In this post, we’re going to list a 10 best free dating and best hookup apps for iPhone, iPad, Android and other platforms. We’ve tried to include as many dating possibilities. Without further ado, let’s begin.
The Pros and Cons of Dating Apps. Another thing is that if you choose to meet up with someone from a dating app, no matter how well you think you know. If you run a small business like a hair or a beauty salon, you’re probably wondering whether or not it’s a good idea to invest in an online booking system. “Tinder has a very one-sided reputation,” says Ane Charlotte Spilde, a media studies master’s student who has researched Tinder. Pros and cons of online dating. Since online dating apps and the disadvantages of online dating can sometimes you decide if it is more people outside of.
Gone are the days when we had to make a trip to the coffee shop every weekend with the hopes of meeting someone interesting. There are apps for that too now. And they’re available right on your iPhones and Android devices. To have a look into each, just read further.
Tinder is by far the most popular dating service that is also used for hook ups. The app is so common that it has made its way easily into popular culture. Tinder works by showing you pictures and information about candidates, and you can swipe horizontally of the screen in the direction depending upon whether you are interested in talking to them or not.
The app is free, though it may require in-app purchases which are not mandatory. Set up your profile, fill in your interests, add an interesting photo and header and watch as the matches come pouring in! apart from that tinder without Facebook is also being used by people, learn more about it by clicking on the link.
Grindr is arguably the app that started it all. The app is primarily a hook up app and is targeted specifically at the community of gay, bisexual and bi-curious men. It is relatively simpler than most other apps too. Just turn of your location settings, download the app and set up a profile.
Nearby users will be visible right away of your screen, and you can go ahead and converse, date or hook up with anyone you like. Select your tribes, input more information and tell people what you’re looking for, and wait for the messages to cascade in. iPhone and Android versions are both available.
It is easy to fall in love with Blendr; the features it carries are nothing short on revolutionary. The app uses your location and sets you a profile. You can see fellow users of the app. What’s more, the app will tell you if you “bumped into” any Blendr users that day.
You can send them a message if you like them, and hopefully they will be kind to reply. The staggered arrangement on peoples’ icons is beautiful and easier of the eyes. Try out Blendr for Android or iPhone once, and you won’t regret it.
OKCupid is a much more mellow dating service, for those who prefer an old school romance to the sex-crazed meet ups that are in vogue. Your profile is easy to fill, and the messages of interest are almost instantaneous. The app can be used for hook ups too.
You can set information about you by answering simple questions. Plus, the app caters to everyone, regardless on their gender or sexuality.
A Women only platform is hard to come by. But we have Her, for those on the iPhone or Android smartphone. The app was previously available by the name Dattch. The app is quite like Facebook, where you can send friend requests, send messages and comments.
But the app also caters to dating requirements on the lesbian community. Have fun interacting with people you like, and set up dates, hook ups or organise a house party. The possibilities are endless.
Coffee meets Bagel is an app that can get you out on the perpetual dating-ditching loop. Tired of scouting for guys that are actually serious about a relationship and not just looking to waste time? Well then, ladies! This app will only get you matches (called Bagels) every afternoon with men who have expressed interest in genuine dating you for the long run.
The app is also mindful on any LGBTQ members, and has a slightly different selection and recommendation process. It’s a pretty decent deal for anyone who has an Android or iOS smartphone.
The well known website match.com now has its own app of the Play Store and on the App Store. The app is available in many languages, and uses your location to cater potential partners to you.
The service is not so distance oriented as much as compatibility oriented, which is a bonus if you don’t want things to just end after a one night stand. Use Match to find the perfect partner.
Hinge lets you find something real. It gets you connected from within your extended friend circle. If you have common friends, you will be suggested to each other, and you can go ahead and talk, meet and hook up.
The app’s unique concept puts you at an advantage, because it gets you tidbits about the person you need to know so that they don’t turn out to be a creep.
What’s more, your potential matches are not limited to iPhone or Android users only, since the app is available on both platforms
With over 5 million users worldwide, comprising gay, bisexual and curious guys, Scruff gets you matches from all around you. Hook up with guys you like. You can Woof at people to express interest. Send photos and videos with text to let the guy know you better.
Choose from the guys you’re interested in. There’s a whole world of men out there, waiting for you to get of the platform. Get the app for iPhone and Android of their official app stores.
Finding someone who likes animals like you can be tough. But finding someone who likes the idea on being with animals and relates with the struggle on taking care of one? That is positively rare. With Twindog, you and your puppy team up to find someone interesting to meet.
Go ahead and take your dog along, and let the romance brew as you watch them play. You can also make friends with fellow dog owners. Could be a great alternative to hiring a creche or kennel service, no?
So there you have it; 10 best hookup apps for you, which hopefully cover all the aspects you want to find a partner in. If there is another app you’d like to tell us about, do drop us a line.
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Top 10 Hookup Apps to Try
- Tinder – Top Pick
- OkCupid – Best Messaging System
- DOWN – Best Free Version
- Feeld – Best for Couples and Singles
- Pure – Best Incognito Features
- Hud – Best Custom Preferences
- Grindr – Best for Gay, Bi, Trans, and Queer People
- Happn – Best Geo-Targeting Features
- Bumble – Best for Women
- Coffee Meets Bagel – Best Hookup-to-Dating Potential
How We Chose the Best Hookup Apps
Our hookup app picks have robust safety and security features, and they welcome LGBTQ+ connections. But before joining an app, it’s important to explore what makes a hookup app the best choice for you.
Choose the hookup app that’s right for you
Free versions give you a good idea of how each app works and whether it’s effective for your hookup goals. But to find the best fit, look at the app’s specific features to select a few options you think will be suitable for your needs. Reviews are an excellent resource, so be sure to browse the Google Play and App Store user reviews before downloading one or more of the apps on our list.
Follow safety and security tips
Hooking up with a virtual stranger poses several risks, so be sure to use all the available security, privacy, and safety features your chosen app offers. It’s also a smart idea to follow some sound safety tips like those found on RAINN.org.
Our Hookup App Reviews
Tinder – Top Pick
Download:Android iOS
As the originator of the swiping function for electronic matchmaking, Tinder made a name for itself as an effective hookup app right away. Its simple, user-friendly interface promotes quick connections. Browse pictures of other users in your area and swipe left for no or right for yes. Start messaging your matches and plan a meetup if you’re mutually interested. Be sure your profile sends the right message by letting users know you’re not looking for anything serious, just fun hookups.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $0.99 – $299.99
- Customer support: Email, Phone
| Tinder Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Optional bio for hookup availability notification | Video chat not available everywhere |
| “Super Likes” option to convey urgency | |
| “Paid Passport” function for out-of-town fun | |
OkCupid – Best Messaging System
Download:Android iOS
OkCupid is a veteran dating app that supports all types of relationships, from hookups and nonmonogamous matches to serious dating and finding “the one.” The free version has enough functions to locate and connect with potential hookup partners. The app’s search function has a “hookup” filter for availability, letting you limit your parameters to only like-minded people. You can also choose “hook-up” in your profile to indicate what you’re looking for. Most OkCupid users range from 18 to 44 years of age.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $0.99 – $179.99
- Customer support: Help center
| OkCupid Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Vast user pool | No in-app video chat |
| Adaptable sexual identity and gender options | Extensive questionnaires to get matched |
| Generous functions in free version | |
DOWN – Best Free Version
Download:Android iOS
Designed for hookups and casual adult fun or dating, DOWN uses a swipe function to identify which one you’re interested in. An up swipe is for dating, while a down swipe indicates a desire to hook up. Swipe right if it’s a no to both. The free version allows messaging for mutual matches. If you want to move forward, you can take the conversation off-app. The VIP DOWN is a $19.99-per-month upgrade.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $1.99 – $84.99
- Customer support: FAQ
| Down Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Mutual opt-in notifications | No in-app video chats |
| Undo option for regretted swipes | Only 10 profiles daily with free version |
| Simple to use | |
Feeld – Best for Couples and Singles
Download:Android iOS
Labeling itself “the first dating app for couples and singles,” Feeld was designed to help people who prefer alternative relationships to find each other online. These matches include open relationships, polyamory, throuples, and other nontraditional matches. The free version allows unlimited browsing, searching, and chatting. A paid upgrade to Majestic membership lets you upload private pictures for your connections, lets you see who’s liked you, gives you more privacy functions, and adds other features. 35% of the member accounts on the app are couples, 50% identify as something other than heterosexual, and the largest age group is 25 to 34.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $1.99 – $124.99
- Customer support: Help center
| Feeld Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Community of sexually open-minded people | No in-app video chat |
| 20+ sexual and gender identities | Need paid upgrade for more privacy |
Pure – Best Incognito Features
Download:Android iOS
Pure is up-front about its purpose to help people hook up privately and discreetly, leaving no trace behind. You can register anonymously with a Google Sign-in or Apple Sign-in. Draft a personal ad describing what you’re looking for and add your photo, if you wish. Once you match with another user in close proximity, you have only 24 hours to set up a meeting before the connection ends and the chat disappears, unless you both decide to extend it. The chat timer can be turned off upon agreement of both chat partners, and the app sends a notification if someone tries to take a screenshot of the chat conversation. Most users are between 25 and 40, and there are far more men than women. It’s also worth noting that the app has excellent privacy features, including video chats with virtual masks (if the mask slips off, the screen will be automatically blurred) and self-destructing photos.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $1.00 – $79.99
- Customer support: FAQ
| Pure Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Good safety and privacy features | Subscriptions auto-renew |
| Automated scammer trigger word alerts | |
| Weekly subscriptions available | |
Hud – Best Custom Preferences
Download:Android iOS
Hud stands for Hook Up Dating, clearly stating what you’re there for. The app is available on mobile devices and laptops for more convenience. The scrolling match feed lets you view a user’s profile without liking it first. With the My Bedroom feature, users can reveal their sexual preferences and kinks to further establish compatibility. The free version includes unlimited messages, video calling, basic search matches, and up to 60 potential matches on your feed at once.
Notable features:
- Free version and 7-day premium free trial available
- In-app purchase price: $4.49 – $119.99
- Customer support: Contact form
| Hud Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Free chat function | Online contact form for customer support |
| Video and photo protection blur | Only binary male/female gender options |
| Couples can sign up as “we” | |
Grindr – Best for Gay, Bi, Trans, and Queer People
Download:Android iOS
Grindr is a location-based hookup app created for gay, bi, trans, and queer people. Users browse a grid of thumbnail profile pics to select users they’re attracted to. Reach out, chat, and set up a meeting if you’re both into it. Grindr users are typically not looking for anything serious. Because the app uses geolocation targeting, if you see someone in person you’re interested in, you can check the app to see if they’re on Grindr and make your move from there.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $0.99 – $359.99
- Customer support: Help center
| Grindr Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Large user pool | Minimal user support |
| Quick and easy signup | |
Happn – Best Geo-Targeting Features
Pros And Cons Of Hook Up Apps For A
Download:Android iOS
This location-based app only shows you users whom you’ve come across in the past seven days. Happn can work as a missed encounters feature if the person you saw and hope to hook up with is also a user. If you see someone you’re into, heart their profile. If they like your pictures and heart you too, you can message one another. This is a quick and free way to make a mutual connection and see if they’re interested in a hookup. This app can be a little frustrating, though, if you’re not in a larger city with lots of users, and some people aren’t comfortable sharing their location with the app all the time.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $0.99 – $144.99
- Customer support: Help center, FAQ
| Happn Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Undo pass feature for regretful passes | Matches presented are based solely on location |
| Integrates with Facebook, Spotify, and Instagram | Only useful in heavily populated areas |
Bumble – Best for Women
Download:Android iOS
The woman makes the first move on Bumble. As a woman, it puts you in the driver’s seat when looking for a hookup. That way, you won’t be overwhelmed with messages from people you’re not interested in. But once you reach out with an icebreaker, your potential match can message you back if they’re attracted to you. You can determine the interest level via messaging and move forward if the feelings are mutual. If you’re looking for a same-sex partner, either of you can initiate interest.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $0.99 – $149.99
- Customer support: Help center
| Bumble Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Matches good for 24 hours | Can only rematch with paid membership |
| Robust free version | Limited personality matching features |
| Block and report features | |
Coffee Meets Bagel – Best Hookup-to-Dating Potential
Download:Android iOS
Pros And Cons Of Hook Up Apps To Wifi
The Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) app is focused more on serious dating than hookups. But users can still find compatible matches that prefer to become physical right away. You receive a small list of matches each day at 12 p.m. The app imposes a seven-day limit on messaging. This works well for hookups since urgency is typically a factor. Additionally, your unliked matches expire after 24 hours. Because many users on CMB are looking for something long term, this app is suitable for people who might be open to more after your hookup if you both connect.
Notable features:
- Free version available
- In-app purchase price: $0.99 – $179.99
- Customer support: Help center
| Coffee Meets Bagel Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| Discover tab profile browsing | Narrow matching criteria |
| Messaging available in free version | |
Hookup Apps: Features Summary Table
| Hookup Apps Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| App | In-App Purchases | Features |
| Tinder – Top Pick | $0.99 – $299.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| OkCupid – Best Messaging System | $0.99 – $179.99 per item | X In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| DOWN – Best Free Version | $1.99 – $84.99 per item | X In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Feeld – Best for Couples and Singles | $1.99 – $124.99 per item | X In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Pure – Best Incognito Features | $1.00 – $79.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Hud – Best Custom Preferences | $4.49 – $119.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Grindr – Best for Gay, Bi, Trans, and Queer People | $0.99 – $359.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Happn – Best Geo-Targeting Features | $0.99 – $144.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Bumble – Best for Women | $0.99 – $149.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |
| Coffee Meets Bagel – Best Hookup-to-Dating Potential | $0.99 – $179.99 per item | ✓In-app video calls ✓Same-sex matching ✓Safety features |