Match is synonymous with dating websites as Kleenex is to tissues. It launched back in 1995, making it one of the first modern dating websites in its time. But since it came on the scene, so many dating websites and apps have cropped up making us wonder if Match still holds up.
Or, check our roundup of the top online dating apps and sites for single parents, including our No. 1 recommendation: eharmony, which only admits users interested in serious, long-term relationships.
Bianca’s take: Is Match worth paying for?
Match makes it hard for anyone with a free subscription to interact with others on the app. To make your time worthwhile, you need to buy a plan. However, many Match reviews suggest that the website isn’t worth the money, stating that they weren’t meeting quality people and that they had trouble canceling their subscription plans. Of course, every user’s experience is different, and factors like location, age, and gender may affect it.
Despite their best efforts, Match’s UX and brand is dated. I strongly feel like the dating app and site could use a brand refresh to appeal to younger users. I don’t like the idea of paying for a dating app when other great apps allow dating for seniors you to meet singles for free.
However, because of the sheer number of people on the site thanks to the fact that it has a lot of brand recognition, and depending on where you live, it may be worth giving Match a chance.
How Match works
Users create a profile on Match and then set their dating preferences, including gender and age range. You also have to answer a five-minute questionnaire about yourself that touches upon interests, hobbies, and what you’re looking for in a partner. When it comes to your dating preferences and interests, you can also rate how important they are to you.
Once your profile is complete, it’s time to get matching! Users can find matches by swiping or looking through their interest pages. When swiping, you’re only shown one profile at a time, allowing you to really focus on that individual user. When you skip a profile, Match takes that into account and ensures that every profile that comes your way is compatible with your interests.
When clicking the “interests” page, you’ll find lots of interaction between other Match users; you can like or give someone a “wink” (a more flirtatious like) by having them swipe on your profile first. With Match, you can also send direct messages to other users without having to swipe at them.
Match cost
Match is free to sign up for, but there’s not much you can do without paying for a plan. Below is a breakdown of the costs as of of the standard versus the premium plan and the features that come with it:
Standard
- $/month for 12 months
- $/month for six months
- $/month for three months
- Sending messages
- See who has viewed and liked your profile
- Attend Match Events to meet members IRL
Premium Plan
- $/month for 12 months
- $/month for six months
- $/month for three months
Match also offers “Boosts” — a feature that allows your profile to appear on their “Discover” page or as a “top suggestion” for one hour. Prices start at 0.60 for 10 credits.
Is Match a safe dating site?
Match is as safe as any other dating app. Like with most dating apps, you have the option to verify your Match profile by connecting it to your social media.
