Online Dating for Lesbians: The Top Apps to Discover Love (or Just a Fun Date)
Engaging in online dating as a lesbian can be both thrilling and exasperating. While it presents chances to engage with other queer women, it also brings challenges—such as encountering straight users infiltrating queer spaces or repeatedly spotting your ex (and her former partners) in your feed.
In the initial phase of the pandemic, numerous lesbians grew disenchanted with conventional dating apps and turned to TikTok as an alternative means to connect with other queer women—and to their surprise, it proved effective. However, let’s be honest: social media is not a sustainable replacement for a dedicated dating service. For those who’ve already tapped out their local dating scene, especially with cuffing season or Pride nearing, discovering new methods to meet women becomes crucial.
Though it’s still prevalent to connect with someone only to face the unwelcome “my boyfriend and I are looking for a third,” dating apps have advanced in forming safer, more inclusive environments. The leading platforms today are doing a better job at catering to queer women and non-binary individuals, aiding them in finding meaningful connections without the burden of heteronormative pressures.
According to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey, 61% of LGBTQ users report favorable experiences with online dating. Nevertheless, queer users are also more susceptible to receiving unwanted messages or falling for scams. Still, with some caution and the appropriate app, online dating can serve as an effective means to meet other queer women.
So, which dating apps are genuinely worth your time? We evaluated the most popular platforms and consulted our Dating and Relationships team to present you with the best selections.
How to Select the Right Lesbian Dating App
While specialized lesbian dating apps do exist, they aren’t your only pathway to finding love. In fact, mainstream apps such as Hinge, Bumble, OkCupid, and even eharmony are now providing inclusive features that accommodate LGBTQ users. These platforms enable you to filter matches based on gender identity and relationship preferences, including non-monogamous setups. If you reside in a smaller town or rural location, these widely-used apps might improve your chances of connecting with someone nearby.
That being said, there is one app specifically crafted for queer women that truly stands out: HER. Developed by and for LGBTQ+ women, HER has built a robust, global user community—claiming over 15 million registered users, as per its website. In addition to dating, HER also prioritizes community-building and friendships, creating a versatile environment for queer women and non-binary individuals to connect.
Whether you’re in search of love, friendship, or something along the spectrum, the right dating app can significantly impact your experience. Explore our complete guide for thorough reviews and suggestions on the top dating apps for lesbians.