Sexting can add a fresh layer to your sexual experiences. It serves as an exhilarating form of online foreplay that heightens excitement. However, you cannot simply enter someone’s DMs on a random dating platform and initiate a steamy chat (unless you’re using a site like AdultFriendFinder, which is designed for that purpose). Genuine sexting demands greater consideration, particularly concerning privacy.
As the dating app specialist for Mashable over the past three years, I have explored numerous platforms to determine the best and most discreet options for sexting. My main concern is user safety. I consulted security professional Gary Orenstein, who pointed out that privacy features are crucial when sharing intimate materials. He recommends seeking apps that provide end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and screenshot alerts.
If you support safe sex, you should also engage in safe sexting. Based on my evaluations and expert criteria, I have curated the top sexting apps to ensure your conversations remain confidential.
Recent updates to this guide:
We consistently test new applications and dating sites. For our latest update in November 2025, we made the following modifications:
– Introduced a new section clarifying why certain apps (notably those employing paid chat operators) were excluded from our recommendations.
– Confide: This app has been designated as the best overall sexting app, taking over the top spot from Signal. We still endorse Signal as the best free secure messaging option. Confide’s security and privacy features provide a significant advantage.
– Lovesense Remote: This app has been added as the “Best for Group Sexting.” It also serves as an enjoyable method for couples (including polyamorous individuals) to integrate sexting and Bluetooth sex toys into their romantic activities.
– FetLife: Awarded the title of “Best for Niche Kinks & Fetishes.” This social networking site enjoys popularity within the kink community and can help you connect with new acquaintances.
What about other sexting platforms?
You might have come across other “best of” lists that feature apps I’ve chosen to omit. As Mashable’s dating authority, I’ve assessed various platforms, aiming to suggest apps that foster authentic connections while ensuring your safety. Here’s why some well-known platforms were not included.
– A comment on “paid operator” sites: Numerous platforms branded for sexting (such as InstaBang, Arousr, SweetSext, and SextLocal) do not primarily link you with real users. They frequently employ “paid operators” or “professional chat partners” for a fantasy-oriented, transactional encounter. While there is nothing inherently wrong with that, it is a paid fantasy service rather than mutual sexting. My recommendations (except for SextPanther, identified as the “Best Sexting Service” for connecting with verified adult performers) concentrate on apps aimed at genuine, user-to-user communication.
– Couple’s apps: Applications like Between are not included here. Although it serves as a private messaging tool for couples, it doesn’t function as a true sexting app. For couples desiring to enhance their digital intimacy, our selections (such as We-Vibe and Lovesense Remote) present a more engaging experience by incorporating teledildonics.