If you’re a male over 40, your dating history likely predates the widespread adoption of dating apps. You probably began dating in the days when people met in bars, were set up on blind dates, or simply settled for their classmates or coworkers, married in their 20s, had a couple of children by 35, and then divorced. Perhaps you did precisely that, which is why you’re looking for dating-app guidance today.
Whether you’re a middle-aged man returning to the dating game after a long marriage break or a proud “never married, no kids” type, chances are you can remember a time when dating didn’t involve wifi, and you may be seeking for some help navigating the online dating world.
While dating apps were first popularized by college-aged millennials in the early 2010s, the platforms have become increasingly popular with older individuals in recent years. After all, the oldest members of the generation that initially adopted dating apps a decade ago are already reaching the age of 40. You may be wondering whether dating apps are best for you, a mature adult man, whether you’re an older guy who’s new to dating apps or an aging millennial (sorry) who suddenly feels too old for Tinder.
So, as a 23-year-old woman, what do I know about dating a man over 40 on an app? While I may not have much experience being you, I do have a lot of experience dating you. I’ve figured out which applications I’m most likely to find you on, and which apps you’re most likely to find me on.
But, since not everyone wants to waltz into middle life with a much younger woman — or receive dating advise from one — I asked Lee Wilson and Joshua Pompey, two professional dating coaches, for their opinions on the top dating apps for men over 40. Here are their top three recommendations, as well as a couple of extra suggestions from me.
Bumble
Bumble was considered the best selection for guys over 40 by both experts I spoke with. “Right now, Bumble is the most popular among older generations above 40,” Pompey explains. “I strongly advise you to read that.”
Bumble, for those unaware, is an early Tinder competitor that stands out from the crowd with its signature ladies-first approach. Women must initiate contact on Bumble, and they only have 24 hours to do so.
While some straight men may be put off by the prospect of waiting for a woman to make the first move, Wilson claims that most men quickly warm up to the notion because when women have to make the first move, men waste far less time and energy pursuing women who aren’t interested.
“It’s no secret that women have a lot more influence on these online dating services than males,” Pompey adds, “since the ratio of messages received by women is so tremendously high.” Men, on the other hand, can take a break with Bumble and allow interested women come to them.
Hinge
Hinge was also mentioned by Wilson and Pompey as a good choice for the over-40 crowd. Hinge, which is owned by the same parent company as Tinder, has grown in popularity in recent years as a more sophisticated alternative for app daters who take online dating a little more seriously than Tinder daters.
While Hinge, the self-proclaimed “software built to be deleted,” promotes itself as a platform for long-term partnerships, I’ve found it to be a terrific alternative for casual dating as well. Hinge, on the other hand, retains a slightly elevated, more mature air than applications like Tinder, regardless of what you’re looking for. There are less phony, spammy profiles, as well as strange talks and shady interactions in general.
Match
Match.com, one of the first dating services that predates the dating app boom, is still one of the top online dating platforms for older adults eager to take dating more seriously, according to Pompey.
“It’s fascinating with the over-40 set because, while dating apps have gained some traction, the online dating world for people — especially those in their mid-40s and higher — still leans toward traditional sites like Match.com,” Pompey adds. “I still believe Match.com is far and away the most crowded with people looking for genuine relationships for those over 40.”
Sticking to the pre-Tinder classics may still be your best chance if you’re hoping to form a meaningful connection with a like-minded individual your own age.