Dating app fatigue is real, and frankly, who can blame folks? Popular apps are starting to look (and function) more and more like copies of each other, and people have even sued the apps for being more concerned with getting users addicted to swiping than helping them find love.
With the current state of things, it may feel like the “best dating apps for serious relationships” is an oxymoron, but hear us out — Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge aren’t your only options (even though we think they still have their merits!). Even if you’re dealing with serious dating app burnout, using the app that’s the best fit for you might just help you along your journey to find your person.
Are dating apps worth it?
Even using the right app for you still may bring moments of uncertainty and frustration — you’re dating after all — but finding the app with the features that most align with your style of dating, and what type of partnership you’re looking for can absolutely still make online dating worth it.
According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 44 percent of adults say they use dating apps 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, the statistics show that it’s definitely possible to find true love through online dating. Some of our own writers and editors have even found lasting love on these apps.
With that said, if you’ve been on the apps for a while and find yourself dealing with some serious burnout, it’s always fair to take some time off, and come back to it when you feel ready — our guide will be here for you then. Even the best app can feel exceptionally tedious when you simply don’t have the energy.
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, committed relationship.
Some free dating apps are better suited for casual flings or hookups (e.g., Tinder, Grindr, etc.), while others have matching algorithms and profile 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 relationships, and Match Group isn’t the only player in the game. Plus, all of these platforms are available via Google Play and the App Store, so having an Android or iPhone won’t limit your options. Some of the old-school dating sites still maintain a desktop version as well.
To find your match, here are the best dating apps for serious relationships:
