In 2025, dating app fatigue is real, and frankly, who can blame daters? Popular apps are starting to look (and function) more and more like copies of each other and adding more and more AI features. Some daters are going to IRL events, even dungeon sound baths, to find love.
That being said, for those of us who are busy and/or a bit more introverted, dating apps have their pros. You can meet a wide range of people you wouldn’t otherwise if you go to your local bar, and you can find out more about them from their profiles than what drinks they order.
The truth is, dating apps aren’t going away — and they’re a big way potential partners meet each other.
So, are dating apps worth it?
Even using the right app for you may still bring moments of uncertainty and frustration (you’re dating, after all), but finding the app with the features that most align with your style of dating and the type of partnership you’re looking for can absolutely still make online dating worth it.
According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, 44 percent of adults say they use dating apps to find a long-term partner rather than just casual dating or hookups. This survey also found that one in 10 partnered adults met their current partner through a dating app. So, even if you’ve yet to find that magical, swoon-worthy connection, the statistics show that it’s definitely possible to find true love through online dating. Some of our own writers and editors have even found lasting love on these apps.
If you’ve been using apps for a while and are experiencing serious burnout, it’s always fair to take some time off and come back to them when you feel ready. Our guide will be here for you! Even the best app can feel exceptionally tedious when you simply don’t have the energy.
Which dating app is best for serious relationships?
There are so many dating apps, but not all of them are created equal when it comes to finding a serious, committed relationship.
Some free dating apps are better suited for casual flings or hookups (e.g., Tinder, Grindr, etc.), while others have matching algorithms and profile features specifically designed to help users find meaningful connections (e.g., eharmony, OkCupid, Hinge, and Coffee Meets Bagel).
The good news is that we’ve done the research (and hands-on testing) to figure out which apps work best for long-term relationships, and Match Group isn’t the only player in the game. Plus, all of these platforms are available via Google Play and the App Store, so having an Android or iPhone won’t limit your options. Some of the old-school dating sites still maintain a desktop version as well.
To find your match, here are the best dating apps for serious relationships in 2025: