Anyone who is even slightly familiar with the world of online dating has heard about Tinder, arguably one of the most famous mainstream dating apps. I can even go as far as to say that the word ‘dating app’ is synonymous with ‘Tinder’!
Founded in the year 2012, Tinder has grown into the most famous dating app used worldwide. Although it was intended to be an app used for casual dating or hookups, people started meeting their potential partners on Tinder!
Personally, Tinder remains one of my favorite mainstream dating apps- mostly because of how simple, straightforward, and easy to use it is. Moreover, you can find almost everyone on this app! Fortunately, the app doesn’t allow users to send messages to each other unless they have mutually ‘matched.’
Why Should You Choose It?
The primary reason why I would recommend Tinder to anyone is simply because of its vast user database. Of course, I must admit that this app does have a reputation for being a ‘hookup centric’ app. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t find your ‘knight in shining armor’, or your ‘Miss. Right’ here. You just might.
That being said, if you’re looking for something casual- maybe just a fling, a one night stand, or someone you can spend a few weeks dating, Tinder is the best platform for you. Recently, Tinder has updated its settings to be more LGBTQ inclusive. So if you’re looking to experiment with your sexuality, you might find someone ready to play the same game as you on Tinder.
Lastly, I love how easy to sign up and the registration process is on Tinder. It is one of the few free apps- you don’t need to go through a messy sign-up process to match with members and send them messages. It’s pretty straightforward. Just sign up, put up a few pictures, write a bio, and start swiping.
There is a paid subscription, but this offers you additional features that I will tell you below.
What’s Its Unique Selling Point?
Honestly? Tinder doesn’t need a USP. The very fact that it is ‘Tinder’ will have users flocking to the app. But, if I have to get technical, I would say that Tinder’s unique selling point is its very fluid, easy registration, and free account. This is one of those few dating apps which won’t surprise you with a sudden ‘free trial period ended’ message and ask you to pay a subscription.
Another great thing about Tinder is just how easy it is to navigate. Swipe left or right to match, and start chatting.
Don’t like where the conversation or going? Just un-match with them, and you’re set.
Don’t want to reveal your ‘real name’ on your account? No problem. They won’t force you to.
Don’t want to add pictures? A bio? No issues!
Yes, it’s that easy!
Another thing- no matter what device you are on, you can easily download the app, sign up within minutes, and you’re set. It’s a completely hassle-free process that most people love. Plus, if you’re looking for that cute girl who lives down the block, but you’re too shy to talk to- you’ll probably find her on Tinder!
Or maybe you made constant, deliberate eye contact with the cashier at your nearest Starbucks but can’t find the courage to ask him out. Well, start swiping. If he lives nearby, there’s a high chance he will be on Tinder!
How Much Does It Cost?
Well, here’s the good part. Tinder is free to use. You won’t be restricted by a limited number of options with their free account. But of course, there is a paid account as well. Let me tell you what you’ll get there.
For those under the age of 30, Tinder will cost you about $10 a month. However, if you’re 30+, it’ll cost you double- $20 a month. Compared to other dating websites and apps, Tinder is exceptionally affordable!
With the Tinder Upgrade, you can enjoy additional features like ‘Undo,’ where you can bring back a profile that you might have accidentally swiped away. Another part you can want is to go through the profiles of those users who have already ‘liked’ your profile. It helps you narrow down your options and also lets you see who is interested in you.
Making a Profile
Making your profile on Tinder is effortless. As I mentioned above, all you need to do is add your contact information (which you can hide from users), your name, age, gender, location, your preferred gender, and a few pictures. Voila!
You can choose to link your Instagram account with your Tinder profile so that users can see your best pictures. Of course, don’t forget to add a bio. No profile is all that interesting without a catchy bio.
Matching With Someone
Again, this process is exceptionally straightforward. Just left swipe on the profiles you want to reject, and right swipe on the ones you like. If the ones you like ‘like’ you back, then you have matched!
Go on to your inbox and send them the first message. Or they might have beaten you to it and already sent you a ‘Hi,’ or something even more enjoyable.
Fortunately, Tinder doesn’t allow users to send messages without first matching with someone. This is great, because who wants to open up their dating app and find a dozen creepy dudes lingering in their inbox, right?
Pros:
- Extremely straightforward registration
- Easy to navigate through the app
- Can be downloaded on any device
- Free account without restrictions
- Huge user database
- Cannot send messages without matching with someone
- LGBTQ inclusive
- Inexpensive Upgrade feature
- Popular dating app used worldwide
- Unlimited free messages
Cons:
- Connected to your GPS location
- Limited information on user profiles
- No option to delete messages or send pictures on the app
Final Verdict
Hands down, Tinder is one of the most popular mainstream dating apps you will find out there. If you are looking to find your crush on Tinder, you will have a high possibility. If you can ignore the fact that Tinder has a reputation for being hookup-oriented, you might find something a little more impressive here.
Of course, if hookups are what you’re looking for, then you have landed in the right place. You cannot go wrong with Tinder. And before I forget, there is an option to ‘hide’ your profile if you decide to go incognito for a while on the app. You don’t need to delete the app or your account, so don’t worry. It’ll be right there when you’re ready to get back on it.
So what are you waiting for? Start swiping!