When you think of LGBTQ+ dating apps, Grindr is one of the first that comes to mind. However, if you’re not having luck with your current app of choice or want to meet other people, it can be useful to cast a wider net and get on apps with more to offer than Grindr.
Not every dating app is super LGBTQ+ friendly, but many dating apps are making an effort to better accommodate the LGBTQ+ community—from mainstream sites to those made specifically for this audience.
If you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community who wants to expand beyond Grindr, here are 5 other apps to check out.
Our Top 5 Best Alternatives to Grindr:
- Zoosk - Best gay dating site overall
- eharmony - Best for gender-nonconforming individuals
- Gaystryst - Best for gay men exclusively
- Archer - Best for gays looking for genuine connections
- Match - Best for finding a variety of relationship styles
For those seeking a broader selection, consider these 10 best dating sites that offer diverse features for the LGBTQ+ community.
Our Top Picks for the Best Alternatives to Grindr for 2024
1. Zoosk
A diverse dating platform that caters to every preference
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Best for: Behavioral matchmaking
Connection type: Long-term, short-term, friendship
Zoosk caters to a diverse audience, including the LGBTQ+ community. While it's not an exclusively gay dating app like Grindr, it's a solid option for gay people seeking various connections, from serious relationships to casual encounters.
With over 40 million users and 30 million app downloads, Zoosk offers a vast pool of potential matches. Its standout features include a Behavioral Matchmaking™ system, SmartPick introductions, and a unique Carousel feature for discovering new profiles.
The app's intuitive interface, comprehensive search filters, and options for connecting via messaging and virtual gifts make it a preferred choice. Despite its wide range of features, full access requires a subscription, but you can get a feel for it with a limited free account.
Pros
- Inclusive LGBTQ+ community support
- Effective photo verification system
- Versatile communication tools
Cons
- Some users not seeking serious relationships
- Limited free version functionality
2. eharmony
eharmony offers a science-based approach to finding the right match for you
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Best for: Finding open-minded, educated people
Starting price: Free trial, membership from $29.95 per month
Connection type: Long-term
eharmony is a suitable alternative to Grindr for men with higher standards for potential partners. It offers a sophisticated matchmaking algorithm that uses a personality test to gauge your compatibility with other users.
The personality test measures openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism, and the algorithm uses your results to find compatible matches. eharmony then uses this information to suggest 3-7 potential matches daily.
eharmony, which is free to join, offers a gay dating service that is open-minded and long-term focused. After starting with a personality, users can then enjoy a range of features to help you connect with other gay singles, including chat rooms, private messaging, and a comprehensive matching system.
Pros
- Detailed profiles
- Sophisticated matchmaking algorithm
- Free trial available
- Manually verified profiles
Cons
- Subscription required for messaging
- Extensive signup process
- Limited gender and sexual orientation options
3. Gaystryst
A dating and hookup site that's exclusive for gay men
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Best for: Men seeking dates and hookups with other men
Starting price: From $15.15 per month
Connection type: Casual or long-term
Gaystryst is quickly becoming one of the most popular gay dating apps in North America, making it the perfect alternative to Grindr. With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars, you can rest assured that you'll find your perfect match, whether you're looking for a casual fling or a serious relationship.
After setting up your profile, you can search for other members by age, location, and tribe (e.g., bear, clean cut, geek, twink, and BDSM). If you see a profile you like, you can send a wink to get their attention, but it's best to send a direct message to start a conversation and set up a date. You can also upload videos and statuses to show what you're up to if you're a premium member.
Pros
- Video and status profile features
- Ability to view how far other users are from you
- "Similar Users" feature to help you find people you like
Cons
- Only for gay men
- No automatic matching
- Paid membership is required to view full profiles
4. Archer
A dating app for gay men with social media features
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Best for: Gay men interested in casual and serious relationships
Starting price: Free trial
Connection type: Casual or long-term
Archer brings an innovative twist to the digital dating world, particularly catering to gay, queer, and bisexual men. This app combines social media elements with traditional dating features, creating a fresh and engaging platform.
Archer's strong focus on safety, with selfie verification and smart photo blurring for sensitive content, sets a new standard in user security and trust. Its user-friendly design and vibrant community make it an attractive option for those seeking meaningful connections.
The sign-up process is quick and straightforward, ensuring a smooth entry into the app. The tagging system and customizable interface allow easy browsing of profiles so you can find people with similar interests.
Pros
- Advanced AI content moderation
- Safe space for gay, bi, and queer men
- Currently free
Cons
- No desktop version available
- No premium plan available
- No video chat
5. Match
A relationship-oriented app that caters to a wide variety of identities
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Best for: Gender-nonconforming people
Starting price: Free basic membership, premium membership from $17.49 per month
Connection type: Long-term
With 25 years of experience, Match is a trustworthy alternative to Grindr, with over 21 million current members across 50 countries seeking long-term relationships and casual hookups. Profiles include details about each user's personality and lifestyle, which are used to find the best matches. You can send and receive winks for free, but unlimited instant messaging is for paying users only.
Match provides plenty of options for users to identify themselves and who they are looking for. You can identify as non-binary, agender, intersex, trans, and more, and you can choose to be shown to all members regardless of gender.
Pros:
- Variety of messaging options, including emails, winks, and instant messages
- Read receipts on emails
- "Missed Connections" feature shows who's been in your vicinity
- Unlimited video chatting
Cons:
- Limited free messaging
- Extensive signup process
- Not ideal for finding hookups
Why Use These Alternatives to Grindr?
Grindr has its charm, but it can leave you wanting more. Here are a few reasons why an alternative to Grindr might be the best choice for you.
To Find Something More Serious
While Grindr is the largest LGBTQ+ dating app out there, some people dislike it due to its focus on hookups. You may be looking for a long-term relationship or something more than a casual fling. A dating app like EliteSingles or Match might be what you need, especially if your interest is based more on intellect and personality than physical traits.
To See if There are Better Fish in the Sea
If you're not having any luck with the users on Grindr, it helps to cast a wide net and get on as many apps as possible. Not everybody is going to be on any given app, and different apps will attract different kinds of people. So, by joining more than one, you’re expanding your options.
To Increase Your Chances of Finding a Like-Minded Partner
While joining the biggest and most popular apps may seem like a logical way to meet as many people as possible, smaller or newer apps can be the way to go if you’re looking for something niche. All it takes is one person (or two or three, if that’s what you’re looking for), so it really is more about quality than quantity. Finding an app that caters to criteria that you find important (like EliteSingles does) might just be your ticket to finding your soulmate.
Bottom Line: The Best Alternatives to Grindr for 2024
There are many alternatives to Grindr, so you have options if you want to switch things up. Pick the app (or apps) that best fits what you’re looking for. Apps like gaystryst and Benaughty are great if you're looking for a casual fling. Want a more serious relationship? eharmony or EliteSingles would be perfect for you.
Whatever app you select, it's important to keep online dating safety tips in mind to protect your personal information. Know that you get out of the app you choose will be proportional to what you put in.
