Not sure where else to get unfiltered opinions on this, so here I am. Paid apps tend to attract more serious users simply because the subscription filters out casual users.
Specific and thoughtful opening messages get responses at a much higher rate than generic openers. Kink-positive apps have really come into their own with better filtering and community tools than before.
Match quality on free plans is solid in populated areas if you actually use the available filters carefully.
Apps already on my radar:
- OkCupid
- Match.com
- eHarmony
- Plenty of Fish
- Zoosk
- Badoo