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7 Best LGBTQ Dating Apps and Sites for 2024
The online dating scene used to be a nightmare for the LGBTQ community. But recently, there has been a rise in the number of LGBTQ dating apps and sites, and many mainstream dating sites have become LGBTQ-inclusive.
We have searched several LGBTQ-only dating sites online and some mainstream dating sites to ensure that they’re as LGBTQ friendly as they claim. We reviewed and tested these dating sites to ensure that they provide a safe environment for LGBTQ singles to freely express their sexuality and find their desired relationships. You’ll also find details on their features, subscriptions, matching algorithms, and communication tools.
Whether you’re looking for a serious relationship, casual hookups or just want to explore your sexuality, here are 7 best LGBTQ dating apps and sites that will cater to your dating goals.
Top 7 Dating Apps and Sites in Oct 2024
- BiCupid – Casual dating platform for bisexual males and females.
- eHarmony – LGBTQ friendly site with most of its members seeking serious relationships.
- Zoosk – LGBTQ inclusive platform with a user-friendly interface.
- Scruff – Designed specifically for GBTQ men.
- Grindr – Gay dating site for gay men seeking casual hookups.
- OkCupid – Heterosexual dating site but LGBTQ inclusive.
- Pink Cupid – Designed for lesbian and bicurious women.
BiCupid - Spark Feature for Easy Profile Viewing
- 20 years of experience
- Caters for many relationship types
- Safe for all sexual orientations
- Free Membership
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
- Members’ blog available
BiCupid is mostly known as a casual dating platform, but there are a few users who want serious relationships. Bisexuals and other genders can sign up on this dating platform and rest assured that they can freely express their sexuality.
Sign up by first entering your gender and the gender you’re interested in. Required profile information further includes age, email address, phone number, name, preferred username and password, location, height, ethnicity, and relationship status. You can also sign up through email or Facebook. Upload your best photo and enter some interesting information in the About You section.
BiCupid offers free and premium memberships. Some free features include:
- Winks and Likes
- Spark
- First Date Ideas
- Favorite List
- Respond only to paid users
- Blogs and Forums
Premium features include all the free features and more useful options like:
- Reverse Matches
- Rewinds
- Advanced search filter
- Change username
- Customize profile visibility
- See profile visitors
- See who liked you
Why We Choose BiCupid: Paid members can access the Reverse Matches feature, which shows you a list of profiles that are not necessarily ‘your type’. This feature encourages you to keep an open mind.
Show BiCupid Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Diverse |
| Age Range | 18-55 |
| Matching Algorithm | Age, Location, Interests |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Easy |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Winks, Direct Message |
| Price and Subscription Options |
|
| Mobile App Availability | Android and iOS |
| Special Features | Spark, First Date Ideas |
| Customer Support | |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | Refunds available |
| Community and Social Aspects | Blogs and Forums |
| Inclusivity | High |
Pros
- ✅ Dating advice and safety tips
- ✅ Live customer support
- ✅ Interactive members’ blogs and forums
- ✅ Paid members can change username
Cons
- ❌ Messaging not available for free members
eHarmony - Expansive List of Gender Options
- Big member pool
- Efficient matching system
- Free version available
- Free Membership
- LGBTQ-friendly
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
eHarmony is a diverse, LGBTQ-inclusive dating site with a large dating pool of straight and LGBTQ singles. This platform strives to ensure a safe and inclusive dating space for the LGBTQ community, giving members the option to suggest a gender, add more details about their gender, or choose from the long list of genders, including:
- Agender
- Bi-gender
- Cisgender nonbinary
- Gender-fluid
- Genderqueer
- Pangender
- Questioning
- Transgender nonbinary
- Trans feminine nonbinary
- Trans masculine nonbinary
- Two-spirit
You must take the compatibility quiz to receive daily suggestions of compatible matches.
There are two types of memberships available on eHarmony – free and paid. Free users can:
- Sign up and take the compatibility quiz
- Browse through profiles
- Send limited messages
- Send Likes, Icebreakers, and Smiles
- See who has viewed their profile
Paid membershave unlimited access to the features mentioned above, plus others like:
- All communication tools
- Customize profile visibility
- Dedicated customer care
- Video date
- Advanced search criteria
- Anonymous browsing
- Distance search
- Match unlimited profiles
- Unlimited matches
Why We Choose eHarmony: eHarmony partners with GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) to create an LGBTQ-friendly dating scene.
Show eHarmony Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Large and Diverse |
| Age Range | 25-55 |
| Matching Algorithm | Personality test, Compatibility quiz, Search filter |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Easy, Moderate |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Paid: SecureCall, VideoDate Free: Smiles, Likes, Icebreakers. |
| Price and Subscription Options |
|
| Mobile App Availability | iOS and Android |
| Special Features | Virtual Date |
| Customer Support | Contact Form, Email |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | No refunds |
| Community and Social Aspects | Forums |
| Inclusivity | High; including LGBTQ+, over 50, Asian, Black and more. |
Pros
- ✅ Advanced matching system
- ✅ Dedicated ‘Gay Dating’ section
- ✅ Dating advice available
- ✅ In-app video call
Cons
- ❌ Not ideal for casual daters
Zoosk - Go on Virtual Dates with Zoosk Great Dates
- Enormous dating pool
- Various types of matching
- Quick onboarding
- LGBTQ+ inclusive
- Free membership
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
Zoosk is a diverse LGBTQ dating site that aims to provide “a platform for gay individuals to be visible and connect with others who share their orientation.” LGBTQ singles can use this platform to find serious relationships or casual dates.
The website uses a behavioral matching system to help you connect with individuals who share the same interests and preferences. You can also search for profiles using filters such as age, location, smoking habits, education level, children, etc.
The free membership at Zoosk allows you to send Smiles, access the Carousel feature, search for profiles, and see who’s online in your area. Free users can not send or receive messages. Paid members have unlimited access to all the site’s features, such as:
- Zoosk Booster
- Super Send
- SmartPick technology
- Zoosk Great Dates
- Incognito mode
Why We Choose Zoosk: The Super Send feature helps you send pre-written, flirty messages to more than one profile at once.
Show Zoosk Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Large and Diverse |
| Age Range | 18-45 |
| Matching Algorithm | Behavioral matching |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Very easy |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Chat |
| Price and Subscription Options |
|
| Mobile App Availability | iOS and Android |
| Special Features | Virtual Gifts, SmartPicks, Zoosk Live |
| Customer Support | Phone, Email |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | Refunds available |
| Community and Social Aspects | Social events |
| Inclusivity | High: LGBTQ+ friendly |
Pros
- ✅ Send virtual gifts to your match
- ✅ Go live with Zoosk Live
- ✅ Dating tips and advice available
- ✅ Diverse dating pool
Cons
- ❌ Free users cannot send or receive messages
Scruff - Attend Scruff-Sponsored Events
- Free membership
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
- Over 20 million members
Scruff is a safe space for gay, bisexual, trans, and queer men to find casual hookups and even serious relationships. It is available in 10 languages, catering to people in various regions.
Most members are in their 20s and 30s. Members are grouped into communities such as Bears, Poz, Jock, Queer, Discreet, Leather, etc. Thanks to the app, you can find casual hookups even while on the go.
Free members can use the site even without signing up or creating a profile. You’ll be able to view members’ profile photos, send and receive messages, and browse profiles. Paid members have more unlimited features such as:
- Browse anonymously
- Advanced search filters
- Ad-free browsing
- View up to 1,000 men in a certain location
- Send and receive videos
- Advanced grid sorting
- Unlimited private album sharing
Why We Choose Scruff: We love how they’ve included an Unsend feature to save users the embarrassment of sending the wrong message.
Show Scruff Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Large |
| Age Range | 20-50 |
| Matching Algorithm | Age, Location, Interests |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Easy |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Direct message, Swipe |
| Price and Subscription Options |
|
| Mobile App Availability | iOS and Android |
| Special Features | Scruff Match, Scruff Venture, Unsend |
| Customer Support | Chat, Email |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | No refunds |
| Community and Social Aspects | Scruff Events |
Inclusivity | LGBTQ-friendly |
Pros
- ✅ Large user base
- ✅ For both casual hookups and serious relationships
- ✅ Messaging is free
- ✅ Hosts in-person events
Cons
- ❌ No desktop version
Grindr - Gaymojis for More Engaging Conversations
- Free Membership
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
- For casual hookups
Grindr is a popular and location-based gay dating site known for casual hookups. The site is mostly for gay men, but there’s a recent inclusion of bi, trans and queer.
With a free membership on Grindr, you can send and receive messages, share photos, and view up to 100 profiles in your area. Paid membership is divided into XTRA and Unlimited. Some XTRA features include:
- Read receipts
- Advanced search filter
- View up to 600 profiles
The Unlimited subscription plan has all the XTRA features plus other features such as:
- Chat translator
- Incognito
- Typing status
- Unsend
Why We Choose Grindr: Since Grindr is used in many countries, the Unlimited subscription plan comes with an in-app translator tool.
Show Grindr Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Diverse |
| Age Range | 18-35 |
| Matching Algorithm | Location, Interest, Tribes, Photo Only, Ethnicity |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Very Easy |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Winks, Direct Messaging |
| Price and Subscription Options | Grindr XTRA
Grindr Unlimited
|
| Mobile App Availability | Android and iOS |
| Special Features | Gaymojis, Unsend |
| Customer Support | |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | No refunds |
| Community and Social Aspects | None |
Inclusivity | High |
Pros
- ✅ Large user base
- ✅ Translator tool
- ✅ Free version has great options like messaging and sharing photos
- ✅ Easy-to-use platform
Cons
- ❌ Not for serious relationships
OkCupid - Diverse Dating Pool of LGBTQ Singles
- Free Membership
- LGBTQ inclusive
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
OkCupid is open to 20 sexual orientations and 12 gender identities. We also love how this platform supports monogamy and non-monogamy.
During sign-up, you have to select your sexual orientation and gender identities, as well as answer a detailed questionnaire about your interests and personality. Free members can send and receive limited Likes and messages, and view profiles. Some paid features include:
- Super Boost
- Read receipts
- Super Likes
- OkCupid Stacks
Why We Choose OkCupid: The site has a feature called OkCupid Stacks that “allows you to view matches that fit what you’re looking for based on specific categories.”
Show OkCupid Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Large and Diverse |
| Age Range | 18-55+ |
| Matching Algorithm | Questionnaire, Personality traits, Interests |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Easy, Very Easy |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Likes, Message |
| Price and Subscription Options |
|
| Mobile App Availability | iOS and Android |
| Special Features | Read Receipts, SuperLikes, Incognito Mode |
| Customer Support | |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | No refunds |
| Community and Social Aspects | Forum |
Inclusivity | High; including LGBTQ+, monogamy, non-monogamy and more. |
Pros
- ✅ Large user base
- ✅ Several gender options
- ✅ Customize profile visibility
Cons
- ❌ Lengthy signup process
Pink Cupid - Participate in Chat Rooms
- Free Membership
- Over 1 million members
- Mobile app for Android only
Pink Cupid is specifically designed for lesbian and bi-curious women to find genuine connections, whether love or friendships. Pink Cupid is one of the many sites owned by Cupid Media.
All profiles on Pink Cupid must have at least three photos, and this results in valuable content about all users. Members can also check the ‘last seen’ of other members, so you know if it’s a fairly active member or not.
The site offers free and paid memberships. Free users can send messages only to premium members, use basic filters to search for profiles, and upload photos. Some paid features include:
- Unlimited messaging
- Ad-free browsing
- Translator
- Advanced search filters
- Browse anonymously
Why We Choose Pink Cupid: When you add a specific keyword to your Cupid Tag, you’ll appear in the search results of members who search for that keyword.
Show Pink Cupid Features & Rating
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| User Base Size and Diversity | Medium |
| Age Range | 20-50 |
| Matching Algorithm | Age, Location, Preferences, Search Filters |
| Ease of Use and Interface | Easy |
| Safety and Privacy Features |
|
| Communication Tools | Direct message |
| Price and Subscription Options | Gold Membership
Platinum Membership
|
| Mobile App Availability | Android only |
| Special Features | Cupid Tag, Glam Photo Competition |
| Customer Support | Phone, Email |
| Cancellation and Refund Policy | No refunds |
| Community and Social Aspects | None |
Inclusivity | LGBTQ-friendly |
Pros
- ✅ Profiles are detailed and complete
- ✅ In-app translator
- ✅ Profiles with suspicious IP addresses are removed
Cons
- ❌ Smaller user base compared to others on the list
Dating Sites and Apps for LGBTQ Dating – Detailed Comparison
| App/Site | Best for | Registered Users | Men/Women Ratio | Focus | Free Version | Subscription | Mobile friendly? | Verified Profiles | Social Media Integration | Matching System |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BiCupid | LGBTQ+ singles | Over 2 million | M: 65% F: 35% | Casual hookups, Serious relationships | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Age, Location, Interests |
| eHarmony | All singles | Over 30 million | M:48% F: 52% | Serious relationships | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Compatibility quiz |
| Zoosk | All Singles | Over 40 million | M: 48% F: 52% | Serious relationships, Friendships, Casual dates | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Behavioural matching |
| Scruff | LGBTQ singles | Over 15 million | Men only | Serious relationships, Casual relationships | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Age, Location |
| Grindr | Gay men | Over 13 million user | Men only | Casual hookups | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Location, Interest, Tribes, Photo Only, Ethnicity |
* Note: Stats are aggregated via SimilarWeb, extracting data from trusted websites including Online Dating Statistics by Forbes Health, Pew Research Center and FinancesOnline
How We Rate Dating Sites and Apps
We rate each dating site after an in-depth review process that includes fact-checking and to align with our editorial policy, our feedback is based on real-life testing of each platform. We do have advertising partners, which is explained in our advertising disclosure, but we deliver unbiased information and update content regularly. For your peace of mind, learn more about our process in our detailed ranking guide.
Main Features to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQ Dating Site
The best LGBTQ dating sites must provide features relevant to the LGBTQ community. Use this list of features when searching for the best LGBTQ dating site for you:
- Suitable Match Algorithm: Choose LGBTQ dating sites with suitable and intelligent matching algorithms that suggest the best and most compatible profiles for a particular user. New eHarmony members must take the 80-question compatibility quiz. The site then uses the results of the quiz to send daily suggestions of compatible profiles. We highly recommend this algorithm for those hoping to find serious relationships through online dating.
- Advanced Search Filter: Users should also have the freedom to search for profiles using advanced search criteria such as age, appearance, lifestyle, hobbies, etc. You know which characteristics you’re after in a friend or partner.
- Communication Tools: Choose LGBTQ dating sites that provide intuitive communication tools such as Winks, Hearts, Smiles, Likes, and Icebreakers. These tools can help you begin a conversation with a profile, even without composing a message. The chat feature should also include emojis, GIFs, stickers, and voice messages. Grindr even has a feature called gaymojis.
- User Base: Pick LGBTQ dating sites with a member pool that aligns with your desired relationship. For example, many eHarmony members want a serious relationship, while BiCupid members want casual relationships.
- Video Call: Choose LGBTQ dating sites with an in-app video call feature to help you connect with your matches and plan virtual dates. This tool ensures your safety because you can confirm your match’s identity. A video call can help you confirm if someone is telling the truth about their sexual orientation. eHarmony has an in-app video call feature available for paid users.
Important Tips for Safety & Success on LGBTQ Dating Sites
LGBTQ dating sites are designed for the LGBTQ community only, but unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that there won’t be fake profiles and scammers on them. Below are a few tips on safety and success on LGBTQ dating sites.
- Review the Best Sites for You: There are several LGBTQ dating sites with different features, member pools, and matching algorithms. Take the time to review as many platforms as possible to discover the one best for you. For example, look for dating sites with the right member pool seeking the same kind of relationship as you. If you want a serious relationship, try eHarmony. If you just want a casual hookup, try BiCupid or Grindr.
- Know What You Want: Before you start searching for the perfect match, reflect on your relationship goals, values, and your ideal partner, not just in terms of looks but also personality or life goals. This will guide you in making the right choice.
- Don’t Only Date Your Type: Do not restrict your dating pool to a type you’re used to dating. Rather, date a wide variety of people to help you learn more about yourself and explore different relationship dynamics.
- Do Not Settle for Less: Whether you choose to date your usual type or expand your dating pool, do not settle for less than what will make you happy and content. Don’t be in a hurry to date someone just because you haven’t dated in a long time. You deserve someone that will treat you right without even asking.
- Video Call Before Meeting Up: To confirm your match’s identity and ensure your safety, we advise that you schedule a video call before you meet up. If you still have your doubts, don’t be in a hurry to meet them. Get more information about them before you go on a date with them, so you can always be as safe and at ease as possible. This approach can make online dating much more enjoyable too.
- Meet in a Public Place: When you have decided to meet up with your match, ensure you meet and stay in a public place. Keep your friends in the loop as well. If you notice any strange and creepy behaviors, find an excuse to end the date.
- Talk About STD Testing: If you decide to take a step further in your relationship and become physical, you and your partner must talk about STD and HIV testing. Ask them the last time they got tested, but make sure you don’t come across as judgmental.
- Talk About Polyamory and Non-monogamy: You and your match or partner should talk about polyamory, non-monogamy, and monogamy to ensure that you both want the same things. This will help to avoid unnecessary conflicts in your relationship.
Is a Free LGBTQ Dating Site Legit?
Usually, a dating site will offer some of its features for free so that users can decide the site is right for them. For example, free users at BiCupid can send Winks, engage in the members’ blogs, and upload photos and profiles to a ‘Favorite’ list. Free members on eHarmony can send limited messages, Smiles, and Likes, browse a limited number of profiles, and see who viewed their profile.
We advise that you test out a dating site using its free membership before you invest your money and buy a subscription. If the site suits your preferences, a contract can get you access to more features and enhance the experience and outcome.
Resources for LGBTQ Singles Seeking Love
It’s possible to find love and friendship on other platforms aside from LGBTQ dating sites. Some platforms even hold social events for members to meet one another and share their stories, and experiences, or just have fun. Check out these groups to find other LGBTQ singles.
- Meetup Group for LGBTQ
- Facebook’s Official LGBTQ page
- The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center
Conclusion: What is the Best LGBTQ Dating Site?
The best LGBTQ dating site depends on the features you would enjoy using, the type of relationship you’re looking for, and your budget.
Based on our experience, the best LGBTQ dating sites are BiCupid and eHarmony. The majority of BiCupid members are looking for casual hookups with a few profiles looking for serious relationships, while eHarmony members hope to find serious relationships.
Choose the LGBTQ dating site that has the right member pool for your dating goals. Also, we advise signing up at more than one LGBTQ dating site to find the one that works best for you.
FAQ
Are There Any Truly Free LGBTQ Dating Apps and Sites?
There are LGBTQ dating sites that offer some features for free (usually limited) while others offer free and unlimited communication. For example, OkCupid offers completely free messaging.
What are the Best LGBTQ Dating Apps and Sites for Hookups?
