Our verdict
Facebook Dating is a free dating profile inside the Facebook app. It has no subscriptions at all, which makes it the simplest way to try online dating — if you are comfortable using your Facebook account.
Bottom line: Use Facebook Dating if you want to try dating without paying anything. For more features and a clearer dating intent, Hinge or Bumble are stronger.
Great for: Trying online dating without paying anything
Not ideal for: People without Facebook or anyone who wants dating kept completely separate from social media.
Dating inside the Facebook app
Facebook Dating is not a separate app you download. It is a section inside the Facebook app where you create a separate dating profile — different photos, a short bio, prompts — that your friends do not see. You need to be 18 or over and have an active Facebook account.
Its defining feature is price: there are no paid plans. No subscriptions, no boosts, no likes you have to buy. Everything the service offers is free, which makes it the lowest-risk way to try online dating.
The most distinctive tool is Secret Crush. You can add Facebook friends or Instagram followers you are quietly interested in; they are only told if they add you too. For people who would rather not confess to a friend unless it is mutual, that is a neat solution.
Who it suits: people who already use Facebook, want to try dating without paying, or like the idea of a slower, profile-based experience.
What to keep in mind: activity varies a lot by area and age group, and the feature set is thinner than dedicated apps. Some people are uncomfortable linking dating to their Facebook account, even with a separate profile.
Our tip: use different photos from your main Facebook profile. It keeps the two worlds separate and makes reverse-searching you less straightforward.
Facebook Dating at a glance
| Audience | 18+, broad ages; uses your Facebook account |
|---|---|
| Typical goal | Dating and relationships |
| Free version | Yes — Separate dating profile, Likes and messaging, Secret Crush with Facebook friends, Everything is free |
| Paid from | No paid plans (is it really free?) |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Completely free
- Huge potential audience
- Profiles separate from your main Facebook
- Secret Crush
Cons
- Requires a Facebook account
- Fewer features than dedicated apps
- Mixed activity by area
- Privacy concerns for some
Key features
- Built into Facebook
- A separate dating profile inside the Facebook app — your friends do not see it.
- Secret Crush
- Add Facebook friends or Instagram followers you like; you only match if they add you too.
- No subscriptions
- All features are free, with no upgrades or paywalls.
How much does Facebook Dating cost?
| Plan | Indicative price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Separate dating profile, Likes and messaging, Secret Crush with Facebook friends, Everything is free |
Prices are indicative, in US dollars unless another currency is shown, and were checked September 23, 2026. Apps often charge different amounts by country, age, platform and plan length — confirm the final price in the app before paying.
Want the full breakdown and ways to save? Read our Facebook Dating pricing guide and free trial options.
Is Facebook Dating safe?
Your dating profile is separate from your main profile, but check what you share. Video-call before meeting and report anyone who asks for money.
Before meeting anyone, follow our verification checklist.
Not sure Facebook Dating is right for you?
These alternatives may suit you better depending on your goals. See all Facebook Dating alternatives.
Best for: Finding a relationship in your 20s and 30s
- Detailed, conversation-friendly profiles
- Strong focus on real relationships
- Free version is usable
- Free version
- Yes
- Paid from
- ≈ $30/mo
Best for: Women who want more control
- Less unwanted messaging for women
- Relationship-minded user base
- Strong verification and safety features
- Free version
- Yes
- Paid from
- ≈ $15/mo
Best for: Meeting lots of people fast
- Huge, active user base almost everywhere
- Free version lets you match and chat
- Very fast and easy to use
- Free version
- Yes
- Paid from
- ≈ $10/mo
Compare Facebook Dating
Facebook Dating FAQ
Is Facebook Dating really free?
Yes. There are no subscriptions or paid features.
Can my Facebook friends see my dating profile?
No. Your Dating profile is separate; friends only match with you through Secret Crush if you both add each other.
Why can’t I make a new Facebook Dating profile?
After deleting a Dating profile you have to wait 7 days before creating a new one.