Looking for a dating app that won’t drain your wallet? You’re not alone-millions of people want to meet new folks without splurging on premium subscriptions. Below you’ll discover which platforms truly work for free, how they differ, and what to watch out for so you can start swiping without spending a dime.
We measured each platform against four practical criteria that matter when you’re on a budget:
Data comes from the apps’ latest press releases, publicly disclosed monthly active user (MAU) numbers, and independent tech reviews from early 2025.
| App | MAU (Millions) | Free Core Features | Safety Tools (Free) | Typical Upsell Triggers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tinder - Swipe‑based dating platform | 78 | Unlimited swipes, match‑based messaging, basic filters | Photo verification, AI spam detection | Super Likes, Boosts, Passport |
| Bumble - Women‑first matchmaking app | 42 | Unlimited swipes, 24‑hour match chat, voice notes | Photo verification, background check partnership | Spotlight, Premium Filters |
| OkCupid - Question‑driven matching service | 30 | Unlimited likes, message any match, detailed questionnaires | Photo verification, AI‑moderated profiles | A‑list upgrades, read receipts |
| Plenty of Fish (POF) - Large‑scale free dating network | 20 | Unlimited messaging, advanced search, chemistry tests | Photo verification, safety tips hub | Premium upgrades, ad‑free experience |
| HER - LGBTQ+ community dating app | 5 | Profile creation, group events, match messaging | Community moderation, photo verification | Boosts, premium filters |
Tinder is the app most people think of when they hear “online dating.” It’s free to download, set up a profile, and start swiping. The free tier gives you unlimited right‑swipes and lets you chat once a match is made. You’ll notice occasional prompts for Super Likes or a Boost, but they’re optional.
Why it works without paying: the sheer volume of users-78million monthly active users-means you’ll likely find a match quickly, even in smaller towns. The app’s AI‑driven “Smart Photos” automatically selects your best shot, helping you get more right swipes.
Tip: Turn off “Show me on TinderU” in settings if you’re not a student; that removes a hidden paywall that tries to funnel you into premium plans.
Bumble flips the script by only allowing women to send the first message in heterosexual matches. The free version includes unlimited swipes, a 24‑hour window to start chatting, and voice notes.
What makes Bumble stand out for free users is its emphasis on respectful interaction. The app’s partnership with a background‑check provider offers a free “Verify Me” badge that boosts credibility without extra cost.
Pro tip: Use Bumble’s “Snooze” feature (free) to pause your profile and come back refreshed-this can raise your visibility when you reactivate.
OkCupid relies on a questionnaire to match you based on shared values. All core features-likes, messaging, and reading answers-are free. The platform also offers free “Double Take” prompts that show two matches side by side, helping you decide faster.
The free model works because OkCupid doesn’t hide messaging behind a paywall; you can message any match as soon as you both like each other.
Use the “Discover” tab to explore niche groups (e.g., pet lovers, gamers) without upgrading.
Plenty of Fish (often shortened to POF) still boasts a massive free user base. The free tier lets you send unlimited messages, run advanced searches, and even take a “Chemistry Test” to gauge compatibility.
POF’s advantage is its less‑polished UI, which translates into fewer aggressive upsell prompts. You’ll see occasional ads, but they don’t block core functionality.
Best practice: Fill out the “About Me” sections thoroughly; a detailed profile boosts your response rate dramatically.
HER focuses on queer women, non‑binary, and trans people. The free version provides a full profile, event listings, and match messaging. HER also runs community‑moderated groups where members share safety tips.
Why it stays free: HER’s revenue comes from event partnerships and optional boosts, not from locking messaging behind a wall.
Tip: Join local HER events (virtual or in‑person) to meet people who share your interests before diving into one‑on‑one chats.
All the apps listed offer free safety layers-photo verification, AI spam filters, and easy reporting. Nevertheless, practice common sense:
By staying proactive, you can enjoy the free features while minimizing risk.
Yes. Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, Plenty of Fish, and HER all allow unlimited messaging once a match is made, without requiring a subscription.
Tinder leads with about 78million monthly active users, making it the best choice for sheer volume.
All listed apps include free safety features such as photo verification and AI‑driven spam detection. Combine these tools with personal caution for a secure experience.
Absolutely. Running two or three apps expands your dating pool and lets you compare match quality without any cost.
HER is purpose‑built for queer women, non‑binary, and trans folks, offering community events and robust moderation-all for free.
Pick two apps from the table that fit your lifestyle-perhaps Tinder for sheer volume and HER if you identify with the LGBTQ+ community. Create a standout profile, enable verification, and start swiping. Remember, the best match often comes after a few tries, so stay patient and keep safety front and center.
Written by Michele Bradford
View all posts by: Michele Bradford