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The Top 10 Dating Sites Reviewed

We review all the online dating sites and apps to bring you our best selections, whatever you're looking for. From the best free dating app to the best dating site for a long term relationship, we compare sites and apps, and give you in-depth reviews, so you can choose the right dating site for you.

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One of the original dating sites, focused on serious, long-term romance.

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Popular for ease of use & excellent customer service. Dedicated to the Over 50s.

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Great Value

Fun and easy-to-use dating website

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Intelligent Matchmaking for Single Professionals.

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Trusted dating service for singles of the same faith

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Why Best10DatingGuide?

We have our own dating editorial team, giving you objective reviews and comparisons of the most popular dating apps.

We write thorough reviews into features, pricing, pros and cons, customer service and your chances of dating success and give each dating site our Best10 Score.

Get regular updates on online dating sites and apps, as we monitor the dating scene, testing and reviewing all brands, not just the top 10 dating sites.

Find The Best Dating Site or Dating App For You

Dating in the modern world is online. There's no getting away from it. Since the 1990s, online dating sites have now become the second most popular way of meeting your new significant other (after friends and family).

And with the rise of dating apps, it's easier than ever to find potential dates at your fingertips.

But with so many options available, how do you know which dating site or dating app is right for you?

That's where we come in. Our team of dating experts has tested and reviewed all the top dating sites and apps on the market, giving you an unbiased and comprehensive look at each one.

In the US, 45% of new relationships and 17% of marriages in 2017 began online.

We understand that finding love can be a daunting task, especially when faced with so many different online dating options.

That's why our reviews cover everything from features to pricing to customer service. We want to give you all the information you need to make an informedips are started online.

With that success has come a whole host of different dating apps and niches.

From Seventh Day Adventists to dating sites for single farmers, there's a dating app for everyone.

And on top of that, over 70% of singles who are dating online are members of two or more dating platforms.

Finally, the online dating industry is a fast-moving one. There are always new services being developed and launched, and established ones changing their features and pricing.

Our specialist and independent editorial team is permanently monitoring the industry, bringing online daters updates and discounts from the top online dating sites as soon as they become available.

This means that we're not just bringing you the most popular dating site in each category.

When we enter a category, we review the popular along with all the other online dating sites, and very often, we'll recommend and online dating app or dating platform that you may never have heard of.

Our aim is not to find the best dating site. It's to find the best dating sites for you.

How do online dating sites work?

The best online dating sites provide search options that allow you to view singles according to their interests or preferences, depending on which are important to you.

Many dating apps provide additional features such as matching search algorithms, helping you find and save someone into your favourites.

This match usually depends upon your age, gender, location and sexual preferences, as well as the information you have submitted in your dating profile.

It's then possible to communicate with other users through instant messaging or secure email.

Who should use online dating apps?

Online dating apps are suitable for individuals who are looking for new relationships or connections.

This includes people who have busy lifestyles and find it challenging to meet new people, those who are new to an area and want to start building connections, or even those who prefer to get to know someone a bit before meeting in person.

Online dating apps are also beneficial for individuals who are introverted or shy, as it allows them to communicate at their pace.

However, it's essential to remember that online dating requires patience, a strong sense of respect for others, and the understanding that not every match will be a success.

What you need to know before choosing a dating site

Before joining any dating site, think about your personal needs: how can someone find the right person for a relationship?

Most dating websites are famous for hookups and many are more focused on long term relationships.

It's best to decide which type of relationships you want and what sites you want most.

How important is this feature for me?

Is it really important to display your personality?

Can we browse profiles?

"Over 70% of singles who are dating online are members of two or more dating platforms"

We spend our days scouring and testing dating site world. From the best Australian dating apps to the UK's top single parent dating sites, we review them all.

We join up, review and compare the features and technology.

We look at the pricing and relative value each service offers.

We check out the customer service - in terms of effectiveness and response times - look into refund policies, and see what users generally feel about the service too.

And then we write all that up for you in honest, easy-to-read reviews and opinions.

To help you choose the right dating app or best online dating website for whatever it is you're looking for.

How much do online dating sites and apps cost?

Premium membership on a dating website averages about $20-250 per month. Most dating sites offer free registration or free trials.

To unlock any feature, you must subscribe and pay. These  features are generally communication ones (for instance the ability to send messages, or video chat), or the that match search functionality and overall quality when compared to other dating sites.

Unlike everything else, we have the best price for it. The use and benefits of dating are great investments. It's easy to get an enrolled account without any commitments. After all you deserve it.

The Dating Game & Personality Tests

Most online dating sites often make use of a personality test or set of questions to get an idea of who their customers are and what they're looking for.

Many tests use a variety of techniques such as rating scales, evocative questions, illustrations, and puzzles.

The results can be used to match individuals with compatible partners based on similarities in personality traits.

Questions range from the usual (age groups and gender) to the quirky; there is - it seems - no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to trying to understand a person's characteristics.

Ultimately, these assessments should be used as just one piece of the puzzle when making dating decisions.

The Top Dating Sites By Category

At Best10DatingGuide, we offer a wider range of dating categories than you'll find on other dating comparison sites.

Top10.com dating, for example, cover 8 categories. DatingExperts cover only the one category.

We cover 13 categories across 5 countries, making us the most comprehensive dating guide available.

The Best LGBTQ+ dating sites

Finding love can be a challenging journey, especially when you identify as queer women or men, or LGBTQ+. But it doesn't have to be so difficult these days.

Dating sites specifically devoted to the LGBTQ+ community provide a safe, welcoming space for singles of all identities to find each other with less fear of rejection or harassment.

A dating site like EliteSingles, which has an easy-to-use interface and encourages users to be true to themselves in their profiles.

Her, which is focused on bringing women together and went live in over 55 countries.

OkCupid, with its expansive prospects of gender, sexuality and relationship statuses.

These are some of the best dating apps out there when it comes to providing tools that make it easier to build relationships while respecting the queerness of all involved.

Though there may not be one solution that suits everyone's individual needs, these great dating sites have something for everyone.

Compare the Best LGBTQ+ Dating Sites

The Best Dating Sites for Hookups

For those looking to find a less meaningful connection, Best10DatingGuide can provide the perfect opportunity.

From informative profiles to matches based on detailed user information, online hookup sites offer an easy, efficient way of finding potential partners with similar interests or lifestyles.

Additionally, these sites typically have advanced search filters that allow users to specify their ideal hookup partner's preferences and further narrow down their options.

Furthermore, with all of the vetting that these websites conduct in order to ensure safe interactions, there is no need for personal security concerns when meeting someone from a dating website.

With careful consideration and use of proper caution when getting to know a person from an online hookup site, you can greatly increase your chances of finding compatible dating partners who truly want what you're looking for.

Compare the Best Adult Dating Sites

The Best Cougar Dating Sites

Cougar and toyboy dating sites have surged in popularity, becoming an increasingly accepted way to find romance and companionship.

Whether you are a cougar looking for an age-appropriate adventure or a toyboy wanting to find an experienced stage partner, the best cougar and toyboy dating sites can help you find likeminded partners that meet your needs.

Many of these sites are tailored towards users who are looking for casual dates, while others cater specifically to those interested in finding a long-term relationship.

Additionally, many of these platforms offer filters and chat features so users can quickly locate potential matches consistent with their desired criteria.

With the right site, age need no longer be a barrier when it comes to pursuing love!

The Best Dating Sites for Single Parents

Finding the best dating site for single parents can seem overwhelming, as there are so many options! However, the right site will not only help you find the perfect match, but provide a friendly atmosphere and resources that support your dynamic as a single parent.

For instance, look into dating services that offer features like child-friendly search filters and moderators that ensure users meet community standards of safety.

Additionally, some sites may offer events or even online classes to provide support for navigating romance while parenting.

Ultimately, when evaluating what the best dating sites for single parents are for you personally, think about key factors like cost and user reviews, but ensure that it also meets all of your needs as a single parent.

Compare the Best Single Parent Dating Sites

The Best Dating Sites for Senior Singles

Dating in your senior years can be challenging. The best senior dating sites take this into account and make it easier to find that special someone than if you were to be on other dating sites.

These websites offer numerous ways to connect, from discussion boards and online chat rooms to video calls and profiles with detailed information about potential matches.

They also often have mobile apps so you can access the site wherever you go.

Plus, most of these sites offer a free trial period so you can test them out before committing to a membership.

So why not give one of these proven sites a try – after all, there's no better time than now to find love!

Compare the Best Senior Dating Sites

Recommended Reading10 Best Dating Sites For The Over 50s

The Top Dating Apps For Long Term Relationships

EHarmony is an exclusive online dating website for serious relationships. It aims to match individuals according to personality and character tests, and therefore potential partners may be referred based on extensive experience and skills.

EHarmony has far more information on potential matches than most dating apps, such as Tinder.

Compare the Best Mainstream Dating Sites

The Best Christian Dating Sites

As a Christian, looking for someone you can have a serious relationship with is an important milestone in your faith journey.

To help navigate this process, the best dating sites for Christians are those that cater to religious singles and use modern technology to maximise the process.

Christian singles can use unique features like personality tests and surveys to help find the perfect match or just mutual friends with similar religious beliefs.

These sites also often have advanced matchmaking algorithms in their databases that give users access to a large dating pool of prospective partners.

Additionally, a good Christian dating site can offer up great relationship advice from theological experts that could prove invaluable on this search for love.

Compare the Best Christian Dating Sites

The Best Dating Sites for BBW

With more and more people appreciating beauty in all shapes and sizes, the dating industry has taken note and created some fantastic sites for BBW to find love.

One of the most notable is BBW Cupid, a great online dating site for plus-sized women to meet their perfect match. With hundreds of thousands of active users, this site provides exclusive access to singles who identify as BBW, making it easier for like-minded daters to connect with others from around the world.

Features such as secure messaging, online chats and video calls help keep conversations fun and exciting.

Plus, careful moderation keeps the platform secure and helps prevent any unwanted messages or attention that could be potentially uncomfortable or off-putting.

All in all, BBW Cupid helps create a safe space for beautiful big ladies to find love – finally!

Compare the Best BBW Dating Sites

The Best Dating Sites for Professionals

Are you trying to find the best dating site for professionals? Finding the right one can be a challenge, but with some research and patience, you are sure to discover the perfect match.

We would steer you in the direction of dating sites catering specifically for busy professionals, such as Elite Singles and ProfessionalFreeAndSingle.com.

On these sites, you will find other singles in similar professions to you. On Elite Singles, for example, over 80% of the members have a university degree. In this way, you can ensure more meaningful connections.

Professional dating sites can also be characterised by the professional manner in which they provide their service.

They prioritise discretion, safety, and convenience for their members. Anonymity can be preserved by using profile names as opposed to real names.

A comprehensive security system which includes background checks on new members will ensure your peace of mind while browsing through online profiles.

Moreover, these sites typically boast an array of convenient features like filter tools and mobile apps which make it easier than ever to connect with individuals you're interested in.

As a result, these sites always offer a paid membership. Even the best free dating site cannot generate enough revenue to invest in the technology and workforce required to meet these exceptional standards.

Compare the Top Ten Best Dating Sites For Professionals

The Best Completely Free Dating Sites

Dating websites and apps typically offer free memberships and basic functionality but may require a higher cost to access advanced services.

What are the criteria for free dating?

It can be used for dating online for free and have all your needs met without paying.

Examples include sending and receiving messages. Unless someone sends someone a message and they don't have to pay a fee, the message won't be free. It is considered free even when its duration is limited.

There are a lot of free dating apps out there, so it can be difficult to figure out which ones are the best.

However, some of the most popular free dating sites are Hinge, Bumble, and Plenty of Fish. Each site has a unique set of features that make it stand out from the competition.

Hinge is great at helping create meaningful relationships by focusing on shared interests and providing thoughtful conversation starters.

Bumble is a great choice for singles who want an empowering experience while dating - they give women the power to control their experience by only allowing them to start conversations once an initial match has been made.

Finally, Plenty of Fish was one of the first free dating sites and provides users with a lot of access to other singles in their areas along with other useful filters and extras like virtual gifts.

A combination of these three platforms could be ideal for anyone looking for the full package when it comes to finding someone special without spending any money.

For each of the above, beware of the term "free dating site" or "free dating app".

Whilst it is true to a certain extent, there is no totally free dating app left any more. All of them hold some feature back that you'll need to pay for to use.

The Best Dating Sites For Threesomes

Finding the best threesome dating sites can be difficult and time consuming, but it's worth the effort.

These sites are great for helping bring together couples or singles interested in exploring three-way relationships.

Many of these sites offer tailored user experience including filters to help find potential partners based on lifestyle or sexual compatibility.

On top of this, some threesome dating websites also include safety features like chat-blockers which let users block people they don't want to interact with, giving everyone a more comfortable space to explore their sexuality.

So whether you're new to having a third in your relationship or an experienced practitioner looking for something more thrilling and adventurous, there are plenty of threesome dating sites that can make your fantasies come true!

Compare the Best Threesome Dating Sites

The Best BDSM Dating Sites

Finding the best BDSM dating site is key for any kinkster looking to meet like-minded people. Though there are a variety of dating apps which cater to similar interests, not all are made equally.

A quality BDSM dating site - like all popular online dating platforms - should have an active community of members and offer features such as private messaging, detailed profile search filters, and matchmaking tools.

It should also pay special attention to user safety and respect members' privacy.

To discover the best BDSM dating sites, it's important to read user reviews and compare feature lists.

Doing your research up front can save you time in the long run and help you connect with those who share your passions.

Compare the Best BDSM Dating Sites

The Best Swinger Dating Sites

Are you seeking an exciting and fun dating experience without committing to a full-on relationship

Swinger dating sites provide just that!

These kinds of websites offer outdoorsy couples the chance to find like-minded people to meet up with for various adventures.

From dinner dates to evening activities and beyond, the best swinger sites make it easy for users to find compatible partners near them.

Not only that, but these sites also provide their users with an array of options from which they can choose depending on their satisfaction level.

From lighthearted swinging to deeper relationships, every one of a user's needs is taken into consideration and catered to on a personalised basis.

There has never been a better time than now to explore all the joys of swinger dating, thanks to the broad selection of swinger websites available out there.

Compare the Best Swinger Dating Sites

Coming Soon:

  • Top 10 Black Dating Sites
  • Ten Best Dating Sites For Muslims
  • Top 10 Disability Dating Sites
  • Top Ten Dating Sites For Gamers.

How we choose the best dating apps and sites

The first step of our search is to find the most popular dating app with the highest number of users. We do this will all the major dating sites in all the different categories: casual dating free or paid.

Once we have our list of popular dating apps, we ask and answer all the questions you'll have as a new potential member. For example:

  • is this dating site best for a serious relationship, romantic relationships or casual dating?
  • is it best suited for local dates or international dating? Am I going to be OK with long distance dating?
  • does it offer a free version? If so, what features are on offer? How does this compare with other dating websites?
  • does it offer paid membership? If so, how much will it cost me? How does that compare to other paid dating sites?
  • does it offer a personality test I can enhance my dating profile with?
  • does it offer additional services, for example a virtual dating coach, video chat, or dating events where I can meet people in real life?
  • does it cater for specific niches of online daters, for example Christian or Jewish Singles?
  • can I easily change my dating preferences to widen (or narrow down) my dating pool of potential matches? How does this compare to other dating apps?
  • is it a popular dating site? If so, what makes it successful?
  • does the dating site have a good mobile version? If not, is there a dating app version I can download?
  • can I send messages straight away, or do I need to pay first?
  • is this a standalone company, or is it one of a group of dating sites? Match.com, OurTime.com, Tinder, PlentyOfFish and OKCupid, for example, are all part of the same company.

We answer all these questions for you, and more, in our reviews. Whilst online dating websites are all essentially the same in terms of what they are offering - ie enabling you to meet new singles - the way they make up their dating service differs from dating app to dating app.

So the best dating app for you may not be a good dating site for someone else. It's important to do your research and read all the reviews we have on our site before making your choice.

How Legit Dating Sites Work To Keep You Safe

Photo Verification: Many dating apps require users to provide photo identification before they can activate their profiles. This method ensures that the person creating the account is the same individual shown in the profile photos.

Reporting and Blocking Features

The top 10 dating sites include mechanisms for users to report or block other individuals who behave inappropriately. This feature provides users with a means to protect themselves from harassment or unwanted contact.

Secure Messaging

Communication tools within dating sites and apps always encrypt content, ensuring that outsiders cannot intercept and read your private messages.

Location Protection

Your exact location is never revealed to other users. Some dating apps also provide the option to hide your proximity to other users.

Data Encryption: All personal data stored on the dating apps is encrypted, making it extremely difficult for hackers to steal and misuse your information.

Fraud Detection Systems: Sophisticated software is used to detect and remove fraudulent or fake profiles, enhancing the overall safety of the user community.

Remember always put your safety first when using dating apps by not sharing personal or sensitive information and meeting in public places for initial dates.

Other Important Questions Answered

What Is The Best Way To Avoid Dating Scams?

Navigating the online dating world can be a tricky endeavor, and unfortunately, many people have experienced fake profiles and dating scams along the way.

The best way to protect yourself from these scams is to do your research.

Read reviews of the site you are using and look for any red flags that may come up warning users about possible scams.

Make sure you never give any personal information or send money online to someone you don't know well.

If you're really considering pursuing a relationship with someone you meet on a dating website, try doing some internet sleuthing and find out if their profile is consistent across multiple websites - if it's not, be wary!

Lastly, trust your instincts; if something looks too good to be true or raises any red flags, it's probably best to avoid it entirely.

Further reading: The Pros & Cons Of eHarmony

How To Create a Winning Dating Profile

Just joining the best online dating site or the most popular dating apps is no guarantee of success. Your most important asset is your dating profile.

Be Genuine

Authenticity is attractive. Your dating profile should truthfully reflect who you are. Avoid exaggerations or misrepresentations, as these can lead to disappointment when you meet in person.

Use High-Quality Photos

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and this couldn't be more true for dating profiles. Clear, high-quality photos can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed. Also, make sure your photos depict you engaging in activities you enjoy, as this can serve as a great conversation starter.

Write an Engaging Bio

Your bio should be concise, revealing enough information to spark interest but leaving room for curiosity. Share interesting facts about yourself and what you're looking for in a potential partner.

Showcase Your Interests

Listing your hobbies and interests can help connect with like-minded individuals. Whether it's hiking, cooking, art, or music, showing your passion can make your profile more appealing.

Check Your Spelling and Grammar

A well-written profile free of spelling and grammar errors portrays a positive and professional image. This can make your profile more attractive to potential matches.

What Is The Most Successful Dating Site?

While there is no definitively successful dating site, the top 10 dating sites have become popular for bringing together compatible singles, and turning potential matches into serious relationships.

Eharmony is one such platform that uses a matchmaking system based on personality tests, letting users find people whose personalities are most likely to lead to happy and lasting relationships.

Match.com has been around since the mid-90s is noted for its diverse dating pool, and is widely regarded as one of the best online dating sites out there. It offers detailed personal profiles and filtering options to more closely hone in matches by interests, age, location and more.

OkCupid puts an emphasis on self expression with extensive questions so that users can get better results from the algorithm-driven matching system.

The result is highly detailed compatibility scores put forth for each profile pairing.

All of the above dating sites offers a free version, allowing you to "test drive" their offerings before committing.

Whatever your preference or requirements may be, there is an online dating site that makes it easier than ever before to find love even if you are nowhere near the person who could be your special someone!

The Best Ways You Can Stay Safe

Although all the top 10 dating sites and apps work hard to keep you safe, it's important you take responsibility for your own safety. These are the main safety and security measures we recommend.

Research Your Potential Match

Before getting too involved, do a quick Google search of your potential match. This can help you identify any red flags if their details appear on scam alert sites.

Never Share Personal Information

Never share sensitive information like your address, social security number, or financial details, no matter how close you feel to the person.

Use Verified Dating Platforms

Stick to popular, established dating platforms that have robust security measures in place and are vigilant about removing fake profiles.

Beware of Quick Love Confessions

Scammers often declare love quickly to manipulate emotions. If someone you've just started communicating with professes their love, exercise caution.

Don't Send Money

Scammers often weave intricate tales of hardship to convince you to send money. Regardless of the story, never send money to anyone you've met online.

Check Their Photos

Use tools like Google's reverse image search to check if their photos are genuine. If they appear on many different sites under different names, it's a clear red flag.

Always Meet in Public Places

When you decide to meet your online date, always choose a safe, public place. Inform a friend or family member about your date.

Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Listen to your gut feelings and don't ignore any signs of suspicious behavior.

What should I write in my first message?

Show Interest

Aim to be genuine and show interest in the person you're messaging. Start by commenting on something specific from their profile that caught your attention.

This could be a shared interest, something about their photos, or a unique detail they've shared about themselves.

Avoid generic greetings, and remember to keep the message short and light-hearted. Here's an example:

"Hi [Their Name], I couldn't help but notice your passion for hiking as mentioned in your profile. I'm a nature enthusiast myself and I'd love to hear about your favorite trails. Have you been on any memorable hikes recently?"

This approach shows that you've taken the time to read their profile and are genuinely interested in getting to know them. It also gives them a specific topic to respond to, making it easier for them to initiate a conversation.

Ask Open Questions

Another tip is to ask open-ended questions that require more than just a yes or no answer. This allows for more opportunity for the conversation to flow and for both parties to learn more about each other.

Be cautious not to come across as too intense or invasive with your questions. Keep them light and fun, such as asking about their favorite travel destinations or hobbies.

Avoid talking about looks

It's also important to avoid complimenting someone solely on their looks in your first message.

While physical attraction may play a role in online dating, focusing solely on appearances can make the other person feel objectified and reduce your chances of forming, a genuine connection.

Be Genuine & Authentic

Instead of using generic pick-up lines or trying to be someone you're not, be yourself and let your personality shine through.

This will make the other person feel more comfortable and increase the chances of a meaningful conversation.

What happened to Facebook's dating offer?

Facebook Dating, launched in 2019, was an initiative by the social media giant to help users find long-term relationships rather than casual encounters.

Despite its promising start, Facebook decided to shut down its dating service in September 2021.

The company stated that they were closing Dating to focus on other business avenues, taking key learnings and insights from the dating service into account for future product development.

It's worth noting that all the user information collected was deleted when the service was discontinued.

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