
Facts and figures: | Christian Mingle boasts over 15 million users globally and around 1 million monthly visits, most of which come from the dating site. It is popular among users of all ages, so it works equally well for Gen Z and boomers. However, only paid members can enjoy the full feature set, and the subscription rates start at $49.99 per month. |
Dating toolset: | Although Christian Mingle provides tailored matches daily, users can also search for suitable partners using advanced filters, including location. Those too shy to start a conversation with a stranger can start by sending a “Smile” to gauge potential interest. And once the contact is established, members can exchange messages and photos. Advanced features also include read receipts, anonymous browsing, and hiding profile status. |
Site | christianmingle.com |
Christian Mingle is probably the best dating site for finding a match based on your religious tenets and traditions. In my experience, most profiles are pretty detailed and geared toward serious commitment. The only thing missing is the video messaging option, though you may use it to speed up the transition to a real-life first date.
Christian Mingle is probably the best dating site for finding a match based on your religious tenets and traditions. In my experience, most profiles are pretty detailed and geared toward serious commitment. The only thing missing is the video messaging option, though you may use it to speed up the transition to a real-life first date.
- A daily dose of automatically generated matches
- Comfortable activity feed for instant updates
- “Smile” feature to help identify mutual interest
- No video messages or chatting
- Profile browsing only available with a paid subscription
A few preliminary steps are necessary to ensure online dating sites work for you. First, I suggest you formulate your goal. The perfect dating site will be different for people seeking hookups or marriage. Next, paint a vivid portrait of your ideal partner and prioritize their main traits. For example, if you’re religious, you may want a partner to share your belief system. Finally, decide on your monthly dating budget—as most reputable sites require a small fee, you will need to account for the extra expense in your financial planning. With these considerations in mind, browse the list of top 10 dating sites to find your perfect dating app.
A few preliminary steps are necessary to ensure online dating sites work for you. First, I suggest you formulate your goal. The perfect dating site will be different for people seeking hookups or marriage. Next, paint a vivid portrait of your ideal partner and prioritize their main traits. For example, if you’re religious, you may want a partner to share your belief system. Finally, decide on your monthly dating budget—as most reputable sites require a small fee, you will need to account for the extra expense in your financial planning. With these considerations in mind, browse the list of top 10 dating sites to find your perfect dating app.
Final Thoughts
Now you know what sets popular online dating platforms apart and how to choose the best dating sites. Thanks to free registration and web and mobile apps, you can create an account and start dating within minutes. So give it a try and find the companionship and romance you deserve.