Grindr Alternatives: 10 Similar Dating Apps for Gay Men

It might be the perfect time to explore these Grindr alternatives and discover what they have to offer.

Not every dating app is super LGBTQ+ friendly, but many 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 10 other dating apps to check out:

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. eharmony

eharmony offers a science-based approach to finding the right match for you Visit Site 

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

2. BeNaughty

Great for those seeking consistent FWBs in the casual dating scene Visit Site  

BeNaughty is a dating site tailored for those seeking casual connections and no-strings-attached fun. If you feel like Grindr’s features for casual encounters isn’t enough, BeNaughty has interesting features like ‘Naughty Mode,’ where you can view even more daring profiles, completely unfiltered. These casual possibilities don’t stand in the way of deeper relationships forming as you can answer icebreaker questions, join live chatrooms, and find new ways to initiate interactions through the “Like Gallery.”

BeNaughty has a policy where women can join for free, and men have to pay for access. While this may seem like a turn-off for those seeking Grindr alternatives, it’s worth considering that if there is an influx of men, there may also be tons of guys looking to experiment or are in the LGBT+ community. 

Pros

• Straightforward interface to start matching quickly
• Inexpensive paid membership

Cons

• Limited free features

3. SilverSingles

Great for mature daters looking for partners in their age group Visit Site

If you feel like Grindr is too hip or fast-paced, or are looking for someone in your own age category, SilverSingles could be a good alternative. It’s like Grindr in that gay, bi, and trans men can look for other guys, but it’s different because it caters exclusively to the 50+ population.

Members of SilverSingles are looking for real connections and mature relationships. You won’t have to wade through hundreds of profiles that aren’t relevant to you. Instead, you can explore 10 profiles every day and make clear, stress-free decisions. Detailed signup process with over 100 questions, so the site can find the best matches for you. During signup, you’ll answer questions about your personality and preferences. 

Pros

• Tailored to mature singles seeking serious relationships
• In-depth personality test matches compatible partners
• User-friendly interface simplifies the dating experience

Cons

• No free search on the site
• Lengthy signup process
• Limited free membership

4. Gaystryst

Great for LGBT+ daters looking for a site dedicated to gay men Visit Site

Gaystryst is a vibrant dating platform for gay men seeking meaningful connections or casual fun.  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). 

With advanced search tools, safety protocols, and an intuitive interface, Gaystryst makes matchmaking enjoyable and secure. The site offers easy sign-up, a large member base, and features like Flirtcast messaging, winks, and video chats for premium users. Free members can explore profiles and flirt but are limited in messaging options.

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

5. Tinder

Great for gay men looking for relationships around the world Visit Site

Tinder is one of the most well-known swipe apps available, with a user-base spanning millions across the world. This makes the app great for looking for all kinds of relationships both in your homebase, and when you’re out and about traveling. 

While Grindr is definitely more discreet, Tinder is excellent for those who are open to sharing their profile with their areas and want to meet different people with just a few swipes. 

The no-frills dating platform requires very little to build your profile, and it costs nothing to start swiping within five minutes of opening your account. To find matches of your own gender, all you need to do is mark who you’re interested in when opening your profile. You can also change your gender preferences after you set up your profile, which can be great if you’re fluid when it comes to your sexuality.

While the platform itself is pretty similar in setup to Grindr, the paid membership options may open up a lot of interesting doors, especially if you’re seeking to try dating users abroad with Passport Mode. 

Pros

• Broader audience with diverse sexual orientations and goals.
• Matches focus on compatibility over immediate proximity.

Cons

• Lacks the LGBTQ+ focus and community-specific connections.
• Matching may take more time compared to Grindr’s proximity-based system.

6. OkCupid

OKC is a refreshing alternative to apps like Grindr for those seeking deeper connections. Visit Site  

OkCupid can be a great alternative to Grindr, particularly for those seeking deeper, more meaningful connections. For gay daters who are looking for something specific in terms of orientation choice, OkCupid offers over 60 gender and orientation options to ensure that everyone feels represented. 

The app is less focused on casual encounters and more geared toward fostering genuine connections. Many users find it to be a better platform for meeting gay men interested in meaningful relationships rather than purely physical ones. While some note that the dating pool for gay users may be smaller, especially in less populated areas, the connections made on OkCupid often feel more impactful and lasting.

Additionally, OkCupid’s design encourages thoughtful communication. The platform promotes engaging conversations and allows users to explore others’ communication styles, creating a more personalized and interactive experience. However, the activity level and variety of profiles you’ll encounter can depend on your location, with larger cities offering a more active user base. 

Pros:

• Inclusive platform supporting diverse genders and orientations
• Free features include messaging and detailed match profiles
• Comprehensive questionnaire enhances compatibility matching

Cons:

• Free version includes frequent ads that may disrupt browsing

7. AdultFriendFinder

Great for those looking for even more spice than Grindr may offer Visit Site

AdultFriendFinder is an interesting alternative to Grindr. Signing up takes just five minutes and involves sharing basic details like gender, location, and preferences. 

The platform stands out for its customizable profile options, allowing users to describe their ideal partner, physical preferences, and personal traits such as sexual orientation, kinks, or lifestyle habits. With tools to explore shared kinks and upload up to 5,000 photos via webcam or from your device to chats, AdultFriendFinder caters to a wide range of sexual interests. 

While Grindr is usually known for being a central app in hookup culture, it may be worth exploring AdultFriendFinder if you want to explore spicier options. While you have to pay to join the platform as a man, you can find many bi-curious and gay men on the platform, especially those who are open to experimenting with couples as swingers or more. 

Pros

• Highly customizable profiles for personalized connections.
• Extensive options to explore shared kinks and interests.
• You can find and connect with members through erotica, chatrooms, polls, contests, and more

Cons

• Smaller focus on local, immediate matches compared to Grindr.
• Some features may feel overwhelming for casual users.
• Men have to pay for membership.

8.  Zoosk

Great for those looking for a very large, national userbase Visit Site

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

9. Match

A relationship-oriented app that caters to a wide variety of identities Visit Site 

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

• "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

10. Archer

Gay men interested in casual and serious relationships Visit Site

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

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 fit what you’re looking for. Apps like AdultFriendFinder, gaystryst, and Benaughty are great if you're looking for a casual fling. Want a more serious relationship? eharmony, OkCupid, or SilverSingles 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.