In a sea of dating apps, Hinge has emerged as one of the most popular and highly-rated platforms for those looking for more than just a casual fling. Whether you’re seeking a long-term relationship, a meaningful connection, or even just a few fun dates, Hinge’s unique approach has set it apart from its competitors like Tinder, Bumble, and even Ashley Madison. It’s a platform that prides itself on being the app that’s meant to be deleted—meaning its goal is to help you find a lasting connection so that you no longer need it. But can it live up to its promise? Let’s dive deep into what makes Hinge stand out, how it works, and why it might just be the best dating app for you right now.
Unlike many other dating apps that focus on a quick and shallow swipe-right-or-left dynamic, Hinge is designed to help you build meaningful connections through a deeper and more personalized experience. The app’s slogan—Designed to be deleted—perfectly captures its philosophy: it’s not about endless swiping, but about making connections that lead to real-world relationships.
The idea is simple: instead of just browsing through endless profiles and playing a game of guess who’s hot, Hinge encourages users to engage with more substantial aspects of a person’s profile—photos, prompts, and interests. By allowing users to leave comments or “likes” on specific parts of someone’s profile, the app creates a more personalized way of matching people based on shared interests, mutual values, and witty interactions.
While the dating scene has been dominated by quick hookups and fast swipes, Hinge has carved a niche for those looking for something more genuine. It’s the app you use when you’re tired of endless ghosting and superficial conversations. But don’t mistake its emphasis on depth for being slow or boring—there’s plenty of room for spicy conversations, flirtation, and getting to know people in a fun and dynamic way.
1. The “Designed to Be Deleted” Concept
What makes Hinge stand out from other dating apps is its core philosophy: it’s not about endless swiping, it’s about meaningful connections. The ultimate goal is to help users find someone they want to settle down with—at which point, they can delete the app and move on with their lives. This may sound cliché, but it’s the driving force behind Hinge’s commitment to offering a deeper dating experience. If you’re tired of the constant cycle of mindless swiping and casual hookups, this philosophy offers a refreshing alternative.
2. Profile Prompts: Engage Beyond the Pictures
While many dating apps only let you swipe through profiles based on pictures, Hinge offers a unique twist by including profile prompts that encourage users to add more personality to their profiles. You can answer these prompts in a variety of ways—funny, quirky, or thoughtful. Whether it’s “Two truths and a lie” or “I’ll know it’s time to delete Hinge when…,” these prompts give users a chance to show off their wit, charm, and personality.
The beauty of this feature is that it makes it easier to start conversations. Instead of just mindlessly swiping, you can engage with someone’s profile by commenting on a prompt response. This approach fosters better conversations and encourages people to open up, making it easier to find common ground with someone.
3. Like and Comment on Specific Parts of a Profile
On Hinge, you’re not limited to just swiping left or right. You can like a photo, comment on a prompt, or even like specific parts of a person’s profile that stand out to you. This gives you the chance to engage in a more personalized way and show that you’re genuinely interested. When you send a like or comment on someone’s profile, it gives them a chance to respond, sparking a conversation and increasing the likelihood of a meaningful connection.
4. Video and Audio Calls: A Step Above the Rest
One of Hinge’s standout features is its inclusion of video and audio calls—and these features are available to everyone for free. While many dating apps charge for video calls, Hinge has made it a core part of its offering. This is a game-changer, especially if you want to take things further with someone before meeting up in person. Video calls give you the opportunity to gauge chemistry, see if you vibe in real-time, and have more meaningful conversations that go beyond just texting.
Video calls on Hinge allow you to build a deeper connection and give you a real sense of what the person is like. There’s no longer the awkward uncertainty of wondering whether someone’s profile picture was from ten years ago or whether they’re as interesting in person as they are online. With video chat, you get a real sense of their personality, and you can make sure that you’re both on the same page before committing to a date.
Free Plan: Hinge’s free plan is fairly generous compared to many other dating apps. You’ll get a limited number of swipes per day, meaning that you’ll need to use them wisely. You’ll also be able to access basic profile features, including setting up your profile, liking and commenting on posts, and browsing profiles. While it doesn’t give you unlimited access, the free plan allows you to explore the app and get a feel for how it works without feeling pressured to pay.
Paid Plan (Hinge Preferred): The paid version of Hinge, called Hinge Preferred, unlocks several additional features, including unlimited likes, the ability to see who liked you, and access to more filters to refine your matches. While the price can be a bit on the higher end compared to other dating apps, the added benefits can significantly increase your chances of success on the platform. If you’re serious about finding a meaningful connection, investing in a premium plan might be worth it to give you an edge in a competitive dating pool.
While the free plan is decent, the unlimited swipes and ability to see who liked you can make the experience much smoother if you’re serious about finding someone. Plus, the extra features help you stand out and get noticed more easily.
While Hinge’s user-friendly interface and unique features make it easier to connect with people, there are a few strategies you can use to maximize your success on the app. Here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your Hinge experience:
1. Optimize Your Profile with Engaging Photos and Prompts
Your Hinge profile is your first impression, so make it count. Use a variety of photos that show off your personality, from fun selfies to pictures of you doing something you love. Don’t just go for the classic “best angle” shots—people are looking to see who you really are.
Be sure to answer your profile prompts thoughtfully. This is where you can showcase your humor, creativity, and interests. Instead of the typical “let’s grab coffee” prompt response, try to come up with something a little more original to make yourself stand out.
2. Start Strong with Meaningful Comments
When you match with someone, don’t just send a generic “Hey” or “What’s up?” comment. Engage with their profile by commenting on something specific. This shows that you’ve taken the time to read their profile and that you’re genuinely interested in getting to know them. Whether it’s commenting on a shared interest or asking a question about something in their profile, meaningful interactions will get you further than generic lines.
3. Be Proactive and Respond Quickly
If you want to keep the momentum going, respond to messages quickly. Hinge’s 24-hour response window isn’t as strict as some other apps, but if you wait too long to reply, the interest may fade. Being prompt shows that you’re genuinely interested and keeps the conversation flowing smoothly.
4. Use Video and Audio Calls to Your Advantage
Video calls are a great way to move things forward, and the best part is that they’re free for everyone on Hinge. Don’t be shy—use this feature early on to build a real connection with someone. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid wasting time on someone who might not meet your expectations in person.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Make the First Move
Although Hinge is designed to be more respectful and less aggressive than other apps, don’t be afraid to take the initiative. If you’re interested in someone, make the first move and send a thoughtful message. This can be a huge confidence boost and shows that you’re taking the app seriously.
While Hinge is a great app for building meaningful connections, it’s important to note that Ashley Madison caters to a different crowd. If you’re looking for a more casual, no-strings-attached type of connection, Ashley Madison might be a better fit for you. While Hinge is focused on relationships and long-term matches, Ashley Madison is more geared toward people seeking discretion and adult hookups. So, if you’re just looking to have fun and aren’t necessarily interested in something serious, Ashley Madison may be the app to explore.
However, if you’re serious about finding someone for a long-term relationship and you’re willing to put in the effort, Hinge offers the features and tools to help you find what you’re looking for.
Hinge offers a refreshing approach to online dating. With its thoughtful profile prompts, video call features, and focus on meaningful connections, it’s the perfect app for those tired of swiping endlessly without much luck. While the free plan gives you a good start, upgrading to Hinge Preferred could significantly boost your chances of success.
Whether you’re looking for something casual or serious, Hinge’s unique features and engaging design make it a top contender in the dating app world. So, if you’re ready to meet someone new and take your love life to the next level, Hinge might just be the app that finally helps you delete your dating app frustrations.
Happy swiping, and good luck!