Full-on relationships aren’t for everyone. Some people just want to have fun and make new friends. If that’s you, keep reading. We review the best hookup sites out there to help you find a steady stream of fun-loving people.
From short-term flings to casual one-nighters, our top hookup sites will take the hassle out of making new connections.
No matter what your gender or preference, we’ve found something for everyone.
Ready? Let’s go.
Top 5 Hookup Sites & Apps for New Friends
- Best hookup sites for making new friends - FriendFinder
- Top hookup sites with an active member base - SearchingForSingles
- Enjoy casual encounters with wealthy people - Seeking
- Women send the first message - Bumble
- Send virtual gifts to matches - Zoosk
1. FriendFinder - One of the Top Hookup Sites To Make Friends
- Great for meeting like-minded people
- Plenty of available friends online
- Try it out for FREE
- Diverse genders & individuals
- Plenty of forums to join
Cons:
- Premium membership is expensive
- FriendFinder is a very popular app for making new friends and forming connections with like-minded people. It also fosters a strong sense of community by having plenty of different forums you can join and match with potential dates or friends.
- This social networking site comes with a plethora of fun features like watching other member videos, reading informative articles on FriendFinder’s blog, and more!
Members: 4.9/5
FriendFinder boasts of having thousands of active members on their site to chat with. While it's one of the top hookup sites that is mainly male-dominated, female users can still form meaningful connections on the app.
Additionally, most users are between 30-50, making this a fantastic place to make some older friends. You can also rest assured that FriendFinder takes safety seriously, and makes sure to verify each and every profile.
Pricing: 4.6/5
As far as the pricing goes, FriendFinder is a little expensive. While it does offer a free version to try out, after which you'll need to opt for a premium plan if you want to send and receive messages as well as enjoy other extra benefits.
Right now you can get a Silver Membership for $22.95 per month, or a Gold Membership for $34.95 a month. More on the extra perks below!
Features: 4.7/5
Premium members can enjoy plenty of added features for the best experience possible.
Our favorites include the “Video Introduction” function which allows you to post a welcoming video on your profile and view others.
Other features we like are “ Interest Groups” which are engaging forums you can join to connect with other members, and “Live Webcam Viewing” where you can enjoy watching other members do their thing!
Find out why Friend Finder is one of the best hookup sites.
2. SearchingForSingles - Most Active Member Base of Our Top Hookup Sites
- Great chat starters
- Intuitive interface
- Affordable
- You can see who viewed you
- Plenty of active members
Cons:
- Limited free version
SearchingforSingles is a relatively new and fun platform to seek out like-minded singles for friendship and more! It features a super clean and easy-to-use interface, so you can get matched in no time.
Members: 4.8/5
Most of the members on SearchingforSingles are from the US, but you can still find users worldwide! Plus, there are also more women than men on this top hookup sites app, if that’s what you’re after.
Pricing: 4.5/5
It’s worth noting that you’ll need to pay in order to use the communication tools. However, registration is free and the site uses an affordable credit system to chat with other members.
There are various packages you can pick from, including 5 credits for $4.99, or 50 for $64.99.
Features: 4.8/5
The best feature of this hookup site is the “match game”. Basically, you’re given a random profile with the option to either “like” them or “X” cross them out - sort of like Tinder’s swipe feature.
You can also check out who has been looking at your profile using the “visitors” function.
Sign up for Searching for Singles: One of our best hookup sites
3. Seeking - Enjoy Casual Encounters With the Wealthy
Pros:
- Profile verification
- Background checks
- Video chat
- Lots of wealthy members
Cons:
- It’s expensive
- No matchmaking algorithm
If you fancy a bit more class in your life, Seeking could be one of the best hookup sites for you. Your chances of meeting “successful and attractive” people are far higher on this site than any others.
Members
Seeking attracts members who have plenty of cash. Think business owners, CEOs, Directors, and people that were born into money. These guys don’t mind spoiling the person they’re spending time with, either, which is a definite win.
While having some cash doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have more fun, it does give you the chance to enjoy some more classy experiences.
Pricing
With high-wealth members comes a higher price tag. At $109.99 a month for a premium membership, this site isn’t cheap. But, if you’re looking to mingle with the wealthy, it’s kind of expected.
The site does have excellent security features, though, which at least means you’re less likely to be duped. You can even have yourself background checked for an extra $50, which will boost your profile and show people you are who you say you are.
It’s easy to see why this is one of the best hookup sites, isn’t it?
Features
Seeking offers a stack of features. As well as verifying your account, it’s one of the only top hookup sites that does an income check when you join. If you don’t earn a stack of cash, don’t panic. You’ll still be able to join, you’ll just attract someone who wants to spoil you.
If you like to get to know people before you meet IRL, the site has a video chat feature so you can see if you gel with them before you hook up. You can see why it’s one of the best hookup sites now, can’t you?
Find a wealthy hookup on Seeking, one of our best hookup sites
4. Bumble - Best Hookup App For Women
Pros:
- Women send the first message
- FREE to join
- Quick & easy registration
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Many are looking for something more serious
Bumble is one of the top hookup sites for women to make friends.
Conversations are initiated by the ladies, giving them more control. It’s designed to help protect women from the dangers associated with online dating, like receiving unwanted messages and so on.
Although women are in charge here, men who are looking for a fling or casual encounter will enjoy using this site nonetheless. Plus, Bumble has almost 42 million users worldwide - so you’re bound to find someone for you.
Members: 4.7/5
While Bumble’s user base is mainly composed of women, men will have great luck in creating new friendships here!
The site gets a ton of traffic daily, and it’s estimated that there are over 700,000 new members joining per month. If you’re looking to make some younger friends, most users are between 20-30 on this app.
Pricing: 4.8/5
The good news is that you can use Bumble for free! This means you can send and receive messages at no cost. However, the amount of messages you can read on the free version is limited.
Therefore if you wish to enjoy some premium features and unlimited messaging you’ll need to opt for a paid plan.
You can opt for a BumbleBoost which puts your profile at the top for $10.99 per week or even get a Lifetime Subscription with unlimited messaging and extra features for $149.99. Additionally, you can buy once off Bumble Credits as well
Features: 4.7/5
Bumble not only sports an adorable user interface but excellent features to match, too!
These include BumbleBff for solely making new friends and BumbleBizz for creating business partnerships.
You can also take advantage of the “SuperSwipe” feature to show someone you’re really interested in them and browse “The BeeHive” for any dating-related articles and helpful guides. It’s no wonder it’s made it into our list of top hookup sites!
Check out Bumble and see why it’s on our best hookup sites list.
5. Zoosk - Best Hookup Sites That's Fun to Use
Pros:
- Facebook profile verification
- Fun & unique UI
- Send users virtual gifts
- 40+ million users
Cons:
- Some inactive users
If you can put up with slightly annoying ads, then Zoosk can be one of the best hookup sites for making friends you'll ever use, boasting upwards of 40 million members. Even better, it’s completely free.
If you prefer to browse for love/hookups without being assaulted by ads, then the premium version starts at just $12 a month.
That's one of the lowest premium prices on this list.
Members: 4.6/5
One thing we love about Zoosk - is the sheer amount of members on this hookup site! There are over 40 million users worldwide, with varying backgrounds and age ranges - so you can find a friend to vibe with!
Pricing: 4.8/5
As we already mentioned - Zoosk is one of the more affordable alternatives from our list of top hookup sites.
While you can’t send or receive messages for free, the Premium Membership offers unlimited messaging and access to features like browsing in incognito mode.
Features: 4.6/5
The great thing about Zoosk is that it's perfect for "choose your own adventure" casual dates. If you're in the mood to find love or go on serious dates, then there's the "Smart Pick Technology" feature - a special algorithm designed to find you your perfect match when it comes to personality and values.
On the other hand, Zoosk also comes with a "Carousel" feature - this is similar to the "swipe left and swipe right" style of a hookup app like Tinder - you can cycle through photos of users and decide whether you're interested in meeting them based purely on their profile photos and how attractive you find them.
It's good to have options.
On top of all this, this top hookup sites got the unique addition of "Zoosk Coins" and "Virtual Gifts" which allow you to send digital gifts to potential matches in order to woo them. I can't say that I would personally be swept off my feet by a digital teddy bear, but you know... it's kind of cute I guess.
Find a hookup on Zoosk: It’s on our best hookup sites list for a reason.
6. Adult Friend Finder - Best Hookup Sites For Like Minded Friends
Pros:
- Large & active user base
- Offers messaging prompts
- Free to sign up
- Good for open-minded people
Cons:
- Premium membership is costly
With humble beginnings all the way back in 1996, Adult Friend Finder is one of the best hookup sites of all time - continuing to set the standard for hookup websites to this day.
No matter your gender or preferences, you’re sure to find someone to connect with. The website has over 99 million users around the world (supposedly) and fetches a whopping one million views per day.
Registration is free and takes about 5 minutes to complete. The free profile is limited, though, so in order to send messages, for example, you have to upgrade.
Members: 4.5/5
AdultFriendFinder has a pretty large and active members base, so you can quickly find a friend or two here.While most of the users are located in the US, there are still plenty of people from other countries seeking friendships, relationships, and more.
Pricing: 4.6/5
There are three pricing plans to choose from, including $39.95 per month, 3 months for $26.95 per month, or you can pay $239.40 upfront for the entire year.
Features: 4.5/5
Why upgrade?
You’ll get access to a wide range of content like live webcam shows, group discussions, and erotic fiction. You can even view people’s page details and read about their hilarious or juicy casual encounters.
As hookup sites go, it doesn't get much more open-minded than AdultFriendFinder!
Find like-minded friends on AdultFriendFinder: One of our best hookup sites.
7. Elite Singles - Best Hookup Sites to Mingle With Millionaires
Pros:
- Full of the wealthy and top professionals
- Intelligent matchmaking
- 12.5 million members
- Mostly over 35s
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not good for younger people
For those of you looking for some high-end hookups, Elite Singles is worth a look. This top hookup sites full of top-tier professionals, and very wealthy people. Think millionaires, and you’re on the right track.
Members
Elite Singles members are well-established, which means that you’ll predominantly find people over 35. There are a number of plus points to this, including knowing exactly what they like.
While you might just be looking for a casual fling, it’s still nice to find someone who knows what they like. No more awkward fumbles, if you know what we mean!
This top hookup sites got 12.5 million members, with a balanced ratio of men to women, which means you’ll have a fair chance of finding someone. The only thing to note is you’re limited to selecting straight, gay or bisexual options when you join. There’s no wider LGBTQ+ options.
Pricing
Like other top hookup sites that are aimed at the elite market, this one has a pretty high cost. You can sign up for:
- $99.95 for one month
- $158.85 for three months
- $197.70 for six months
Features
Elite Singles is one of the most straightforward best hookup sites you’ll find. After verifying who you are and answering some pretty extensive personality tests, you’ll be presented with between three and seven people that you match with each day.
While that might be lower than some of the other top hookup sites, there’s something nice about knowing you won’t be scrolling endlessly to find new connections. If you’re a busy professional, that’s definitely a plus point.
Mingle with millionaires on Elite Singles: Our best hookup sites for the wealthy.
8. Tinder - Best Hookup App For Younger Users
Pros:
- Simple user interface
- Join for free
- Great design for mobile use
- 300 million active users worldwide
Cons:
- Must pay for unlimited swipes
- Watch out for fake profiles
Popular with Gen Z and Millennials, Tinder is one of the most popular casual hookup apps available. It’s easy to install, and you can set up a profile in minutes as it doesn’t require extensive information.
You’ll add all the usual data like your name, age, and gender. Then, you’ll specify your gender preferences, and clarify your desired distance and age range.
It's all very quick and easy.
You can choose to write a detailed bio, upping your chances of finding the type of friendship you want. Tell other users if you’re looking for a no-strings-attached thing or something more stable from the get-go.
You don't want to go breaking people's hearts or setting false expectations!
Once you’re set-up, it’s all about the swipe.
Swipe “right” to like someone, and when they like you back, the app will notify you and you can start chatting right away! Also, you can put your account in the “Card Stack” if you want to remain hidden for a bit. It’s a good tool for people who are juggling a few matches and don’t want to add new ones to their roster.
For additional features, though, you gotta pay. Packages start as low as $12.50 per month for Tinder Plus and go up to $29.99 per month for Tinder Platinum.
Tinder Plus hides advertisements and offers unlimited swipes. Platinum has loads of other features, like messaging before you match.
So yes, you can pay for an unfair advantage!
Swipe right and see who you can find on this best hookup sites free app.
9. Hinge - Best Friendship & Dating App For A Serious Relationship
Pros:
- Perfect for finding love
- Roulette-style matchmaking
- Free version of this top hookup sites decent
- Paid version starts at $4.99 per month
Cons:
- Mobile version only
Hinge is the dating app that is "designed to be deleted", according to the founders themselves. In other words, this app is designed to find you a serious relationship or friendship so that you can delete the app and never use it again.
Whether a profit-making company ACTUALLY wants you to delete their app is questionable, but I digress.
Popular with millennials, Hinge is one of the simplest dating apps you can find. The matchmaking boasts a roulette-style UI that's not massively different from Tinder, though the users here tend to be looking for love and more serious dates than those on Tinder.
The free version of Hinge is actually really decent to use, though the paid version starts at just $4.99 per month, which is nice and affordable.
See who you can find on Hinge, one of our best hookup sites for friendships and love.
10. Craigslist Missed Connections - 100% Free Hookup Site
Pros:
- 100% free hookup site
- Big user base
- Super quick registration
- Good for more mature users
Cons:
- Security isn’t the best
- High probability of trolls
- Personals-style ads aren't for everyone
Craigslist Missed Connections provides a space for people to search for someone they had a connection with but weren’t able to get any of their details.
It’s the best place to find a quick meetup because many people use the site for that purpose, too.
Popular with more mature users, this top hookup sites completely free to use and sign up for, with the website boasting that it takes only 30 seconds to set up a profile. So if you're the kind of person that likes to read personal ads when looking for a fling, you'll love it.
See who you can hookup with on Craigslist: One of our best hookup sites that’s free.
11. PlentyofFish - One of the Original Online Dating Sites
- No random matches
- Free to use
- Video chat feature
Cons:
- Extra features cost
- Personal questionnaire
Plenty of Fish is an excellent dating site for those who don’t want to mess around. Some find the extensive questionnaire too personal, but POF’s algorithms use that data to accurately pair you with a partner with whom you'll get on with.
Let’s just say the questionnaire benefits you in the long run!You can use POF for romantic dating or for forming friendships - it all depends on what you're looking for.
Recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, they actually added a video chat feature that allows users to "virtually" date online. This is also a good way to check that your date is who they say they are.
The free dating site has many features, so you can easily use this app even if you’re on a budget.
Find friendships and romance on POF: It’s one of the best hookup sites for a reason.
8 Hookup Site Hacks For Success
If you’re looking to hit it off with someone right away, then there are a few hacks you can use to help yourself stand out from the crowd and really make an impression on the top hookup sites!
1. Choose your main photo VERY carefully (first impressions matter)
Your main profile picture is the first thing that people will see, and first impressions matter A LOT.
When you’re using top hookup sites like Friend Finder or Tinder, you very often decide to swipe left or right based on a quick glance at someone’s profile photo, so if the lighting is off or you’re cropped out of frame a little, then you ruin your chances.
Don’t miss out on hookups due to a poor photo!
2. Upload 5-7 varied photos so people see what you’re like
Ideally, you should upload around 5-7 photos of yourself if the hookup app allows that. Just uploading 1 or 2 photos can look suspicious, while uploading 28 photos looks narcissistic.
You also want to mix it up so people get an idea of what you look like and what you’re into from a few quick glances.
Try to include:
- Posed selfies
- Pictures with friends
- Candid non-posed photos
Give them a snapshot of who you are as a person and what you look like.
3. Smile!
Research shows that people overwhelmingly react positively to smiley photos on dating apps, hookup sites, and meetup apps. Believe it or not, if you look like a nice person, lots of people will want to get to know you.
4. State that you’re looking for friendship in your bio
If you’re using top hookup sites like Tinder or Zoosk where hookups are implied but people also look for romantic dating - you should make it clear that you’re looking to make new friends.
This helps you to only attract potential new matches who are interested in the same goal as you!
5. Listen to your friends’ harsh opinions
Do you have a very blunt or “lovingly honest” friend who will tell you straight when you look like trash in a photo?
Listen to them. They’re probably right.
We tend to overlook our flaws or bad photos, but sometimes a fresh pair of eyes is necessary to tell you that maybe that isn’t your best picture.
6. When in doubt, swipe right
Dating profiles and hookup app photos can be deceiving, so sometimes it’s good to stay open-minded and keep the door open.
If you find yourself thinking “I’m not sure” about a potential hookup partner, you might as well swipe right and see how things go - they might win you over!
You have nothing to lose.
7. Include an icebreaker to start conversations
Do you have a unique skill, hobby, or interest? You should consider including it in your profile! Even if you’re just looking for hookups, a witty conversation is attractive, so think about including something in your profile to entice a response.
Examples could be:
- “I’m a massive Star Wars nerd”
- “I can beat ANYONE at Tetris”
- “What’s your favorite movie? Mine is X”
- “Are you a cat person or a dog person?”
- “Tacos are the BEST food. Fight me!”
Whatever you choose, keep it fun and light-hearted!
8. Pay for a premium hookup app (show you mean business!)
Paying for a premium account on a hookup site or hookup app that you like is a great way to show potential partners that you’re taking this seriously and ACTUALLY want to meet people.
A lot of people are flakey - especially free users.
Most paid hookup sites and apps also give you a cornucopia of extra features that make hooking up easier, such as:
- Unlimited messages
- Unlimited profile viewing
- Ability to send private photos & videos
- Live cam-to-cam chats
- Privacy tools
Sure you might want to do the free trial first and try things out, but sometimes in life you just get what you pay for.
FAQs - Best Hookup Sites and Apps
What's the Difference Between Online Dating Sites, Casual Dating Sites, & the Best Hookup Sites?
Okay, so there are a lot of terms that get thrown around when talking about dating and hookup sites - so what do they all mean? While these terms are open to interpretation, here are some general guidelines for what to expect from each.
Online Dating Sites
Online dating sites tend to refer to websites and apps that are catered towards romantic dating and serious relationships instead of one-night stand stuff. You'll often be paired with multiple potential matches based on personality and values quizzes, rather than just superficial photos or who's closest to your location.
Basically, they're a lot more wholesome and cute.
The best dating sites for finding love include Hinge, Plenty Of Fish, and eHarmony.
Casual Dating Sites
"Casual Dating Sites" tends to refer to websites that are catered towards people who don't know exactly what they're looking for. It's a place where you might end up in a serious relationship, you might end up in a "friends with benefits" situation, or you might find local hookups for one night of fun.
They're the "choose your own adventure" of online dating!
Popular casual dating sites (and apps) include Zoosk, Bumble, OkCupid, and Tinder.
Hookup Sites
Generally speaking, the best hookup sites or hookup apps are concerned with a few things only - casual dating and meetups.
Some sites feature chat rooms and live cams where things can get personal.
The best hookup sites include Friend Finder, Searching for Singles and Seeking.
What Are the #1 Best Hookup Sites?
The best hookup sites are Friend Finder, Searching for Singles, and Seeking. Whether you’re looking for a high-end friends-with-benefits situation or someone to have a casual fling with, these sites will come up trumps.
Do I Have to Pay for a Hookup?
No, you don’t have to pay for a hookup. You might have to pay to use the best hookup site, though.
You might find someone using a free account, like on Tinder or FriendFinder, if you’re simply looking for a casual encounter. Other sites, like Bumble, charge men to use the site and connect with women.
You can sign up to most dating sites for free and only pay if you want access to extra benefits and features, like unlimited swipes, for example.
Are There Any 100% Free Top Hookup Sites?
Yes, there are some 100% free top hookup sites. Friend Finder and Tinder offer a free version of their apps so you can meet new people without paying a dime. Upgrading will boost your chances, though, so if you’re lacking matches, try subscribing to their premium functions.
Are the Best Hookup Sites and Apps Safe?
Yes, for the most part, the best hookup sites and apps are safe. Just make sure you keep your personal and financial information private in case you run into a scammer.
Some of the best hookup sites offer more safety features than others, including profile verification to avoid fake accounts, and kicking out users who offend or harass people.
Inevitably, there’s always risk involved when meeting others online. Especially in places that function more like an online forum where it’s a free-for-all, like Reddit. You need to use the utmost caution in any case.
Are the Best Hookup Sites Legal?
Yes, the best hookup sites and dating apps are legal for people over the age of 18. It’s an adults-only kind of world. Some of the top hookup sites are more "adult" than others, but you always need to be 18 or older in order to use them legally.
Don't try it if you're underage.
What are the Most Popular Top Hookup Sites?
The most popular top hookup sites include Tinder, AdultFriendFinder, Seeking , and FriendFinder.
If you're looking for the best a hookup site that has a lot of active users, these are the places that you should start looking at first.
Tips To Stay Safe While Using the Best Hookup Sites and Dating Apps
Staying safe while trying to find hookups or casual encounters online is crucial. Keep the following points in mind to guarantee a good time is had by all:
1. Set up a voice call or video call before meeting
An excellent way to discover if the person you’re talking to is who they say they are is to have a live chat. Some will be comfortable with video, while others prefer a phone call. Either way, it’s the best place to start.
Some popular dating sites like Plenty Of Fish have a built-in video chat feature, while AdultFriendFinder comes with a live cams section too.
2. Limit personal data and details about your life
Avoid giving away personal details relating to things like where your family currently lives or what your daily routine is. You want to keep the connection as light as possible when you’re dealing with a stranger.
If you're looking for a casual encounter, you don't want to give them more information that they need - protect your online safety and stay vigilant.
3. Take precautions when meeting in person
The first step is to tell a friend where you’re going, which should be a public place for a first-time connection. Watch your drink at all times too. Of course, don’t go on the date with your defenses up, but be aware, that’s all.
Most people on hookup sites and dating forums will have good intentions, but you need to make sure you don't let your guard down.
4. Use your own transport (so you have an escape plan)
Take the bus, ride your bike, drive yourself, or get an Uber. You want to have the freedom to leave whenever you feel ready. Things can always take a turn for the worst, so you want to make sure you have an escape plan ready if things go awry.
NEVER go on a date or hookup where you're relying on the other person to take you home (or wherever you need to go afterward).
Best Hookup Sites to Make New Friends - In Conclusion
Hookup apps and sites do the legwork for you, so all you have to do is pick and choose with the press of a button.
Our comprehensive list of the best hookup sites and apps for dating and friendship should give you a clearer picture of what’s out there.
From FriendFinder to Bumble and AdultFriendFinder , all of these options have something to offer those of you looking for a casual scenario where you have fun and connect with someone you meet online.
Just make sure your intentions are clear - you don't want to be a heartbreaker after all.
Whichever hookup site you end up using for yourself, just make sure to follow our tips, stay safe, and have fun. Good luck out there!
Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
