As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. Learn more about this.
Table of Contents Show
In 2024, dating apps have become our coffee shops.
They’re places where we meet new people, share experiences, and sometimes, find that special someone.
But with so many apps out there, how do you choose the right one?
It’s not just about finding the most popular or the most talked-about app. It’s about finding the one that fits you – your style, your needs, your idea of dating.
In this article, we won’t just randomly pick two apps and call it a day.
No.
Rather, we’ll look at different kinds of dating apps – ones for serious relationships, casual flings, and those that cater to specific interests.
But most importantly, we tell you why you only need two dating apps.
Let’s get started.
Why You Only Need Only two Dating Apps
Having a multitude of apps at your fingertips might seem like the best strategy.
After all, more options mean more chances to find the perfect match, right?
Not necessarily.
I’ve learned, both through personal experience and from numerous conversations with our readers, that less can indeed be more when it comes to dating apps.
Now, you’re free to break the rule of having only two dating apps at a time.
But before then, here are a few things to keep in mind…
Firstly, let’s talk about the time factor.
Managing multiple dating app profiles is like juggling – it’s fun at first, but soon you might find yourself dropping balls.
Each app requires time and effort to create a profile, swipe through potential matches, and engage in conversations.
With just two apps, you can devote your time more meaningfully, ensuring quality interactions rather than spreading yourself too thin.
Now, let’s consider the aspect of focus.
Each dating app has its unique vibe and community.
By choosing two that align with your dating goals and personality, you’re more likely to find compatible matches.
It’s about understanding what you’re looking for.
Do you want a long-term relationship? Or are you exploring casual connections? Different apps cater to different needs, and zeroing in on what works for you is crucial.
Another point is the overwhelming nature of choice.
Learn How Experts Approach Online Dating In 2023
Simple Guide, Big Results: Grab your free guide to master online dating. Join us!
Ever found yourself swiping endlessly, unable to decide?
It’s the paradox of choice – too many options can lead to decision fatigue.
By limiting yourself to two apps, you’re more likely to make thoughtful choices, giving each potential match more consideration.
Lastly, there’s the personal growth aspect.
Dating apps aren’t just about finding someone; they’re also about understanding yourself, your preferences, and your approach to relationships.
By focusing on two platforms, you get a clearer sense of what you’re truly seeking in a partner and how you present yourself in the dating world.
The two dating apps we recommend
We’ve been talking about two dating apps from the onset. But where does this lead us to?
What do we actually mean and what are our top recommendations?
Well, our classification for the two dating apps can be summed into these:
- A Deep Connect app
- A Light Heart app
We’re going to be talking about these two sets of apps below, as well as giving recommendations for the apps that fit properly.
In each of them, you’re to go with one app that matches your preference better.
Choosing from each of these two sections makes your dating app list two at the end of the day.
Deep Connect Apps
As long as you’re serious in finding a partner, you should have at least one “deep connect” app in your tally.
Note: Deep connect apps, a term coined by teki360, are basically apps that focus on in-depth profiles and compatibility of users. These platforms are designed to match you with people who share your values, interests, and relationship goals. They’re basically the serious type (sometimes overly) of dating apps you’d find on the internet.
While Deep Connect Apps are centered around serious relationships, they are not inherently superior to their Light Heart counterparts (the second type of dating apps we’d be talking about); rather, they serve a different purpose.
They cater to a specific audience, those who are at a stage in their life where they are seeking more than just casual dates
Recommended apps:
1. eHarmony:
eHarmony, a longstanding player in the online dating arena, has been around for nearly two decades.
It’s particularly distinct from apps like Tinder, focusing instead on comprehensive compatibility assessments and detailed profiles.
The core of eHarmony’s approach is its Compatibility Matching System, which involves a lengthy questionnaire covering aspects like personality types and communication styles.
This process is thorough, and while it takes time (expect about 30-45 minutes for sign-up), it’s designed to create more meaningful, potential matches.
You’ll answer a variety of questions, some quite introspective, to help the platform find users whose preferences and values align with yours.
A notable feature of eHarmony is its detailed profiles, where you can share diverse aspects of your life and interests.
This detail-oriented approach is coupled with an easy-to-navigate website and the ability to see compatibility scores with potential matches.
However, the app has faced criticism for its limited inclusivity regarding gender and sexual identities and for the time it takes to set up a profile. Also, some users have noted a lack of active users compared to other platforms.
In terms of cost, eHarmony falls on the pricier side of dating apps.
The subscriptions vary, ranging from $12 to $60 per month, depending on the duration of commitment.
The investment implies that users on eHarmony are generally more serious about finding a long-term relationship.
While the free version exists, its functionality is quite limited, making the paid version almost a necessity for effective use.
Despite its drawbacks, eHarmony remains a top choice for those seeking serious relationships, with the site claiming responsibility for a significant number of marriages in the U.S.
The comprehensive sign-up process tends to filter out those not looking for something serious, aligning with the platform’s intended demographic – individuals serious about finding a long-term partner
2. Match.com
Match.com, one of the pioneers in the online dating industry as well, was launched in 1995.
It has evolved alongside the online dating scene, offering a user-friendly website and mobile app designed for deeper connections.
With over 39 million users, mostly between the ages of 30 to 49, Match.com appeals to a diverse demographic, including a significant number of single parents.
The platform is known for its detailed profiles and a variety of ways to connect with potential matches.
Users can either use the search feature with filters such as age and interests or the swipe-style feature for mutual matches.
Match.com’s unique reverse matching and mutual matching features are available even in the free version, making it easier for users to find compatible partners.
Pros of using Match.com include personalized match recommendations, detailed profiles, and the availability of one-on-one sessions with dating experts.
However, the app does have some downsides.
It can be expensive if you want to access its best features, and setting up a profile is time-consuming.
Additionally, there have been concerns about the number of active users compared to other dating apps and the presence of ads on the profiles.
Subscription packages for Match.com start at around $19 per month for a one-year subscription, with shorter-term subscriptions being more expensive.
The free version offers very limited features, making the paid version a more viable option for those seriously looking to invest in their dating journey.
User experiences with Match.com vary. Some users have found more success on Match.com compared to other services, appreciating the barrier to entry that payment provides. However, others have found it less effective than apps like Bumble or Hinge, particularly due to the cost and the time investment required
Other Deepconnect dating apps include:
- EliteSingles
- Okcupid
- Zoosk
- Hinge
- Coffee Meets Bagel
Light Heart Apps
The essence of Light Heart Apps lies in their ability to provide a platform that is easy to navigate, quick to get started, and straightforward in its approach to matching.
These apps are known for their less intensive profile setups, often requiring just a few swipes to express interest in someone.
They cater to a wide range of users – from those newly entering the dating scene to those looking to re-enter after a break, or simply anyone wanting to enjoy the experience of meeting new people with no heavy expectations.
Likely, you should get a higher number of matches here compared to deepconnect apps.
But the quality and intent of matches can be sometimes questionable and depends on a couple of factors like the specific app, your location, etc.
Either way, here are the three Lightheart apps we recommend:
Tinder:
Tinder, one of the most popular dating apps, is often seen as a go-to for casual relationships and quick connections.
Since its launch in 2012, it has grown massively, now operating under the Match Group umbrella along with other dating platforms like Hinge and OkCupid.
Setting up a Tinder profile is straightforward – you upload photos, write a short bio, and share basic details like job and interests. The app uses a simple swipe mechanism: right for interest, left to pass.
While known for casual dating, Tinder’s vast user base means you can find people looking for various types of relationships, including long-term ones.
The app allows profile verification, adding a sense of security. It’s free to use, but there are paid versions with extra features like seeing who likes you and unlimited likes.
Tinder stands out for its ease of use and wide reach, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to explore the dating scene, especially for casual encounters.
However, if you’re seeking more serious connections, you might need to sift through many profiles to find like-minded individuals
Bumble:
Bumble, known for its unique approach where women make the first move in heterosexual matches, stands out in the dating app world.
Launched in December 2014, it has grown to 50 million users globally. It’s not just for dating; Bumble also includes modes for making friends (Bumble BFF) and business networking (Bumble Bizz).
The profile setup on Bumble is user-friendly, allowing a maximum of six photos and prompts to express personality traits and dating preferences.
The app’s distinctive features include a 24-hour time limit for initiating conversations after a match, which encourages prompt engagement.
Bumble offers a free membership with several features, but also has paid options like Bumble Boost and Bumble Premium, offering additional capabilities like unlimited swipes and advanced filters.
Costs vary, with Bumble Premium priced at $20/week or up to $230 for a lifetime subscription.
While Bumble attracts users seeking serious relationships, it still requires vigilance against scammers.
Overall, users find Bumble to be effective for a variety of dating intentions, including serious relationships, and appreciate its empowerment of women in the dating process. It’s often preferred over Tinder for those seeking something more than casual hookups
Hinge:
Hinge, often referred to as the “relationship app,” occupies a unique middle ground in the online dating industry.
It’s not as geared towards casual hookups as Tinder, nor as focused on marriage as sites like eHarmony.
Originating as “Secret Agent Cupid” in 2011, Hinge evolved into its current form, aiming to foster more meaningful connections.
The app’s design encourages a slower-paced, immersive profile viewing experience.
Instead of simple swipes, Hinge allows users to interact with specific content on someone’s profile, such as photos, videos, or answers to prompts, facilitating deeper engagement from the start.
This feature reflects Hinge’s intent to bring up substantial conversations and connections.
However, Hinge’s innovative approach does come with some complexities.
The artistic and intricate profile design can make it time-consuming both to set up your profile and to navigate others’.
Also, there’s a perception that the user base leans towards more aesthetically polished profiles, which might not appeal to everyone.
In terms of cost, Hinge offers a free trial and a basic free account, but full access to all features requires a paid premium account.
The premium membership is structured as follows: $34.99 for one month, $64.99 for three months, and $99.99 for six months.
This pricing structure allows users to choose a level of commitment that suits their needs and preferences
Conclusion
Here’s the thing: You don’t need an arsenal of apps to find that special someone or to have fun dates.
Just two carefully chosen ones – a “Deep Connect” and a “Light Heart” app – can perfectly meet your needs.
This approach simplifies your dating life, saves time, and allows you to focus more on making genuine connections.
It’s also important to keep in mind that each app has its unique flavor and community.
It’s like picking a favorite coffee shop; you choose the one where you feel most at home, the one that serves your favorite brew.
Whether you’re looking for a deep, meaningful connection or a light-hearted chat, there’s an app that fits your style.
At the end of the day, dating apps are tools to connect you with others.
How you use them, and the connections you foster, are entirely up to you.
So go ahead, pick your two apps, create your profiles, and step into the exciting world of online dating. Your next great connection might be just a swipe away!
