Dating is rough, especially at a time when we’re dealing with AI-generated BS, fuckbois looking to play games (because this is still happening for some reason), and the constant pressure to present curated versions of ourselves to potential partners. It can feel like the Hunger Games, and the odds have been stacked against us.
Terms like “Boysober” (dubbed “this year’s hottest mental health craze”) and “benching” have become common in the dating lexicon, and many people are beginning to lose hope. Others say they’re burnt out from the dating app scene altogether, leading to a wave of “app fatigue.”
Are dating apps worth it?
With an influx of ghosting, breadcrumbing, and FWB arrangements, it’s easy to see why you might question whether or not dating apps are worth it. Our answer is a resounding yes (with an asterisk).
We’re not going to ignore the elephant in the room and say that human connection can be replaced by swiping through profiles on a dating app. But we’re not giving up hope just yet.
According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 44% of adults say that their reasoning for using dating apps is to find a long-term partner rather than just casual dating or hookups. This survey also found that one in 10 partnered adults met their current partner through a dating app. So, even if you’ve yet to find that magical, swoon-worthy connection on a dating app, the statistics show that it’s definitely possible.
Which dating app is best for serious relationships?
There are so many dating apps, but not all of them are created equal when it comes to finding a serious, long-term relationship.
Some dating apps are better suited for casual flings or hookups (e.g., Tinder, Grindr, AdultFriendFinder, etc.), while others have algorithms and features specifically designed to help users find meaningful connections (e.g., eharmony, OkCupid, Hinge, and Coffee Meets Bagel).
The good news is that we’ve done the research (and hands-on testing) to figure out which apps work best for long-term committed relationships, and Match Group isn’t the only player in the game. Plus, they’re all available via Google Play and the App Store, so having an Android or iPhone won’t limit your options.
Here’s a list of the best dating apps for serious relationships in 2024:
