Dating in real life can be intimidating, and it’s difficult for some people to be honest about their interests. That’s where online dating can come in handy. Online dating platforms have helped people become more liberated and open to exploring their sexual desires. 

The online dating scene has evolved and isn’t just for romantic encounters anymore. Many singles use it for social connections. Whether you’re looking for a one-night stand or a casual fling, the web has an array of hookup apps ready for you. 

Plenty of dating apps have proven that your dating life doesn’t have to be put into the spotlight. Hookup apps can be as discreet as you want them to be. To make things easier for you, our dating experts have ranked and reviewed the best anonymous hookup apps on the market. 

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★★★★★ 4.5/5.0

Drake isn’t the only one who enjoys just having a good time and not a long time. On OneNightFriend, singles can explore their desires and have sexually charged conversations anonymously. Users on the site never have to worry about commitment or being ashamed of their desires. 

OneNightFriend is a safe space for sexual exploration on the down low. Some prudish types may shun one-night stands, but OneNightFriend embraces them.

The site allows people to step outside their comfort zones and experience what they’ve always wanted to while dating. Whether you’re interested in polyamory, BDSM, or sugar dating, you won’t be judged for your desires.

You can have a fun time on OneNightFriend, but it’s also a safe time. The team does an outstanding job of verifying profiles in the background.

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★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • 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

The online dating site BeNaughty invites singles to loosen up while remaining authentic. If you’re the type of person who likes to get straight to the point, you should consider checking out this platform.

BeNaughty was created to provide an easier way for people to find fun dates and naughty nights. Users don’t have to provide much more than an email address to get going.

Users can sign up for BeNaughty for free, and the platform doesn’t ask for full names or identifying info. The team shared that it sees more than 40,000 new members weekly, and those members have an 89% satisfaction rate. The platform matches users based on their preferences to get better results.

“No more failure! No more spoiled dates! Just set your criteria, and we’ll match you up with a person who shares your preferences and is eager for fun!” said the BeNaughty team. 

Connecting with people from around the world was once nearly impossible. You would need to fly and spend tons of money to date internationally. Thanks to advanced technology, singles can now meet and date as they please worldwide. Today, BeNaughty serves singles from all over the world, including the U.S., South Africa, and the U.K.

“Lots of very sexy members in my area that I am getting to know. Had 4 dates already and 2 of them ended up in my bed. Thanks!” said a very happy BeNaughty user in a testimonial.

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★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Discreetly arranges one-night stands and extramarital affairs
  • More than 80 million profiles worldwide
  • Travel-friendly features for seeking matches in other cities

Ashley Madison has been around for quite some time and is growing every day. With a motto, “Life is short. Have an affair,” Ashley Madison offers a unique way for people to find extramarital encounters.

Since 2001, the app has managed to make people feel safe while having discreet affairs — something you don’t see often in the online dating industry.

Having an affair sounds taboo, but not on Ashley Madison. Members often use the platform to get away from their sexless marriages and seek a connection. In addition to that, married couples sometimes use the app’s services to add a partner and spice up the bedroom.

Whatever your reason for using Ashley Madison, you can find comfort in knowing that privacy always comes first

Women receive access to plenty of benefits when using Ashley Madison. The app is completely free for female users, which is a great perk. Women can match and talk as long as they want without spending any money. 

“I joined Ashley Madison and have found the fulfillment I needed to return to my husband a satisfied partner. It’s completely removed the anxiety from our marriage,” said an anonymous Ashley Madison user in a review on the homepage. 

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★★★★★ 4.7/5.0

As the world’s largest dating and social network, AdultFriendFinder puts a lot of sexy content out there, but none of it goes as far as revealing real names. Online daters can go to AFF to flirt and sext with partners who are on the same page about hooking up. 

Members never have to worry about running out of options because the platform has such a large dating pool. AdultFriendFinder has made more than 3 million connections so far, and the site has no plans to stop.

Members can discover plenty of local adults looking for sex dating just like them. In sex dating, people can feel free to explore, unlike traditional dating, when they might not feel as comfortable. AdultFriendFinder offers sex dating advice and information to educate members on sex and how to remain safe. 

AdultFriendFinder is no ordinary hookup platform. It’s a site that takes sex dating to the next level. Users can participate in live nude chats and erotic conversations with no judgment at a reasonable cost. The team shared that users have found swinger groups, threesomes, and other romantic partners on the site. 

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★★★★ 3.9/5.0

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, no-strings-attached hookup, then SaucyDates might just be the app for you. This sex-first app doesn’t beat around the bush (unless you’re into that). Instead, you can get right into the action.

Discretion is the name of the game here: while SaucyDates has a strict no fake profiles rule, you don’t need to provide a real name. There’s no fear of accidentally running into someone you know here.

The site is free to join, though messaging requires a premium membership. However, once you sign up, you don’t need to worry about swiping through endless pictures or hoping for an algorithm match. Do you see someone you like? Message them. It’s that easy.

With a sex-positive atmosphere, award-winning security and moderation, and the ability to connect based on kink or fantasy, SaucyDates is the perfect way to have a bit of discrete, sexy fun.

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★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • A casual personals site for singles, couples, and groups
  • Profiles have suggestive photos and strip tease videos
  • Chat live via a two-way webcam or private messaging

The dating site FriendFinder-X is known as a space where good girls do bad things. Like some other hookup dating apps, FriendFinder-X is where you can have secret affairs and sexy live chats.

The site has millions of members worldwide who are looking to spice up their dating lives with more passion. But FriendFinder-X is more than just a casual dating site — it’s an experience like no other. 

The site is free to join and caters to both singles and couples. If you’re on the fence about joining, FriendFinder-X offers a free trial, so people can get more comfortable by exchanging private photos and videos.  

FriendFinder-X has a strong community of people who help each other along the way. The site offers intimate dating advice that can guide those who may be experiencing a casual relationship for the first time. These tips include how to get noticed on the site and how to practice safe online dating.

Discretion is another aspect the site values, and if users ever feel unsafe, they can block or report other users. 

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★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • A massive user base of over 70 million dating profiles
  • Send a free private message or Flirtcast to get something going
  • Exchange nude pics or adult videos with a Flirt member you trust

Flirt.com is the perfect space to get your flirt on — as can be expected from its name! The platform was established in 1995 and relaunched with tons of upgrades in 2009.

The site is considered the world’s leading online dating service that provides singles with fun dating experiences. Dating, in general, can be nerve-wracking at times, but thanks to Flirt.com, singles don’t have to worry about all the nerves, they can just focus on having a good time. 

Singles have plenty of dating opportunities on the platform. The team’s goal is to help people find connections in days rather than years. That’s why the team focuses on creating a solid community. When singles are surrounded by like-minded people, they tend to have better and higher quality dates

Flirt.com offers dating filters that allow users to meet each other in a unique way. With hundreds of members, the dating community simplifies finding a match who shares the same interests. But even if you don’t match, you can chat with them beforehand.  

“I was looking for a girl that I could have some fun with. I wanted someone that would be my friend as well as my lover and found my ideal match thanks to Flirt.com,” said an anonymous Flirt.com user in a review on the homepage. 

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★★★★ 4.4/5.0
  • A massive men-only sex and swinger community
  • Browse profiles and send private messages to your favorites
  • Profiles feature erotic videos and sexually explicit blogs

MenNation is a gay dating and hookup dating site that caters to men. Users can engage and find men with many different backgrounds and personalities. The site aims to help members experience intimate encounters they may not find elsewhere.

Niche dating sites tend to have a smaller dating pool, meaning it may take longer to find a connection. But that’s rarely the case on MenNation. The platform remains a popular resource for gay men to find dates promptly, and it has more than 100,000 active members. 

Dating online can be a little bland when you only have access to chatting features, especially if you’re far away from one another. A dirty text message can only go so far! To take things to the next level, MenNation offers live chat options where members can see live model shows and participate in live member chats. 

MenNation also has a dating forum section where members can read erotic stories, sexy magazine content, and even member blogs. The dating forum section includes free sex stories and fantasies that members share. Some erotic story categories include group sex stories and first-time sex stories.

9. Tinder

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★★★★ 4.4/5.0
  • The dating app of choice for millions of sexually active singles
  • Accelerating the dating process through swiping
  • Has led to over 97 billion mutual matches

Like a fine wine, Tinder continues to get better with time. Tinder launched in 2012 and has grown into a popular dating app that leads to millions of dates each week.

I’ve always known Tinder as a hookup app because most of my friends from college would use it to ensure their Friday nights weren’t so boring and lonely. Let’s just say they were always pleasantly satisfied! 

Users can swipe right or left on various users’ profiles, which reflect who they like (right) or dislike (left) on the app. Based on those results, users match accordingly. This straightforward process makes it easier to find local hookups and avoid awkward first conversations wondering if the person likes you. 

Tinder offers both free and premium memberships. If you’re looking for advanced features, such as Super Likes and the Tinder Passport, a premium membership is necessary. You can choose between a free and paid subscription depending on what you want, and you can always upgrade when needed. 

10. HER

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★★★★ 3.6/5.0

HER is a lesbian dating app where women find love, lust, friendship, and new connections. This team is on a mission to bring as many lesbians together as possible.

Lesbian dating is becoming more popular, and many platforms now welcome and embrace lesbians. But there’s something special about being in a community where you can relate to everyone else on the platform. 

HER was created by a lesbian woman who felt there needed to be better options for lesbian dating without being objectified. The team strives to create a positive community where saying “hi” feels natural.

Members can access amazing chatting features and enjoy a conversation through an instant messenger. To help break the ice, members can comment on photos or profile statuses, just like in social media.

If you’re eager to take things off the web and find a local hookup, HER offers search tools that allow you to find women who share common interests.

11. Grindr

Category Rating
★★★★ 3.8/5.0
  • Sexually active men can create free profiles
  • Matching system uses GPS information to find local dates
  • Millions of prospects available in 192 countries

Grindr is the largest social networking dating app for gay, lesbian, bi, trans, and queer people. Since it launched in 2009, Grindr has been striving to create a safe space for people to meet and date each other.

The app focuses on forming social connections and respectfully serving the LGBTQ+ community online. Grindr’s team continues to upgrade and evolve the app to reflect modern dating trends. 

“Today, Grindr proudly represents a modern LGBTQ lifestyle that’s expanding into new platforms. From social issues to original content, we’re continuing to blaze innovative paths with a meaningful impact on our community,” said the Grindr team. 

To encourage more local hookups, Grindr has a “zero feet away” policy that helps connect members based on location. Zero feet away simply means that the app wishes to help members get connected with other people near them. 

Aside from trying to help people experience fun hookups, Grindr wants members to understand they’re not alone. Grindr’s location-based technology reveals what other members are near you. As a result, members get to hook up locally and discover plenty of people like themselves. 

12. DOWN

With the DOWN dating app, singles can be upfront about their dating expectations and interests. DOWN is all about being honest and direct, something many singles struggle with in dating. DOWN users learn to be more confident and bold about their dating decisions and what they want.

Guessing games don’t exist on the platform. When users join DOWN, they share their interests with other members so no one is in the dark.

DOWN includes interactive features, such as free chatting and fun icebreakers, among many others. Users often express how dating on DOWN feels different, and it’s because they’re in control.

DOWN’s mission is to provide people with a safe dating environment where they’re in the driver’s seat. Even with 13 million users worldwide, the team ensures that everyone receives a personalized dating experience. 

Screenshot from DOWN app website
The DOWN app includes interactive features and has 13 million users around the world.

“What can I say about this app — I freaking love it! Can’t believe how simple and fast the interface is, and no fuss with unwanted messages. Great job!” exclaimed Ashton Cook, a DOWN user in a review on the platform’s homepage. 

It is free to sign up and use DOWN, and the app also offers a subscription plan called DOWN private membership. The private membership offers premium features and an enhanced dating experience. You should consider it if you’re looking for something more advanced and intimate. 

13. Doublelist

Available in 248 locations, Doublelist is a dating site that connects straight, gay, bi, and curious singles. People often feel like dating is knowing what you want and going after it, but that’s not always the case.

If you’ve ever felt like you wanted to explore your sexuality and discover what you want out of dating, Doublelist is the perfect app to test your desires. 

Screenshot from Doublelist website
Doublelist gives all types of daters opportunities to connect with people in their areas.

Doublelist offers dating categories that make it easier to navigate through the site and find your community. If you’re looking for a hookup, Doublelist has a hookup section that can help you find other users based on location.

Whether you’re traveling or trying to find a local hookup, you can do so quickly and safely. Users can get instant access to other profiles and, if interested, message them. 

“I am surprised that there are this many people interested in the same things as I am. I am so glad that I found the Doublelist site. I have been missing out on so much,” said Toney, a Doublelist user, in a testimonial on Trust Pilot.

FAQs: What’s the Best App for an Affair?

Ashley Madison is rooted in desire and has a reputation as the best married dating app in the world. Discretion is key at Ashley Madison, and the team implements safety features to protect personal information. These features include:

  • Photo blurring or masking
  • First names only
  • Discreet billing
  • One-click exit

Ashley Madison is most famous for facilitating affairs and keeping things discreet, but it’s not the only platform for this type of encounter. You can also check out Gleeden and VictoriaMilan. Both of these niche dating services can facilitate extramarital affairs.

Can You Hide Your Identity on Dating Apps?

Yes, many apps don’t ask for a lot of revealing information, so it all comes down to the photos you choose.

I’d suggest uploading photos that don’t exist on your social media accounts (and therefore won’t show up in a reverse image search). And steer clear of details like your workplace or neighborhood that could be traced back to you.

Some apps like Bumble have rules about clearly showing your face in photos, but many of the hookup apps on this list let you get away with a body shot or no photo at all!

Is OkCupid a Good App for Casual Sex?

While OkCupid welcomes people of all dating intentions, its dating profile specifically asks users to state what they’re looking for. That means casual sex seekers can find one another easily.

If you’re into free platforms, you’ll find OkCupid’s free chatting service beneficial to your journey. 

OkCupid screenshots
OkCupid creates over 91 million matches a year.

OkCupid has perfected its free messaging service to offer a balance between unlimited communication and personal safety. A single person can only send one message to a potential match, and it’s up to that person to unlock the conversation by responding or sending a profile like. Only mutual matches can send chats to one another freely. 

If you want to up your online dating game, upgrade your membership to a premium plan for extra features. 

Are Free Hookup Apps More Likely to Have Fake Profiles?

Yes, free dating comes with risks of encountering phonies. Some hookup apps have a bad reputation for fake profiles. That comes down to a failure to moderate and verify their membership. The issue is that anonymous dating doesn’t always equate to safe dating.

55% of online daters have experienced threats, including scams and catfishing.

The more anonymity the platform gives to users and the fewer barriers to entry (phone number, full name, email address, even payment), the easier it is for scammers to infiltrate. Moderators can only do so much to boot fake profiles, so they may rely on users to report and flag bad actors.

Online daters should look out for warning signs of fake profiles and bots to keep themselves safe.

Keep It Casual on an Anonymous Hookup App

People want different things in their love lives, and sometimes an anonymous hookup app is the way to go. As you can see from our list, many dating hookup apps value member privacy. Instead of trying to date on your own, allow one of these dating apps to help you find romance on the down low. 

Today, you can use online dating for anything, even extramarital affairs or open relationships. No matter what you’re looking for, you can join an online community willing and ready to support you every step of the way.

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