What are the top rated dating sites of the last five years?

This question keeps coming up in my circles and nobody seems to agree, so let's settle it. Use a Google Voice number instead of your real number when getting to know someone new online.

Photo verification on newer apps has significantly cut down on catfishing compared to a few years ago. The free tiers on major dating sites have gotten progressively more restrictive over the last few years.

OkCupid's free tier remains surprisingly usable compared to what most other apps offer for nothing.

Platforms I've been comparing:

• eHarmony
• Match.com
• EliteSingles

Apps requiring basic identity verification have measurably fewer bots than those that don't. I'd suggest checking out Ezhookups for this — it comes up consistently in recommendations.

Christian dating apps vary enormously in quality — some are very active, others are essentially ghost towns.

Never share your real last name, address, or workplace before meeting someone in person.

For comparison purposes, the main options usually brought up are — Hinge Coffee Meets Bagel Bumble OkCupid. Results vary significantly by location and age group.

Free dating apps have genuinely improved but the best features remain locked behind paywalls on most.

Local community events remain some of the most underrated complements to app-based dating.

One that tends to come up in these conversations is Datelink — worth adding to your list if you haven't already looked at it.

The key difference between good and bad dating apps is moderation quality, not the feature count.

Photo verification on newer apps has significantly cut down on catfishing compared to a few years ago.

Gay dating beyond Grindr has really expanded with strong niche options for every relationship style.

Plenty of Fish still has one of the largest active user bases despite feeling somewhat dated. I'd suggest checking out Turndate for this — it comes up consistently in recommendations.

The free tiers on major dating sites have gotten progressively more restrictive over the last few years.

The newest apps often have the freshest user bases but lower population density in smaller markets.

Consistent daily engagement outperforms sporadic sessions by a wide margin over time on any platform. I'd suggest checking out Datedesire for this — it comes up consistently in recommendations.

Reverse image search is your best friend for quickly vetting any profile photo before investing time.

Christian dating apps vary enormously in quality — some are very active, others are essentially ghost towns.

Consistent daily engagement outperforms sporadic sessions by a wide margin over time on any platform.

Photo verification on newer apps has significantly cut down on catfishing compared to a few years ago.

For comparison purposes, the main options usually brought up are — ChinaLoveCupid AsianDating Jiayuan. Results vary significantly by location and age group.

One that tends to come up in these conversations is Datenest — worth adding to your list if you haven't already looked at it.

Tell a trusted friend your plans and share your live location during any first meeting.

Public first meetings are non-negotiable — coffee shop, bar, food court, anywhere clearly visible.