Online Dating FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Online Dating

    How long should I talk to someone before meeting in person?

    Meeting every potential match right away would be unwise and inefficient, but waiting too long can also be a waste of time. Once mutual interest has been established and you and your match both feel comfortable, it's a good idea to plan a date in a public, well-lit location, so that you can determine whether there is a spark. To email back and forth for weeks or months before meeting, only to find that there's no spark, can be frustrating and disappointing. If you are looking for a date or a relationship, you want to avoid inadvertently devoting too much time communicating with a match who isn't looking for anything more than an online flirtation. It depends on the frequency of your emails, but for most people, it makes sense to wait at least a few days to a week, but not more than a few weeks or a month.

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Top Online Dating Services

Chemistry.com

Bottom line: Intuitive matching system based on complementary personality types, best for those seeking committed relationships
Match.com

Bottom line: Large and active group of users, intelligent matching system based largely on similar tastes and interests
eHarmony

Bottom line: Emphasis on guidance and deep connections, larger users base seeking committed relationships, some people are not accepted
Zoosk

Bottom line: Fun and playful; great social features; premium features somewhat available without a subscription
PerfectMatch.com

Bottom line: Designed for those seeking committed relationships, combines elements of matching and searching, personality test is less informative
FriendFinder

Bottom line: Customizable experience, overwhelming & frustrating interface, best for people with flexible relationship goals and a lot of time on their hands
Lavalife

Bottom line: Emphasis on flirting and chatting, good for casual dating, slightly more explicit content, interface cluttered with ads
Date.com

Bottom line: Very basic service with instant messaging and chat rooms, best for casual dating
SpeedDate

Bottom line: Constant stream of speed dates, matchmaking "system" yields poor results, nonstop harassment to subscribe

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