Benefits of dating apps: Pros, Cons, Tips and Top Apps!

Dating online has been continuously growing during the last couple of decades. Rudimentary sites and chat rooms were the origin of online dating, but apps have taken the lead since the creation of Tinder. Since then, online dating has replaced traditional forms of dating, as 53% of people under 30 say they have used dating apps. Despite its growing use rates, it is also true that many users have a “love-hate relationship” with dating apps, as they find them useless or unsafe, and we understand that they may find several downsides that justify their thoughts. But we’re here to bring you some solutions to the most common beliefs about dating apps and to expose the benefits they bring.

Benefits of online dating

Combine dating with your busy life

The game of love is difficult to play if you have no time for it! Imagine putting your efforts into trying to find your loved one in a casual situation, only to find out they are not really interested in a relationship. Signing up for dating apps and clearly stating your intentions makes it easier to find people who share them.

Expand your social circle

In line with expressing your intentions, it is worth clarifying if you are not really looking for a relationship or even a casual hookup. Lots of people only use dating apps to network and meet new people. Why not?

Skip geographical and social restrictions

To meet people in other areas or social statuses, you first need to create the circumstances to meet in the middle. But that might take ages! Fortunately, most dating apps do not discriminate against people on their income, social group, or even geographical location, so they are the key to expanding your dating horizons.

Variety of options to choose from

Do you have specific requirements for your future date? Don’t worry! With so many apps out there, there are several which aim at specific audiences, ensuring you only find people that match a certain description. For instance, some apps like Lola are restricted to one city (Boston in this case), and apps like The League are aimed at people who have university degrees and jobs at high levels. It’s up to you and the app you choose.

Enjoy new experiences

From trying out a new restaurant to learning a hobby from a date, meeting new people can bring a world of fresh experiences. Dating apps open doors to adventures that go beyond finding love, like participating in unique activities or exploring new cultures.

Safety and Security Features

One of the biggest concerns with dating apps is safety. Fortunately, many platforms have introduced robust features to ensure users feel secure while exploring new connections. Features like profile verification, secure messaging, and in-app reporting mechanisms are now common.In the case of Lola, the chat feature is only active while you are planning the date. It will be enabled after you two agree to meet, and disabled right after the date, so that you are not forced to continue talking to someone you didn’t like.

Building Meaningful Connections

While some people assume dating apps only promote casual hookups, they also cater to those looking for deep and meaningful relationships. By clearly specifying your intentions in your profile, you’re more likely to attract like-minded individuals. Even for those who are not looking for a serious relationship, it is always great to find someone to talk to who shares your interests and values.

Dating is fun!

Let’s not forget the thrill of dating! Swiping through profiles, starting conversations, and going on exciting dates can bring joy and a sense of adventure to your routine. Dating apps often gamify the experience, adding elements of surprise and anticipation. Whether you’re just looking for a good time or the thrill of meeting new people, dating apps keep the fun alive and make the dating game exciting.

Dating apps are allies for introverted people

For introverts, dating in person can be nerve-wracking. Dating apps give introverted individuals the time and space to express themselves without the immediate pressure of face-to-face interactions. Messaging and chatting online first allow for thoughtful conversations and let introverts gradually build comfort before deciding to meet in person. As mentioned before, dating apps allow you to skip the awkward stage of finding out about other people’s intentions.

A great option for re-entering the dating game

If you’ve been out of the dating scene for a while, whether due to a breakup or focusing on other priorities, getting back into it can feel daunting. Dating apps simplify this process by offering a low-pressure way to dip your toes back into the dating pool. You can set your own pace, meet different types of people, and regain the confidence to start dating again. The best part is that dating apps are great for all ages, so even if you are a 50-year-old divorcee, you can still find love online.

What is the success rate of online dating?

The success rate of dating can be a little difficult to calculate, as users may have different definitions of success. However, in general terms, 42% of US adults said that online dating made finding their significant other easier. So, for those wondering “is there a dating app that actually works?” There is! You just need to find the one that matches your dating intentions.

Potential cons of dating apps

False expectations

One of the most common setbacks of dating apps is the fear of false expectations. People often present an idealized version of themselves, and daters feel disappointment when meeting in person. People tend to use over-edited pictures and pretentious descriptions that do not represent reality. Lola minimizes this risk by requesting continuous updates, so you know what to expect from the get-go.

Safety concerns

Online dating can be risky, and safety remains a top priority for most users. Concerns about data privacy, meeting strangers, and harassment can make the experience daunting. However, Lola takes user safety seriously as users that have expressed mutual interest are only able to chat to arrange the details of a date. This way, you can actively choose to continue talking to your date after the meeting has ended (or not, if you didn’t like them).

Outdated and ghost profiles

Nothing is more frustrating than messaging someone only to realize they’ve abandoned their profile. Lola requests continuous updates to ensure no profiles have old pictures and descriptions, so that you will only find profiles which are active and fresh. No more ghost daters!

Never-ending swiping

Swiping through endless profiles can be exhausting and, at times, addictive. It often leads to decision fatigue, making it harder to commit to a match. Lola breaks the swiping monotony by offering personalized match suggestions and meaningful compatibility scores, and most importantly, based on your availability to date. This way you will only get matched to people you can actually meet in real life!

Selection of profiles based on biased algorithms

Many dating apps use algorithms that can unintentionally perpetuate biases, limiting your options. These algorithms often prioritize superficial traits and the most popular profiles. Lola uses a more holistic approach to matchmaking, considering shared interests, values, and your own previous feedback to create matches that truly align with your preferences.

Post-date (awkward) interactions

Post-date interactions can be tricky, especially if things didn’t go as expected. You might find it hard to navigate follow-up messages or end conversations gracefully. Whit Lola, you don’t need to continue talking to your date if you don’t want to, as the chat feature is disabled after the meeting, and you cannot continue talking unless you actively decide to share your contact data.

How to get the most out of dating apps?

Types of dating apps

There are lots of dating apps out there that aim at different audiences, so finding the one that matches your dating goals is the best way to make them work! You can choose to use mainstream dating apps like Tinder or Bumble, which simply offer a pool of people to swipe left or right, or get Lola, which will offer people based on your interests and also your dating availability.

Find an app that matches your intentions

Similarly, apps offer a set of features that change the dating experience. Many users don’t enter dating apps really for dating, but simply chatting with other people. If that is your case, Tinder or OkCupid can be fine, but these are not the best options if you are truly looking for real-life dates. Instead, Lola is one of the best options to meet in person quickly .

Be honest in your profile

Creating the wrong profile will attract the wrong people! If you are presenting yourself as a sportive person who is looking to settle down, do not complain when your matches align with this description! Being honest is important to attract the kind of people you are looking for.

Stay safe while dating

• Meet in public

• Report suspicious behavior

• Don’t share personal information

• Use reliable dating apps

Play the game of love with Lola!

Download Lola, one of the best dating apps in Boston to find singles who are looking for some romance (or just some fun) as soon as possible. Hop on the Lola train and get yourself some dating action in the next five days! Ready to stop swiping and start meeting? 

FAQS

What are the benefits of using a dating app?

Dating apps bring lots of benefits! They provide convenience and accessibility to meet people even with a busy lifestyle. They expand your dating pool beyond geographical or social limitations and offer features to match based on shared values or interests. Plus, dating apps give introverts and those re-entering the dating scene a low-pressure way to connect.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of dating apps?

Advantages include convenience, a broader dating pool, and specialized apps for different preferences. They also offer safety features and cater to various dating goals, from casual dating to serious relationships. However, disadvantages include false expectations, ghost profiles, and addictive swiping, but using the right dating apps can tackle these setbacks.

Why are dating apps the best?

Dating apps are the best because they simplify the dating process, offering instant access to thousands of potential matches based on your preferences. They save time, let you connect with like-minded people, and cater to specific dating goals. Dating apps provide an engaging and efficient way to explore new relationships or friendships.

Are dating apps really worth it?

They sure are! Dating apps enable users to meet other people quickly, without the awkwardness of finding out each other’s intentions. You can get to meet people with your same interests and goals, and get a serious relationship or just a hookup without investing lots of time and effort into it!