Ah Tinder… king of kings. I have a ton of friends using Tinder and I used it a looong time ago in another life, but it's always felt so… bland and normal to me.
While it may have gotten a bad rap for just being a hookup app when it first came out, it appears to have evolved a ton since then. After using a lot of other dating sites the past couple of years, I'm really happy to be using the Tinder app again tbh. It's aesthetically pleasing and though it has a lot of features, it's ultimately simple to use.
Swipe. Swipe. Swipe.
What Is Tinder & What is Tinder Used For?
Tinder is one of the OG dating apps that made "swipe right" a thing in pop culture. Tinder was originally a hookup app, but it's really grown up to become an app that connects people on both a love and friendship level. Sure, it's still a bit synonymous with casual hookups, but there are features for those looking for long-term love as well.
The TLDR; on Tinder
With its intuitive swipe-based system and large user base, Tinder provides a flexible and dynamic approach to dating.
How to delete Tinder account: Just head to your profile and tap "delete account" or use "manage my account."
Does deleting cancel subscription? No, you'll have to cancel it separately from your device or website.
What is the Tinder 'hide account' feature? Hides your account from being recommended but you can still be seen by those you liked and connected with.
Can you send pictures on Tinder? Nah, you can't. Which is kinda nice because no unsolicited pics!
Does Tinder notify screenshots? No! Serial screenshot sharers, rejoice.
Does Tinder Have an App?
Tinder has a web version, and apps for iOS/Android.
What's the Sign Up Process & How Does Tinder Work?
First, I had to verify with a phone number. Getting started was quick and straightforward. You can sign up with Google email, Facebook or phone number. Then you're dropped into profile creation with options for who you're looking for, gender identity, relationship intent, passions, and sexual orientation.
I also tried using a "fake" profile picture and it got rejected — requiring me to send pics doing poses they specified. +1 for safety.
How Does Tinder Matching Work?
Instead of actively searching, Tinder uses its "Powering Tinder" algorithm to serve potential dates based on Discovery settings, location, and past swipes. There are also profile badges for who is most likely to chat/reply, who is new, and who is within 6 miles.
Is Tinder Free? (Sorta)
Yep, there's the normal free Tinder app. I was able to match, chat, and 'meet', but was served tons of ads and limited on Swipes.
Tinder's Free Membership Features
- Profile Creation: Add photos/videos and write a bio.
- Swipe Right: Initiate matches if the other person swipes right too.
- Limited Swipes: Daily swipe limit — be selective!
- "Face to Face": Video chat with matches if both have it enabled.
Tinder+, Tinder Gold & Tinder Platinum Subscriptions
The paid subscriptions offer:
- Unlimited Likes: Any tier.
- Passport: Change your location when traveling.
- Boosts and Super Likes: Gold and Platinum.
- Message Before Matching: Platinum exclusive.
- The "Rewind" Feature: Go back to a profile you accidentally passed.
I was totally ok with Tinder+. Gold or Platinum makes sense if you want maximum usage.
What Sets Tinder Apart?
- Deeper Profiles: Intense verification for photos means less catfishing.
- Social Media Integration: Link Instagram and Spotify.
- The Passport Feature: Cast a line before you arrive in a new city.
- The "AI Bio" Feature: Coming soon to help write bios.
- Community Events Like Swipe Night
- Swipe Party: Let friends virtually swipe with you.
So, is Tinder a Good Dating App?
Tinder is still one of the GOATs of dating. It has so many users, and is the right balance between superficial flings and maybe something more. It's kinda like a Swiss Army Knife with a little bit of everything. Everyone has tried it for a reason!
