Hinge Review 2024: Because You’re Tired of Dating Apps That Suck

How does Hinge Work?

Hinge is a dating app that's like the love child of your best friend's matchmaking skills and a therapist's insight. It's designed to spark meaningful connections, not just mindless right swipes.

How is Hinge different from other dating apps?

Unlike Tinder's "hot or not" approach, Hinge forces you to actually engage with profiles. You can't just blanket-like everyone – you've gotta comment on specific photos or prompts. It's like the app is your wingman, nudging you to start actual conversations.

Hinge also uses a fancy algorithm that learns your type over time. The more you use it, the better your matches get. It's like having a digital Cupid that actually pays attention.

Who's on Hinge?

Hinge attracts a slightly older, more relationship-minded crowd than apps like Tinder. We're talking mid-20s to late 30s, generally educated professionals who are over the hookup scene.

That said, you'll still find a mix of intentions – from casual daters to those ready to delete the app ASAP for the right person.

The gender ratio is pretty balanced, and Hinge is LGBTQ+ friendly with a good variety of options for gender identity and sexual orientation. Just remember, your mileage may vary depending on your location – Hinge thrives in urban areas but can be hit or miss in smaller towns.

Pros & Cons of Hinge

Let's cut through the BS and get to the good, the bad, and the ugly of Hinge.

Pros:

• Quality over quantity: Hinge's algorithm serves up matches that actually make sense, not just random hotties.
• Conversation starters on tap: Those prompts aren't just for show – they actually help you start conversations No more of that "hey" stuff.
• Detailed profiles: You can actually get a sense of someone's personality before matching. Revolutionary, I know.
• Video and voice prompts: See or hear your potential date in action before meeting up. Goodbye, catfish nightmares.
• Designed for deletion: The app genuinely tries to get you off the app and into a relationship instead of turning your addictive swiping into a recurring nightmare. How refreshing.
• "Most Compatible" feature: It's like having a digital wingman who actually knows your type (kinda).

Cons:

• Limited free likes: Only 8 likes per day for free users? Stingy much, Hinge?
• Can feel overwhelming: All those prompts and profile details can be a lot to take in at first.
• Success varies by location: If you're not in a major city, your options might be limited.

Look, no dating app is perfect. But Hinge's pros definitely outweigh the cons if you're looking for something more than a quick hookup. Or even if you are, it works too.

It's like the difference between fast food and a home-cooked meal – sure, it takes more effort, but damn, it's worth it.

Who Is Hinge For?

Let's break it down, because Hinge isn't for everyone (and that's a good thing).

Hinge is for you if:

• You're over the hookup culture and want something more substantial.
• You actually enjoy having real conversations (shocking, I know).
• You're willing to put in a little effort to craft a killer profile.
• You prefer quality matches over an endless sea of options.
• You're in your 20s or 30s and ready for a grown-up relationship.
• You live in or near a major city (sorry, small-town folks).
• You're tired of the superficial swipe-fest on other apps.

It's not for you if:

• You're looking for quick, no-strings-attached hookups (try Tinder instead, champ).
• You hate writing about yourself or answering prompts.
• You're under 18 – Hinge has a strict age policy.
• You're not willing to pay for premium features (the free version can be limiting).
• You get overwhelmed by too many options or detailed profiles.

Here's the deal: Hinge happens to work for a lot of people who are sick of the games and ready for something real.

It's is like the friend who sets you up with someone they actually think you'll like, not just the hottest person in their contacts. It's for people who are ready to put in a little more effort upfront for potentially better results.

If you're the type who'd rather have one amazing conversation than 50 "hey" messages, Hinge might just be your digital soulmate. But if you're still in your swipe-right-on-everything phase, you might want to stick with the more casual dating apps for now.

Remember, the best dating app is the one that works for you. So, are you ready to be deleted?

Key Features of Hinge

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes Hinge tick. These features are why Hinge isn't just another face in the crowded dating app party.

Prompts That Actually Prompt Conversation

Forget the boring "Hey, what's up?" opener. Hinge's prompts are like conversation steroids. From "Two truths and a lie" to "I'm looking for," these little nuggets give you a perfect excuse to slide into someone's DMs with something actually interesting.

It's genius, really – you're practically forced to be witty and engaging.

The "Most Compatible" Feature

This isn't your grandma's matchmaking, folks. Hinge's algorithm plays cupid by suggesting one person daily who it thinks is your perfect match. It's like having a digital wingman who actually pays attention to your type.

The more you use the app, the smarter it gets. Creepy? Maybe a little. Effective? You bet your ass it is.

Video Prompts

In the age of catfishing, Hinge said "Not on my watch!" With video prompts, you can see your potential date in action before meeting up. It's like a mini audition for your affection.

Plus, it's a great way to showcase your personality beyond just static photos. Just try not to look like a deer in headlights, okay?

We Met Feature

Hinge is so committed to getting you off the app, they want to know how your dates went. The "We Met" feature lets you give feedback on your IRL encounters. It's not just for bragging rights – this info helps refine the algorithm.

It's like Hinge is learning from your successes (and failures) to set you up better next time.

Standouts

Think of this as your daily dose of eye candy with substance. Standouts showcases profiles that Hinge thinks you'll really vibe with, based on your activity.

It's like a curated gallery of potential matches, saving you from endless swiping. Just don't get too picky – these profiles rotate daily.

Sign-Up Process & Creating a Profile

Ready to take the plunge? Here's how to get started on Hinge without looking like a total newb:

1. Download the app and choose your sign-up method (Facebook, phone number, or email). Pro tip: Using Facebook can pre-populate some info, but it's not necessary.
2. Fill in the basics: name, birthday, location, gender, and what you're looking for. Hinge is inclusive, so there are options beyond just male and female.
3. Time for the fun part – photos! You'll need to upload 6 pics. Mix it up with a clear headshot, full-body pic, and some action shots. No bathroom selfies, for the love of all that is holy.
4. Now for the secret sauce – the prompts. You'll need to answer 3, but can add more. Be honest, be funny, and for Pete's sake, be original. This is your chance to shine, so don't waste it on one-word answers.
5. Set your preferences. Hinge lets you filter by the usual suspects (age, location, height) but also by things like religion, politics, and vices. Be realistic, but don't sell yourself short.
6. Optional: Link your Instagram and add some extra tidbits like your job, education, and hometown.
7. Final step: Review your profile. Make sure there are no typos, all your pics are flattering, and you haven't accidentally set your age to 99.

And voilà! You're ready to start hingin'. The whole process takes about 10-15 minutes if you're not agonizing over every word choice (which, let's be real, you probably will).

Remember, your profile is your dating resume. Put in the effort upfront, and you'll save yourself a lot of awkward small talk later. Now get out there and show 'em what you've got!

Hinge Costs

Alright, let's talk turkey. How much is this digital matchmaking going to set you back?

Hinge operates on a freemium model, which means you can use the basic features for free, but if you want the good stuff, you're gonna have to cough up some cash.

Free Version:

• 8 likes per day (use 'em wisely, folks)
• Basic matching and messaging
• Limited filters

Hinge+ (formerly Preferred Membership):

• Unlimited likes (go wild, you animal)
• See everyone who likes you
• Advanced preferences (height, family plans, etc.)
• Unlimited "Remove" actions (for those "what was I thinking?" moments)

Pricing:

• 1 month: $29.99
• 3 months: $59.99 ($20/month)
• 6 months: $89.99 ($15/month)

HingeX (Premium Tier):

• All Hinge+ features
• Priority likes (get seen faster)
• "Most Compatible" recommendations
• Seen and Unseen labels in your likes

Pricing:

• 1 month: $49.99
• 3 months: $99.99 ($33.33/month)
• 6 months: $149.99 ($25/month)

Are the paid versions worth it?

Here's the deal: If you're in a major city with tons of options, the free version might be enough to get your feet wet. But let's be real, 8 likes a day is like trying to find your soulmate in a phone book (ask your parents what that is).

As you know if you've read The SwipeGuide, our stance is that paying for dating apps is mandatory for any guy who is serious about online dating

Unlimited likes mean more chances to connect, and seeing who likes you first can save you time and potential heartache.

Plus, those advanced filters can help you avoid matching with someone who wants kids when you're firmly in the "fur babies only" camp.

HingeX is for the power users. If you're treating dating like a part-time job (no judgment here), the extra features might be worth the splurge. But for most folks, Hinge+ hits the sweet spot.

Remember, no amount of premium features can make up for a crappy profile. So before you whip out that credit card, make sure you've got your dating app game on point.

How Swipestats Rates Hinge

Alright, time for the moment of truth. After countless swipes, matches, and yes, even a few actual dates, here's how Hinge stacks up in the wild world of dating apps.

Overall Verdict: 4.5/5 stars

Hinge is like that friend who actually listens when you describe your type and doesn't try to set you up with their weird cousin. It's not perfect, but it's damn close.

Attractiveness of the Girls: 4/5

Let's be real, attractiveness is subjective. But Hinge seems to have cracked the code on quality over quantity.

The profiles you'll see are generally more put-together than the "here's me holding a fish" crowd on Tinder.

Plus, the detailed profiles mean you're more likely to find someone attractive for their wit as well as their looks.

User Base: 4.5/5

Hinge has grown significantly, especially in urban areas. You'll find a good mix of people, but it tends to skew towards the 25-35 age range and those looking for more than just a hookup.

The quality of profiles is generally higher than other apps, with people actually putting effort into their answers and photos.

Match Rate: 4/5

Here's where Hinge shines. Because you're forced to interact with specific parts of a profile, your matches tend to be more meaningful.

It's not about rapid-fire right swipes – it's about quality connections. That said, the match rate can feel slower than apps like Tinder, but trust me, it's worth the wait.

Pricing: 3.5/5

Look, Hinge isn't the cheapest option out there. But you get what you pay for. The free version is usable, but the paid features actually add value to your experience.

It's like the difference between flying economy and business class – sure, you'll get there either way, but one is a hell of a lot more comfortable.

In the end, Hinge is the dating app for people who are actually serious about, you know, dating. It's not perfect – no app is – but it's a solid choice if you're tired of the endless swipe-and-ghost cycle on other apps.

Remember, the best dating app is the one that works for you. Hinge might be your ticket to deleting dating apps altogether. And isn't that the dream?

Want to see how you stack up against the market? Upload your dating app data to Swipestats.io to see if it's strong or weak.

Got Questions about About Hinge?

Let's wrap this up with some rapid-fire Q&A. Here are the burning questions you've all been dying to ask about Hinge:

Is Hinge really better for relationships than other dating apps?

Short answer: Yes. Long answer: Hiiiiiiinge yeah. Hinge's design encourages more thoughtful interactions and attracts people who are generally looking for more than just a hookup. It's not a guarantee, but your odds of finding a relationship are better here than on apps like Tinder.

Can I use Hinge for free?

You can, but it's like trying to win a marathon in flip-flops. Possible, but not ideal. The free version gives you 8 likes per day and basic features. It's enough to get a feel for the app, but for the full experience, you'll want to consider upgrading.

How does Hinge compare to Tinder and Bumble?

Hinge is like the mature older sibling of Tinder and Bumble. It's less about rapid-fire swiping and more about creating meaningful connections. Tinder is great for casual dating, Bumble gives women more control, but Hinge strikes a nice balance for those seeking something potentially serious.

Is Hinge LGBTQ+ friendly?

Absolutely. Hinge offers a variety of gender identity options and allows you to set your preferences accordingly. It's inclusive and welcoming to all orientations.

How can I improve my Hinge profile?

Glad you asked! Here are some quick tips:

1. Use high-quality, recent photos that show your personality
2. Answer prompts honestly and creatively
3. Be specific about your interests and what you're looking for
4. Update your profile regularly
5. Use the video prompt feature to stand out

For more in-depth advice, check out our SwipeGuide for pro tips on crafting an irresistible profile.

Can I change my location on Hinge?

Yes, but there's a catch. Unlike Tinder's "Passport" feature, Hinge only allows you to change your location to places you actually plan to be. It's designed to facilitate real-life meetings, not long-distance swiping.

Is it worth paying for Hinge+?

If you're serious about finding a match and live in an area with a lot of users, then yes. The unlimited likes and advanced filters can significantly improve your chances of finding a compatible match. Plus, seeing who likes you first is a major time-saver.

How safe is Hinge?

Hinge takes safety seriously, with features like photo verification to reduce catfishing. However, as with any online interaction, use common sense. Meet in public places, tell a friend where you're going, and trust your gut.

Can I get unbanned from Hinge?

Unlike some other apps, Hinge bans are usually permanent. They don't mess around when it comes to violating their terms of service. So play nice, folks.

What's the deal with Hinge's "Most Compatible" feature?

It's like having a really smart friend set you up on a blind date. The algorithm learns from your likes and passes to suggest one person daily who it thinks is your best match. It's not foolproof, but it's pretty damn good.

There you have it, folks – everything you ever wanted to know about Hinge (and probably some things you didn't). Remember, no dating app is perfect, but Hinge comes pretty close for those looking for something real.

Ready to take your dating game to the next level? Check out our AI Dating Photos tool to make sure your profile pics are on point. Now get out there and start hingin'!