Key Points
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Popular dating apps like Bumble and Hinge focus on helping you find your perfect person, but EliteSingles also caters to users with specific dating needs.
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Match, eHarmony, and OkCupid have high success rates regarding everlasting romance.
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As of 2022, 44 percent of people using dating apps want a serious, long-term relationship.
At the beginning of June, Canadian scientists researched the phenomenon of "blue balls." Though the "blue" part results from deoxygenation of the scrotum that causes a slight blue tint, "blue balls" really means that you have discomfort from sexual arousal without orgasm.
The more you know!
While many assume this unfortunate situation only happens to men, women can also experience blue balls. Dr. Caroline Pukall of Queen's University, Ontario, and her team found that 42 percent of participants with a vulva reported feeling the discomfort of blue balls.
When searching for a quick fix for blue balls, some people turn to dating apps, as these online dating platforms have become an integral part of modern dating. But online dating isn't just about a hasty hookup to satisfy an itch. Pew Research Center found that in 2022, "44% of [dating sites or apps] users say a major reason was to meet a long-term partner."
With many options available, choosing the app that aligns with your preferences and goals is crucial. Keep reading for a brief evaluation of some of the best online dating apps for serious relationships.
by Bumble
Bumble
When you hop onto dating apps, it's like a profile-matching free-for-all, where anyone and everyone can chat with each other based on a simple swiping mechanic. Bumble, on the other hand, does dating differently. Following a women-first approach, Bumble puts women in the driver's seat by letting them initiate contact within 24 hours of matching with someone. This method empowers women and promotes equal participation.
Additionally, Bumble offers an in-app video and voice calling feature, allowing users to communicate directly without sharing personal contact details. This not only enhances convenience but also ensures safety and privacy. Bumble also incorporates a user verification process, vetting profiles to maintain high authenticity and security.
by EliteSingles
EliteSingles
For the busy professional, dating already seems like an arduous task. In comes EliteSingles. This app offers a high-quality user base by targeting educated and professional singles, providing a platform that caters to their needs.
Utilizing a robust matching algorithm based on personality traits, EliteSingles ensures compatible matches. EliteSingles also uses a detailed profiling process that allows users to provide insights into their values, interests, and relationship preferences. The thoroughness of the profiles aids in assessing compatibility, increasing the chances of finding a meaningful connection.
by Hinge
Hinge
The app designed to be deleted, Hinge, fosters meaningful connections rather than casual encounters. With its unique "prompt" feature, Hinge encourages users to engage in thoughtful conversations by responding to specific questions on their profiles. This motivates users to share more about themselves and their interests, creating a great discussion starting point.
Hinge also strongly emphasizes shared interests and preferences, giving users a better chance of finding like-minded individuals. This app offers helpful conversation starters and icebreakers to further facilitate conversations, making it easier for users to initiate meaningful interactions.
by Match.Com
Match.com
With an established platform and a large user base, Match.com has earned its reputation as a go-to dating app for serious relationships. Unlike most dating platforms, Match offers extensive search options that allow users to tailor their searches using various filters, such as age, location, interests, and more. This ensures users find potential matches that align with their specific criteria.
Match also provides advanced communication features, including messaging and video calls, enabling users to connect and build a genuine connection. This platform's long-standing success record in facilitating long-term relationships presents another compelling reason to consider Match.com.
by OkCupid
OkCupid
OkCupid stands out for its diverse user base and compatibility-based matching that employs in-depth questionnaires that users answer to provide insights into their personalities and preferences. These questionnaires play a crucial role in OkCupid's matching algorithm, allowing the app to recommend compatible matches based on shared interests and values.
OkCupid also offers a variety of filters and search options, empowering users to narrow down their choices and find potential matches that meet their specific criteria. This blend of traditional dating features and modern matchmaking techniques makes OkCupid popular for those seeking serious relationships.
by eharmony
eHarmony
Lastly, eHarmony prioritizes compatibility and long-term commitment through a comprehensive compatibility matching system that analyzes users' personalities, values, and relationship goals to recommend highly compatible matches. This focus on compatibility increases the likelihood of finding a long-lasting and meaningful connection.
eHarmony caters specifically to serious relationship seekers and marriage-minded individuals, making it a top choice for those looking to settle down. Additionally, eHarmony provides secure communication avenues to protect user privacy and foster genuine connections.
Swiping Right on Love
Online dating offers an array of options for those searching for serious relationships. While many dating platforms compete for bigger user bases, they often copy what works for other dating apps. Once Tinder started booming, you'd be hard-pressed to find a dating service that didn't implement some form of swiping mechanic.
Even though these apps hope to accomplish the same things, the size and diversity of their user bases and the quality of their filtering methods can make or break an app. While you have a higher chance of finding a serious, long-term partner, the wider you cast your net, you can find your diamond in the rough in even the smallest pond.
Consider your preferences and goals when choosing the app that suits you best, and make it clear upfront what you want from the platform you choose so you don't waste your time weeding through fling finders. You deserve a love for the ages, and you're bound to find it on one of these highly-rated dating services.
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