Should You Try Online Dating? Get a Definitive Answer

One of the most common ways to meet a potential partner is through online dating. In today’s busy world, it’s hard to find time to date like we did a mere twenty years ago. Technology has revolutionized our planet and it’s changed the way we date as well. We don’t have to go out on dates one at a time hoping to find the right one. We can be clear about what we want from the beginning and connect with others who want the same thing. That’s just a couple of the advantages.

But this doesn’t mean dating online is all peaches and cream. Some have had disappointing experiences.
It’s important to look at the pros and cons of online dating before jumping into it.

Five reasons to consider online dating include:

The wide database: Online dating grants you access to a wider pool of potential dates. They allow you to view the singles in the area. Some even show you those who are online at the same time as you. This makes them a good option for both those looking for a casual fling. They’re also good for those who want something more serious. The online world creates opportunities that increase your chances of meeting new people.

It’s a timesaver: Online dating eliminates the need to get to know a stranger in public. You can pre-select your matches based on what they say in their profiles. It also gives you the chance to chat with and get to know them before meeting in person. Online dating saves you time by helping you root out undesirables. It’s especially useful if you’re busy working or studying. You don’t have time to go out and do the dating thing from scratch.
Speaks to the control freak in all of us: Dating online gives you more control over the dating process. You make every decision. You decide who you spend your time and focus on. If a potential date becomes annoying, you can cut them off within a matter of seconds. There’s no more anxiety about waiting for your blind date to show up. You don’t have to wonder if he or she will like you. Online dating grants you access to many people. It also lets you screen them before you meet them in person.

Surround yourself with like-minded people: Online dating profiles are a boon. These profiles showcase their interests and preferences. Reading these can help narrow down your options. These profiles help you find people that interest you. Those who share your interests and hobbies. They eliminate the need to go out with whoever is free. They give you the chance to pinpoint exactly what you want in an ideal mate or date. You can narrow your options using specific criteria. They include age, location, likes, dislikes, etc.
Great for introverts: Online dating removes a lot of pressure from the dating scene. You get the chance to write your messages online and review them as well. So, you don’t have to go through with the first thing that pops your head. You can eliminate the foot in your mouth. It’s easier to woo them with your charm this way before meeting your potential mate in person. Having time to think about what you’re going to say makes dating less intimidating. It’s less intimidating than making the first move when you see someone face to face.

Lots of choices; With conventional dating, you’re limited to the places you frequent. Online dating gives you access to a larger range of options. There are a ton of apps and sites you can choose from depending on your exact preferences. There are popular apps like Bumble and Tinder that everyone seems to be on. But there are also niche dating apps that target certain demographics.
It’s great for the frugal at heart: Lots of dating apps and sites have paid subscriptions and features. But, don’t let this discourage you. Some are free as well or offer some sort of trial run.  They allow you to try online dating without hurting your pockets. They are essentially a try-before-you-buy situation. You can check out potential dates before committing.

Online Dating Cons

Online dating has its cons as well. Two of the most nefarious ones are as follows:
Lots of competition: Because the online dating pool is so wide, it’s hard for daters to stand out. This means it’s important to work on online profiles to make a memorable first impression.
Scams abound: Some despicable people are on online dating apps and sites to prey on others. They gain your trust and fleece you for your money. Online dating’s semi-anonymous natures make it easy to create fake profiles. That’s how scammers catfish other daters. This makes it a little less safe than regulated dating. It’s important to take extra caution when moving from online chats to meeting up IRL. The good news is most online dating sites are just as turned off by these scammers and dangers as you. They use different methods to screen online daters now for safety reasons.

The pros to online dating outweigh the cons. It’s a great way to expand your reach and save time when you’re looking for that special someone. However, it all boils down to you and what you’re looking for. Good luck!