As a contributor to Mashable’s section on sex, dating, and relationships, I’ve explored many dating apps through the years, and Hinge is the one that people inquire about the most. Its popularity stems from catering to individuals who feel too shy to use Tinder yet still wish to make connections, as well as those who are prepared for serious relationships. Identified as the app “designed to be deleted,” Hinge is where individuals seek genuine conversations.

Numerous friends and colleagues of mine have discovered love on Hinge, with one even getting engaged. To assist you in determining if it’s worth downloading, I’ve outlined everything you need to know about the app, from the sign-up process to its features that enhance connections.

**Starting with Hinge**

The process of onboarding is simple. Once you download the app, click “Create Account,” input your phone number, and confirm it. Initially, there’s no option for Facebook, Google, or Apple login, but that’s acceptable since your phone number won’t be visible on the platform.

The initial screen highlights that your profile should be distinctive, showcasing Hinge’s dedication to understanding you more deeply than other dating apps. The first question requests your name, noting that no background checks are carried out, and providing your last name is optional.

After entering your name, you can link a Google or Apple account. Hinge then prompts you for your email and another verification code, demonstrating its focus on curbing fake profiles.

**Establishing your identity**

You’ll share your birth date, location, and gender identity, with options for up to four pronouns. Gender choices include “Man,” “Woman,” and “Nonbinary,” along with other identities provided. You can also select your sexuality from a detailed list and indicate who you’re interested in dating.

Hinge inquires about the type of relationship you’re looking for, offering “Monogamy,” “Non-monogamy,” and “Figuring out my relationship type,” with space to elaborate on your preferences.

**Dating goals**

Hinge asks you about your dating intentions, reminding you that opting for “prefer not to say” may restrict who can view your profile. This underscores Hinge’s commitment to aiding you in finding the right match.

Next, you’ll fill in additional details about yourself, including height, ethnicity, children, family aspirations, and traits such as hometown and occupation. For many of these, choosing “prefer not to say” will limit your profile’s visibility.

**Building your profile**

Hinge encourages you to express your personality through photos and prompts. You must upload six pictures or videos, which aids in filtering out bots and impersonators. Additionally, you’ll select three prompts to answer, with choices like “This year, I really want to…” and “I go crazy for…”

You can add a voice prompt and will encounter the first subscription pop-up, which is refreshingly uncommon in comparison to other apps.

**Matching on Hinge**

Once your profile is set up, you can view potential matches or modify your information. Hinge enables you to access full profiles for free and filter matches based on various criteria. The “Standouts” section features individuals the algorithm predicts you’ll appreciate, updated daily.

The “Likes You” section displays profiles that have indicated interest in you, but free users can only see one at a time. You can send eight likes each day, and Hinge implements “Your Turn Limits” to deter ghosting.

**Safety features**

Hinge incorporates strong safety features, such as selfie verification, a comment filter, and a block list to keep unwanted contacts at bay. It also offers a Crisis Text Line and safety advice.

**What is Hinge’s cost?**

Hinge presents two subscription levels, Hinge+ and HingeX, which come with extra benefits and filtering options. Hinge+ begins at $19.99 per week, allowing unlimited likes and more. HingeX, starting at $24.99 per week, provides enhanced recommendations and priority likes.

**Is it beneficial to download Hinge?**

If you’re in search of a relationship, downloading Hinge is advisable. It provides many free features and emphasizes assisting users in finding the right match while ensuring safety and support. As someone who has tested the app in different locations, I’ve consistently found it yielding better outcomes than other options. Hinge is an excellent choice for those eager to establish a meaningful connection.