1. Why Do Teens Use Dating Apps Today?

Today’s teens often turn to dating apps not only to find romance but also to create spaces where they genuinely feel connected, moving beyond the performance-driven spotlight of platforms like Instagram or TikTok. Studies indicate that loneliness isn’t solely an adult problem; in many regions, more than 56% of Gen Z singles report that they are “giving up on dating” (at least temporarily). Many attribute this to feelings of exhaustion, emotional burnout, or disillusionment with dating culture. This suggests a significant shift in how young people define relationships, as they increasingly prioritise emotional safety and independence over romantic ideals. (Source: Single Gen Z romantics giving up on dating as ‘loneliness epidemic’ spirals: poll)

The top reasons for quitting dating include:

– Fear of rejection
-Pressure to perform or impress
– Mental health concerns (such as anxiety around communication or intimacy)
– A preference for personal growth over romance

Despite being online constantly, many teens find that apps like Yubo, Hoop, and BeFriend serve as more than casual swiping tools. They become gateways to curated social circles, shared interests, and a sense of emotional belonging. For teens navigating their identities, peer pressure, and the complexities of adolescence, these apps focus less on dating and more on discovering who they are, together.

2. Are Teen Dating Apps Safe to Use?

Safety on teen dating apps is not just about app design; it’s a shared responsibility involving platforms, teens, and caregivers. A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health (Source: The Prevalence of Unwanted Online Sexual Exposure and Solicitation Among Youth: A Meta-Analysis) found that approximately 1 in 5 youths encounter unwanted online exposure to sexually explicit material, and 1 in 9 receive online sexual solicitations. These experiences are shared on social media platforms and video games, with one in nine young people receiving unsolicited sexual requests from peers or adults. (Source: Understanding the Dangers of Social Media and Video Games)

Led by child psychologist Sheri Madigan, the study analysed data from 40 previous studies. It highlighted that although online sexual exposure among minors remains a concern, incidents have declined slightly, by about 1% annually between 2005 and 2015. This decline is likely attributed to increased awareness, parental controls, and school-based Internet safety education. However, only 40% of parents regularly discuss online safety with their children, and supervision remains low.

The authors emphasise the need for enhanced prevention strategies, including youth-targeted education on digital safety, healthy relationships, and the behaviours of online predators. These concerning statistics suggest that risks stem from both platform vulnerabilities and gaps in digital literacy. (Source: Here’s How Many Young People Are Seeing Unwanted Sexual Content Online)

The good news is, some apps are actively working to enhance protection for young users. For instance, Yubo became the first central social discovery platform to implement 100% age verification using facial age estimation in partnership with Yoti by the end of 2022. They reported that 79% of users feel safer compared to other platforms. However, no system is entirely foolproof—age-verification blockers and predators still find ways to exploit the system. (Source: How Yubo Pioneered 100% Age Verification to Set a New Standard for Trust & Safety on Social Media)

Therefore, the most effective safety strategy combines robust app features (such as verified age and content moderation) with digital literacy training for both users and guardians. Reinforcing explicit privacy norms, teaching teens to block and report harmful behaviour, and encouraging open conversations are equally critical. Safety isn’t just a feature; it’s a mindset.

3. Our Criteria — How We Chose These 7 Apps

With hundreds of social and dating apps claiming to help teens connect, choosing which ones to recommend involves more than just looking at download numbers or catchy branding. We developed a clear, experience-driven framework based on what Gen Z truly needs: safety, authenticity, and usability.

First, we focused on apps specifically designed for teens or those that actively moderate underage users, filtering out platforms with vague age policies or lax enforcement. We also took into account reviews from the App Store and Google Play, prioritising apps with consistently positive ratings and real-world feedback. However, numbers alone aren’t enough.

We understand the risks of today’s digital landscape, which is filled with fake profiles and bots; hence, we evaluated whether each platform fosters genuine human interaction and whether its features facilitate meaningful social discovery rather than merely superficial swiping. User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) were also significant factors; apps with intuitive and user-friendly designs are more likely to keep younger users engaged while minimising confusion.

Finally, and most importantly, we reviewed the privacy and safety tools available, including verified age checks, in-app reporting, and moderation systems. According to a report from TIME, 1 in 4 teens have received unsolicited sexually explicit content online, often through social platforms and messaging apps. This underscores the urgent need for platforms that respect their users’ boundaries (TIME, 2018).

Every app on our list has passed this multi-dimensional evaluation and offers something unique for teens looking to connect, explore, or simply find a sense of belonging.

4. The 7 Best Teen Dating Apps in 2025

1. Yubo

Often referred to as the “Snapchat of Gen Z,” Yubo is more than just a dating app; it is a live social discovery platform where teens can stream, chat, and connect with others from around the globe. Its standout feature is real-time group livestreaming, which creates a casual, unfiltered environment. In 2022, Yubo became the first central platform to implement 100% age verification using facial recognition, demonstrating a serious commitment to user safety (Yubo Blog). For teens looking to make friends and flirt without the pressure of curated profiles, Yubo offers an engaging, Gen Z-friendly alternative to traditional swiping.

2. Hoop

Hoop gained popularity as a way to connect with Snapchat users through a swipe-style interface, making it particularly appealing to teens who already spend a significant amount of their social time on Snapchat. Instead of chatting directly within the app, users exchange Snapchat usernames, allowing for a quick and low-pressure way to connect. Although Hoop doesn’t offer in-app messaging, it caters to Gen Z’s preference for fast, image-driven interactions, giving users more control over how and when they engage. While it’s dating-adjacent, it feels more like social exploration.

3. Spotafriend

Designed exclusively for teenagers aged 13 to 19, Spotafriend removes any ambiguity regarding age restrictions. It is structured like a dating app but focuses more on making friends and casual chatting. Users swipe to match, but to engage in conversation rather than just date. The app features strict profile moderation and limited visibility settings to prioritise user safety. Spotafriend is ideal for younger teens who are just beginning to navigate online social platforms and want a gentle, non-intimidating entry point.

4. BeFriend

Unlike many other apps on this list, BeFriend was created with the belief that friendship should come before flirting. With an emphasis on shared interests, incognito mode, and identity-affirming experiences, BeFriend is where teens go when they are tired of the swipe-and-ghost cycle. The app’s “interest tags” help match users based on passions rather than profile pictures, and its community-first model makes it a favourite among introverts, neurodivergent users, and those exploring their gender and identity. It prioritises safety and intentional connections.

BeFriend is currently available in select regions. Learn more at befriend.cc.

5. LMK

Short for “Let Me Know,” LMK enables users to ask questions, post polls, and connect with new people through topic-based stickers integrated with Snapchat. It focuses less on romance and more on social discovery driven by curiosity. Teen users enjoy LMK’s game-like structure, and its anonymous question feature encourages candid interactions. While it isn’t strictly a dating app, LMK often serves as a starting point for lighthearted connections, making it an excellent entry point for teens who are unsure about the formalities of dating.

6. Coffee Meets Bagel

Initially designed for working professionals, Coffee Meets Bagel has gained popularity among older teens and college-aged Gen Z users seeking slower, more meaningful connections. Unlike swipe-heavy apps, it limits the number of matches per day and encourages users to engage more thoughtfully. For teens feeling burnt out by performative culture or superficial conversations, CMB offers a more mature and values-aligned space to explore dating with intention.

7. MeetMe

As one of the most downloaded social discovery apps in the U.S., MeetMe combines live streaming with dating and friendship tools in a chatroom-style environment. Its large user base offers more geographical and social diversity, but it also necessitates caution for teens. MeetMe includes moderation features and identity reporting, making it more suitable for older, digitally literate teens who are comfortable navigating open-ended social spaces.

5. How to Stay Safe on Teen Dating Apps

Safety in online spaces is more about power than paranoia. It’s essential to equip teens with the tools to protect their boundaries, express their instincts, and walk away when something feels wrong. As dating and friendship apps become part of everyday digital life, here are some essential guidelines to consider:

1. Protect your details. Never share your full name, school, address, or daily routine, even if the conversation feels casual or friendly. Privacy is not about hiding; it’s about preserving your safety.

2. Watch for subtle red flags. Be wary of any pressure to move quickly, send photos, or switch to private apps. These requests are often not harmless. If you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to block and report the person. Please be aware that there are no second chances.

3. Trust your intuition. If a conversation feels off, it probably is. You don’t owe anyone a response. Sometimes, silence is safer than politeness.

4. Talk about your experiences. If you receive a strange message or have a gut feeling about something, share it with someone you trust. According to the Cyberbullying Research Centre, over 37% of teens have faced online harassment, yet most choose to remain silent. You don’t have to be one of them.

5. Use apps that prioritise safety. Platforms like BeFriend and Yubo offer features such as AI-powered moderation, anonymous group rooms, and age verification to help teens feel more secure. However, no app is perfect, so your awareness is your most vigorous defence.

Remember: Being safe online is about recognising your value, setting your boundaries, and protecting the version of yourself that deserves to connect freely and without fear.

6. Our Final Thoughts — Choose What Feels Right

There isn’t just one “right” way for teens to connect; it’s really about discovering what feels safe, authentic, and emotionally in tune with them. Some teens may be ready to explore romantic feelings, while others are simply looking for new friends, shared humour, or someone who understands them. Both approaches are completely valid.

According to a 2024 survey by Common Sense Media, over 70% of teens prefer digital platforms that facilitate non-romantic social interactions.  Many express frustration over the pressure to date before they feel ready. This highlights the importance of apps, like BeFriend, that de-emphasise romantic expectations. These apps provide more than just features; they offer freedom—the freedom to chat without being judged, to connect without the burden of performance, and to explore one’s identity without pressure. Our final gentle reminder: When you’re seeking love, laughter, or engaging in late-night discussions about music and memes, make it a priority to choose a space that authentically reflects who you are, rather than conforming to others’ expectations.

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