Dating apps seem to get a bad rap nowadays. While everyone has different intentions, there are some common misconceptions about dating apps that need to be put to rest. I downloaded Tinder, Bumble and OkCupid to see how each vary and hopefully these will help you decide if dating apps are for you.

Dating apps are just for hookups.

Wrong; when creating your Bumble account, you get to choose if you are looking for dates, new friends or networking. OkCupid allows you to decide between hookups, new friends, short-term dating and long-term dating. Tinder relies on swipes left and right, and it’s up to you for the intention. 

People aren’t who they say they are.

While catfishing does exist, Tinder, Bumble and OkCupid all are connected to your Facebook, so twenty year old Brad who lives ten miles away is most likely twenty year old Brad who lives ten miles away.

Dating apps cost money.

All three of the apps used are free but they may charge you if you want to upgrade to their premium service.

Dating apps just rely on pictures.

Yes, while pictures are a big part of dating apps, you can also write a short bio about yourself. OkCupid goes more in depth by asking questions in order to help match you with someone you might be compatible with.

Weird guys message me.

With Bumble, girls have to be the first one to message a guy, so the ball is always in your court… but remember, you only have twenty-four hours before your matches disappear. Be warned: anyone can message you on OkCupid and you may get creepy messages within minutes of using the app.

Dating apps are for desperate people.

Hey, I’m not desperate…yet. In this day and age, dating apps are a common way to just meet people. Give them a try because you can always delete your account if you end up hating it.