The Top 11 Dating Apps For Women Who Want Real Connections

Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Rachel Hall

11 Best Dating Apps for Women Who Want Real Connections – Relationship Expert’s Guide to Apps for Women Who Want Love

In the chaotic world of online dating, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of dating apps available. For women who are looking for a serious relationship — not just a match, but someone who genuinely understands their values — it can be difficult to know where to start.

This guide isn’t just a generic list. It’s built on research, real user reviews, and expert advice to bring you the 11 dating apps for women that are truly worth your time in 2025. Whether you’re searching for the best dating app for serious relationships, exploring a hookup app, or looking for the best free dating app, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s help you find your perfect match.

What Makes the Right Dating App for Women?

Every woman’s journey is different. Some are after casual dates, others seek a long-term commitment, and many simply want to meet people who share their values.

Here are some essential features we looked at:

• Gender and sexuality options
• Inclusive user base and safety measures
• Variety of dating goals: casual, long-term, LGBTQ+, and more
• Ability to filter for specific preferences
• Designed to empower women, like apps where you make the first move
• Quality over quantity in potential matches
• Available in the App Store, with a solid free version

1. Hinge – Designed to Be Deleted

Hinge is widely considered the best dating app for serious relationships, living up to its motto: “designed to be deleted.” With its intuitive interface, conversation prompts, and a focus on meaningful connections, it creates space for real personalities to shine.

You can also set your dating goals — whether you’re just seeing what’s out there or you’re determined to find a long-term relationship. Its thoughtful prompts help users show off their personality, making Hinge ideal for those tired of superficial swiping.

Why women love it:

• More substance than apps like Tinder
• Encourages conversations
• Matches based on interests, not just appearances

2. Bumble – Empowering Women to Make the First Move

Bumble remains one of the top pick platforms for women. Created by a woman, this app puts female users in control by requiring them to make the first move in heterosexual matches.

Not only does this empower women, but it also filters out inappropriate messages and shifts the balance of power in a way that feels safe and refreshing.

Why it’s one of the best dating apps for women:

• Combines casual and serious dating goals
• Also, a social networking app with Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz
• Verified profiles, real-time swipe features, and inclusive of gender identities

Whether you’re searching for a real relationship or just dipping your toes into the dating pool, Bumble offers flexibility and safety.

3. OkCupid – Inclusive, Intelligent, and Insightful

If inclusivity and depth are what you’re after, OkCupid is a standout. Its diverse gender and sexuality options, clever profile prompts, and detailed questionnaire make it one of the best free dating apps for people who are serious about compatibility.

Unlike other popular apps, it allows you to filter for specific preferences—from political views to relationship styles (monogamous, open, etc.). For queer women and people seeking nuanced matches, OkCupid offers a welcoming space.

Why it works:

• Free to use with optional upgrades
• Great for LGBTQ+ users
• Highly customisable matching system

4. eharmony – The Classic Dating Site for Long-Term Love

eharmony has been around for years and continues to evolve with the times. It remains one of the best dating sites for those looking for a long-term commitment.

Through its in-depth personality assessment and algorithm, it’s best suited for people who are serious about settling down. You’ll find fewer casual daters and more people with intention — ideal for straight women, older online daters, or anyone looking to get off the apps for good.

Why it’s still one of the best:

• Strong vetting process
• High success rates
• Appeals to those tired of many dating sites with shallow interactions

5. Match – For Women Who Know What They Want

Match is one of the most trusted names in the dating scene, especially among those aged 30+. The site and app offer a more traditional experience with detailed profiles, meaningful matches, and tools to boost visibility.

You can clearly state whether you’re seeking a casual hookup, a serious relationship, or simply to meet people. Its older and more committed user base makes it a smart choice for mature dating experiences.

6. HER – Safe, Social Dating for Queer Women

HER is the go-to app for queer women, trans, and non-binary individuals. As a social networking app, it offers more than just dating. HER fosters a community where users can attend local events, join discussion groups, and find friends and dates alike.

If you’re tired of apps like Tinder and want something that actually understands your identity, HER delivers.

Why it stands out:

• Curated content for LGBTQ+ users
• Events and community-building features
• Prioritises inclusivity and safety

7. Coffee Meets Bagel – Slow Dating, Done Right

This platform turns down the noise of swipe-right culture. By sending curated matches (called “bagels”) once a day, Coffee Meets Bagel encourages quality over quantity.

It’s ideal for women with busy lives who still want to date meaningfully.

Why it’s effective:

• Limits daily matches to reduce decision fatigue
• Encourages intentional conversations
• Clear profile setup with shared interests

8. SilverSingles – The Best App for Women Over 50

Tailored specifically for singles over 50, SilverSingles proves that love has no expiry date. Whether you’re newly single or still searching, this user-friendly app helps women in the 50+ age range find matches with similar dating goals.

Its clean design, compatibility quiz, and respectful user base make it a wonderful choice for women who value maturity and experience.

9. The League – Elite Dating for Driven Women

If you’re ambitious, goal-oriented, and not afraid of a challenge, The League could be the right app for you. It connects users based on education, profession, and interests.

Think of it as the Ivy League of online dating — selective, polished, and full of high-quality potential matches.

Features include:

• Video speed dating
• Curated profiles
• Professional networking opportunities

10. Pure – Anonymous Hookups with a Twist

For women seeking something fun, quick, and no-strings-attached, Pure is a bold alternative. Unlike typical hookup apps, it prioritises user anonymity and safety with temporary chats and photo expiration.

It’s a smart, modern take on casual dating that doesn’t feel sleazy or dangerous.

Why it works for women:

• Anonymous by default
• Instant connections
• Ideal for exploring without pressure

11. Facebook Dating – Familiar Yet Surprisingly Effective

Many overlook Facebook Dating, but it offers some unique advantages. It taps into your existing network (without matching you with friends) and connects you with people seeking similar dating goals.

Because it uses your Facebook interests and events, it’s great for meeting people who already share commonalities.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Best Dating App for You

Whether you’re searching for the best dating app for women, a niche app for casual fun, or a legacy dating site like eharmony and Match, the options are plenty — and there’s no one-size-fits-all.

Remember to:

• Set your dating goals clearly
• Pick an app aligned with your values
• Don’t be afraid to try a few options before settling on your top choice

At the end of the day, the right app is the one that helps you build meaningful connections—however you define them.