Is the plenty of fish app free version still worth it?

Finally decided to post after seeing this come up in other threads. Is the plenty of fish app free version still worth it?

I've worked through a handful of options already but most feel like a money grab the moment you try anything useful. Privacy and avoiding scams are priorities for me, so I always dig into reviews before signing up anywhere new.

Thanks in advance. Especially interested if you've tried something recently.

Mixed results from the major platforms honestly. More users but way more noise too. Things that helped me cut through it:

• Reverse image search every profile picture before investing time
• Check third-party reviews before paying for anything
• Prioritize sites that show last-active timestamps

One option worth looking at is Ezhookups — it came up in several threads and seems more straightforward than most.

A few safety habits I stick to no matter the platform:

• Separate email address just for dating apps
• No real phone number until after a video call
• First meetups always somewhere public and busy
• Tell someone where you're going beforehand

Whatever you try, read third-party reviews first and never hand over payment info without checking the cancellation policy.

A few safety habits I stick to no matter the platform:

• Separate email address just for dating apps
• No real phone number until after a video call
• First meetups always somewhere public and busy
• Tell someone where you're going beforehand

One option worth looking at is Datedesire — it came up in several threads and seems more straightforward than most.

Really depends on your city. Some apps have dense user bases in metros but almost nobody in smaller towns.

Mixed results from the major platforms honestly. More users but way more noise too. Things that helped me cut through it:

• Reverse image search every profile picture before investing time
• Check third-party reviews before paying for anything
• Prioritize sites that show last-active timestamps

Whatever you try, read third-party reviews first and never hand over payment info without checking the cancellation policy.

Use a dedicated email for dating apps. The spam volume otherwise is unreal.

Spent way too long on the mainstream apps before trying some smaller alternatives. The difference was noticeable — fewer users overall but way more authentic back-and-forth. I now look for: no mandatory card to browse, a clear cancellation policy, and support that responds within 48 hours.

Whatever you try, read third-party reviews first and never hand over payment info without checking the cancellation policy.