1
Best for: Matching on values and answers, not just photos
- Match percentage based on real answers
- Free messaging with matches
- Very inclusive for LGBTQ+ and non-binary daters
- Free version
- Yes
- Paid from
- ≈ $10/mo
Plenty of Fish · Alternatives
Best Plenty of Fish Alternatives in 2026
Plenty of Fish isn’t for everyone. Here are the best dating sites to try instead, depending on what you want.
Why people leave Plenty of Fish
POF's free model keeps it busy, but it also causes the most common complaints:
- Fake and inactive profiles, more than on paid sites.
- Mixed intentions, which makes finding a relationship slower.
- Ads and a design that feels dated next to modern apps.
- Unwanted messages, because anyone can write to anyone.
Better fits, depending on what you want
- Also free, but values-based: OkCupid — same company, but you match on answers to questions and see a match percentage.
- Relationships with free messaging: Hinge, where prompts and stated intentions attract people who want something real.
- Fewer unwanted messages: Bumble, where women start conversations in man–woman matches.
- Serious and mature, willing to pay: Match or eHarmony, both with detailed profiles and stronger moderation.
- Completely free, no upgrades: Facebook Dating has no paid plans at all.
Many Canadians and Brits keep a POF profile running alongside one relationship-focused app: POF for reach and free messaging, Hinge or Match for a more committed crowd. If you do leave, cancel renewal first — deletion is permanent and does not stop billing.
A final practical point: POF's free messaging is rare, so do not give it up lightly. If your problem is the volume of low-effort messages rather than the site itself, tightening your search filters and writing a clearer profile often fixes more than switching would.
Comparison table
| Site | Rating | Best for | Free version | Paid from | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OkCupid | Matching on values and answers, not just photos | Yes | ≈ $10/mo | Visit | |
| Hinge | Finding a relationship in your 20s and 30s | Yes | ≈ $30/mo | Visit | |
| Match | Serious daters who like to search | Limited | ≈ $25/mo | Visit | |
| Tinder | Meeting lots of people fast | Yes | ≈ $10/mo | Visit | |
| Bumble | Women who want more control | Yes | ≈ $15/mo | Visit | |
| Badoo | Meeting people nearby, internationally | Yes | ≈ $5/week | Visit |
The best alternatives
2
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
3
Best for: Serious daters who like to search
- Large, relationship-minded community
- Powerful search filters
- Web and app versions
- Free version
- Limited
- Paid from
- ≈ $25/mo
4
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
5
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
6
Best for: Meeting people nearby, internationally
- Large international audience
- Free version is generous
- Web version available
- Free version
- Yes
- Paid from
- ≈ $5/week
Frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to Plenty of Fish?
OkCupid is our top Plenty of Fish alternative for most people. The best choice depends on your goals.
Is there a free alternative to Plenty of Fish?
Yes — see our best free dating sites and apps.