Best hookup apps UK (2025)

We have tested over 20 different hookup sites and apps. Together with british users, we’ve carefully evaluated and ranked the best hookup and dating platforms available in the UK. Check out our top recommendations to find the ideal site or app for your dating needs.
Best hookup apps

C-date is the best hookup app in 2025 according to experiences from UK consumers. There are also many other hookup sites and services that cater to different needs in the market, each offering unique features and functions. We have tested over 20 different sites and apps to find the top players, making it easier for you to find your favorite hookup app.

#Hookup apps UK
1.C-Date – Best hookup app
2.AdultFriendFinder – A good alternative
3.OkCupid – The best hookup app for diversity

How We Test Hookup Apps

Our review process is comprehensive yet focused, ensuring we cover the essential aspects that matter most to users:

  1. Signup & Profile Setup: We evaluate the ease of registration, profile customization options, and whether users can maintain privacy during setup.
  2. User Interface & Usability: We assess each app’s design, navigation, loading speed, and mobile compatibility, as well as how easy it is to find and interact with other users.
  3. Matching & Communication Tools: We test the app’s match algorithms, messaging options, and interactive features (like swiping and video chat) to determine how well they facilitate connections.
  4. Privacy & Security: Privacy is crucial, so we examine data protection measures, profile verification, anti-spam tools, and any security features like two-factor authentication or panic buttons.
  5. User Base Quality: We consider the app’s active user base, inclusivity, and gender balance to ensure it offers a diverse and engaged community.
  6. Cost & Value: We review the pricing of subscriptions, the value of free vs. premium features, and any refund policies or trial options.
  7. Reputation & Support: Finally, we look at user feedback, customer support responsiveness, and the app’s overall reputation to ensure it’s reliable and user-friendly.

This method allows us to provide balanced, trustworthy reviews so you can choose the best app for your needs.

1

C-Date – Best hookup app 2025

C-Date is the best hookup app UK

C-Date

C-date is an online dating platform focused on casual encounters, catering to those looking for discreet, …

C-date focuses on connecting adults seeking discreet, no-strings-attached relationships. Known for its simplicity, the platform is highly accessible and gender-balanced, with free features for women that encourage a healthy community balance. It’s perfect for those looking to explore casual dating privately.

Pros
  • High activity levels and a diverse user base.
  • Free access for women, which maintains gender balance.
  • Simple sign-up and user-friendly design.
Cons
  • Premium costs for men can be high.
  • Occasionally complex cancellation process.

Key Features

  • Contact Proposals: Algorithm-based match suggestions tailored to user preferences.
  • Private Photos: Allows users to keep photos private until approved by others.
  • My Erotic Type: Users select “erotic types” like “Romantic” or “Wild” to get more personalized matches.

C-date Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseCasual seekers and singles/couples
Pricing£9.90/month (1 month), £13.30/month (3 months), £4.98/month (6 months)
Privacy OptionsPrivate photos, selective visibility
Overall Rating★★★★☆
2

AdultFriendFinder

AdultFriendFinder – The largest hookup app

AdultFriendFinder

In the world of online dating, AdultFriendFinder (AFF) has carved out a niche as the go-to platform for open-minded …

AdultFriendFinder (AFF) has become synonymous with casual, open-minded dating. The platform offers a large, diverse user base and interactive tools such as live webcams, erotic blogs, and group discussions. AFF is ideal for those looking for adventurous connections, whether single or in a relationship.

Pros
  • Large user base with diverse orientations and preferences.
  • Community-focused with numerous interactive features.
  • Suitable for casual and adventurous connections.
Cons
  • Premium features are costly.
  • Some inactive profiles may be present.

Key Features

  • Live Webcams: View real-time broadcasts from other users.
  • Community Features: Interactive forums, blogs, and a “Sex Academy” for educational content.
  • Inclusive Options: Supports all sexual orientations, creating a welcoming space.

AdultFriendFinder Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseOpen-minded adults
Pricing£25.17/month (1 month), £16.25/month (3 months), £12.12/month (12 months)
Privacy OptionsProfile verification, safe browsing features
Overall Rating★★★★☆
3

OkCupid

OkCupid – The best hookup app for diversity

OkCupid

In today’s crowded dating app landscape, OkCupid stands out as one of the most inclusive and customizable platforms, …

Known for its compatibility-based approach, OkCupid is ideal for those who value meaningful connections. It features extensive questionnaires on lifestyle, values, and preferences, which help the algorithm create “Match %” scores. The platform is also inclusive, supporting diverse gender identities and orientations.

Pros
  • Comprehensive free version with messaging capabilities.
  • Inclusive platform with diverse gender and orientation options.
  • Unique compatibility algorithm.
Cons
  • Higher incidence of inactive profiles.
  • Premium features can be expensive.

Key Features

  • Compatibility Matching: Matches are based on responses to detailed questions.
  • Free Messaging: Users can message each other for free if they’ve both liked each other’s profiles.
  • Inclusivity: Offers 22 gender identities and 12 orientations.

OkCupid Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseSingles looking for casual or long-term connections
PricingBasic (£7.95/month), Premium (£15.90/month)
Privacy OptionsIncognito browsing for premium users
Overall Rating★★★★☆
4

BeNaughty

BeNaughty – Great app for casual dating

BeNaughty

In this fast-paced world, not everyone is looking for a long-term relationship. Many people seek casual connections, …

BeNaughty attracts adults interested in casual, flirtatious encounters. With advanced filters, Safe Mode, and private messaging options, BeNaughty is simple to use and designed for those looking for quick and easy connections. It offers various interaction tools, including video chats and winks.

Pros
  • User-friendly interface and intuitive design.
  • Advanced filters for efficient matching.
  • Private photo and video sharing options.
Cons
  • Limited features for free users.
  • Occasional presence of fake profiles.

Key Features

  • Advanced Search Filters: Filter matches by age, location, appearance, and more.
  • Safe Mode: Users control who can contact them based on profile verification.
  • Video Chat: Personalize interactions by video chatting with other users.

BeNaughty Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseCasual daters
Pricing£17.99/month (1 month), £11.99/month (3 months), £8.99/month (6 months)
Privacy OptionsSafe Mode, profile verification
Overall Rating★★★★☆
5

Grindr

Grindr – Best hookup app for gay men

Grindr

When it comes to LGBTQ+ social and hookup apps, Grindr is the go-to choice for millions worldwide. Known for its …

Grindr is the leading app for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking quick connections. It uses location-based technology to help users find nearby matches. With customizable profile options and a simple interface, Grindr is a top choice for those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Pros
  • Fast and efficient for location-based connections.
  • Inclusive of diverse LGBTQ+ identities.
  • Premium incognito options for privacy.
Cons
  • Limited features on the free version.
  • Some users report issues with spam.

Key Features

  • Location-Based Matching: Users can view profiles in a grid view, sorted by proximity.
  • Tribes: Users can categorize themselves under “tribes” to better express identity.
  • Incognito Mode: Premium users can browse profiles without revealing their view.

Grindr Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseLGBTQ+ individuals
Pricing£11.99/month (XTRA), £24.99/month (Unlimited)
Privacy OptionsIncognito mode, distance hiding
Overall Rating★★★★☆
6

Ashley Madison

Ashley Madison – Hookup app for discreet encounters

Ashley Madison

Looking for an honest review of Ashley Madison, the popular hookup app designed for discreet relationships and …

Ashley Madison is a discreet platform mainly used by people seeking extramarital connections or casual encounters. Known for its focus on privacy, the platform features anonymous profiles, discreet billing, and a panic button to ensure user confidentiality.

Pros
  • Excellent privacy features with anonymous profiles.
  • Free for women seeking men, balancing gender ratio.
  • Flexible payment model.
Cons
  • No matchmaking, requiring manual searches.
  • Occasional fake profiles reported.

Key Features

  • Anonymous Profiles: Users can keep photos private until they approve visibility.
  • Credit-Based System: Pay-as-you-go model for occasional users.
  • Panic Button: Quickly redirects users to a neutral page for discretion.

Ashley Madison Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseDiscreet seekers and those in relationships
PricingCredits system (e.g., £49.90 for 100 credits)
Privacy OptionsAnonymous profiles, panic button
Overall Rating★★★★☆
7

Tinder

Tinder – The world’s largest free hookup and dating app

Tinder

When it comes to hookup apps, Tinder is a name that needs no introduction. As one of the most widely-used dating apps …

Tinder is a versatile app suitable for casual hookups or serious dating. Known for its signature swipe feature, it allows users to quickly browse profiles. Tinder is accessible for free, but premium features such as Boost and Super Likes can enhance visibility.

Pros
  • Large user base and high activity levels.
  • Versatile for both hookups and long-term dating.
  • Free version offers plenty of functionality.
Cons
  • Limited filters on the free version.
  • High competition due to large user pool.

Key Features

  • Swipe Matching: Users swipe right to like or left to pass on profiles.
  • Tinder Boost: Increases profile visibility in local matches for 30 minutes.
  • Super Likes: Helps users stand out to potential matches.

Tinder Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseGeneral population
PricingFree, Tinder Plus/Premium options available
Privacy OptionsIncognito mode for premium
Overall Rating★★★★☆
8

Her

Her – Best hookup app for lesbian women

Her

In the vast world of dating apps, HER stands out as a beacon of inclusivity and community for LGBTQ+ women. Unlike …

HER is the top app for LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals. It’s known for fostering a supportive community that includes dating as well as social features, making it ideal for users seeking both friendships and romantic relationships within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

Pros
  • Highly inclusive and supportive community.
  • Community-focused with various social features.
  • Safe space for LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals.
Cons
  • Limited features on free version.
  • Smaller user base than mainstream dating apps.

Key Features

  • Social and Community Events: Provides articles, events, and social features.
  • Group Chats: Offers a space for users to connect based on interests.
  • Incognito Mode: Browse profiles privately in premium.

HER Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseLGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals
PricingFree with optional premium features
Privacy OptionsIncognito mode in premium
Overall Rating★★★★☆
9

Bumble

Bumble

Bumble

Bumble isn’t your typical dating app. Launched in 2014, it’s made a name for itself with its distinctive twist: women …

Bumble takes a unique approach, empowering women by allowing them to make the first move in heterosexual matches. This approach has created a more respectful environment and is versatile enough to support hookups, friendships, and even professional networking.

Pros
  • Women-first approach encourages respectful interactions.
  • Versatile platform with options beyond dating.
  • Friendly and easy-to-use interface.
Cons
  • 24-hour limit can feel restrictive.
  • Requires premium features for maximum functionality.

Key Features

  • Women-First Messaging: Women initiate conversations in heterosexual matches.
  • Bumble BFF and Bumble Biz: Options for finding friendships or networking.
  • 24-Hour Expiration: Matches expire in 24 hours if no message is sent.

Bumble Summary Table

FeatureDetails
User BaseGeneral population
PricingFree, with Bumble Boost and Premium options available
Privacy OptionsIncognito mode for premium
Overall Rating★★★★☆

Questions and answers (FAQ)

What is the best overall hookup app?

The best overall hookup app is C-date. Known for its focus on casual, no-strings-attached encounters, C-date offers a streamlined and private experience ideal for singles and those in relationships looking to explore casual connections. With features like personalized match suggestions and private photo options, C-date stands out as the top choice for easy, discreet dating in the UK.

Are hookup apps worth it?

Yes, hookup apps are worth it if you’re seeking casual dating or want to meet like-minded people quickly and conveniently. They offer a modern approach to dating, allowing you to connect with others based on shared interests or preferences. With the variety of options available, from apps focused on privacy to those with diverse, inclusive communities, hookup apps can cater to different dating needs, making them a valuable tool for exploring casual relationships.

What should I include in my dating profile?

For a standout dating profile, include clear photos, a brief but engaging bio that highlights your interests and personality, and specific details about what you’re looking for (e.g., casual dating or new friendships). Avoid generic statements, and be authentic—mentioning hobbies, passions, or even a fun fact can make you more approachable. Profiles with detailed information attract more genuine matches and improve your overall experience on hookup apps.

What are the best hookup apps for the LGBTQ+ community?

The best hookup apps for the LGBTQ+ community include Grindr, HER, and OkCupid. Grindr is ideal for quick, location-based connections and is tailored for gay, bi, and queer individuals. HER is a safe, inclusive platform specifically for LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary users, focusing on community and social events. OkCupid is known for its inclusive gender and orientation options, along with a compatibility-based matching system that’s great for both casual and meaningful connections in the LGBTQ+ community.

Is Badoo a hookup app?

Yes, Badoo is often considered a dating and hookup app, though it markets itself as a social networking platform for meeting new people. Badoo offers a range of features that appeal to those interested in casual dating, hookups, or even long-term relationships. The app allows users to connect based on location, swipe on profiles, and chat with matches, which are common features in hookup-focused platforms. However, unlike some apps that are specifically geared towards hookups, Badoo has a broader user base and can attract people looking for various types of connections, and that’s the reason why we haven’t ranked the app in our list.

Best hookup apps UK
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