Match.com spearheads the extensive Match Group and is among the top pioneers in the world of online dating websites. What makes it very appealing in the eyes of many users is the fact that it works using the most traditional method.
You just need to create your dating profile, send a message to potential matches, and from there, the site will facilitate its members together according to compatibility to help them form long-term relationships. With its long years of experience, how does Match.com perform these days? Does it stack up well with newer sites of its kind?
Sign Up Process
As mentioned earlier, the business model of Match.com is what separates it from its modern competition. Unlike other dating apps that generate revenue from premium memberships and ads, Match.com provides a subscription service.
It is probably the first thing you will encounter the moment you use the service. While some people might consider it a barrier, the subscription-based model serves as the fuel for the quality of the services of Match.com. It funds a platform committed to finding actual connections, and at the same time, ensures the membership base is something that always takes the whole process seriously.
The profile section is probably the next thing you will notice as well as the number of options available for you to fill it in. While the rest of the dating apps puts more emphasis on a photo gallery and short descriptions, Match.com has a questionnaire where you should answer questions about your interests and yourself as a whole.
It also asks about the things you are looking for in a potential partner. It may sound basic yet Match.com takes the answers quite seriously. For instance, if you don’t like the idea of dating someone who smokes or drinks, you won’t be matched with anyone who fits into this category. That’s how simple things are.
The first field of questions you need to ask will take you around five minutes to answer. It means that it isn’t too daunting. However, the extensive variety of extras that can be added to your profile will probably lure you more. It isn’t necessary but the additional time spent will definitely pay off down the road.
Membership
Matchc.com benefits a lot from its diverse and large user base. While the number of active users on the site may vary, it is within a 20-million range internationally with millions signing in every single day.
Regarding the content of these figures, Match.com claims that 25% of its members are under 30 years old, 26.5% are more than 60 years of age, and 48.6% are between 30 to 49 years old. Aside from this, the gender proportions are around 55% men and 45% women. These numbers imply that Match.com provides plenty of match opportunities for people of all ages. It doesn’t matter if you are a long-time veteran or you are just getting started in the world of relationships, Match.com ensures that you will have a healthy environment where you can form connections with people of your same age and interests. However, you have to take note that Match.com focuses on more intimate and serious connections. It means that the site might not be the most suitable option for you if you are into hook-ups and short-term or less serious dates.
Pricing
- 29.99 for 1 month
- £59.97 for 3 months at £19.99 a month
- £54.94 for 6 months at £9.99 a month
Matchmaking
Match.com gives its users two methods to match with each other. The main method is the so-called Matches tab. When you go there, you will be recommended one profile at a time, and you can choose to skip or like them. if you end up liking a particular profile, the other member will receive a notification and will be put on your list of Likes.
The second method is known as the Discover option. The function lets you search through the members of Match.com by applying various keywords and filters you can hone in and search for people who will suit the profile of your ideal match. Instead of trusting and relying on the algorithm alone, you will turn to the extensive profile options to give you a good idea of your compatibility with the other member.
Contact
If you sign up as a free user, you are only allowed to send winks to your matching profiles. Messaging options are also limited. However, when you become a premium member, Match.com gives you a range of contact options more than the simple messaging feature alone.
There is MatchPhone that lets you contact other users using the custom number designated to your profile. It is a private and anonymous service that doesn’t come with additional costs. It is also possible to block users so that they won’t be able to call you, giving you more peace of mind.
The newly implemented feature Video Date is one more way that allows users to contact each other. The option is exclusively available after exchanging a minimum of four messages. After this, however, you are free to make calls to the rest of the members you have been matched with. Of course, there is no pressure put on you to accept the video call. You can also block users if you don’t like to contact them further.
The Bottom Line
Match.com is currently one of the oldest and most comprehensive dating sites you can find online right now. Although it doesn’t specifically cater to the more casual dating or hook-up culture, it is the perfect option for people of all ages where they can meet others with a mutual interest in nurturing a long-term and intimate connection.
The features of the site also assure you that there are several available ways to help you reach out to prospective partners, while the in-depth profiles let you gather a better sense of compatibility before you start sending out that first messaging. Although the subscription fee required every month may serve as an entry barrier for other users, this investment gives you a quality experience that more than makes up for its price.
