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Hookup Instantly On Chat Enjoy the totally free way to search for hookups with wide variety of choices as per personality. Broaden the matches for hookups through advanced search. Singles go through series of checks when they join this free hookup site. This ensures quality. A hookup ID is one way that companies are combating online romance scams, but even this security measure comes with risks. The concept of having a hookup ID makes sense, and most mainstream dating sites will have you complete a profile that will help to ensure that you are the person you claim to be.

If you want to skip online dating subscription costs and hidden fees, then you should spend your time on 100 percent free dating sites that offer a lot of matchmaking power for the low cost of $0.

Pretty much all dating sites are completely free to join, but sometimes that’s where the free ride ends. It’s frustrating to discover paywalls where you want to find conversations, and not all online daters have cash to spare on a paid membership.

We’ve broken down what you’ll get with a free membership on the most popular free dating sites and apps available, so you can make an informed decision and save some cash in the dating scene.

Best Overall Christian LGBT Black Senior Hookup Relationships Local International FAQs

Best Overall 100 Percent Free Dating Sites (#1-2)

Let’s start with a couple of sure-fire winners for singles of all backgrounds and ages. The following two dating platforms offer a free standard membership that includes enough communication options to get you onto a first date.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Friends, Dates, and Relationships

Match System:Browse by zip, age, appearance, more

Our Experts Say:“Match has facilitated the most dates and relationships of any dating site, and its large audience and high success rate make it our top review...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Match is the top dating site for finding a new friend, hot date, or even a soulmate. Its time-tested matchmaking system has been helping singles meet one another since 1995, and the Match Group boasts having seen more success stories than any of its competitors.

A free Match membership gives you access to every active dating profile in this database, and you can send a virtual like to an online cutie to see if the attraction is mutual. It’s free to respond to messages from premium members or to message the people in your Top Picks list, so free members can definitely do a lot of flirting on the Match website and app.

2. Bumble

Bumble made waves in 2014 as the world’s first feminist dating app, and it has been putting women first ever since. The app requires female users to make the first move when matched with a man, but, don’t worry guys, you can chat all you want for free after she sends that initial “hello.”

This unique messaging system benefits women because it allows them to set the tone in their romantic relationships, but it also benefits men by taking the pressure off them to always initiate and pursue women.

Bumble offers free communication between all mutual matches.

Many singles have embraced Bumble as a more civilized way to date. In 2020, Bumble surpassed 100 million users in six continents. Since its launch, the dating app has been responsible for over 1.5 billion first moves.

Best 100 Percent Free “Christian” Dating Sites (#3-4)

Christian singles often feel more comfortable dating a person who shares similar beliefs and values because religion is an important factor when building a life together. People of faith have a lot in common with each other, and their shared faith can strengthen their relationship.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Dates and Serious Relationships

Match System:Search by gender, age, education, more

Our Experts Say:“ChristianMingle is among the largest dating sites in the industry that only caters to single Christian men and women, and the site has some of the best search filters and safety features...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Christian Mingle offers a faith-driven dating experience geared toward the Christian community. It is open to people of all religious backgrounds, but 90% of its users identify as Christian.

Over 15 million people have joined Christian Mingle since its launch in 2001, and the dating site has shared hundreds of success stories from people getting engaged, married, and raising Christian children. It doesn’t cost anything to create a Christian Mingle profile and get in touch with date prospects in your area.

Christian Mingle offers a friendly sanctuary to men and women looking for a Christian partner, and the free dating service could be the answer to your prayers.

4. Coffee Meets Bagel

Coffee Meets Bagel is a dating app designed to create authentic and loving relationships, and you can access its curated match list for free. Once you complete your dating profile, you can start swiping and liking profiles that fit your dating preference. Just be aware that free CMB members only get a limited number of swipes and likes per day.

Coffee Meets Bagel provides a free match list and chatting tools.

The CMB app operates on the premise that quality is better than quantity in the dating scene, so it has rules in place to ensure singles don’t move too quickly or play the field. Instead, singles have the chance to focus their attention on one dating profile at a time and see if romance blooms.

Since its launch in 2012, Coffee Meets Bagel has created more than 50 million matches, and it continues to make a name for itself as a leading app for relationships.

Best 100 Percent Free “LGBT” Dating Sites (#5-8)

The invention of online dating has been a great help to LGBTQ+ singles because it can effectively take straight people out of the equation and create a safe space for queer dating. The following gay dating sites specialize in creating same-sex matches — without charging users anything.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Daters & Hookups

Match System:Search by age, zip code, more

Our Experts Say:“MenNation is a well-established gay dating and hookup brand, having been founded in 1996. It's totally free to join, view profiles, receive matches, and flirt...”

Browse Free:View Photos Now

MenNation supports an all-male dating network where guys can solicit sex in private messages and chat rooms. The gay hookup site creates a fun and flirty atmosphere where it’s not unusual to go from “hey, how are you?” to “I’ll meet you there” within a few minutes.

MenNation’s free search filters and browsing tools can help stimulate interest between gay men looking to get laid. Then all that’s left to do is upgrade to get the run of the dating website and send messages to guys who turn you on.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Hookups Only

Hookup Site Background Checks

Match System:Search by location, interest, more

Our Experts Say:“LesbianPersonals provides a fun, quick, and easy experience for gay and bisexual women looking for sex online. Join for free, and you'll be able to search and communicate immediately...”

Browse Free:View Photos Now

LesbianPersonals is a hookup site that appeals to lesbian women, bisexual women, straight couples, and anyone else turned on by a little girl-on-girl action.

A LesbianPersonals profile comes with a lot of free perks and privileges, but only premium members can exchange messages, photos, and videos through this platform. The pay-to-play system keeps unsavory characters from sending spam messages and ruining the flirtatious vibe on the site.

7. Grindr

Since 2009, Grindr has absolutely blown up the gay dating scene. This gay dating app uses location-based matching to inspire real-time connections that can lead to instant hookups or serious relationships depending on how guys play it.

Grindr sees more than 3.8 million daily active users.

Grindr empowers gay men to swipe, match, and chat with each other all day and all night long. It’s completely free to send and receive messages from mutual matches. Free members can also set search filters by age range and distance.

Grindr Xtra users have more search filters, tribes, and liking options at their disposal, and they also get read receipt notifications on their messages, so some guys say it’s worth upgrading to have more control over this fast-paced and sex-driven world.

8. HER

A single woman can join the HER dating app to break free from toxic masculinity and meet women in the queer community. This no-boys-allowed dating zone is a safe, friendly, and respectful place to make a new friend or create a new relationship.

The HER dating network includes more than 4 million singles who identify as female, and every dating profile has been verified through Facebook.

HER is a social dating app for lesbian, bisexual, queer, and trans women.

HER gives women the opportunity to express themselves through photos and posts, and they can connect with others for free by sending private messages or RSVPing to local queer events.

Celine and Katie met on HER in 2016 and now are among the many #WeMetOnHER success stories trending on Twitter. They were planning to get married in July 2020; however, the lesbian couple had to push their wedding back to 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Best 100 Percent Free “Black” Dating Sites (#9-10)

Black dating isn’t about segregation — it’s about knowing what you want and finding people who understand where you’re coming from.

Black dating sites give singles easy access to the dark-skinned dates they desire. The following two online dating sites have diverse networks that facilitate Black love stories as well as interracial relationships.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Deep Relationships or Just Casual Dates

Match System:Search by location, age, more

Our Experts Say:“BlackPeopleMeet.com is the one of the largest and most popular dating sites for black and biracial singles, and the site is used by more than 5 million people a month...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Over the last two decades, BlackPeopleMeet has grown into the most popular Black dating site in North America, and it creates thousands of love connections every day.

BlackPeopleMeet is open to people of all races, cultures, and ethnicities, but the majority of its users identify as African American, Black, or biracial. The online dating website has search filters by race and appearance to help local singles find someone who is exactly their type.

As a courtesy, BPM offers free searching and some free chat options, but only paid members have the ability to send messages and get to know this diverse dating pool.

10. Plenty of Fish

Plenty of Fish offers completely free communication for all users with no mutual matching required. The dating site and app don’t put many limits on its online chat room. As long as you have an approved dating profile, you can message anyone you want in the POF community.

It’s free to create a POF profile, take the personality test, and send up to 55 first messages a day to potential dates.

Plenty of Fish maintains a diverse membership base with over 4 million active users.

More than 150 million people have joined Plenty of Fish since its launch in 2003, and the dating platform adds approximately 65,000 new users every day. Black singles can use this free service to pick up a hot date without shelling out their hard-earned cash.

Best 100 Percent Free “Senior” Dating Sites (#11-12)

As you get older, your priorities, lifestyle, and dating goals can change drastically. Young singles may have the time and energy to dance the night away with a stranger and make no commitments, but older singles tend to be more serious about finding someone to love for the rest of their days.

The best senior dating sites give men and women the opportunity to build friendships and relationships that can go the distance.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Dates and Relationships

Match System:Search by profiles by zip and more

Our Experts Say:“OurTime is well-known in the over-50 dating crowd, particularly because it has a ton of helpful search features and an easy layout...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

OurTime gives senior singles a fresh start in the dating scene. The online dating website and app make it easy to create a profile and mingle in a mature, 50-plus dating crowd. And it doesn’t cost anything to get started.

New members can choose to add a lot of details about their interests and dating goals, or they can stick to the basics by only filling in the required sections for age, gender, location, and appearance. Keep in mind that members with more descriptive profiles and at least one photo tend to get more attention on OurTime because people know they’re not fake profiles.

It’s free to use OurTime’s local search tools to find potential dates, and you can send unlimited likes and reply to messages from premium members for free as well.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Friendship, Casual Dates, Serious Relationships

Match System:Search by age, location, height, education, ethnicity, and religion

Our Experts Say:“SilverSingles is a fast-growing, easy-to-use niche dating site exclusively for active daters over the age of 50...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

SilverSingles has gotten a lot of positive reviews as an online dating site built exclusively for single men and women over 50.

A free SilverSingles membership can be a great way to kick-start a senior dating experience and encounter folks with similar perspectives on life. The dating service provides search filters by age, education, religion, relationship status, and other important dealmakers or dealbreakers, and it provides match ratings to let users know how closely their lifestyles line up.

Best 100 Percent Free Hookup Sites (#13-17)

Sex can be a powerful motivator in the dating scene. A lot of adults aren’t thinking about forever when they start flirting with a stranger — they’re thinking about a night of intimacy and passion. Singles with a hit-it-and-quit-it mentality often find they have better luck on hookup sites where horny people mingle every day.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Hookups, Casual Dates, Affairs

Match System:Search by age, location, appearance, and more

Our Experts Say:“With its massive user base and advanced privacy features, Ashley Madison is the #1 site for discreet hookups, dates, or relationships...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Ashley Madison is a married dating platform with absolutely zero false pretenses. People come here looking for affairs and secret relationships, and they’re not typically shy about making their desires known.

In a recent survey, 61% of Ashley Madison members said they were looking for sex, and 76% said having an affair allowed them to meet their sexual needs.

Ashley Madison has over 60 million members worldwide, and it facilitates around 1 million affairs a month thanks to its women-chat-for-free policy.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Hookups, Chats

Match System:Search by encounter, location, and more

Our Experts Say:“BeNaughty is a premier hookup app where you can feel comfortable expressing your desires. Plus, it's free to join, browse, and flirt...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

As a casual dating site, BeNaughty encourages sexy singles to let go of their inhibitions and be a little naughty in their personal lives. And it offers completely free chatting to speed things up.

Once you’ve completed your BeNaughty profile, you can send private messages or mass texts to singles in your immediate vicinity. The search tab saves profiles by online activity, popularity, and photos to make it easier for singles to find hotties willing to chat. Plus, the Like Gallery showcases the photos of BeNaughty members who fit your match criteria.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Hookups Only

Match System:Search by location, interest, more

Our Experts Say:“Make no mistake: this site isn't about making friends, it's about short-term 'hookups' and affairs only. Note that a basic account costs $14.95/month, but it's well worth it if casual sex is your goal...”

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Since 1996, Adult Friend Finder has grown into the largest sex and swinger community ever built. The hookup site has over 102 million users worldwide and hosts hundreds of live model broadcasts per day.

It’s free to mingle in the AFF community, view sexy photos, and post in the X-rated forum or blog, but only premium members have the ability to send private messages, photos, and videos to each other. You can get a feel for Adult Friend Finder with a trial membership, but upgrading to a monthly subscription is the best way to arrange a fast hookup online.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Hookups Only

Match System:Search by location, interest, more

Our Experts Say:“A hookup site specializing in casual encounters, secret affairs, live chats, and member videos, FriendFinder-X skips the awkward 'dating' stage of a relationship and fast-forwards straight to the sex...”

Browse Free:View Photos Now

FriendFinder-X is a local sex site where singles, swingers, and polyamorous groups can go wild and satisfy their desires. Nothing is taboo on FriendFinder-X, and you’ll see people of all fetishes, kinks, and experience levels seeking a sexual partner here.

You may also see quite a few ads on FriendFinder-X because that’s how the hookup site makes a profit. The advertisements pay for the site, so you don’t have to. There is no need to get a paid subscription on FriendFinder-X, and you won’t find any annoying paywalls standing between you and a hot date.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Hookups, Casual Dating, Chats

Match System:Search by age, location, gender, orientation, and other factors

Our Experts Say:“Flirt.com frees singles to chat with attractive locals and pick up dates on the spot. This hookup site is always open to horny and sexy people seeking one-night stands, casual dating, threesomes, and other sexual encounters...”

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Flirt.com is a free dating website where horny singles can flirt for free. There isn’t a fee for messaging a single man or woman who strikes your fancy, and the site even has a mass text feature to help spark connections more quickly.

As a casual dating service, Flirt.com keeps things light and simple. You don’t have to write a lot about yourself or go through a lengthy personality test to get your dating profile up and running. Simply provide an email address and answer a few basic questions about yourself (gender, age, location, etc.) to get started. You don’t even have to upload a photo to browse Flirt.com, so feel free to stay anonymous as you look for a hookup.

Best 100 Percent Free Dating Sites “For Relationships” (#18-20)

Serious daters are often frustrated by how superficial swiping apps can be. Certain platforms encourage surface-level attractions and chit-chatting, so finding a long-term match can take a lot of time and effort. Fortunately, some dating sites and apps have developed in-depth matchmaking tools to help people in the search for love.

We’ve ranked a few of the most successful dating sites and apps for relationship-minded singles who aren’t afraid of making a commitment.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Serious Relationships

Match System:Search, Receive Partner Suggestions

Our Experts Say:“EliteSingles is a leading dating site just for busy, single professionals. More than 80% of members have earned a college degree, and most are looking for a serious commitment...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

EliteSingles is a premium dating site that caters to singles who are serious about settling down. The majority of EliteSingles users are in their 30s, have established their careers, and want a potential partner who is just as accomplished and intelligent as they are.

Busy professionals choose EliteSingles as their matchmaker of choice because its adjustable filters help them take control of their dating experience and find dates that meet certain standards.

EliteSingles can offer a high-quality dating pool, but it’ll take more than a free membership to get into the good graces of someone special. Only premium members can view photos and send messages on this dating site and app.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Casual Dates, Deep Relationships

Match System:Personality test suggests matches

Our Experts Say:“Accounting for 2% of U.S. marriages, eharmony's compatibility-based system and commitment-minded user base are ideal for those seeking a serious relationship...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

About 20 years ago, a team of psychologists decided to create a formula for love, and the eharmony dating site was the result.

The eharmony algorithm uses an 80-question personality test to measure relationship compatibility and find a perfect match based on an individual’s temperament, values, family life, and dating goals. Singles can see a breakdown of their compatibility as well as a match rating on every profile. That makes it easy to build a serious relationship based on common ground.

It’s free to join eharmony, take the compatibility quiz, and send icebreakers and greetings to premium members, but only paid members can use the live chat and video chat features to take things to the next level.

20. Hinge

The Hinge dating app has solidified its reputation as a relationship app by giving singles all the information they need to make a smart match. The app puts an interesting twist on swiping by requiring members to like or comment on one of the six photos or three prompts featured in a Hinge profile.

To date, Hinge has made millions of matches, and the app leads to more than 35,000 dates per week.

Hinge is responsible for countless online dating love stories — including mine!

Since 2012, Hinge has endeavored to spark deep conversations that lead to great first dates and, hopefully, lasting relationships. The app markets itself as “designed to be deleted,” which means its ultimate goal is to match users with the person who makes them want to give up the swiping game for good.

According to its internal numbers, Hinge has a 72% success rate when it comes to turning first dates into second dates, and only 2% of its users are looking for hookups.

Best 100 Percent Free “Local” Dating Sites (#21-23)

You don’t have to look very far to meet local singles thanks to modern technology. A free online dating site can conduct a local search for you and deliver potential matches directly to your inbox. Here are some go-to dating apps that can bring romance to your door.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Fun Dates, Serious Relationships

Match System:Search and get match recommendations

Our Experts Say:“Zoosk is integrated with social media sites, like Facebook and Google+, so it's very popular with singles on the go...” Full Review»

Browse Free:View Photos Now

Zoosk is a social dating site and app where singles can use an abundance of search and match features to find common ground.

Once you enter your ZIP code into your Zoosk profile, the learning algorithm will instantly organize a list of date possibilities ranked by their proximity to you. Free members can click the Edit Search button to adjust their dating preferences and set a search radius of anywhere from three to 100 miles. That way, only local singles will show up in your Connections folder.

More than 40 million people have joined the Zoosk network since 2007, and its members exchange over 3 million messages each day.

22. Tinder

There was just no way that we could leave Tinder off the list of 100 percent free dating sites. Like it or not, our online dating experts have determined that it’s one of the fastest (and the freest) ways to meet singles in your area.

The stats speak for themselves. Since launching in 2012, Tinder has created more than 43 billion matches, seen over 340 million downloads, and led to countless first dates, hookups, and relationships.

More than half of Tinder users are between 18 and 25 years old.

When it comes to finding a local date, Tinder can’t be beat. A free Tinder account gives singles access to a virtually endless swiping list, and they can chat with their mutual matches for free. The casual atmosphere on Tinder is particularly appealing to young daters who are still figuring out what they want.

In a 2020 survey, more singles (39%) reported using Tinder to get them through the COVID-19 pandemic than any other dating site or app.

23. Happn

Happn is a dating app designed to create a feeling of serendipity between singles. Its algorithm uses GPS data to identify where two users cross paths as they go about their day. When you view someone’s profile, you can see the coffee shops, bars, bookstores, and restaurants you have in common, and you can use that information to arrange a first date you’ll both enjoy.

Happn helps local singles find common ground in the dating scene.

Thanks to Happn, singles can cover a lot of ground in the search for romance, and it’s particularly useful in big cities. The Happn app will never reveal a person’s real-time location, and only mutual matches can see where they have crossed paths.

Happn doesn’t pressure people to make a commitment or put a ring on it, so it’s a great place to just mingle and see what happens.

Best 100 Percent Free “International” Dating Sites (#24-25)

Despite what people say, love may not be around the corner in some cases. It may be halfway around the world. International dating sites give singles the chance to broaden their search for love and seek dates in different cities, states, and countries if necessary.

Here are a couple international dating sites with good reputations and worldly members.

24. OkCupid

OkCupid is an always free dating site and app where members can flirt and date without worrying about paid subscriptions. It’s 100 percent free to send messages on OkCupid, and you don’t need to create a match to say hi.

This 0pen-ended dating scene appeals to young singles who want to play the field because it doesn’t cost anything to engage in multiple private conversations at once.

OkCupid creates more than 91 million matches and leads to 2.5 million dates a year.

While OkCupid is based in the U.S.A., its membership base includes people from around the world. An American single can tap into that international dating network by going into the “Looking For” section of his or her dating profile and adjusting the distance preference to Anywhere. That way, Americans won’t be limited by a certain distance radius and can become pen pals with OkCupid users in Canada, the U.K., or Australia.

25. Badoo

Badoo keeps a running tally of how many users have downloaded the app or joined the website, and it currently stands at 481 million people worldwide. That ranks it among the most popular dating services of all time.

Badoo is available in 190 countries and 47 languages.

When you look at the numbers, Badoo comes out on top. The dating website and app see over 60 million users per month and facilitates more than 12 billion swipes per day. Badoo’s photo gallery adds about 10 million pictures a day, and the Badoo network adds more than 300,000 users a day.

What Does “100 Percent Free” Mean on Dating Sites?

It’s important that newcomers to the online dating world understand that not every free dating site is 100 percent free for everyone. It may just be free to join. Or free for single women. Or free during the first week or month of membership.

Pretty much all dating sites offer at least some free services (browsing, liking, matching, etc.), but only a few allow free members to access 100 percent of its features without a premium subscription plan. In our estimation, a dating site or app can only claim to be “100 percent free” if it’s possible for singles to pick up a date without paying a cent.

Are 100 Percent Free Dating Sites Safe to Use?

Meeting a stranger on a 100 percent free dating site is about as safe as meeting a stranger at a bar or club. The only big difference is you can’t look the person in the eyes, so you have to ask questions and be diligent to avoid fake profiles.

Online communication is perfectly safe because you can screen people while keeping them at a distance — just remember not to give out your personal details too quickly.

Online daters can build trust by engaging in a private chat and conducting a quick background search.

Endangering your personal safety is too high a cost to pay for online dating, so be wary about putting yourself in a risky situation just to save a buck. Free dating sites do not run background checks, and they can attract scammers and spammers looking to take advantage. The good news is that singles can usually spot online dating scams if they use good judgment and vet their dates.

How Do I Choose a 100 Percent Free Dating Site?

Experts estimate that there are more than 8,000 dating sites available worldwide, so finding the right one for you can seem like an awfully big task.

Fortunately, our dating experts have tested, reviewed, and ranked the most popular dating sites out there, so singles can save time by focusing on the best of the best. You can learn a lot about how online dating works and how particular dating platforms work by reading through best-of articles like these. Then it’s up to you to decide which dating site or app can meet you where you’re at in life.

If you’re having trouble deciding, don’t sweat it. You can create a free dating profile on the top three or four dating services to compare the user experience and get a better feel for what they have to offer.

Are Paid Dating Sites Worth It?

That depends on your priorities and budget. If you’re a college student looking for a casual hookup, it’s absolutely not worth paying for an online dating service. Tinder is free and perfectly capable of hooking you up on a Saturday night.

On the other hand, if you’re a single professional seeking love, then a free dating app full of flaky singles may not be enough to satisfy you. It may be worth it to you to upgrade to a premium membership on eharmony so you can connect with more quality people in your age range.

eharmony

Hookup Site Background Check Reviews

• Relationships: Long-Term Relationships, Marriages
• Match System: Get daily match suggestions
• About the App: Responsible for 4% of marriages in the U.S., eharmony is among our top picks for relationship-minded heterosexual singles. To become a member, add the app to your phone (iOS or Android) and then take its 29 Dimensions® of Compatibility Matching Quiz. It's absolutely free to do both these things — as well as receive matches and communicate during other special events.
• Browse Free:View Profiles Now

Free dating sites and apps attract people who want to keep things casual, so it’s often more difficult to find dates with real relationship potential. That’s why some commitment-minded singles prefer to conduct their search in a more prestigious and discerning dating pool.

A paid membership on eharmony can instantly upgrade a single person’s online dating prospects and give them a better chance at finding true love.

Free Dating Sites Give Singles Free Rein to Meet Dates

Dating can be costly, so it makes sense to use 100 percent free dating sites to save yourself some cash to use on your first date. Free dating sites can help local singles explore the dating scene one swipe at a time, and it can build their confidence to receive likes and messages on a regular basis.

It’s absolutely free to create a dating profile on all of the dating sites and apps on this list, and new members can usually take advantage of some free communication features as well. However, if you’re serious about meeting a special person, it may be worth upgrading to a premium plan to see what the online dating world is truly capable of. Good luck!

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Given the safety concerns of meeting strangers online, it’s not surprising that so many singles are interested in dating sites that do background checks. Such positive environments set high standards and build trust among real single people with honest intentions.

The background check doesn’t have to be all that in-depth to be effective. In many cases, checking a new dating profile through social media or manually approving photos can be enough to ensure scammers don’t have an opportunity to make trouble on the dating platform.

Our experts have done our own background research to select the most popular dating sites and apps that do a good job at verifying that new users are legit. That way, singles can arm themselves with information and online date without encountering a fake profile or scam artist in their matches.

1. Match.com

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Friends, Dates, and Relationships

Match System:Browse by zip, age, appearance, more

Our Experts Say:“Match has facilitated the most dates and relationships of any dating site, and its large audience and high success rate make it our top review...” Full Review»

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Match has set the standard for online dating since its launch in 1995. The dating website and app have powered many innovative features that help singles get to know one another and form heartfelt connections. And the dating service is constantly growing to meet the demands of a fast-changing world.

In March 2021, Match.com’s parent company announced that it would work alongside Garbo, a nonprofit background check platform, to make online dating safer one background check at a time.

“Before Garbo, abusers were able to hide behind expensive, hard-to-find public records,” said Garbo Founder Kathryn Kosmides in a press statement. “Being able to reach historically underserved populations is fundamental to Garbo’s mission and the partnership with Match will help us connect with these communities.”

2. OurTime.com

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Dates and Relationships

Match System:Search by profiles by zip and more

Our Experts Say:“OurTime is well-known in the over-50 dating crowd, particularly because it has a ton of helpful search features and an easy layout...” Full Review»

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OurTime has created an online dating site where senior singles can feel safe and secure. That’s a major accomplishment, but the OurTime team hasn’t rested on its laurels. Over the last few years, the senior dating platform has evolved to add more video features and matchmaking filters to facilitate relationships.

It’s 100% free to join OurTime and browse the membership base. New users only need to supply a valid email address, a unique username, and some basic demographic details to get started. Photos are not required, but profiles with photos tend to receive more likes, matches, and messages because they appear more legitimate.

Although OurTime does not conduct a criminal background check, it does ask many personal questions and require ID verification, so a fake profile doesn’t stand a chance here. What’s more, OurTime users can upgrade to the ConnectMe feature to exchange texts and phone calls without giving out their private phone number.

3. Tinder

Tinder is an astoundingly popular dating app that has been going strong since 2012. The dating app has been downloaded over 430 million times and created over 60 billion matches. The Tinder leadership recognizes the responsibility that comes with its popularity and has recently made strides to support safer interactions from start to finish.

Tinder verifies the identities of all new users through Facebook or a phone number.

Tinder is part of Match Group, so it will benefit from the Garbo partnership. In fact, the dating app will be among the first to test the background check service and see if users like it.

Tinder users will soon be able to pay a one-time fee to access a criminal background check on any person in their matches.

4. OkCupid

Since 2004, OkCupid has used advanced technology to power an online dating platform that is safe, affordable, and effective. The dating app offers free communication to all users and creates more than 91 million matches every year.

OkCupid’s matchmaking system depends on a compendium of personality questions ranging from “Do you like the taste of beer?” to “Are you attracted to dangerous situations?” The answers to these questions can provide great insights into another person’s perspective and temperament.

OkCupid uses personality questions to inform online dating matches.

Free chat tools can sometimes pose a security risk — which is why OkCupid has a rigorous security system in place.

“OkCupid considers the security of our applications and the privacy of our users’ data extremely important,” the team said. “While it is impossible to predict the full range of future cyber threats against our systems, we regularly assess and work to improve our security in an effort to enhance the safety of our user community.”

5. Plenty of Fish

Plenty of Fish is a free dating site and app that encourages authentic relationships and friendships. Fake profiles have been screened out of this diverse dating pool. POF has seen over 150 million signups since its launch in 2003, and all of those new members have had to pass a series of profile verification tests to gain entry.

Plenty of Fish creates a vibrant atmosphere where singles can chat for free.

In 2020, Plenty of Fish partnered with the Noonlight app to protect its members as they go on dates and get to know someone new. This safety app allows individuals to log the details of an upcoming date and share a location with friends while on that date.

POF also recently released a Livestreaming feature, so singles can low-key check out each other’s physical features and engage in fun, ongoing conversations with real people.

6. Hinge

Designed to be deleted. That’s the promise the Hinge dating app makes to users. Hinge has used personality-driven matches to accelerate the time it takes to go from “hello” to “let’s be exclusive.” The dating app boasts having the best first-date success rate in the business.

Hinge users must respond to three personal prompts and upload six photos to complete their dating profile. They also have the option to supply demographic details, background information, and a summary of their recent Instagram stories.

Hinge uses swiping to support in-depth conversations that lead to real relationships.

Hinge is part of Match Group, and therefore it will benefit from the partnership with Garbo that promises to add extra value, safety, and transparency to online dating. Its background check service is not up and running yet, but Hinge authenticates its dating profiles through Facebook and Instagram, so it’s a respectable portal to meet new people.

7. The League

The League goes to great lengths to screen new members and highlight the cream of the online dating crop. This high-class dating app conducts employee background checks through LinkedIn and general background searches through Facebook. Only the most successful professionals make the cut into these ranks.

The League connects with social media profiles to cultivate a genuine membership base.

The League was built with high standards and unapologetic elitism. A tech entrepreneur named Amanda Bradford founded The League to encourage discerning singles to seek a life partner on their level and never settle for second-rate dates.

“Anyone can apply and join the League regardless of their income, the family they’re from, their profession, or what schools they’ve attended,” Amanda Bradford wrote in defense of her elite dating platform. “The common thread in the League community is the desire to be successful and having the ambition and work-ethic to make an impact somewhere.”

8. Raya

The Raya dating app — no relation to the Disney movie — has made headlines for hosting celebrities, millionaires, and Insta models. Members have to apply to join this private network, and they could be waitlisted for weeks or months before gaining entry.

If a trusted Raya member vouches for you, then you can skip the waitlist and become a full member of the community as soon as you complete your dating profile.

The Raya app uses a smart referral system to build trust and respect within its elite community.

Raya has made a name for itself as the celebrity dating app. Its members have included A-List actors, diva singers, and sports legends. But the dating app never name drops. Raya protects the privacy of its members and asks all members to show courtesy and respect for one another.

“Members agree to a Code of Conduct, so conversations are interesting and respectful,” the team said. “Anything short of that results in removal.”

9. MillionaireMatch

MillionaireMatch is an online dating site for the most successful and attractive singles in the dating scene. It is not a sugar daddy site. The moderators will remove any members who actively seek sugar allowances or offer payment to a potential date.

New members have to pass a rigorous background check on MillionaireMatch.

Since its launch in 2001, MillionaireMatch has seen over 4.9 million signups, and it has perfected its privacy protection system to look out for the interests of single millionaires.

High earners can choose to join MillionaireMatch to raise the caliber of their date prospects. The site verifies the income of members who claim to make over $200,000, and it uses Facebook to verify photos, names, and other profile information.

10. SafeDating

SafeDating is a background check app that exposes cheaters, liars, and fakes by doing research into criminal records and social media footprints. The app does not have a social network of its own. It is meant to be used in conjunction with traditional dating apps.

“Want a straightforward, no-nonsense, and user-friendly app? Choose SafeDating,” said Valen S. in a Google Play review. “Jump right in and get fast and accurate information.”

What is Gatsby?

Gatsby was a dating app that launched in 2017 on a mission to make online dating safer. It was the first dating app to conduct a criminal background check on all app users. However, the app is no longer on the market. Gatsby Founder Joe Penora shifted gears in 2019 to focus on developing Caravan, an app for travel lovers seeking social networking and adventure support.

How Do Background Checks on Dating Sites Work?

Background checks will vary in breadth and scope depending on the resources at the disposal of the dating site or app. Sometimes a free dating site will only scratch the surface by verifying the user’s full name, gender identity, location, and other demographic information. A premium dating site often employs slightly more detailed checks through social media or online moderators to stop catfishers, scammers, and frauds from lying about their employment, income, and personal history.

Some basic verification tools come standard on dating sites and apps, but it may be necessary to upgrade to a premium subscription or pay a one-time fee to get more insider information and security upgrades.

Singles can learn a lot by reviewing a person’s dating and social media profiles.

It is rare for online dating apps to conduct a full criminal background check on app users. Criminal background checks involve searching through court records and the national sex offender registry to find evidence of a criminal history. Online dating sites typically leave that work for a private investigator, but some cybersecurity experts are looking to change the way platforms make introductions.

Garbo Founder Kathryn Kosmides said she hopes to power a new type of background check for the digital age. Garbo can empower online daters to learn more about their matches — even if they don’t have the person’s last name.

“Garbo’s online background check goes deeper into backlog of unconvicted crimes by providing access to more than just the conviction data traditional background checks share,” Kathryn said.

Do Any Dating Sites or Apps Conduct Criminal Background Checks?

A criminal background check takes a lot of time and effort to complete, so it is not standard on most dating sites and apps. Some high-end matchmakers offer it with a premium membership pla. In 2021, Match Group partnered with Garbo, a nonprofit focused on cybersecurity, to make this a viable option in the future of online dating. The Tinder app will begin a rollout of its background search features for premium members in the coming year.

In a press release, Match Group said its new security and background check features will “proactively prevent gender-based violence by providing people with more transparency and information.”

Hookup Site Background Checkpoint

How Do I Go About Choosing the Best Dating Site That Does Background Checks?

Doing research and exploring lists of dating sites can be a good thing if you have no idea what to expect in the online dating world. But don’t spend too much time overthinking it. Joining a dating site or app is free and relatively low-risk. The user is in control of every step of the matchmaking process, and dating sites can offer screening and blocking tools to ensure only viable date prospects can get in touch.

Our online dating advice is to go with a popular dating site that has a good reputation, a diverse user base, and quality match filters to help you find a local date who is your type. Don’t worry about cost. All dating sites and apps start with a completely free membership, and subscriptions only come into play if singles choose to invest in the experience and increase their odds of online dating success.

Are Dating Sites That Conduct Background Checks Safer to Use?

Yes, dating sites that conduct background checks through social media, text verification, and other methods do tend to be safer than anonymous chat rooms or sites that only require a username and email address. It just comes down to better security. It’s harder for a romance scammer to set up multiple fake accounts on a dating platform that has high standards for profiles and photos.

Dating sites don’t necessarily have to research a user’s criminal record to maintain a safe community. In many cases, dating sites can deter scammers and fakes simply by having a lengthy registration process, requiring multiple photos, and setting up a paywall for online conversations.

And, of course, online daters can take action to protect themselves by exercising caution. It’s important to vet any potential date for yourself before making any commitments or forming an attachment.

Online dating can pose some safety concerns because of how easy it can be to lie on a dating profile.

The online dating world can be an exciting place to fall in love and start a new chapter of life. But singles should be aware of the risks when choosing a romantic partner. Entrusting one’s heart to an untrustworthy person could lead to abuse, violence, or sexual assault. These are real hazards, especially for single women. According to domestic violence stats, about 1 in 4 women will experience intimate partner violence during their lifetime.

Fortunately, using a legitimate dating service and/or background check service can help get new relationships started on the right foot. Just be careful out there and make sure to look out for red flags, so you know when to hit the block button to protect yourself from a scam or abusive situation.

Which Dating Sites are Safe But Don’t Do Background Checks?

An online dating service doesn’t have to support a background check feature to be safe, reliable, and trustworthy. Plenty of legit dating sites and apps have successfully paired happy couples and promoted honest matchmaking — without accessing any criminal record or public record information.

Here are a few of the top dating sites and apps with good safety ratings and legit databases.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Serious Relationships

Match System:Search, Receive Partner Suggestions

Our Experts Say:“EliteSingles is a leading dating site just for busy, single professionals. More than 80% of members have earned a college degree, and most are looking for a serious commitment...” Full Review»

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EliteSingles is a premium dating site that assists single professionals on the road to true love. The platform has implemented guidelines for quality control, including a personality test and pay-to-chat subscriptions.

All EliteSingles users must browse under their first name, not a username, and they must upload a clear and appropriate profile picture. Online daters can read the EliteSingles Code of Conduct on the website to learn more about its safety standards and membership requirements.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Casual Dates, Deep Relationships

Match System:Personality test suggests matches

Our Experts Say:“Accounting for 2% of U.S. marriages, eharmony's compatibility-based system and commitment-minded user base are ideal for those seeking a serious relationship...” Full Review»

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Since its launch in 2000, eharmony has distinguished itself as one of the most trusted and successful dating platforms in the industry. The dating service does not conduct a background check, but it does have an 80-question Compatibility Quiz to help reveal the true nature of the person behind the dating profile.

The goal of eharmony is to inspire healthy and fulfilling relationships that last. Its smart algorithm searches for compatibility in lifestyle, values, and personality traits to ensure singles are impressed by their potential match list.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Friendship, Casual Dates, Serious Relationships

Match System:Search by age, location, height, education, ethnicity, and religion

Our Experts Say:“SilverSingles is a fast-growing, easy-to-use niche dating site exclusively for active daters over the age of 50...” Full Review»

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SilverSingles is a senior dating site that shows great promise. The team has perfected high-tech encryption and fraud detection systems to keep all users safe.

SilverSingles looks out for the interests of seniors in the online dating scene. That means taking an aggressive stance against romance scammers, who tend to target older individuals. SilverSingles has an anti-scam policy that’s so strict a person could be banned for asking another user for money or posting a link to an Instagram, OnlyFans, or Twitter account.

Our expert ratings are based on factors such as popularity, usability, value, and success rate of each site.

Relationships:Fun Dates, Serious Relationships

Match System:Search and get match recommendations

Our Experts Say:“Zoosk is integrated with social media sites, like Facebook and Google+, so it's very popular with singles on the go...” Full Review»

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Zoosk began in 2007 as a dating application inspired by social media profiles. Its matchmaking games and chat tools can give singles a boost into a flirtatious and safe environment. The database currently has over 40 million members in 80 countries, and all profiles are screened for markers of authenticity.

Zoosk can review photos upon demand. The moderators will award a photo verification badge if the pics match a real-time selfie. This proactive system helps authentic daters stand out from the crowd and assure a potential date that catfishing won’t be an issue.

How Do I Conduct a Criminal Background Search on My Own?

If you question the integrity of your online match, it’s definitely a good idea to take matters into your own hands and get the facts. After all, even dating sites that do background checks can’t answer every question or overturn every rock. So it’s important for singles to take that power for themselves and hire a private investigator or conduct a background search on their own time.

The internet is a great accomplice in this endeavor. Singles can engage in social media stalking on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn to get a good idea about another person’s daily life, opinions, and personality. It’s also a good way to confirm the person’s relationship status, education, and employment history.

Want to dig deeper? Intelius is a digital search tool that can conduct a full background check through over 20 billion public records. Intelius can deliver information regarding a person’s criminal history, including traffic violations, restraining orders, and prior arrests, and identify the person’s relatives and spouses on record as well. These personal reports are accessible to Intelius members with a monthly subscription.

Do Your Research to Find a Real Love Match Online

An online dating background check can uncover lies, red flags, and criminal history, so it can be an instant checkmate against a potential scam or catfisher. Many dating sites that do background checks have a friendlier atmosphere and spark more serious relationships as a result.

Online dating can only benefit from adding more transparency and accountability. A background check feature can weed out undesirables based on their criminal record, employment history, or income and financial assets. That can make it easier for high-caliber singles to network safely.

One last caveat emptor: online dating sites and apps can take steps to keep unsavory characters out, but that doesn’t mean singles should automatically let down their guard when meeting a new person. Abusers and scammers may still slip under the radar and use lies to win over unsuspecting victims. Ultimately, your good judgment is the last line of defense against abuse, violence, and crime. So be careful to do your homework and create a solid foundation before giving away your heart. Best of luck!

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