Not everyone online is looking for a happily ever after. Sometimes, a one-night-stand is all a single person is after –– and that’s OK! In fact, according to Dr. O’Neill, Ph.D., casual sex can be good for mental health. Dr. O’Neill even said sexual activity may help guard against mental health issues — including anxiety and stress.
Singles who tend to their sexual appetite often discover there’s much more to relationships than just going steady.
Overall Best Apps for Hookups
If you’re looking to get laid, mainstream dating apps may not satisfy your needs. Some sexy singles need their own space to flirt and hook up at their own pace. Here are the best dating apps for hookups that our dating experts think are worth a try.
Ashley Madison is a breath of fresh air for single or attached folks experiencing a sex slump. This exciting dating site and app offer tons of opportunities to mingle, match, flirt, and hook up discreetly. Over 80 million profiles await you on Ashley Madison, and it’s free to create an anonymous account.
- Discreetly arranges one-night stands and extramarital affairs
- More than 80 million profiles worldwide
- Travel-friendly features for seeking matches in other cities
- Browse Ashley Madison profiles 100% free »
If you want to try dating a little differently, Ashley Madison is a great site to explore, as the first married dating website. Since its launch in Canada in 2001, Ashley Madison has expanded around the world and helped thousands of people discover the thrill of affairs and search for what’s missing in their relationships.
Having an affair can be very challenging, with all the sneaking around, but not on Ashley Madison. Member discretion is the site’s top priority, and to ensure privacy, everyone on the site remains anonymous until they choose to reveal themselves. Member profiles contain personal information, including name, age, location, and dating status. Until permitted, profile information remains hidden, and profile pictures are blurred out when chatting with others.
As for cost, Ashley Madison is free for women, while men need to pay a fee for its services. A standard membership costs around $17 per month, but a one-month premium plan costs around $90. You can choose a package that works best with your budget based on how long you plan to use the site.
2. BeNaughty
When it comes to arranging hookups, BeNaughty is fast, easy, fun, and safe. This dating site has built a global network of sexy men and women who want to skip the small talk and cut right to the chase. If you’re interested in short-term romance, BeNaughty is the place to go and get your flirt on.
- A global network of naughty singles over 18
- Ability to blur nude and explicit content, if desired
- Advanced search filters and one-on-one messaging
- Browse BeNaughty profiles 100% free »
BeNaughty is on a mission to create a safe dating platform for people to tap into their naughty desires without judgment. BeNaughty has expanded its services worldwide since it launched in 2007 in the UK, and is now considered an international dating site for all singles. The team shared that its goal is to give singles more freedom in the expression of their innermost fantasies.
“A clear vision of our customers’ needs helps us build trustful relationships with our members (which we highly appreciate and value!). BeNaughty.com is a shortcut to naughty dates, specially made for those who prefer to get straight to the point, and we intend to continue providing it to them,” said the BeNaughty team.
As you see, BeNaughty is one of the best dating sites for casual relationships. No one on the site beats around the bush because they don’t have to. That dynamic makes for a much more liberating online dating experience.
Having naughty conversations without the awkwardness can be rewarding, and BeNaughty makes it easy to connect with others. Members can use features such as Flircast messages, SMS chat, and free chat rooms. And women can use all communication tools for free.
Registering for an account on Adult Friend Finder (AFF) is like speeding into the fast lane of the online dating world. This hookup site puts you in the center of action and encourages sexy singles and swingers to satisfy their secret fantasies. Anyone over 18 can join AFF and browse millions of profiles for free, but only full-fledged members have access to the revealing content in the community forums and chat rooms.
- One of the largest adults-only sex communities
- Free and fast registration process
- Dating forums and live chats foster live flirtation
- Browse Adult Friend Finder profiles 100% free »
Adult Friend Finder is a sex dating site that allows adults to experience online dating in a fun new way. For the longest time, adults felt inclined to be in a romantic relationship to get the one thing they truly were looking for — sex!
Adult Friend Finder allows people to be straightforward about their intentions and avoid unnecessary heartbreak and confusion. Everyone on Adult Friend Finder is looking for the same thing, and makes it easier for members to be bold about their sexual desires and fantasies.
People have found friends for casual sex, unexpected traditional partners, swinger groups, and even threesomes on AdultFriendFinder. It’s the right environment to find an alternative partner that you may have not found on traditional dating sites. And to keep things exciting, Adult Friend Finder has nude cam chats that members can view as soon as they join.
4. Zoosk
Zoosk is a fun-loving dating site where singles can let go of their inhibitions and attract dates one private message at a time. The site’s varied search options and communication features facilitate fast connections in a unique social environment. Zoosk members are a chatty bunch, sending over 3 million messages a day, so you won’t have to search far to find hookups here.
- Fast-paced dating scene available in 80 countries
- Full members can send unlimited messages
- Advanced search filters help you zero in on the hottest dates
- Browse Zoosk profiles 100% free »
Zoosk is a social dating app designed to make dating more enjoyable and fun –– without all the games. The platform’s main goal is to help people connect. When singles often face rejection or experience failed dates, they can feel burnt out and discouraged by the dating scene. Zoosk wants to change that by providing singles the opportunity to date the way they want.
Zoosk has more than 35 million members, but everyone gets a personalized dating experience from the start. Zoosk’s matchmaking process is fairly simple. The app curates new profiles for users every 24 hours that reflect their dating preferences and interactions on the app — including profiles they’ve clicked on and messages they’ve sent.
Zoosk users are in full control of their matches and make the ultimate decision on which profiles interest them with the like feature.
“Zoosk has given me the opportunity and confidence to meet and connect with some amazing people. Getting “out there” presenting myself and responding to those showing interest has been empowering,” said Zoosk user Carolyn in a review.
Best Apps for Casual Friends
Hooking up means something different to everyone. It might be only about sex, or it could be a friends-with-benefits situation. The following dating apps help single adults find new connections without any pressure to have sex right away.
Elite Singles offers an elite dating experience for single professionals who know what they want. Most users are college graduates who have busy work schedules and want a partner who will fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. If you’re looking for something casual, set your search parameters to cast a wide net in this quality dating pool.
- A secure and safe dating pool for single adults.
- Many search parameters and filters to play with.
- A new match created every 7 minutes.
- Browse Elite Singles profiles 100% free »
EliteSingles is a high-quality dating site that serves educated and professional singles in the United States. Sometimes, dating or making new friends can sound like a stretch when you have a busy schedule and a heavy workload. Many times, professional singles turn to their colleagues or coworkers for romantic connections — which can get pretty messy. Thanks to platforms like EliteSingles they don’t have to do that.
EliteSingles focuses on serious online dating, but that hasn’t stopped members from making other connections. EliteSingles uses an intelligent matchmaking process that connects members based on compatibility. This works out in favor of members because they get three to seven highly suitable matches each day. Even if members don’t end up being romantically involved, friendships can form because of similar interests.
EliteSingles also offers niche communities for gay dating and lesbian dating, so members can feel comfortable in a shared space.
“We have worked hard to create a conscientious, professional dating site where educated singles of all ages can feel free to focus on finding love. We are dedicated to making sure we always treat your personal information with strict confidentiality,” said the EliteSingles team.
6. Match
Match is an open-ended dating site where singles can make their own rules. Some are seeking heartfelt relationships that lead to marriage, while others just want to hook up. Sexy singles can hunt for a date by using Match’s advanced search tools and live chat and video features. Unlike some other sites, Match doesn’t restrict messaging to mutual matches, so you can woo anyone who strikes your fancy.
- Free profile browsing and liking
- Private chat rooms and video dates for Match members only
- Fast-working, time-tested AI match algorithm
- Browse Match profiles 100% free »
Match was launched in 1995 and remains a top-leading dating platform in the online dating industry. The platform’s mission is to help people find the kind of relationship they desire. Finding a hookup or new friend on Match is less common, but I wouldn’t say impossible. Plenty of people have found more than romance on the app –– including lifelong friendships.
“I enjoyed being on this app. I did not find my current partner on this site but I met a few interesting people who I am still friends with to this day. I would recommend this app to anyone looking to find a partner or even a friend,” said Match user Charisse in a review.
Like Charisse, many Match users end up making connections that go beyond romance. Match offers three membership levels that each provide perks and benefits. A free membership allows users to send unlimited likes and messages to their Top Picks. A standard or premium membership allows users can send unlimited messages.
Plenty of Fish lowers the cost of romance by allowing casual daters to send private chats for free. It’s easy to make a fast connection thanks to Plenty of Fish’s free messaging system. On average, POF members send over 1 billion messages a month, and these chats often lead to romantic encounters in the real world.
- Free instant messages for all singles
- Over 150 million members in 20 countries
- The MeetMe section highlights local hotties
- Browse Plenty of Fish profiles 100% free »
The phrase “there’s plenty of fish in the sea,” isn’t just a line your mom uses when you get dumped. The dating site Plenty of Fish proves that so many interesting singles live in the world — and you can meet them. Plenty of Fish was created to help people make connections without any awkwardness, just as they would in real life.
Plenty of Fish isn’t your ordinary dating site or a one-size-fits-all dating experience. Users can choose their own adventure and how they want to connect with others. You can play spicy dating games, participate in live streaming, or send messages –– the choice is entirely yours!
The ultimate goal is to make dating as fun as possible. Whatever that fun looks like for you, the Plenty of Fish team is willing to create that experience. Many users mention that they come across some scammers, but the Plenty of Fish team offers safe dating tips so members can protect their online privacy.
“It has been a good app to meet people. You seem to be able to find a lot of local people. I even live in a small town and have been able to connect with quite a few people,” said Plenty of Fish user Yvonne in a testimonial.
8. Facebook Dating
Facebook Dating is another social dating network that opens the door for people to find connections with people in their orbit. Facebook Dating focuses on matching people based on their common interests. It’s easier to relate to someone who shares your passions and values.
My boyfriend and I have the best conversations because we often bond over our similar upbringings and interests. And after almost five years of being together, I think it’s safe to say our similarities have helped our relationship in many ways.
Similarly, members of Facebook Dating can engage in endless conversations for free. To get started, members can join groups and events that relate to their interests.
Facebook Dating is a completely free dating app to join and use, but you must link your Facebook account. No one has to pay for upgrades or to use any of its features. That means that everyone using the service is on a level playing field.
“I think it’s the best software and easy to use plus it’s free. You get to see everyone who likes you and search by interest. I have met a couple of people there and every other site over the years,” said one Facebook Dating user in a Reddit review.
Best Apps for Senior Dating
As we get older, our priorities may change drastically. Some senior singles have already had the love of their life, so they’re more interested in keeping things casual and having fun in their later years. Here are some senior dating sites for starting again as a dater over 50.
9. DateMyAge
Mature dating site DateMyAge invites older singles to switch to a more age-appropriate dating pool. The global service has successfully connected senior singles in over 30 countries, including the U.S. Safety is a top priority for the platform. All new dating profiles are vetted and verified by the team for authenticity, and a watchful anti-scam system flags and removes suspicious accounts.
- Local and international profile browsing
- Let’s Mingle icebreakers & Live Chat tools
- Advanced video chat, livestreaming, and personal clips
- Browse DateMyAge profiles 100% free »
DateMyAge brings a certain maturity to the online dating industry. Not only has the dating service been in business since the 1990s, it also caters to a mature audience over 50.
The network reaches 32 countries, including the U.S. and the U.K., and single people aren’t limited to interacting with local matches (as is the case on mainstream dating apps), so it’s possible to find a pen pal in another state or country if you wish.
The free membership on DateMyAge includes unlimited browsing and some communication features, but many users choose to use the credit system to buy enhanced features that will help them meet promising matches more quickly and effortlessly.
10. OurTime
OurTime gives singles over 50 a confidence boost by introducing them to age-appropriate dates online. The dating site offers multiple ways to connect and discover commonality, and it has led to thousands of success stories in the last few years. Whether you’re looking for a pen pal, a friend, or a relationship, OurTime has got it covered.
- Thousands of success stories from all over the world
- Find senior dates using advanced search filters and match suggestions
- The Help Center offers quick tips and guidance
- Browse OurTime profiles 100% free »
OurTime is a dating app where you’ll find older singles in their 50s and beyond looking for connections. Just like anyone, older singles run into unique challenges when it comes to the dating scene. They are often overlooked or put into one category online, but online dating has space for them, too. OurTime innovates new ways to better serve this age group of singles and elevate their online dating experiences.
“Our unique focus is on celebrating this time of your life and helping you find the quality connection you’re looking for. Whether it’s marriage, romance, friendship, or companionship — we want to help you find that someone special to celebrate this time of your life with,” said the OurTime team.
OurTime users also can customize their profiles and share their life experiences through fun photos that showcase where they’ve been and how far they’ve come. OurTime users also include younger singles who wish to date older singles. OurTime’s customized profiles show people a glimpse of who you are and help spark interest.
Free members can send and receive likes and only need to upgrade their membership if they want access to cooler features. With a paid subscription, members can instantly receive messages from others, see who likes them, and know when a sent message has been read –– because after all, we seeing a read message can save some anxiety.
11. SilverSingles
SilverSingles offers a secure dating experience for singles of a certain age. Anyone over 50 is welcome to join the network and browse for dates by using the simple search filters and match recommendations. Every month, over 800,000 senior singles join the dating site and start their journey toward love.
- Global membership base of exclusively single seniors
- Free members can browse matches, send smiles, and favorite profiles
- 24/7 online customer service
- Browse SilverSingles profiles 100% free »
SilverSingles is a dating site that caters exclusively to singles over the age of 50. Dating over 50 doesn’t have to be lonely when you use SilverSingles. The platform is a part of the Spark Networks and has been helping singles since 2002. SilverSingles’ primary goal is to maintain the industry’s highest dating standards for members.
“We are committed to our members, and the most important part of our work is, and always will be, bringing people together,” said the SilverSingles team.
As an exclusive dating app just for singles over 50, older singles have a space just for them. This is reflected in how SilverSingles operates and is designed. The team shared that they want members to receive compatible matches who are at the same stage in life. This allows members to make connections faster than on mainstream dating sites that cater to a wider age range.
SilverSingles users are looking for different things, including love, fun, adventure, and even intimacy. The platform wants to help find a match that suits your expectations, if not exceed them, regardless of your reason for joining. That’s why users take a personality test that helps the platform’s dating experts match them with like-minded daters.
“I have met some very nice people with careers and living in other states. They have been interesting. and I look forward to getting together and having fun,” said one SilverSingles user in a testimonial.
12. Christian Mingle
Christian Mingle is a dating site for faith-oriented singles who want to settle down, and many senior daters have felt drawn to this mission. Members can create a dating profile in less than a minute and set their Discover Preferences to find potential matches within a certain age range or distance. Since its launch in 2001, Christian Mingle has led to countless love stories and Christian marriages.
- Open to all Christian denominations and other religions
- Seniors can sort their matches by age and location
- Enhanced Privacy Control, Badges, and other premium perks
- Browse Christian Mingle profiles 100% free »
Christian Mingle is a faith-based dating site that was designed for Christian men and women to find romantic connections. Christian Mingle is the largest dating site for Christian singles and has been around since 2001.
If you have never used online dating apps before, or are still on the fence, Christian Mingle offers a great introduction to how online dating works. It’s easy to use and navigate. Members are in control, and they can browse through profiles anonymously.
Christian Mingle ensures that all members have fun but the platform prioritizes safety. The team reviews each profile regularly to ensure members are genuine and can be considered as a high-quality match.
“We have carved out a special place for ourselves as a special-interest online personals site, catering specifically to the unique needs of Christian individuals seeking love and companionship,” said the Christian Mingle team.
FAQs: What’s the Best Gay Dating App for Hookups?
The best gay dating sites for hookups are Grindr and SCRUFF. Both of these sites are tailored to gay men and their dating needs. Grindr and SCRUFF have cool features that allow members to chat and show off sexy photos.
Grindr is one of the top dogs in the gay dating scene. It’s the name everyone recognizes, and many gay men choose it as their go-to dating app. The location-based matching system satisfies the desires of guys who want to hook up on the fly.
- Among the most popular gay social networks in the world
- Men connect via private and group chats
- View nearby profiles using real-time GPS data
- Browse Grindr profiles 100% free »
What’s nice about Grindr is that the site has a “zero feet away” policy, meaning the team matches users based on proximity. This helps users find local hookups faster. Chatting with someone overseas is fun, but not when you’re looking for a one-night stand.
A lesbian named Robyn Exton founded HER because she recognized that not all dating sites and apps look out for the unique needs and interests of LGBTQ+ womxn. The HER community does a great job of connecting its users in a fun-loving and active community. Its easy social networking tools are great whether you’re fully out of the closet or just starting to question your sexuality.
- Free private messaging to all mutual matches
- Post comments or send likes to connect with local lesbians
- A safe, friendly, and one-of-a-kind dating app
- Browse HER profiles 100% free »
HER is a great hookup dating site for queer women. HER has created a respectful environment for queer women to feel safe and open about what they want out of dating.
What Are the Most Popular Dating Apps for College Students?
Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge are very popular among 20-somethings. All of these online dating apps aren’t limited to one kind of relationship and allow users to make connections as they see fit. Even friendships can be formed on Bumble BFF.
Tinder’s popularity is legendary. Since the app launched in 2012, it has expanded around the world and seen over 630 million downloads. The app has claimed that 90% of its users are under 35, and it’s safe to say that many of them are in college and looking to try their luck with the swiping game.
As the dating app “designed to be deleted,” Hinge has a certain respectability in the online dating world. The app has long supported meaningful relationships over casual flings, and its profiles offer a glimpse into political views, educational background, and drinking habits — all important deets for college students seeking a match.
College students often are on a tight budget, and all of these sites offer free membership. So they don’t have to choose between dating and buying books for class.
Do Any Hookup Apps Have Built-In Video Chat Features?
Zoosk developed its Great Dates feature during the Covid-19 pandemic to help single people stay connected in the digital space even as they had to keep social distance in person. The video chat functionality allows couples to enjoy a fun environment for their date night at home, and the feature has proven popular for daters looking to get to know one another.
Adult Friend Finder is a sex site that uses livestreaming and video chat to increase the sexual tension between horny people. Some of the sexy live model shows allows viewers to pay to play with the buttons of a vibrator or sex toy and engage in the video strip tease in a uniquely titillating way.
Finding Local Hookups Is Much Easier Online
Hooking up is not so hard anymore. Social connections come in many forms, and many online dating platforms recognize that.
Plenty of platforms now redefine what online dating is all about. Depending on the kind of online experience you’re looking for, these great dating sites can help you find the hookup you’ve been looking for.
