Gay hookups and casual dating apps have exploded since the rise of the smartphone. But with so many options, it can be hard to know which ones will work best for you. We’ve rounded up the best LGBT dating apps to help you find the perfect match.
Grindr is one of the most famous gay dating apps. It was among the first to use location-based technology, allowing you to see profiles of people in your area. It’s often criticized for contributing to hook-up culture but it can also be used for finding love. Grindr is available in over 200 countries and has millions of users worldwide.
Blued is another popular app for gay men looking to date and hook up. It has a large user base in China but is also available globally. It’s been around longer than Grindr and has a few features that set it apart. For example, you can share live video streams with your matches and send private messages. It’s a good choice for gay men who want to connect with a larger audience but may not be interested in the more personal aspects of other dating apps.
Surge is a newer app for LGBTQ+ people that has a fresh wholesome feel to it. It’s similar to Tinder in function but is designed especially with LGBTQ+ people in mind. Plus, it has a fingerprint security mode that protects your profile and photos.
The app allows you to swipe right or left to get matched with gay, bisexual and trans men nearby. Then, you can chat with them and arrange to meet up. The app is free to download and use, but there are also premium subscriptions available.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more kinky, you can’t go wrong with Lex. It has a unique interface that’s similar to Craigslist, making it easy for you to post ads and find people in your local community. This is the perfect app for queer and nonconforming people who are interested in sex, fetishes and other intimate encounters.
Hornet is another big player in the gay hookup space, though it has a tarnished reputation due to being used in countries where homosexuality is illegal and dangerous (Saudi Arabia, Chechnya, etc). It uses GPS to show you guys who are nearby but it can be overly targeted with fake profiles that can lead to real-life harassment. Still, it’s the best option for LGBTQ+ people who aren’t afraid to be a bit more adventurous when it comes to hookups and dates.