Suzannah Weiss
15.02.2024
Grindr is the world’s largest and most popular location-based gay online dating app. It provides a safe space for gay, bi, trans, and queer people to meet for dates, casual hookups, or just to hang out. But what happens when the guys on Grindr don’t meet your expectations? It might just be time to check out what these alternatives to Grindr have to offer.
When you think of LGBTQ+ dating apps, Grindr is one of the first that comes to mind. However, if you’re not having luck with your current app of choice or want to meet other people, it can be useful to cast a wider net and get on apps with more to offer than Grindr.
Not every dating app is super LGBTQ+ friendly, but many dating apps are making an effort to better accommodate the LGBTQ+ community—from mainstream sites to those made specifically for this audience.
If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community who wants to expand beyond Grindr, here are 5 other apps to check out.
Best for: Behavioral matchmaking
Connection type: Long-term, short-term, friendship
Storyloves is a unique dating platform that stands out for its innovative approach to matchmaking. Catering to singles in the UK, Storyloves emphasizes the power of storytelling in forging meaningful connections. Unlike traditional dating apps that rely solely on profile photos and bios, Storyloves encourages users to share personal stories and anecdotes, allowing them to express themselves more authentically.
This storytelling feature adds depth to profiles and helps users get to know each other on a deeper level before deciding to connect.
One of the key strengths of Storyloves is its emphasis on compatibility. The platform uses advanced algorithms to analyze user stories and identify potential matches based on shared interests, values, and experiences. This personalized matching approach increases the likelihood of finding meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Additionally, Storyloves offers various communication tools, including messaging and video calls, to facilitate interaction between users and foster genuine connections.
Furthermore, Storyloves prioritizes user safety and privacy. The platform employs robust security measures to protect user data and ensure a safe dating environment.
With features like profile verification and moderation, users can feel confident that they are interacting with genuine individuals. Overall, Storyloves provides a refreshing and innovative dating experience for singles in the UK, fostering meaningful connections through the power of storytelling.
Best for: Finding open-minded, educated people
Starting price: Free trial, membership from $29.95 per month
Connection type: Long-term
PlanetOfLoves is a dynamic and inclusive dating platform designed for singles in the UK who are seeking meaningful connections and lasting relationships. With a diverse user base and a range of features, this site offers something for everyone, regardless of age, background, or preferences.
One of the standout features of PlanetOfLoves is its user-friendly interface, which makes navigation seamless and enjoyable for users of all experience levels. Whether you’re browsing profiles, sending messages, or exploring the site’s interactive features, you’ll find that PlanetOfLoves offers a smooth and intuitive user experience.
Another highlight of PlanetOfLoves is its emphasis on authenticity and genuine connections.
Unlike some other dating platforms that prioritize superficial interactions, PlanetOfLoves encourages users to be themselves and express their true personalities. With features like detailed profiles, personality quizzes, and compatibility assessments, users can get to know each other on a deeper level and find matches that align with their values and interests. Additionally, PlanetOfLoves prioritizes user safety and privacy, implementing stringent security measures to protect user data and ensure a secure online environment for all members.
Overall, PlanetOfLoves offers a comprehensive and rewarding dating experience for singles in the UK. Whether you’re looking for romance, friendship, or companionship, this site provides the tools and resources you need to connect with like-minded individuals and build meaningful relationships. With its user-friendly interface, focus on authenticity, and commitment to user safety, PlanetOfLoves is a standout choice for anyone seeking love in the UK.
Best for: Men seeking dates and hookups with other men
Starting price: From $15.15 per month
Connection type: Casual or long-term
Plenty of Fish, commonly referred to as POF, is a well-established dating platform catering to singles in the UK seeking diverse relationship experiences.
With a large user base and a range of features, POF offers a comprehensive dating experience for individuals of all backgrounds and preferences. One of the key attractions of POF is its free membership option, allowing users to access basic features without any cost. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to dip their toes into online dating without committing to a paid subscription.
Moreover, POF boasts a robust matchmaking algorithm that helps users find compatible matches based on their preferences and personality traits. The platform offers various search filters and parameters, enabling users to narrow down their search and find individuals who meet their criteria.
Additionally, POF offers a variety of communication tools, including messaging, chat rooms, and forums, facilitating interaction and connection between members. Whether you’re looking for casual dates, meaningful relationships, or new friendships, POF provides the tools and resources to help you find what you’re looking for.
However, like any dating platform, POF has its drawbacks. Some users may find the interface outdated or cluttered, especially compared to more modern dating apps. Additionally, the free membership option comes with limitations, such as ads and restricted access to certain features. Furthermore, while POF’s large user base increases the chances of finding matches, it also means that users may encounter more fake profiles or inactive accounts. Overall, POF offers a solid dating experience with its extensive features and user-friendly interface, making it a popular choice among singles in the UK.
Best for: Finding open-minded, educated people with similar interests
Starting price: Free trial, membership from $31.95 per month
Connection type: Long-term
Badoo is a widely popular dating platform in the UK, known for its large and diverse user base, innovative features, and user-friendly interface. With millions of users across the country, Badoo offers a vibrant and dynamic environment for singles to connect, flirt, and find potential matches.
One of the key attractions of Badoo is its versatility, catering to individuals seeking various types of relationships, from casual encounters to long-term commitments.
One of the standout features of Badoo is its unique approach to matchmaking, which utilizes advanced algorithms and machine learning to suggest compatible matches based on users’ preferences, behavior, and interests.
Additionally, Badoo offers a range of communication tools, including messaging, video chats, and live streams, enabling users to interact and connect in real-time. The platform also hosts various events and activities, providing opportunities for members to meet and socialize offline.
However, Badoo is not without its drawbacks. Some users may find the sheer size of the user base overwhelming, making it challenging to find genuine connections amid the vast pool of profiles. Additionally, while Badoo offers a free membership option, certain features and functionalities are only available to premium subscribers, which may limit the experience for non-paying users.
Furthermore, like any online dating platform, Badoo users may encounter fake profiles or scammers, necessitating caution and vigilance when interacting with others. Despite these limitations, Badoo remains a popular choice for singles in the UK, thanks to its innovative features, extensive user base, and commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable dating experience.
Best for: Gender-nonconforming people
Starting price: Free basic membership, premium membership from $17.49 per month
Connection type: Long-term
eharmony is one of the leading online dating services in the UK, specializing in finding serious relationships and long-term partnerships.
The platform’s comprehensive compatibility matching system allows users to find suitable partners based on deep compatibility criteria, including personality traits, values, and relationship goals. With a reputation for successful stories and a large user base, eharmony attracts individuals seeking meaningful and long-lasting relationships.
One of the key advantages of eharmony is its deep research-driven approach to dating, evident in its detailed questionnaire aimed at assessing compatibility between users.
This thorough process helps ensure matching compatible partners who share values and lifestyles. Additionally, eharmony offers various communication tools, including messaging and guided communication, to facilitate meaningful interactions among users.
Despite its advantages, eharmony has certain limitations. Some users may find the registration process lengthy and intensive due to the detailed questionnaire, which may deter those seeking a quick and casual dating experience.
Additionally, eharmony operates on a paid basis, requiring users to pay for full access to its features, which may not be feasible for everyone. Furthermore, while eharmony guarantees a high percentage of successful long-term relationships, it may not be the ideal platform for those seeking casual encounters or short-term romantic relationships.
Ultimately, eharmony is an excellent choice for individuals in the UK seeking long-term and meaningful relationships.
Its emphasis on compatibility and commitment makes it an attractive option for those serious about finding love and building long-term relationships.
Grindr has its charm, but it can leave you wanting more. Here are a few reasons why an alternative to Grindr might be the best choice for you.
While Grindr is the largest LGBTQ+ dating app out there, some people dislike it due to its focus on hookups. You may be looking for a long-term relationship or something more than a casual fling. A dating app like EliteSingles or Match might be what you need, especially if your interest is based more on intellect and personality than physical traits.
If you’re not having any luck with the users on Grindr, it helps to cast a wide net and get on as many apps as possible. Not everybody is going to be on any given app, and different apps will attract different kinds of people. So, by joining more than one, you’re expanding your options.
While joining the biggest and most popular apps may seem like a logical way to meet as many people as possible, smaller or newer apps can be the way to go if you’re looking for something niche. All it takes is one person (or two or three, if that’s what you’re looking for), so it really is more about quality than quantity. Finding an app that caters to criteria that you find important (like EliteSingles does) might just be your ticket to finding your soulmate.
There are many alternatives to Grindr, so you have options if you want to switch things up. Pick the app (or apps) that best fits what you’re looking for. Apps like gaystryst and Benaughty are great if you’re looking for a casual fling. Want a more serious relationship? eharmony or EliteSingles would be perfect for you.
Whatever app you select, it’s important to keep online dating safety tips in mind to protect your personal information. Know that you get out of the app you choose will be proportional to what you put in
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