Remind yourself that it’s OK to go slowly.

It’s even beneficial totake a break from dating appsonce in a while.

Try Lots of Different Dating Apps

It can pay off to be on several dating apps.

Woman reading from her smart phone in bed, smiling

Carlina Teteris / Getty Images

Chloe Carmichael, PhD

Someone wouldnt limit themselves to one singles bar so why one dating app?

Its like trying on a dressyou need to actually experience it to see if its right for you.

Carmichael views dating as an issue of supply and demand.

The more we can create demand and options for ourselves, whats to lose?

For same-sex couples, either party can message first.

Tinder:One of the first to introduce the swipe-right format.

Users like it for its simplicity, though it is sometimes synonymized with more casual, hook-up relationships.

Her:Similarly, Her is an app for lesbian, trans, bi, and queer women.

Hinge:This app is geared toward people interested in more seriousrelationships.

It requires people who use the app to answer prompts about their interests, lifestyle, and relationship goals.

Feeld:This app is for couples and singles looking to explore alternative relationship structures such as ethical non-monogamy.

Should You Pay for a Dating App?

Yourbudget matterswhen considering how to find the best dating app for you.

How Much Effort Do You Want to Put In?

Some apps have more detailed profiles to fill out than others.

Considering this will help as you think about how to find the best dating app for you.

Users create profiles that are then vetted by the staff of the apps.

For people who are able to joinits a real plus, says Carmichael.

Youre going to know you have something confirmed in common, if someone has vetted you both.

Youve gone through the vetting process and you show that youre both invested in the process.

That starts people off on common ground, which is a great place to start.

Some people will get overwhelmed by having a huge dating pool while others feel like it increases their odds.

Research supports thismore time spent on apps led to worse mental health outcomes.

2021;8(4):401406.

2020;8(1):22. doi:10.1186/s40359-020-0373-1