Zoosk.com is an online dating site with much to offer its users, including multiple ways to find matches. You can search based on various criteria, or try for love at first sight. Zoosk is also unique in that it learns your habits as you use it, making your chances of finding a great match higher and higher each time you log on.
Zoosk alternatives address its main drawbacks. Some of them require a more thorough screening process for users, so you only interact with compatible users. Others offer more free features and a higher chance of finding compatible matches, and one even requires women to message first.
To learn about these alternatives, read to learn about the six best dating sites and apps like Zoosk, and what they have to offer.
1. eHarmony
In terms of websites like Zoosk, eHarmony is one of its most established competitors. eHarmony was founded on the principle that characteristics and behaviors can predict compatibility, leading to longer lasting and more meaningful relationships. Because of this, on eHarmony, you have to fill out a long and detailed questionnaire (almost 300 questions) prior to seeing your matches. However, this means that any person you are matched with will be, in theory, a great match for you. No need to sift through countless strangers – eHarmony does that for you!
2. Match.com
Match.com is one of Zoosk’s biggest competitors, as it has one of the largest pools of potential matches to draw from. Match does background checks on its users to prevent unwanted experiences with other users or potential dangerous situations. Match also offers a 6-month guarantee, where if you do not find a great match by the end of the six months, you can continue using Match for an additional six months for free! Match also offers a service called “Stir,” which helps you to find fun events and places to meet other singles in your area.
3. OkCupid
OkCupid is a dating website that offers instant connections to users in your area whose personalities and habits match yours. Use the “Quick Match” function to immediately decide whether you “like” someone, and see if they like you back. Or simply browse your matches and spark up a conversation with any other user. Unlike eHarmony, there are no lengthy questionnaires to fill out before you start. However, you can answer questions at your own pace as you use the website to increase your compatibility percentage with other users. This can help you create stronger, more meaningful connections with your matches.
4. Tinder
Tinder is one of the free apps like Zoosk that doesn’t have an overwhelming or lengthy sign up process. You merely need to enter a few details about yourself, and then you’re set to go! You can even sign in with Facebook, and Tinder will copy the information from your Facebook profile for you. Add details as you go, and connect to Instagram if you like. Tinder shows you a list of people in your area that you might be interested in, and you either “like” or “ignore” them. If they like you back, you can start chatting with them. Tinder’s philosophy is that the best way to get to know someone is just to talk to them!
5. Plenty of Fish
Plenty of Fish is an online dating site and app that allows users to sign up for free. Like Zoosk, it offers a variety of different ways to make connections. Start by filling out your personal information, and then indicate what you are looking for. You can use a basic search, an advanced search, or search by username. Users can also browse by who is currently online, as Plenty of Fish claims the largest pool of daily active users (at 3 million).
The “Meet Me” function allows you to search for singles in your area who may be interested in fast-tracking the meeting stage of your relationship. In contrast, the “Chemistry” function allows users to take an online test to better measure their personality traits, and what will lead to a longer-lasting relationship with a possible match. POF offers a variety of ways to meet people, and is great for anyone entering the world of online dating.
6. Bumble
Bumble is an online dating website and mobile app that differs from other dating services in one way: the women always have to message first! When a connection is made, the woman must respond within 24 hours, or that connection is lost forever. For same-sex connections or those merely looking for friendship, either person must respond within 24 hours.
Bumble also helps you find people to connect with based on preferences, and it defines how conversations can begin between two people, eliminating the awkwardness of speaking to a stranger online. Bumble is a great alternative to other dating sites, especially for women who are tired of being overwhelmed with messages.
Have you used any of these Zoosk alternatives for online dating? Are there any other online dating sites and apps similar to Zoosk that you’ve used and would like to see a TechBoomers course on? Share your story in our comments section, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages!
Zoosk has a lot to offer, but if you have found a dating service to replace Zoosk, check out this article to learn how to delete your Zoosk account (our final tutorial of the course).
