Online dating can be intimidating for first timers or those who are fresh out of a relationship.
The world of internet courtship has grown over the past few years with swipe-based apps dominating the market by offering free access to millions of other single people based on location. Some apps are more suited to casual dating while others focus on providing users with like-minded people seeking more long term commitments.
With a huge range of apps to choose from we have taken a look at the best dating sites for people in Manchester looking for love in 2023.
Match.com has more than 2.5 million members in over 24 countries, making it one of the world's largest online dating services. Manchester is one of the cities Match is particularly focused on and the matchmaking service lists the Green Quarter, Northern Quarter and Canal Street as some dating hot spots for the city's singles.
Match also holds dating events in the city for members where you can meet like-minded people.
Match is split into two different sections:
Free membership: The free membership does not actually allow you to make a match but it does let you see others, send winks and see if the subscription would work for you.
Paid subscription: Allows members to see who has viewed or favourited your profile. Connect with other members via instant messenger, keep track of your connections, attend Match.com live stir events.
From £12.99 (per month)
eharmony has five million UK members, 60 million worldwide and suggests All Star Lanes, ping pong at Twenty Twenty Two and afternoon tea at Cocoa Cabana as dating ideas in the city.
The site is aimed at those looking for long term relationships and says dating in Manchester can be difficult if you are not a student given the large population in the city - but insists there are plenty of options for those looking for love. Like Match.com, eHarmony has free and paid options and a comprehensive 'Compatibility Quiz is designed to help you to find your best match more efficiently.
Free membership allows you to test the waters before you spend your money, including creating a profile, viewing other members' profiles, and view matches.
A paid subscription allows members to see who has viewed your profile and connect with other members.
Unlike other online dating sites, eharmony doesn’t have a traditional search or swipe feature. eharmony does all the hard work for you and delivers curated matches on a regular basis and highlights profiles that are compatible with you.
From £14.95 (per month)
OKCupid has 2.5 million UK members and over 50 million users worldwide. It is one of the most inclusive dating apps with members ranging between 25 to 40 years and it is one of the cheaper sites available.
You will find a balance of people looking for a serious relationship and those just looking for some fun. So if you're unsure as to what you're after, then this dating app is the ideal option for you.
Choosing the free option allows you to create a profile, view other members' profiles, and view matches. You will then need to upgrade to a paid subscription that allows you to 'like' and see who has ‘liked’ you and connect with other members.
Features: Notifications that tell you who has read your messages. 'Double take' function. Advanced features on your search filters. Auto-Boost to promote your profile. Message Priority function
Price from £7.95 (per month)
Dating Direct is also owned by the Match Group and has 5 million UK members, 21 million worldwide.
It is popular with young professionals, with work and education background being one of the major matching criteria.
It is widely used by people aged between 25 to 40, but is growing in popularity with older age groups. With the 50+ age range, currently being the fastest growing demographic.
Free membership allows you to test the waters before you spend your money, including creating a profile, viewing other members' profiles. Paid subscription allows members to see who has viewed your profile and connect with other members. It also boasts an instant messaging service and a daily email service which offers you six potential matches to scroll through.
Features: Location tracker to help you find singles in your area. Send unlimited instant messages. View entire members’ profiles. Special member pricing for their events.
