Gay apps are a useful tool for meeting LGBTQ+ people, especially when traveling. They can help you get an insider’s view of a city’s bear scene, as well as provide up-to-date information about local bars and venues.
However, you should always take steps to protect yourself on dating apps. Read this article for helpful tips.
Grindr
Grindr, the world’s most popular gay dating app, was created to allow men to connect and meet with other men. However, the hookup culture it has spawned can be detrimental. In fact, Michael Henry argues that it is the digital equivalent of drunken bachelorettes stumbling into gay bars and disrupting one of the few spaces available to queer men. To help curb the temptation of using these apps, consider trialling an app-blocking service.
Another good option is Feeld, which allows users to find a third for couple dating and is open to all sexual and gender identities. Its premise is similar to Tinder’s but is more suited to couples. It also focuses on local connections. In addition, it includes a ‘breeding system’ and auto-translate messaging.
Hornet
Hornet is a global network for gay men that provides an array of services, from dating to news and trends. It is one of the most popular apps outside of the US and boasts over 25 million users worldwide. Signing up is a snap, and only requires a Google or Facebook account.
The app lets you browse profiles based on your location, and you can filter by sex and age. You can even create a list of your favorites and send private messages. Its creators have put security at the forefront, making it safer than Grindr and other dating apps.
While it’s hard to tell how effective these apps will be as political tools, they’re definitely inspiring people to act. Organizers of LA’s #ResistMarch laud the role Hornet and SCRUFF have played in raising awareness about key issues and driving turnout at protests.
Chappy
Chappy is a sleek, gay dating app that connects users based on their preferences. Its members can choose whether they are looking for a one-night stand or serious relationships. The app also weeds out unwanted connections by allowing users to block and report other users.
Ollie Locke, the star of the reality show Made in Chelsea, designed the app to give gay men an authentic, discrimination-free way to find dates. Locke was tired of seeing intimate photos from matches on popular dating apps and he wanted to create an alternative that was safer and more responsible.
The company has partnered with GLAAD and will donate to the organization for every conversation that happens on the app. This partnership is the first of its kind in the gay dating world.
Surge
Surge is a new kid on the block within gay dating apps and it has a fresh wholesome flavor about it. It works in a similar fashion to Tinder, but with a couple of unique functionalities. One of these is the auto-translate messaging feature and the other is a spot-jumping function that lets users appear in cities before even arriving there.
Unlike many other dating apps, which offer only a superficial look at who someone is, Daddyhunt is designed for men seeking a steamy night or an intimate relationship. Using geolocation, the app shows you guys nearby that meet your criteria. You can choose from communities such as bear, twunk, cub, daddy, jock, military, and more. You can also set a filter for the community you want to search.
Hole
HOLE is an app that doesn’t beat around the bush or mince its words – it focuses on fast gay hookups. You can post a photo (or stay anonymous, up to you), search guys nearby on your grid, and chat instantly. Chats self-destruct after 24 hours.
Another popular gay app, Grindr is a great place to meet single men in your area. It has millions of users and is super easy to use. It also offers privacy features, which makes it one of the safest apps on the market.
MenNation is one of the oldest gay dating sites, and it’s a lot like Grindr’s grandpa. It’s simple to use and has a huge user base, including plenty of older men. You can also find men of all ages on Jack’d, a gay app that allows you to browse profiles and send messages.
