Introduction to Online Gay Dating: 6 Things You Need to Know to Ensure Success
When it comes to the world of gay dating, there are many things one needs to know. Whether you are wondering what to wear on your first date or are just looking for gay online dating profile tips, here is our list of the top 10 things to consider when you take the plunge into the world of gay dating.
1. Gay Dating Online Has Great Benefits
While gay dating online dating has numerous benefits, the most important is the ability to connect with someone on an intimate level. At a dance club or a smoky bar, you cannot enjoy simple conversations—the type that allow you to pick up on someone’s sense of humor or their general level of intelligence. Online dating allows you to take the time to get to know people.
Another great benefit is that you can easily reject people you have no interest in talking to. At the bar, some don’t accept being brushed off well (or they just can’t take a hint). On the internet, all it takes is a simple click, and you are on to the next guy.
2. Profiles Lacking in Content
While smartphone apps are extremely easy to setup and use, they leave everything to the imagination. Other than a few characters, maybe two or three sentences, you won’t get much information from browsing profiles on apps like Grindr.
Often, the desire to fill your profile with the minimum requirements is hard to overcome. You want to do as little as possible so that you can immediately start to see other users in the dating pool; however, take the time to properly fill out your profile so that you can connect with those that share your interests.
If you’re looking to date and make a love connection, try an online dating website like Match.
3. Profile Pictures
Nothing is more disheartening than showing up to a date and finding that your date’s profile picture doesn’t live up to expectations. It is not fair to you and it wouldn’t be fair of you to do the same to someone else. Unfortunately, it’s a constant reality in the online dating world – one that you have to be aware of. Use a current picture. Do not photoshop your picture. And by all means, use an appropriate picture.
4. Online Dating isn’t Dating
We mentioned earlier that there were numerous benefits to online dating. While this is the case, it is important to remember that online dating is not the same as dating. Even though you may spend hours in deep, intimate conversation, this does not constitute a date. You have to get out, meet new people in person, and try new experiences. If you find someone interesting online, take the plunge and ask them out on a date.
5. Unexpected Money Conversations
A problem you might not expect to have in online dating is in regards to money. Because of the different dynamics that are present in gay relationships, there are often significant differences in assets and income. As many men are interested in relationships, career and personal finance questions are bound to pop up in conversation, so be ready to handle them appropriately.
6. The Number of Gay Online Dating Users is Growing Exponentially
A recent study published that 70% of gay couples are now meeting online. With numbers so high, it is hard to ignore the facts; online dating is the wave of the future. After reading the aforementioned nine facts--and given the simplicity of online dating--it is hard to fathom a future in which we don't all participate in online dating.
Whether this is your first time researching gay dating sites online or you are just dusting off the cobwebs after a long-term relationship, just remember to be true to yourself, be honest and open, and be willing to try new experiences. Often, the biggest obstacle in gay dating is getting out of your own way.
There’s no shortage of apps for gay men looking to find a partner. Whether you’re looking for a long-term relationship or a one-night fling, there’s likely an app that will find you suitable matches. That leaves the choice up to you. If you’re looking to enhance your chances at finding someone, it could be time to invest in one of these top dating sites for gay men.
You Don’t Have to Settle—to Settle Down
These days there are more gay dating site options than ever before, and they have the know-how and experience to help you make a meaningful connection. Whether by sophisticated matching algorithm or location-based app, by searching for your specific type and tribe or waiting to see who pops up on your screen, the options are making it easier for men to connect. All you have to do is figure out what you’re looking for, open your mind, and take the plunge.
Our Top 3 Picks
- 1Trusted site with millions of users
- Pricing - As low as $19.99
- Free version - Yes
- Age range - 25-55
Trusted site with millions of usersRead Match ReviewMatch - Best for finding a variety of relationship styles
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 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.
Match Pros & Cons
PROS
Experienced, well-trusted dating siteHigh-percentage of success storiesAllows up to 26 profile photosCONS
30-minute sign-up processMore traditional than other sites - 2An inclusive app to meet gay, queer, and bi menRead Archer Review
With a quick sign-up process, Archer enables gay, queer, and bisexual men to find other men for socializing, hook-ups, or long-term relationships. You can share photo updates with followers and find your ideal match using tags relating to your interests. Although video calls aren’t yet available, you can send photos and private albums through instant messaging. With multiple layout options, it’s also easy to search through profiles.
Why we chose Archer - Archer stands out for being an inclusive dating app that caters to gay men seeking all types of relationships. It offers free, unlimited instant messaging and fun social media features.
Our experience - We were impressed with the detailed blog posts and guides that provide many tips and resources for people dating or searching for love.
Archer Pros & Cons
PROS
Verified photosSocial media toolsStrong safety and security featuresCONS
No video calls availableOnly available on mobile devices - 3The only place to look for gay love and fun
- Pricing - $0.99-$.50per day
- Free version - Yes
- Age range - 25-45
The only place to look for gay love and funRead gaystryst ReviewGayTryst is the premier dating app for homosexual men. It is exclusively catering to this demographic, and what's more, it has a member base of more than 6 million members. That's a tremendous dating pool, and they're all gay men looking for love, relationships, friendships, and flings. So, if you are a single gay man looking for someone to share your time with, GayTryst is the place to be.
gaystryst Pros & Cons
PROS
Gay-only membership6+ million membersVideo profile uploaderCONS
Only for gay menNot overly concerned about security
