Tinder: Perhaps the most popular, not to mention shallow, dating app. On Tinder the user scrolls through pictures of potential candidates. Anonymously the person will click yes(indicating attraction) or no (pass). The only time the user finds out if he or she was selected is when the selection is mutual, at which point the app notifies both parties of a match.
Benefits: Mutual attraction is already established. This is an accessible, fun process. It also guarantees proximity.
Disadvantages: It is still somewhat uncomfortable to initiate conversation. It is awkward to see an unpursued match in person, which is very possible due to the proximity factor.
Fun? Yes, because of it’s effortless and visual process. It definitely feels like a game more than anything else.
Desperate? No, because the match is always mutual and this app doesn’t require any upkeep.
Grouper: The user picks two friends and each of these participants offers up $20 dollars. The app will then pair the group with another group of 3. The app treats the combined group to the first round of drinks.
Benefits: Safety and reduced awkwardness. Plus a group of 6 allows a variety of potentials for everyone.
Disadvantages: If the groups don’t click during the date then the user wasted $20 dollars and so did his or her friends.
Fun? Yes! This app allows for the best of both worlds, romance as well as a night out with friends.
Desperate? If the user’s friends don’t show up. Or if only one group member is sought after by all members of the other group.
How About We: The user can suggest a date and another participant can choose to partake in this date. Activities are planned for the two members. The app often offers discounts for proposed date ideas.
Benefits: Questions on users’ profiles allow others to know something about the individual. Often helpful in saving money. Fun date ideas.
Disadvantages: Somewhat more time consuming than the other apps.
Fun? Eh. For those looking for something serious this is useful. But “fun” date plans usually sound better in theory. It’s not the date activity that really counts.
