Why you need to stop using dating apps in 2026

Nowadays, more people are finding each other online. It’s no surprise because, at the fast pace of modern life, many people don’t have time to date. Workdays and constant lack of free time make dating apps a convenient and quick way to find a potential partner.

Nevertheless, along with the growing popularity of such services, dissatisfaction with them is increasing. More users complain about fake profiles, endless unsuccessful dates, and disappointment in the search for genuine relationships. In 2026, there are more reasons to stop using dating apps, and here’s why.

How apps disappoint users

When dating services started gaining popularity, they seemed like a real revolution in finding relationships. Thousands of profiles, instant likes, and the ability to chat with anyone without leaving home all created a sense of endless possibilities. However, after years, the reality turned out to be far from expectations.

Firstly, dating apps have led to the so-called “paradox of choice”. When a person is faced with too many options, they lose interest in genuine communication. The ease of swiping has made dating superficial; one unsuccessful message, and the person is already looking for a new user. As a result, users spend months, sometimes years, chatting without ever finding a serious relationship.

Secondly, many have noticed that dating apps aid addiction. Their operation is similar to slot machine algorithms; swipes and likes trigger dopamine release, creating an illusion of success. However, this effect is temporary; joy is followed by disappointment. After all, most “matches” never lead to real meetings.

Issues with online dating are fake profiles, inappropriate matches, and scammers. Many users face deception, manipulation, and financial fraud. As a result, trusting someone online has become more difficult.

What can replace dating services?

If you’ve decided to give up dating apps, it doesn’t mean you’re destined to stay alone. The world is full of opportunities for new dating; you just need to pay attention to alternative methods.

Ask friends and colleagues to introduce you to someone

Often, the right person is closer than we think. Tell your friends, colleagues, or relatives that you are open to new connections. People in your circle may know someone who is a perfect match for you.

Such introductions are good because they take place in a comfortable environment. Additionally, recommendations from friends can help you avoid unpleasant surprises, which are often encountered in dating apps.

Group activities and interest-based clubs

One of the best ways to meet someone is to engage in your favourite activity with like-minded people. It can be anything ranging from;

• language courses;
• dance classes;
• sports clubs;
• board games;
• volunteer projects, etc.

Communication happens naturally, without awkwardness or stiffness, unlike in apps. Additionally, you’ll have a common topic to talk about immediately, which makes knowing each other easier.

Communication via video chats and social networks

Unlike the algorithms of Tinder or Bumble, in video chats you can communicate with a person in real time. Popular online platforms to talk to girls on video chat such as CooMeet, Camloo, and Mirami offer a convenient way to meet people from all over the world.

These platforms allow you to filter chat partners by interests, gender, and language. Another advantage of videochats is unpredictability. The system automatically connects two random users. You will never know who will be on the other side of the screen. Therefore, chat roulette is a great option for those who want to get rid of endless swiping and move on to live communication.

Also, many people continue to meet new friends through social networks. Interesting people can be found in themed communities as well as in the comments of posts. The main thing is not to be afraid to take the initiative.

Travel

If you enjoy active recreation, group trips are an ideal option for new dating. Travelling together brings people closer, faster than regular dates. Moreover, you can see how a person behaves in new conditions and how they respond to challenges immediately.

Many travel companies offer trips designed for people who want to go on an adventure alone but in the company of like-minded enthusiasts. Strong friendships (and sometimes romantic relationships) often form during such trips.

The main advantage of dating while travelling is the absence of artificial scenarios. You don’t need to come up with topics for conversation or worry about how to impress your chat partner. Communication develops naturally, without pressure or expectations.

Coworking and educational events

Remote work and freelancing have long become a part of modern life, but that doesn’t mean office romances are a thing of the past. Today, coworking spaces have become an alternative to the office; places where people from a wide range of professions work.

It’s easy to start a conversation over a cup of coffee, discuss work-related issues, or simply share ideas. However, if a spark develops between you and the person, there’s no need to look for reasons to meet up. After all, working in the same space naturally provides opportunities to see each other regularly and subsequently know each other better.

Festivals, concerts, and parties

Music festivals, themed parties, and cultural events are places where people are more open to socialising. No one expects formality here, and dating happens easily and naturally. We recommend attending events that genuinely interest you. This way, you’ll have the chance to meet someone with similar tastes, which already provides a good foundation for communication.

True feelings are born in real life

Just a few years ago, dating apps seemed like the perfect solution. However, with each passing year, it becomes increasingly clear that such services lead to more disappointment than genuine feelings. Endless swipes, superficial chats, and embellished profiles; all of these make the search for a partner tiring and even mechanical.

Today, more people have realised that face-to-face communication is more valuable when compared to any algorithm; that’s wonderful after all! Life-changing dates happen often when we don’t plan for them. The main thing is to stay open to new meetings, take the initiative, and not be afraid to make the first move.