Dating apps: OkCupid vs. Match
Quick Verdict
Match appears to be more geared towards serious relationships with a higher price point, while OkCupid offers a more accessible experience with a larger user base but potentially less accurate matching.
- Match has a potentially more sophisticated matching algorithm and a higher reported success rate in forming relationships.
- OkCupid offers more affordable options with a free membership, but messaging is restricted.
- Match provides more communication features, but most require a paid subscription.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | OkCupid | Match |
|---|---|---|
| Matching Algorithm Accuracy | Uses multiple-choice questions, calculates match percentage. Some claim it isn't very accurate. | Uses data mining, machine learning, and psychological modeling. Refines accuracy over time. |
| User Interface and Experience | Generally easy-to-use and straightforward, but some users find it dull. | Easy-to-use website and mobile app, designed with detailed profiles. |
| Profile Customization Options | Allows users to create interesting and unique profiles with multiple photos and open-ended questions. | Profiles should express who you are and what you're looking for in a partner. Editable profiles with multiple photos. |
| Communication Features | Private messages, but only to people you've Liked. | Messaging (paid subscriptions generally required), Chat/Instant Messaging, Video Chat (Vibe Check), Email, Winks, matchPhone. |
| Success Rate in Forming Relationships | Around 30% for users finding long-term relationships. | Facilitated 517,000 relationships and 92,000 marriages. 46.7% of Match's success stories are marriages. |
| Pricing | One month: $39.99, Three months: $79.98, Six months: $119.94. | $18.99 to $46 per month. |
| Number of Active Users | Over 50 million registered users worldwide. Around 10 million monthly active users. | Approximately 5.8 million active users worldwide, 3.4 million paying subscribers, over 75 million users. |
| Customer Support Quality | Some users have reported negative experiences with customer service. | Offers free one-on-one phone calls with dating experts. |
Overall Comparison
Algorithm: Match wins; Success Rate: Match wins; Pricing: OkCupid wins; Communication: Match wins
Pros and Cons
OkCupid
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Intuitive app design
- Detailed profile customization options
- Availability of free and premium membership options
- Large user base
- Strong safety and privacy features
- Effective search filters
- Mobile app availability
- Caters to a wide range of users, including LGBTQ+ communities
Cons:
- Matching algorithm accuracy is questionable
- Interface can be dull for some users
- Restricted messaging (only to people you've Liked)
- Customer service quality issues reported by some users
Match
Pros:
- Easy-to-use website and mobile app
- Detailed profiles
- Multiple communication tools
- Advanced search filters
- Offers safety and dating tips
- Free phone calls with dating experts
Cons:
- Messaging generally requires paid subscription
- Cost can range from $19 to $46 per month
User Experiences and Feedback
OkCupid
What Users Love
- Easy to navigate
- Clear app design
- Detailed profile options
- Free membership available
Common Complaints
- Matching algorithm not very accurate
- Interface can be dull
- Negative experiences with customer service
Value Perception
- Success rate of around 30% for finding long-term relationships
Match
What Users Love
- Algorithm blends stated preferences with observed behaviors to improve accuracy.
- Offers an easy-to-use website and mobile app.
- Profiles can be comprehensive, expressing who you are and what you seek in a partner.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.