Online dating is one of the most popular ways for singles to meet and engage with new people. Singles can find just about any relationship they want on the web — from steamy hookups to romantic evenings. Instead of having to go to your local bar to scout out the dating scene, the online dating app Match offers singles a dating experience like no other. 

Match logo

Many of my friends use Match to satisfy their dating needs. Some have even found their Mr. Right through the platform and made their way down the aisle. Match is one of the top dating platforms in the online dating industry right now and it’s easy to see why. It’s a dating app that also appeals to singles who want to build real relationships and settle down. 

On Match, you don’t have to stress about running into many singles with commitment issues. Members can date knowing that they’re surrounded by like-minded people instead of worrying about playing games or being catfished. 

The Match team continues to find new ways to deliver a dating experience that singles want and provide a safe space for people to be themselves. It’s safe to say that Match is worth the investment based on the team’s mission and dedication alone. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out the collection of reviews, stats, and success stories we found to help you decide if Match is right for you.  

Match Launched in 1995 & Receives Overall Positive Reviews

Match was launched on the web in 1995 by entrepreneurs Gary Kremen and Peng T. Ong. Since then, Match has helped countless singles around the world find love and connections that last a lifetime. 

Match currently has more than 21 million members worldwide and is the flagship property operated by Match Group. When Gary and Peng created Match, their goal was to help singles find a serious relationship. At that time, online dating was limited, and many singles struggled with finding dates that fit their criteria. 

Luckily, Match has a large dating pool so members have plenty of options. Match offers multiple tools to help singles find their perfect date, and it relies on an effective matchmaking process that has worked for decades. Members receive daily matches based on their preferences and personality profiles. The algorithm also does a great job of matching members based on similar interests. 

Category Rating
★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • Match is the world’s longest running dating site
  • The Discover section has search filters by interests, looks, lifestyle, and more
  • Match is available in 50 countries and 15 languages

Not everyone wants to have a long-distance relationship, and Match helps members quickly find potential partners nearby. Match uses a geolocation feature that matches you with local singles in the same ZIP code or city. But singles don’t have to rely on the Match algorithm to play matchmaker. They can take more control of their dating lives by filtering, sorting, and interacting with profiles themselves.

“I met my fiancé on Match.com. He was the first person I spoke to. I went on other dates and they were all pretty good but thanks to match.com I met the one! I would recommend match.com to everyone! I have a couple of friends who have met their soulmates on Match too! It really works!” said Courtney in a review

Match has received high praise and plenty of great reviews over the years. Many members say they feel safe and comfortable when using the platform. Match has grown to become an inclusive and diverse space by supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives and growing its presence in the community. 

The Dating Service Provides a Good Value to Singles

Match provides its services to any single person looking for love. According to Match statistics, about 19% of Match members are between ages 18 and 29, 44% are between 30 and 49 and 37% are 50 and above. Anyone over the age of 18 can join Match for free. Singles don’t have to worry about using a promo code or going through an in-depth signup process to access Match’s free membership. With a standard membership, singles can browse profiles, send unlimited likes, and message their “Top Picks.” 

Screenshot of Match app on mobile device
Singles can create a Match profile and start searching for free.

The standard membership is just fine for some singles, but those looking for an enhanced online dating experience should check out the Match premium membership. A Match premium paid membership provides access to unique features that can make dating much easier. The app has three subscription packages: Bronze, Silver, and Platinum. Each premium plan offers different perks at a different price point. Depending on what subscription you choose, you can explore unlimited profiles, see who likes you, and send unlimited introductions. 

If you’re like me and like to scout out the dating scene, you should take advantage of the Match Platinum membership, which allows you to browse other members privately. If you’re on the fence about upgrading your membership you can use a Match free trial to test the waters and see if it’s worth upgrading. No matter what package you choose, just know that you’re in good hands! It’s just a matter of deciding what kind of dating experience you want. 

“I met My significant other on this site. I also met many other very fine nice gentlemen on this site. I tried other sites, but the quality of the people on this site really stands out. I highly recommend this site. The free sites do not compare to Match,” said Melanie, a Match user in a review

About 30% of Online Daters Use Match to Find Success

Because Match is such an effective dating site, many of the platform’s members take the next step in their relationships. Match has connected more married and engaged couples than any other dating site. The team shared that approximately over 200,000 people each year find the relationship they’ve always wanted through Match. According to a Pew Research study, 31% of respondents say they use Match for online dating. Happy couples continue to share stories and testify how much Match has changed their lives forever. 

Screenshot of Match app sign in on mobile device
The Match app helps relationship-minded singles connect quickly.

One story that I found moving is from Sandra, a Match user from St. George, Utah. Sandra shared that her dating journey wasn’t a quick process, but it was definitely worth it. Sandra was a widow who joined Match in 2009.

Using the platform’s chat features, Sandra hit it off with a few members and was hopeful that she would find love again. After experiencing a couple of failed dates due to distance and differences, Sandra finally found her perfect match. The pair met at a public place on the first date and they have been together for more than. 

“We’ve been living together since 2010 and have built a home together. I love telling people I met him on Match. Some relationships are made in Heaven on Match,” said Sandra in a testimonial.  

Stories like Sandra’s are common on Match as the app has built a strong community over the years. I like to think that dating isn’t a solo trip but a team effort.

Having a strong support system that can guide you along the way can make dating a whole lot easier. Match showcases the success stories of members who have found that guidance — and their soulmates. 

FAQ: Does Match Work for Casual Dating?

Many singles use the internet for casual dating, but Match is typically used for serious dating. That’s why the app is dedicated to helping people find relationship-driven matches. Match can be used before for casual dating and short-term relationships, but it may be hard to find someone looking for the same. 

For casual dating, you’re better off using a dating site like Ashley Madison.

Category Rating
★★★★ 4.2/5.0

Ashley Madison is about having fun and discreet affairs and Match well … not so much. Ashley Madison is a great space to casually date whereas Match is more focused on helping you find your life companion. It’s very unlikely you’ll find someone on Ashley Madison who is looking for a lifetime partner. 

Is It Worth Paying for an Online Dating Membership?

Depending on what you want to get out of online dating, paying for an online dating membership offers plenty of perks. You can access certain premium features that will elevate your dating experience. Sometimes, singles want a faster dating process and more tools at hand. Match paid members can have their profile promoted higher in search results. That visibility can result in more matches, which may be worth the money. 

It’s important to note that paying for an online dating service comes with no guarantees. Some singles have paid for online dating memberships and have had a good experience finding a potential partner. Others have used the premium features but not found the person they desire. If you’re going into online dating with an open mind, you may find a paid membership worth a try. But if not, I suggest sticking to a free membership where you won’t be disappointed in investing in money if things don’t work out.

Screenshots of Match app on mobile devices
Match paid members unlock features that can help them simplify their search for the right partner.

“I really 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 definitely recommend this app to anyone looking to find a partner or even a friend,” said Charisse, a Match user in a review.  

If you want to swipe outside your city limits, you may want to try Tinder instead. If you’re hoping to increase your odds of meeting a potential partner on Bumble, then signing up for Bumble Boost may be worth it. However, many singles who choose to stick with the freebies get along just fine.

What’s the Difference Between Match and eharmony?

Both eharmony and Match are great dating platforms for finding love and companionship. It’s just a matter of choosing what dating experience you want. The biggest differences between the two lie in their matchmaking style and price points. 

Category Rating
★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Over 2 million people have found love here
  • Users can filter their match recommendations by age or city
  • Compatibility Quiz identifies common interests, lifestyles, and goals

As the number one trusted dating app, eharmony uses a proprietary matching system that introduces highly compatible singles. eharmony relies on psychology to create its online matches. And its trademark personality test include questions about a person’s lifestyle, temperament, and relationship goals.

“My experience was wonderful. I met my husband via eHarmony in 2014. We were married in 2016 and it has been heaven ever since. We love the same activities, the same hobbies, and we have a great time with each other all the time,” said Carmen, an eharmony member in a testimonial

On the other hand, the Match process is more member-driven. Members can chat for free and use filters to narrow down their search, no personality quiz needed. The Match team also uses algorithms to provide daily matches, but the search tools provide more robust support in the online dating scene. If you’re trying to save money, keep in mind that a Match paid subscription costs less per month than eharmony’s premium plan.

Match Has Stood the Test of Time for a Reason

As we all know, dating doesn’t always have a timeline. You could be dating for months or even years until you find your soulmate. Having patience is key in dating, and it’s not uncommon to feel burnt out after a while. But instead of throwing in the towel and giving up on dating altogether, you may just need to change the way you date. If you’re tired of failed dates and endless swipes, Match may be your best bet.

“The matches were very good. It is extremely hard to find good singles in South Florida. I never viewed any of my matches as a bad match or a waste of time. Each date was a good experience for me and taught me more about what I needed in a partner each time,” said Glenn in a review. “I would recommend Match.com to anyone. Bottom line, I am now married to my last match.com match!”

If you want a chance at finding true love, Match is a great option. Match also has amazing features to help build real connections, and a large dating pool that makes it easier to find high-quality matches. 

Since it launched in 1995, Match has been a pioneer in the dating industry. The platform has evolved with the times, but its team has never lost sight of the mission to change people’s love lives for the better. Satisfying millions of members is a hard task, but the Match team does a great job — as its reviews and testimonials attest. The Match team works hard to provide members with access to new features and content regularly — which is what singles need in the modern online dating world. 

“We receive emails every day, thanking Match.com for the service we provide and asking for ways that successful couples can share their story,” said Kristin Kelly, Match’s Senior Director of Public Relations. “The goal of Success.Match.com is to allow our couples to share their love stories with the world, and to inspire others about their romantic futures.”

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