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Top 10 Best Dating Sites and Apps 2023 - Your Guide to Finding Love Online

Head and shoulders photograph of Suzannah Weiss
Suzannah Weiss
Last Updated: Nov 09, 2023
Top 10 Best Dating Sites

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With so many online dating sites, finding the ideal match can be daunting. Dating apps and websites ask lots of personal questions and then rely on matchmaking algorithms, which, according to Misha Kavka, Professor of Cross-Media Culture at the University of Amsterdam, "Fulfill your desire by knowing you better than you (can) know yourself," to find your perfect match.

We've simplified the process by evaluating the top dating platforms according to type of site, price, matching methodologies, and more.

After extensive research, reviews, and comparisons, we've curated a list of the best dating websites and apps tailored to various preferences and lifestyles, ensuring you find your ideal partner.

Our Top 10 Best Online Dating Sites and Apps to Meet Singles:

  • eharmony - Best dating site and app overall
  • SilverSingles - Best for seniors
  • EliteSingles - Best for professionals
  • Stir - Best for single parents
  • Ourtime - Best for singles over 50
  • Zoosk - Best for a long-term relationship
  • BlackPeopleMeet - Best for black singles
  • Match - Best for finding a variety of relationship styles
  • Jdate - Best for Jewish singles
  • Tawkify - Best for hand-selected matching
Easy Matching
1
Read Review
eharmony -A science-based approach to love
exceptional
9.8
Visit Site
2
Read Review
SilverSingles -Connecting compatible seniors
excellent
9.4
Visit Site
3
Read Review
EliteSingles -Boutique dating for professionals
very good
8.8
Visit Site
4
Read Review
Stir -Stir is a dating app for single parents.
very good
8.7
Visit Site
Dating Over 50
5
Read Review
Ourtime -Digital matchmaking for seniors
very good
8.6
Visit Site
6
Read Review
Zoosk -Organic matchmaking through technology
very good
8.9
Visit Site
7
Read Review
BlackPeopleMeet -Premier site for black singles
very good
8.6
Visit Site
8
Read Review
Match -Trusted site with millions of users
very good
8.9
Visit Site
9
Read Review
Jdate -Jewish dating with modern flair
good
8.0
Visit Site
10
Read Review
Tawkify -
very good
8.6
Visit Site
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Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best Online Dating Sites and Apps

We tried and tested these dating services ourselves. Our team also gathered as much information as possible from various sources, including research reports and customer reviews, to give a comprehensive overview of the best dating sites on the market. 

In rating them, we aimed to present a variety of options targeted at different people. We considered the following features: 

  • Pricing
  • Free version options
  • Number of members
  • Age range of users 
  • Communication options
  • User reviews
    1
    eharmony
    eharmony Best Dating Sites
    A science-based approach to loveVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $29.95
    • Age Range - 30-50
    A science-based approach to love
    Visit Site

    eharmony is for daters ready to find love and looking for others who are on the same page. With detailed questionnaires and profiles, compatibility scores, and icebreaker questions, it's easy to match with a potential long-term partner and initiate contact.

    On top of that, the site screens users to make sure none of them are on criminal registries—something that'll be reassuring to those concerned about getting pulled into an online dating scam

    eharmony requires you to spend a significant amount of time creating a profile. Its detailed questionnaire stretches out the sign-up process but allows the site to find truly compatible matches and keeps out people who aren't serious about exploring meaningful connections. 

    Why we chose eharmony: Its patented algorithms consider several factors, from personality traits to daily living habits, making it a fantastic choice to find long-term relationships. It's been around since the year 2000 and has matched over 2 million people, refining its processes along the way. 

    Our experience: We found it helpful to be able to specify things like your faith and morals so you can find a match on all levels: physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional. When we browsed profiles, both on mobile and desktop, we really felt like we got to know the other members, even before we started talking to them. 

    Read eharmony Review

    PROS

    Detailed compatibility quizzes
    Helpful conversation starters
    SecureCall safety feature

    CONS

    Users can’t search for matches
    Quizzes demand time and thought
    eharmony logo
    eharmony
    Visit Site
    2
    SilverSingles
    SilverSingles Best Dating Sites
    Connecting compatible seniorsVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $24.95
    • Age Range - 50 and up
    Connecting compatible seniors
    Visit Site

    Most dating apps target younger people, but SilverSingles gives the over-50 demographic plenty of opportunities to find companionship.

    SilverSingles matches members based on a personality test designed by psychologists and relationship experts. This test has over 100 questions and scores your answers on four traits: openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism. These are used to assess your personality type and find matches whose interests and lifestyles are compatible with yours.

    The matching process values quality over quantity. After answering the test questions, the site identifies three to seven matches per day. So while taking a test initially may sound like a lot of work, it will save you the trouble of searching for dates later down the line. 

    Why we chose SilverSingles: This service is available as an app and a website. Both are easy to navigate and use with well-organized tabs and big and bold fonts. Plus, if you're not well-versed in writing dating profiles, you can request someone to help you write yours for an additional fee. This site is the ideal choice for singles over 50 seeking long-term relationships.

    Our experience: We felt that SilverSingles' personality test was particularly useful to develop self-knowledge. And while you do have limited control over who you can connect with, we liked that all potential matches are curated specifically for you. 

    Read SilverSingles Review

    PROS

    Smart compatibility matching tools
    Strong safety precautions in place
    Users don’t need to be tech savvy

    CONS

    Lengthy signup process
    No manual searching
    silversingles logo
    SilverSingles
    Visit Site
    3
    EliteSingles
    EliteSingles Best Dating Sites
    Boutique dating for professionalsVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $31.95
    • Age Range - 30-45
    Boutique dating for professionals
    Visit Site

    If you haven't been able to click with people on most mainstream dating apps, consider a more specialized service like EliteSingles. This site is aimed at intellectuals who value their professional lives and are looking for someone to have deep conversations with. 

    Since SilverSingles and EliteSingles are owned by the same company, they have a lot in common. EliteSingles also asks users to take a research-based personality test and shows them three to seven matches a day based on their answers. The quiz allows users to state what qualities are most important to them in a partner. 

    Like most apps and sites we've evaluated, EliteSingles offers free memberships but requires users to pay in order to message others. 

    Why we chose EliteSingles: Due to the extensive quizzes members have to take, the sign-up process can become quite lengthy. But we believe this is a good thing because it ensures that the site only attracts users who are serious about finding relationships with like-minded people. Plus, for members' safety, profiles are manually verified, and photos cannot be copied or downloaded from the site, so your personal information stays confidential.

    Our experience: We liked using the "Have We Met" feature, which allowed us to browse other profiles on top of our daily matches. We also liked that we could swipe "yes" or "no" to other users. But we were frustrated that there wasn't an instant chat or phone option for support—you'll have to wait up to two days to get a response over email.

    Read EliteSingles Review

    PROS

    Boutique, curated matches
    Advanced personality tests
    Users united by common relationship goals

    CONS

    Less interactive experience
    Smaller user base
    elitesingles logo
    EliteSingles
    Visit Site
    4
    Stir
    stir
    Stir is a dating app for single parents.Visit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - From $16.99 a month
    • Age Range - 20s-40s
    Stir is a dating app for single parents.
    Visit Site

    Stir is mainly for single parents and people open to dating someone with kids. With features like "matchPhone", which supports texting and calling, there are plenty of ways to connect on Stir.

    The "Stir Time" function helps users coordinate their schedules, so they can meet up when they're away from their kids. Users can also set up video chats with other members to screen them before meeting in person, which helps them protect themselves and their children.

    A free plan gives you access to view and like profiles, and potentially get a message after lots of browsing. However, if you'd like to communicate with other members, you'll need a paid membership. 

    Why we chose Stir: This app creates a space where single parents, who are often misunderstood, assumed to be too busy, or judged for the fact that their previous relationships didn't work out, can connect with each other. The app also ensures that single parents don't waste their free time wading through a bunch of profiles of people who consider children to be a dealbreaker. 

    Our experience: Stir is made by the same company as Match, so its profiles are also very inclusive. But the sign-up process is less intense, which we think is ideal for busy parents. We also liked that the specific profile prompts let us share things that we felt were important, such as our drinking habits.

    Read Stir Review

    PROS

    Specific dating pool (parents and people who want kids)
    Inclusive for people of different genders and sexualities
    Strong safety and security guidelines

    CONS

    Number of overall users is unclear
    Expensive subscription and upgrade prices
    stir logo
    Stir
    Visit Site
    5
    Ourtime
    OurTime Best Dating Sites
    Digital matchmaking for seniorsVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $7.49
    • Age Range - 50 and up
    Digital matchmaking for seniors
    Visit Site

    Ourtime is geared toward giving the 50-and-up crowd a chance at love. But you don't have to be in your 50s to sign up; anyone interested in dating people who are 50 and over is welcome to join. 

    Ourtime makes it easy to search for other users by location. With a premium plan, you can send messages, virtual gifts, or even "flirts" to show interest, but you won't have access to any of these features unless you pay for a monthly subscription. 

    OurTime users say they like the focus on user privacy and security. The site ensures its members stay safe while exploring possible connections by providing safety tips for both online and in-person dating. However, some have complained about technical problems and a lack of racial diversity among its active members.

    Why we chose Ourtime: Singles over 50 are a large and growing demographic. Ourtime gives singles a way to date without worrying about being rejected because of their age.

    Our experience: We saw many profiles with generic bios on other apps. We liked Ourtime's unique prompts that ask users to answer three quirky questions so others can get to know them better. These questions include: "What's your favorite kind of date?", "Which do you prefer - morning or night?" and "Which do you prefer - sweet or savory?" We also appreciated the option to search for various match criteria, including religion and zodiac signs, to find people whose beliefs and interests were compatible with ours. 

    Read Ourtime Review

    PROS

    Large user base
    Helpful customer support
    Real-world singles events and outings

    CONS

    Limited matching technology
    Need paid membership to send messages
    ourtime logo
    Ourtime
    Visit Site
    6
    Zoosk
    Zoosk Best Dating Sites
    Organic matchmaking through technologyVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $29.99
    • Age Range - 25-45
    Organic matchmaking through technology
    Visit Site

    Zoosk emerged as part of Facebook in 2007, but since then, it's become its own entity (as a website and mobile app) with over 35 million users. 

    Zoosk's Behavioral Matchmaking™ engine (the best thing about this site) filters profiles according to ones you've previously liked and gets smarter the more you use it. That way, you waste less time sorting through people who aren't your type. 

    Although there's a free version, a subscription lets you message other users to show you're interested in them. Subscription options range from $29.95 for one month to $119.99 for a 12-month plan (which works out to $10 per month).

    Why we chose Zoosk: It gamifies dating with fun features like watching and commenting on other users' live streams, participating in virtual speed dating, and playing a "carousel" game that lets you classify others as "yeses," "nos," or "maybes." Zoosk also requires users to verify their profiles with their social media accounts, phone numbers, or photos, so it's easier to avoid fake profiles and scams.

    Our experience: We liked Zoosk's quick and easy sign-up process—you can join by connecting your Facebook account. We also found the "dating insights reports" very helpful because they gave us a better idea of what we should be looking for. The personal profiles are pretty sparse though, so you probably won't know much about your date until you work up the nerve to talk to them.

    Read Zoosk Review

    PROS

    More than 35 million users
    Behavioral matching technology
    User-friendly app

    CONS

    Limited features on the free version
    Some may prefer a more manual approach
    zoosk logo
    Zoosk
    Visit Site
    7
    BlackPeopleMeet
    BlackPeopleMeet Best Dating Sites
    Premier site for black singlesVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $2.99
    • Age Range - 30-50
    Premier site for black singles
    Visit Site

    BlackPeopleMeet has been around since 2002 and, as the name suggests, is catered primarily toward members of the black community. But it's also designed for people of other races who are interested in finding a black partner. In fact, it's suitable for anyone looking for a serious relationship, travel partner, or friendship. 

    BlackPeopleMeet makes it easy for users to locate others whose desires match theirs with a wide variety of search features. The most unique is the keyword search option, which locates profiles that contain specific words or phrases.

    The free version has all the standard functions you'd expect and all members can view profiles, match, send messages to "Top Picks" and rate daily matches. A premium membership is required to access the messaging feature, but the cost is relatively low at just $2.99 per week if you purchase a six-month plan, compared to other apps. 

    Why we chose BlackPeopleMeet: Given the racism some people experience on general-interest dating apps, it's invaluable to have a space where African American singles can meet one another—and others who are open to exploring interracial relationships.

    Our experience: We thought the "Message Ideas" feature, which provides conversation-starter suggestions for tongue-tied users, was super helpful. We also liked how the site prompts users to write what kind of relationship they're interested in on their profile, with options including "travel partner" or "pen pal." But we thought it was sketchy that there were many profiles without photos. 

    Read BlackPeopleMeet Review

    PROS

    Prioritizes people over algorithms
    Easy to sign up and use
    Reach out through message, chat, or flirt

    CONS

    Limited compatibility matches
    Only paying users can communicate
    blackpeoplemeet logo
    BlackPeopleMeet
    Visit Site
    8
    Match
    Match Best Dating Sites
    Trusted site with millions of usersVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - As low as $19.99
    • Age Range - 25-55
    Trusted site with millions of users
    Visit Site

    Match is one of the most popular online dating platforms out there, with millions of users in over 60 countries. This site is a fantastic choice for those seeking serious relationships because profiles include many prompts to learn about users' personalities, lifestyles, and interests. 

    After creating a profile on Match, you'll get access to limited free functionality. However, you need to become a paying member to send messages. Plus, you'll need to devote time to this app by uploading photos, writing a detailed bio, and answering a lot of questions. 

    Users have complained that the site doesn't always produce compatible matches, because some people use the site to find hookups. But they seem very happy with Match's customer service, particularly the expert dating coaches who are available to all paying members.

    Why we chose Match: Match has an inclusive user base, which allows its users to identify as various genders and sexual orientations and connect with a lot of different people. In addition, social media and phone verification keep fake users to a minimum.

    Our experience: We enjoyed taking advantage of the features that make Match stand out from other dating apps and sites, such as read receipts on messages and unlimited video chatting. 

    Read Match Review

    PROS

    Experienced, well-trusted dating site
    High-percentage of success stories
    Allows up to 26 profile photos

    CONS

    30-minute sign-up process
    More traditional than other sites
    match logo
    Match
    Visit Site
    9
    Jdate
    jdate
    Jewish dating with modern flairVisit Site
    • Free Version - Yes
    • Pricing - $19.99 per month for a 6-month subscription
    • Age Range - 20-30
    Jewish dating with modern flair
    Visit Site

    Jdate specializes in finding matches for Jewish singles and boasts over 750,000 online daters. Users can "heart" or "x" each other to indicate interest or lack thereof, and those who express mutual interest are matched up. 

    Paid members can send messages, while premium members get Messaging+, which enables them to message anyone on the site (including free members). Chats are in an instant-message format and include read receipts and the ability to block users.

    If you're looking for excellent customer support—and Jewish singles, of course—then Jdate is a perfect choice. Most users rave about Jdate's customer care team and its blog, JLife, which offers advice intended to help singles navigate dating in the Jewish community. However, some users have mentioned that the app isn't very user-friendly and can be buggy at times.

    Why we chose Jdate: Jdate has a variety of filters, ranging from religious practices to ideal relationship type, and each day, it shows you new people based on your preferences. We think this feature is especially useful for someone with a solid religious identity who wants to date people with similar convictions. In addition, most of Jdate's users pursue serious relationships, making it a must-have for someone who's ready to settle down.

    Our experience: We found Jdate's search function to be the most specific of the bunch, allowing you to specify whether you care if someone goes to synagogue or eats kosher. We also liked that you can search based on other factors, such as location and match percentage. This feature allowed us to hone in on who we really wanted and gave us plenty of options.

    Read Jdate Review

    PROS

    Very active site with a large user base
    Nice mix of religious, secular, and culturally Jewish singles
    No need to be Jewish to join

    CONS

    Not ideal for hookups or NST relationships
    Limited free membership
    jdate logo
    Jdate
    Visit Site
    10
    Tawkify
    Tawkify
    Visit Site
    • Free Version - Not available
    • Age Range - 30-65+
    Visit Site

    Tawkify takes the time and hassle out of dating—for an expensive price. If you can invest thousands each month, you’ll benefit from a dedicated matchmaker who will find matches and arrange dates for you. Tawkify also has the advantage of customizable plans so you can create a package that suits your needs.

    With over a million users, there are lots of opportunities to find your perfect partner. However, you must wait for a matchmaker to choose a suitable person for you to meet and can’t perform searches yourself.

    Why we chose Tawkify -  The site has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot and has created over 200,000 successful matches. It has strong privacy and safety features, including background checks.

    Our experience - We found the application process straightforward and benefited from the free consultation to choose the most suitable package. 

    Read Tawkify Review
    tawkify logo
    Tawkify
    Visit Site


How to Compare the Best Online Dating Sites and Apps

The chart below provides a guide to different factors you should consider when comparing dating sites. These include cost, messaging options, user base, ease of use, matching methods, niche interests, and more. 

When comparing different dating services, it's a good idea to first determine which factors are most important to you and zero in on apps matching your priorities. If you want to meet people of a specific cultural group or age, for instance, pay special attention to the app's demographics and recommended age range.

Compare the Best Dating Sites
1
eharmony
2
SilverSingles
3
EliteSingles
4
Stir
5
Ourtime
6
Zoosk
7
BlackPeopleMeet
8
Match
9
Jdate
Reviews128 reviews104 reviews88 reviews15 reviews75 reviews97 reviewsWrite Review73 reviews69 reviews
Pricing
As low as $29.95
per month for 6-month subscription
As low as $24.95
per month for 1-year subscription
As low as $31.95
per month for 1-year subscription
From $16.99 a month
As low as $7.49
per month
As low as $29.99
per month for 1-year subscription
As low as $2.99
per month for 6-month subscription
As low as $19.99
per month for 1-year subscription
$19.99 per month for a 6-month subscription
Free version
Number of members
10
million +
800,000 active/month
new members each month
13,000,000
million +
Unknown
1,500,000 plus
million +
40
million
1 million
million +
30
million +
+750,000
Recommended age range
30-50
50 and up
30-45
20s-40s
50 and up
25-45
30-50
25-55
20-30
Communication options
Messaging, video chat, icebreaker messages, sending smiles
Messaging, commenting, sending smiles, likes, and photo requests
Messaging, commenting, sending smiles, likes, and photo requests
Messaging, video chat, commenting, sending likes
Messaging, video chat, commenting, sending likes
Messaging, sending smiles and likes
Messaging, commenting, sending likes
Messaging, video chat, sending likes
Messaging

How Online Dating Sites Work: A Comprehensive Guide

With online dating sites and apps, users can create personal profiles that share information such as their name, age, interests, and preferences for potential partners. 

These platforms use algorithms to suggest matches based on compatibility factors like shared interests and location. User feedback and interactions help refine the matching algorithms and adjust features. You can also actively search for matches using specific criteria and communicate through the platform with messaging or video calls. 

Many sites have safety measures, such as profile verification and encrypted communications, to protect users' privacy and security. User experience on these sites is often enhanced by subscription models that offer premium features, like seeing who viewed your profile or unlimited messaging. 

Overall, online dating sites provide a digital space to make it easier for people to find and connect with potential partners.

Who Should Use Online Dating Apps? Finding Your Perfect Match

Online dating apps are great for adults seeking to expand their social circles, find companionship, or look for romantic relationships. They cater to diverse age groups, interests, and intentions.  

These apps or sites are especially useful for those seeking more specific qualities. For example, if you’re Black, Asian, LGBTQ+, or over 50, you may want to find a dating site with users like you. Using a preference-specific dating app that caters to individuals from similar backgrounds offers relatability and shared values to daters. 

The convenience of meeting people outside one’s usual social environment makes dating sites ideal for those with busy schedules or limited opportunities to meet others. The online dating experience suits anyone seeking a romantic or sexual partner.

What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Dating Site

Before choosing a dating site, there are a few key factors that are important to consider to find the right platform for your goals and preferences. 

The first thing you should do before picking a site is figure out what type of relationship you’re seeking. Different sites cater to different needs, from one-night stands to serious relationships. 

There are thousands of dating platforms out there. After specifying what type of relationship you are looking for, it’s valuable to consider the target audience of different sites and pick one that suits your age, lifestyle, or cultural background.

While you have to do some soul-searching before settling on a specific site, you should remember that many platforms are set up to work for you with matching methodologies. Understand the site’s approach to matchmaking, as some use algorithms while others allow more freedom in searching. 

Beyond checking out how the site works, research the site’s reputation. Read reviews and testimonials to gauge user satisfaction and success rates.

Know that it's normal not to have immediate success on dating apps. If you send a message but don't get a response—stay positive even if things look a little too quiet right at the start. If you do match with someone, know that conversations don't always go somewhere.

How Much Do Online Dating Sites and Apps Cost?

While many dating sites and apps have free versions or offer free trials, paid memberships can go as low as less than $10 per month for some sites and can reach up to around $100 per month for others, depending on the features and length of the subscription.

Here, you can find a quick comparison of our Top 10 Dating Sites and Apps based on our research, from least to most expensive: 

Platform

Dating.com

BlackPeopleMeet

Ourtime

Stir

Match

Jdate

SilverSingles

eharmony

Zoosk

EliteSingles

Pricing

From $2.99

From $2.99

From $7.49

From $16.99

From $19.99

From $19.99

From $24.95

From $29.95    

From $29.99

From $31.95


Free dating sites and apps like OkCupid, Tinder, and Grindr offer basic services at no cost, including profile creation and messaging. These platforms often feature optional paid upgrades for enhanced functionality. Paid sites generally provide a more curated experience with advanced matching algorithms and features for users seeking serious relationships. Free versions may be sufficient for casual dating and initial exploration.

Finding the one can take time and cost money. For example, women across 50 US cities spend, on average, $524 before meeting ‘the one.’ In more expensive cities like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle, men will likely spend an average of $722 before finding their match. 

Before spending on dates, it’s valuable to understand how much dating sites and apps cost. Depending on the platform and subscription plan, online dating sites and apps vary in cost. 

What Kind of Dating Sites and Apps Are Out There For Your Needs? 

How to Stay Safe and Avoid Scams on Dating Sites: Protect Your Heart

Dating site scams include but are not limited to, catfishing or robot profiles aimed at getting your information or money. To find true love beyond the dangers, it's worthwhile to avoid scams not only by running background checks but also by following these dating safety tips:

  • Be wary of profile pictures that look too staged or professional. You can do a reverse google search on any image and check to see whether the image is actually of a celebrity or influencer. 
  • Request video chat with other users before meeting. 
  • Ask for your date's social media profiles, and check out their pages before agreeing to meet. 
  • Suggest meeting in person sooner rather than later so you don't get sucked into a false and addictive online relationship.
  • Totally avoid sharing nude photos or videos of yourself, especially if they include your face.
  • If the dating app you're using supports this function, make sure the people you match with have verified profiles.

Additional Online Dating Sites We Reviewed: Broadening Your Options

Beyond the ten sites in the list above, we reviewed over 40 top-rated dating sites and apps available in the US. If you're looking for more options, check out these reviews:

Explore These Interesting Articles: Dive Deeper into the World of Dating

Find Love Today – It's Out There: Your Journey Begins Now

The modern dating scene isn't easy to navigate. But with so many apps available for different kinds of connections, your chances of finding love online are better than ever. 

Our picks for the top 10 best online dating sites are eharmony, SilverSingles, EliteSingles, Stir, Ourtime, Zoosk, BlackPeopleMeet, Match, Jdate, and Dating.com.

If you're looking to meet new people, choosing the platform that's best for you can save you a lot of time. You may not meet your perfect match right away, but these apps can help narrow your dating pool—and let you have a little fun along the way.

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