Best Gay Dating Sites & Apps in 2021

Being a member of the LGBTQ+ community definitely comes with its challenges, and dating is one of them. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best gay dating sites and apps, and discuss the basics of:

• Building your online profile
• Staying safe and keeping your privacy
• Protecting your health

Affiliate Disclosure

Because it has over 80 million members all over the world, Adult FriendFinder has made it to first place of our list of gay dating sites. The fact that it doesn’t cater to gay men exclusively shouldn’t be an issue, because the majority of users are male, and you can easily find those who are bisexual or gay.

This is an ideal site for those who want to explore their sexuality and kinks. People are open to anything from casual sex to couple sharing. If you want to spice up your sex life, this is the place to be. This becomes apparent as soon as you start browsing other profiles, as members openly show nudity.

Though this may sound ideal, the large member base also leaves this gay single site vulnerable to scams and bots, so don’t trust every pic of a hot guy you see. Adult FriendFinder does take precautions against this, though, as verification is necessary upon registration.

Finding other men of compatible sexual orientation isn’t hard because you have to choose what you identify as during the sign-up process. Don’t worry, the platform understands sexuality is fluid, which is why you can choose more than one sexual orientation.

Couples and individuals who used it think that Adult FriendFinder deserves its frequent mentions in the top 10 gay dating sites lists. They do warn that you may run into bots more often than you’d like, though. Their experience with the website is generally positive, and they claim that it is possible to find like-minded people, you just have to be patient.

Pros:

• Easy sign-up process
• Sex-positive
• Couples welcome

Cons:

• There may be some bots

Just as the name suggests, this dating site was created with African Americans in mind. It was meant to help them find partners of similar ethnicity easier, whether for hookups or serious relationships. However, you’ll notice all ethnicities are welcome and present on the website.

If you’re in the US, you’ll reap the full benefits of this top 10 gay dating site because that’s where most of its users are. Though female members slightly outnumber male, it’s not hard to find those compatible with your sexual orientation. This is mainly thanks to the extensive search options that allow you to see all the active members on the platform.

Those who value their privacy will be happy to know that you don’t have to provide any information you’re not comfortable sharing, even during the registration process. However, this means that other members can keep their profiles vagues as well.

If you are hesitant to start building a relationship with someone you don’t know much about, best background check for dating websites can help you learn more and need only basic info to go on.

What sets this gay matching site apart from others are the unique games you can play with other members. The first one is called “I’m interested” where you see a preview of a prospective match’s profile and decide whether you like it.

The second one is called “What do you like?” and it allows users to compare pics of different members. The one you like more is the one you match with, but you also reserve the right to skip the photos altogether if you don’t like either. 

Pros:

• Interactive members
• Inclusive
• You set the privacy

Cons:

• Specific niche; not a large dating pool

The next gay sites review we’ll cover is SilverSingles, which is one of the biggest dating platforms in the US for people over the age of 50. The large member base allows for a lot of successful matches, so it isn’t surprising that it has an average of 2,000 new couples every month.

The large member pool isn’t the only thing contributing to these success rates, though. Matches are suggested based on compatibility, which is why you need to complete a personality test upon signing up. This method makes the platform suitable for those looking for serious relationships, not just quick hookups.

Along with divorced 50-somethings looking for love, you can find people in their 30s and 40s, indicating that age gap dating is encouraged. Because this is one of the most inclusive gay singles sites out there, you are asked to choose your gender and the gender you’re looking for when you sign up. This automatically filters out women and straight men, allowing you to have a safe pick of your prospective matches.

All profiles are very detailed, which increases your chances of finding the right match quicker. You also get to see how each member responded to the questions posed during the registration process and determine how compatible you are.

However, despite the large number of users, a highly efficient matching process, and the fact that it is universally considered one of the best dating sites for seniors, SilverSingles is not an exclusively gay men dating website. This means that it might sometimes take a bit longer to find someone.

Pros:

• Detailed personality test
• Easy to filter the right gender
• Age gap dating available

Cons:

• Relatively low percentage of gay members

BeNaughty is pretty straightforward and kinky, making it the best gay dating app for casual sex. The concept is similar to that of the other popular dating apps—you like profiles you’re interested in and skip those you’re not. This makes BeNaughty the perfect platform for those who just want some fun. 

Aside from its simplicity, people are also drawn to the fact that the platform is open to both couples and singles.

Though there are more female members on the site, you can filter them out and just look for other men. However, some users have reported still receiving messages from girls, even though they’ve filtered them out.

When it comes to your profile, you’ll need to provide your basic information when you sign up, but also upload photos. Keep in mind that this is one of those gay date sites that check for nudity and pornography, so avoid setting this kind of pictures as your profile photo. This is because they require you to pass their photo test in order to ensure you really are who you claim to be.

Interacting with other users is free if you’re just sending them winks or adding them to your list of favorites. You’ll need to buy a membership if you want to initiate conversations with others. You’ll also be happy to know that there are chatrooms where you can interact with others.

According to gay dating websites reviews from 2020, If you want to add more than your profile photo, you’ll need to be a paying member to unlock the photo album. 

Pros:

• Casual fun encouraged
• Inclusive
• Easy registration

Cons:

• Girls might show up even when filtered out

EliteSingles is the perfect dating site for all of those sapiosexuals among us. The site was designed with the hopes of matching smart and educated singles. This is perhaps one of the best gay dating sites for relationships, as you’ll need to complete an in-depth survey when registering.

This way, you’ll be matched with people you really have something in common with. Aside from potentially finding a long-term relationship, EliteSingles can help you find an older gentleman. Since most users are above 30, you can even enjoy the charms of age gap dating if you’re into it. This is probably why EliteSingles found its way to so many lists of the best sugar daddy dating sites.

You have plenty of ways of interacting with other users, the most effective one being chatting one-on-one. If you’re too shy to start a conversation, you can always send a wink or like their photo to indicate you’re interested. 

Gay dating websites reviews by users of EliteSingles show that they were surprised to find that this kind of intellectual dating community actually existed. Though it may not be a strictly gay dating site, it remains popular among gay and bisexual men, and users are satisfied with the size and the makeup of the member pool. Due to the elite nature of the website, most members note finally finding someone ready to commit to a real relationship.

Pros:

• Good member pool
• Interaction through means other than IM’s
• Detailed personality test for optimal matches

Cons:

• Basic features also need to be paid for

If you’re an older man looking for company, you should definitely check out SeniorMatch. This website was made with the older population in mind, remembering that they need love as much as anyone. It’s no surprise then that the majority of members are over 50 years old.

This platform is most suitable for those looking for a long-term partner, but you can also find friends and travel companions there. All of this indicates that this isn’t the best gay site for those looking for something casual. This is further emphasized by the fact that no one under 30 is allowed to sign up.

Because the target audience is older, you won’t have to worry about not being able to find your way around the website. Everything from the registration process to navigating the site was made with functionality and practicality in mind.

SeniorMatch wouldn’t be one of the best gay sites out there if it didn’t let you choose a unique username for your profile. This way, you can stay as anonymous as you like. Options for interacting with other members include sending winks and initiating conversations. Keep in mind that you’ll need to be a full member for the latter.

Most members are divorced or widowed, and they don’t hesitate to mention how much the site has helped them with their loneliness.

Pros:

• Easy to navigate
• Deep connections encouraged
• 30+

Cons:

• Not a large dating pool for gay men

We continue our gay dating sites reviews with Match.com, famous not only for its network of associated dating sites but also for its long history. This just testifies to its trustworthiness and high-success rate. You’ll probably find it refreshing to see that the majority of members are active daily.

Most members live in the US and all ages over 18 are welcome, making it easy to find a match you really click with. This isn’t really a hookup app, as most users are looking for love. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t find something casual if you try hard enough. Note that this gay men dating site doesn’t allow people who are already in a relationship to sign up.

The registration process will only take you a couple of minutes, and you won’t need to bother verifying your account. You will be required to upload your picture and fill out personal info, though. Luckily, you have a profile builder available to make things easier for you.

Finding a partner is a breeze thanks to a separate tab with potential matches suggested by the platform. Being one of the best gay dating sites available, Match.com streamlined the process of liking the profiles of users you find appealing and skipping the ones that you don’t. Aside from the suggestions feature, you’ll be able to discover new profiles by making use of the extensive search options.

People are generally satisfied and would recommend the platform to others. They’re especially happy with how the suggested matches feature works, as they were able to find compatible partners easily and quickly thanks to it.

Pros:

• Active community
• Safe
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Some privacy options only available to paying members

Everyone’s heard of eHarmony, which isn’t surprising considering the app has had some success for a while. This site was created to help people find meaningful long-term commitments. This is achieved through constant research and frequent updates of the matching algorithm.

There are slightly more male members on the website, and it seems that the gay adult dating community stays active across all ages. However, this doesn’t mean that it takes only a day or two to find your ideal match. 

Aside from the fact that only 66% of people on dating sites schedule a date in real life, using eHarmony isn’t really worth it unless you’re in it for the long run. That’s why they offer various long-term plans, and the longer your subscription, the cheaper it is.

The registration process takes around 10 minutes, or even less if you decide to sign up through Google or Facebook. Your chances of finding a good match are increased from the very start as you’re required to take a detailed compatibility quiz. 

Just like with a number of other gay dating sites that work on a freemium model, interacting with other members on eHarmony is possible only with a paid subscription. As a free user, you can only initiate contact with pre-generated questions, and you can’t continue the conversation if your match replies.

Pros:

• Large dating pool
• In-depth matching procedure
• Value for money

Cons:

• Not much you can do with a standard account

PlanetRomeo was made exclusively for men who have sex with men, so it’s not surprising that most of the members are male. Casual sex and relationships are common and encouraged. Members often post nudity, showing that the platform is as sex-positive as the best BDSM dating sites around. This doesn’t mean you can’t find a relationship there, though.

PlanetRomeo doesn’t have a lot of fake profiles and its user base is pretty active, so you can easily find your next partner. It’s easy to spot a fake profile on this gay dating website though, as people usually just use celebrity photos.

Signing up for PlanetRomeo requires creating a unique username and verifying your age, but also disclosing your location and linking your email. Once your profile is approved, you’ll be able to expand it by providing personal info such as your relationship status, sexual orientation, and what you’re looking for.

Another thing recommending this website is that you don’t have to pay for a subscription to use basic features, such as contacting others. As a standard member, you’ll also be able to see who viewed your profile and add others to your favorites and friends lists.

Gay sites reviews from first-timers indicated that they didn’t find the app intimidating and noted it was easy to use and talk to other members. Most of them created a profile because they were looking for casual fun and they weren’t disappointed by their choice.

Pros:

• Made for men
• Easy to use
• Messaging is free

Cons:

• Presence of fake profiles

We’d like to complete our list of gay dating site reviews with Grindr. This is one of the best-known apps for gay men looking for discreet and casual fun. The app is free, and registration doesn’t take more than a few seconds. Security is good because you need to verify your email and have your profile photo approved before you can start reaping the benefits of the app.

Sharing your location is also a must, so that the app can show you users in your area. While you can leave your profile empty, you should provide as much info as you can if you want to increase your chances of matches. You don’t need to be a paying member to start conversations with others, and you can react to other profiles with “hot”, “friendly”, and “looking” to indicate you’re interested.

While this is one of the most straightforward and simple gay hookup apps on the market, it can get a little buggy. When it’s working properly (i.e., most of the time), the homepage displays profiles in your area that you can browse and engage with. Aside from texting, you can also send them photos. 

One neat feature Grindr has is that it asks its users to indicate their sexual health status. You can state if you’re HIV positive/negative and when you were last tested. You can also check out the FAQs for sexual health and make use of testing reminders. 

If you’re more open, you also have the option of linking your social media to this popular gay dating site.

Members said they adored how easily they were able to find hookups. It doesn’t take long to come across someone you like and set up a meeting. They also like how discreet the app is, and that you can communicate with others without having to pay. The only thing they wish they could change are the lags and small bugs.

Pros:

• Exclusively for men
• Easy to use
• Large dating pool

Cons:

• The app can be buggy

Dating as a gay person can be very hard, especially if you’re new to the LGBTQ+ community. This guide will help prepare you for the world of online gay dating and ensure you have a positive experience.

Know What You’re Looking For

The first thing you need to do is ask yourself what you’re looking for and be honest about it. Defining whether you want a one night stand, something casual, or a committed relationship will help you narrow down your dating site and app choices.

Those looking for something casual should check out Grindr, while one of the best gay online dating sites for finding long term partners is EliteSingles.

What Are the Benefits?

Being gay, your dating pool is smaller than that of an average straight person. Simply put, not as many people are gay, and not all of those who are came out. Things just get more complicated if you live in a conservative or small area where there aren’t as many chances to meet LGBTQ+ people. 

However, gay dating online is different. You don’t have to search far and wide to find a good match because you’ll be looking in the right place. Likewise, people are more comfortable being who they are online, thus widening your dating pool. 

What’s more, you’ll get to meet someone entirely new, not a friend of a friend, or an acquaintance. Broadening your social circle is a reward on its own. You also won’t have to waste time on people who are not likely to be a good match, as the best gay dating websites often allow members to list their interests and hobbies.

Your Profile

Building your profile is essential, regardless of which app or site you’re using. On some platforms, you’ll need to complete a survey when you sign up, while others will allow you to gradually expand your profile. What all of them have in common, though, is that you’ll need to add some photos and an interesting bio.

To make your profile stand out on even the most popular gay dating site, you should:

• • Make your bio sweet but short. Avoid cliches and be genuine. Think of three words that describe you as a person and build from there.
  • Upload photos. Whether they’re selfies or pics someone took of you, make sure to include them. Show off your best features and try capturing your personality in them. 

• Choose your name. Most apps require a username and it’s up to you whether you’ll use your real name or not. Feel free to be creative.

Privacy & Safety

Staying safe online is just as important on gay dating sites as it is on other online platforms. Here are a few tips on how to ensure you’ll have a positive experience:

• Don’t move the conversation away from the gay meeting site you used. That way, your identity will be protected and you’ll have the support of the platform if you feel unsafe (and the chat logs as proof).
• Always mask recognizable features in photos. It’s perfectly fine if you want to show off your body, but make sure not to include your face, tattoos, or anything that could identify you in the background. 
• Use a pseudonym. Keeping your privacy is easier when no one knows your real name. Using a nickname or pseudonym is a great idea for those who want to stay anonymous.
• Only use trusted apps. There are a lot of scams out there, but we’ve made sure to include only the apps and websites which are truly safe and offer support.
• Don’t overshare. It’s a good idea not to share too much personal info on any of the gay meeting sites you might want to use. You never know who might be on the other side of the screen, even if you have been talking for a few days.
• Meet in public. Though you may want a one-and-done, it’s better to meet somewhere public before you decide if it’s safe to head to their/your place. Not only will this allow you to see who you were actually talking to, but it also makes it easier to gauge chemistry and walk away if you change your mind.

Safe Sex

Gay date websites prove that sex can be fun, but that safe sex is even better. No matter how much you trust your new partner, remember that you’re still at risk of contracting an STD and that they might not be completely honest about their sexual history.

One of the biggest issues in the LGBTQ+ community for men who have sex with men is the increased risk of HIV. One of the reasons for this is that anal sex is up to 18 times riskier in terms of HIV transmission than vaginal sex.

In other words, always use a condom. It’s especially important to talk about using condoms with partners you meet through gay dating websites before you engage offline, as you’ve never seen this person in real life before. If they’re hesitant, pushy, or unsure, perhaps it’s better to look for another match. Your health and safety should always be a priority to your partner, and if it isn’t, that’s a red flag.

The best thing you can do for yourself is to practice safe sex and get tested regularly, regardless of if you are finding new partners on serious gay dating sites or not.

Wrapping Up

Dating as a gay man can be both exciting and scary. Hopefully, these reviews and our guide will help you see what you’re getting into. Remember to put your safety and health first, as well as to choose your partners carefully. These apps and sites will help you find that special someone and open up a whole new world of romance and fun.