The gist: Grindr is the world’s biggest social networking app for gay, bi, trans, and queer people, helping singles get it on since 2009. Because there aren’t a ton of women on it, it’s usually known as the app for gay men — and at 3.6 million daily users, you could say it’s hella popular. Though it’s kind of pegged as a hookup app, finding a lasting relationship on here isn’t impossible by any means. Just keep in mind that many users you’ll come across aren’t looking for anything serious.
What it’s good for: This is the place for gay people who can’t stand the heteronormativity of apps like Tinder or Bumble, and is especially handy for those looking for a friends with benefits situation. Grindr users have no chill. It’s gay paradise, y’all, and if you’ve been thinking that you’ve met every gay man in your area already, Grindr might be able to show you some newbies who you never knew existed. (Unless you’re in a small town, then you’ll probably see the same people recycled on your feed — but just wait until you go on vacation.)
Instead of swiping right or left to match, you’ll get a borderline infinite collage of people who are close location wise, and honestly, it’s super jumbled and scary to look at. It can be a pretty speedy process if you want it to be, and most users just looking to hook up will let you know right off that they’re not trying to make small talk. That’s not to say it’s not for relationships — one of my good friends met his current boyfriend on Grindr — but at the surface level, it’s ideal for quick, casual encounters.
Grindr does promote the importance of practicing safe sex and and has initiatives to work toward a safe, just, and inclusive world for all sexualities and gender identities. So, the app does a little more than just help you find someone hot to hook up with.
The downsides: Grindr is NSFW. Messages will be freaky AF, and you’re 100% going to receive a ton of unsolicited (or solicited, if you asked) dick pics, so messaging on Grindr while you’re on the train or in line at the store isn’t quite as casual as other dating apps might be. You’re also going to get badgered for pictures as well, so if you’re uncomfortable with that, steer clear for a while.
Grindr is hookup heavy. It’s nice that most users are honest about their intentions (AKA no feelings mixups), but people looking for a serious relationship might get discouraged. We’re not quite saying this a downside, because for those who strictly want to hook up, this is heaven. It’s just something to keep in mind.
The bottom line: If you’re a gay man, an app that’s specifically for you is your place to shine. There are obviously gay men on Tinder, Hinge, and many other dating apps, but that’s probably their backup app, and you’re likely to circle through the same batch. No one wastes time on here, and if you’re in the mood and looking for someone ASAP, Grindr won’t steer you wrong. Just don’t expect to meet your date’s parents any time soon.