If you're wondering how two of the biggest dating sites stack up against one another, this article will give you a complete comparison of eHarmony and Hinge.
Finding love can be difficult enough, but having so many dating site options can make it even more challenging. eHarmony was one of the first dating sites, but Hinge has recently come onto the scene and established itself as a viable contender.
I've gone through both of these sites and reviewed everything from their ease of use to their compatibility algorithms to help you choose the one best for you.
So read on to see who wins the battle of eHarmony vs. Hinge.
Key Points:
- Hinge was founded in 2012, while eHarmony was founded in 2000.
- eHarmony uses a scientific approach to matchmaking, while Hinge uses a more personal approach.
- eHarmony requires users to fill out a lengthy questionnaire, while Hinge only requires a few questions to be answered.
- eHarmony has a more traditional, text-based interface, while Hinge has a more modern, visual interface.
- eHarmony allows users to search for matches using a variety of criteria, while Hinge only enables users to search for matches within their social network.
- eHarmony has a more traditional online dating experience, while Hinge is more like a social media platform.
- eHarmony uses a comprehensive personality assessment to learn about its users and then uses an algorithm to match them with people who are compatible with them. This approach is designed to help users find long-term relationships and eHarmony promises to find users their "soulmate."
At a Glance
Want just the straight facts about eHarmony and Hinge? Read on!
What's the Difference Between eHarmony and Hinge?
eHarmony uses a system based on your interests and personality to find others who'll be compatible with you. While Hinge also looks at personality traits, they use an algorithm based on who you like to suggest new matches.
Which is Better?
eHarmony has been around for many years and is one of the most popular dating sites. They've recently gone through some revamps to keep up with more modern sites. They have new features, like video chat, to keep you safe while meeting new people.
Hinge has some great features as well, such as interesting profile capabilities to give other members a peek at the real you. It's definitely a little more hip than eHarmony, but may not be exactly what you're looking for.
Who is eHarmony Best For? Hinge?
eHarmony is designed for people who're looking for their lifelong partner and are ready to get married. Their focus is on finding someone you'll have ultimate compatibility with.
Hinge is also designed to help you form a lasting relationship, but it doesn't seem quite as serious. It seems to be designed for younger users who're looking for a monogamous relationship but may not necessarily be looking for the person they're going to marry.
Want to Know Even More About eHarmony and Hinge?
Read on for an even more detailed comparison of the two dating companies.
Comparison
Below, I've broken down eHarmony and Hinge dating apps by category, so you can see which site is better for your needs and worth the money.
1. Compatibility Algorithm
Both eHarmony and Hinge use a compatibility algorithm to help you find singles. Hinge's algorithm is fairly basic. It matches you with people based on your interests, and over time, it uses data based on the people you like and who would like you to make new matches.
eHarmony has a much more complex system. You'll go through a much more involved questionnaire, and they use 29 points of compatibility to make matches. eHarmony may be somewhat more likely to help you find someone you want to spend the rest of your life with.
Still, there's something to be said about Hinge's algorithm. While it appears simple, they've based their algorithm on the Nobel prize-winning Gale-Shapley matching algorithm. It can help you to find a partner or friends who share common interests with you and who're likely to be a good match based on your previous choices.
2. Cost
Both Hinge and eHarmony have free basic plans, but you won't get as many features. With the Hinge free plan, you can see full user profiles, but you'll only have a limited amount of likes you can send. You're only able to message someone when there's a mutual like.
With the eHarmony free plan, you get very little. You can join and complete your compatibility questionnaire for free. You can then see some profile information of your matches, but if you want to see photos or start a conversation, you'll need to sign up for a paid plan.
For Hinge, preferred membership plans are as low as $4.99 per month if you're willing to pay six months in advance. eHarmony costs as little as $25.90 per month with a 24-month subscription (more about eHarmony pricing here). Hinge is more affordable, but you may prefer the types of matches you get with eHarmony.
3. The Ratio of Men to Women
eHarmony has a ratio of 42% to 58% of men to women (it could be changed in recent times). Thus, if you're a male looking for a female partner, you'll have a larger pool of potential matches.
Hinge has an almost 50% to 50% ratio of men to women, so your chances are more equal when it comes to finding someone of the opposite sex.
4. Profiles
eHarmony lists all the basics on your profile, like your job, education, interests, religion, pets, etc. You'll also get to answer several longer questions to give your matches a better picture of who you are and what you're looking for in a significant other. You'll also need to upload at least three photos, but you can also include more.
Hinge lets you create your profile with the basics, known as virtues, vitals, and vices. These give other users the basics, while further questions help match you up with other users. Hinge shines when it comes to adding photos. While you can add your standard "dating app" photos, Hinge also has photo prompts that let your personality shine through.
5. Safety
Both eHarmony and Hinge websites take their users' safety seriously. Both of them perform verification checks on their users' details to ensure that there are no bots present. Both of them also require users to confirm that they are not already married.
Both also offer in-app messages and chat, so you don't have to give out your phone number or other personal information to have conversations with people you match with.
eHarmony vs. Hinge: The Winner
Overall, eHarmony is the more comprehensive dating site. Their algorithm is designed to make lifelong matches as opposed to partners for more casual dating. You'll be more likely to find someone who's looking for the same things you are.
Which is Best for Younger Users?
If you're in the millennial crowd, you may prefer Hinge. It feels a little fresher than eHarmony and may help you find the type of date that'll suit you. You may have more chances of finding users closer to your age on Hinge.
Find Your Perfect Partner
If you're ready for a lifelong commitment, join eHarmony and start finding your true love!
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