The Best Gay Dating Apps for LGBTQIA+ to Download ASAP

For anyone who identifies as gay, trans or non-binary, The world of dating can be even harder if you don't know where to meet people you'd truly vibe with. But with gay dating apps and sites for the LGBTQIA+ community, that can all change.

Regardless of where you fall under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, there is a gay dating app that is perfect for what you're looking for—maybe a casual hookup, a summer fling or even the love of your life. And we've narrowed down the best of the best gay dating apps for you to try out.

See our editor-recommended faves below.

In this article:

• 1. Grindr
• 2. Scruff
• 3. Feeld
• 4. Tinder
• 5. Growlr

1. Grindr

Perhaps one of the most popular LGBT dating apps is Grindr—and it's one you'll notice that most folks in the LGBTQIA+ community know about.

Designed for gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals, it's quickly grown in popularity since its launch in 2009. Once downloaded, the dating app offers location-based features that will show you nearby people to connect with. If you see a hottie that catches your eye, you can check out their profile, message them and plan to meet IRL. But remember, safety first! Meet folks for the first time in a safe, public place. If you're a part of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, consider using Grindr to find the hookup, date or long-lasting love you're looking for.

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2. Scruff

One of the most popular gay dating apps out there is Scruff. As the name might imply, It's a gay dating app made for men seeking men. But it's inclusive to the spectrum of gay, bisexual, transgender and queer folks, too.

Since Scruff's launch in 2010, it's been helping users find connections, friendships and love. With over 20M+ Scruff members, you can search and filter through to find exactly who you're looking for or are into. And you're not limited to just your neighborhood either. Scruff gives you the option to look for love worldwide, too. So if you've got a vacation to Italy planned, set a dinner date before you even arrive.

Whether you're looking for a casual encounter, meaningful connections, friends with benefits or new friendships within the LGBTQ+ community, it could be a welcoming space for you to try out.

3. Feeld

Perhaps one of the most progressive and inclusive LGBTQIA+ dating apps out there is Feeld. Meant for folks of all gender expressions, sexualities and relationship styles (think: ethical non-monogamy, polyamory and more), Feeld offers something for everyone.

In comparison to other dating apps, what's most unique and interesting about Feeld is how specific you can be about what you're looking for in your profile. With the use of the 'desires' function, you can tag anything want to try or seek and folks can match with you based on that. You can also include your partner's profile on yours if you're ethically non-monogamous or looking for a third. But the best part for LGBTQIA+ folks? There are so many labels you can choose from to add to your profile (and they are changeable at any time). After all, sexuality, gender and preferences are fluid.

4. Tinder

Ah, a good ol' classic… At this point, most folks know what Tinder is, especially because they invented the swipe-right or left dating style. While they didn't use to be as inclusive, and wouldn't have been categorized as a gay dating app, we should acknowledge that they've come a long way in making things more accessible for people of all genders and sexualities. Whether you're straight, bisexual, gay, trans or non-binary, Tinder allows you to state who you are and find what you're looking for. Of all the current best gay dating apps, Tinder isn't our absolute favorite to recommend, but we'd be remiss not to include the iconic app that revolutionized how we date today.

5. Growlr

Are you into bears? Then Growlr might be the one for you. It's an LGBTQIA+ dating app tailored for the gay bear community and those who appreciate them. Don't know what a gay bear is? It's a larger, usually hairier gay man who would be described as rugged. Think Lumberjack vibes.

This gay dating app launched in 2010 and, when it did, it created a niche space where bears, cubs, chubs and their admirers can connect, chat and build meaningful connections. So if this is what you're into, there's definitely a place here for you.