Best Dating Apps of 2022

With the world continuing its path into the digital realm, dating has changed a lot from what it used to be. While you may wish to meet a romantic partner at a diner and share a milkshake, dating has evolved into something much different. Now, you may not even need to leave your home to find a potential partner, thanks to the best dating apps of 2022.

You likely remember the TV commercials advertising websites like match.com or eharmony in the 2000s. As technology advanced and people everywhere bought smartphones, online dating websites soon turned into user-friendly, convenient dating apps. 

There are a ton of dating apps available for Android and iPhone users, but which ones are worth downloading?

Here are some of the best dating apps to download in 2022.

1. Tinder

Tinder has been around since 2012 and it’s the most popular dating app in the United States as of February 2022. It’s easy to use and brings you fast, fun results. Most of the time, Tinder is a good option if you’re looking to casually date. 

However, you’ll find other users looking for short-term relationships, marriage or hookups. Tinder has shifted over the years and many people now only seek hookups on the app. It’s best to be upfront about what you’re looking for to avoid confusion and hurt feelings. 

2. Hinge

When using the Hinge app, you will be able to connect with other Hinge users in the neighborhood you choose. Hinge calls itself “the app designed to be deleted,” as the ultimate goal is to find love so you no longer have to like potential partner profiles. 

You can like users’ profiles, but only a certain number per day. You’ll be able to know if someone likes dogs or wants to travel somewhere that you love, for example. Just message the person once you match and start that connection.

3. Bumble

Bumble is a fun, efficient way to date in the digital world. You swipe through profiles in the standard sorting way. Here, though, women in heterosexual dynamics have to make the first move within 24 hours, or the match disappears. Once she messages first,  the conversation opens up. 

In queer dynamics, anyone can message first. You can also get a 24-hour extension on your match if you’d like. Bumble goes above and beyond dating, too. It has BFF and Bizz modes, where you can solely look for friends or business connections, respectively. As far as connection apps go, Bumble covers all the bases!

4. OkCupid

The OkCupid dating app comes chock-full of features, a massive user base and helpful, straightforward dating tools. One advantage of OkCupid is that the app is constantly updating and adding new features to help you with your search. 

For example, OkCupid added Flavors, which allows you to learn brief details about potential matches, like Coffee Connoisseurs for World Travelers. OkCupid has messaging tools, personality quizzes and Instagram integration, so potential partners learn all about you.

5. HER

HER is a dating app designed for lesbian, bisexual and queer women. It’s considered the largest free dating app for LGBTQ+ women. You use HER by swiping, similar to Tinder. Swipe left to pass and swipe right if you’re interested in someone. 

One feature that differentiates HER from other dating apps is that it regularly sends out news updates, community events and safe spaces for its users. 

6. Facebook Dating

Facebook Dating is a space on the popular social media network where you can find love through what you like. If you participate in Facebook Groups or Events, you can use Facebook Dating to meet people with those same interests. It’s important to note that your Facebook friends will not see your Dating conversations or make posts about your Dating activity. 

While the app is on the same platform, you don’t need to worry about Facebook users seeing anything involved with the Dating section. However, beware of Facebook Dating scams. Scammers on Facebook Dating will try to trick you into sending them money, which is something you should always try and avoid.

7. Grindr

One of the more infamous dating apps is Grindr. Queer men primarily use this app to seek out matches, friends and dates. However, most use the app for hookups — hence its reputation. As long as you’re upfront about what you’re looking for, you’ll find people who are interested in pursuing the same path. 

Scroll through the people in your proximity and message them — no match needed. If you’re a little more shy or passive, you can tap the flame on their profile as a hint that you’re interested. Some content is more adult-rated on Grindr, so be aware of your environment!

8. Coffee Meets Bagel

According to Coffee Meets Bagel’s website, 90% of CMB daters are looking for a serious, meaningful relationship. CMB uses a smart algorithm so you receive quality matches curated just for you. User profiles on CMB are in-depth, meaning you can get to know other users pretty deeply. 

CMB wants you to engage in meaningful conversations with other users and gets you started with personalized icebreakers. CMB was featured on Shark Tank, The New Yorker, Buzzfeed and Refinery29.

With these eight dating apps, you’ll be able to put yourself out there more easily. Take time to create an engaging profile with great photos of yourself and your interests. Always look out for fake or spam users, as it’s fairly common to come across them while swiping or liking.

Additionally, research suggests that using dating apps often can negatively affect your mental health, leading to low self-esteem, self-doubt and feelings of rejection. Don’t be afraid to seek out professional help if you have negative feelings after spending too much time on dating apps. 

Find a Romantic Partner in 2022 With the Best Dating Apps

The best thing about these apps is that they all have free versions. While you can upgrade to premium plans for more features and capabilities, such as Travel Mode or Super Likes on Tinder, the free accounts work well. 

Now, with these best online dating apps, you can put yourself out there and show potential partners what you have to offer. Good luck and happy swiping!