Hinge vs Coffee Meets Bagel

Continued from above...

Dating sites have some basic features that seem to be standard. Most require a certain number of photos - so you might want to start digging through your recent pics and finding the ones that really represent you - and a bio that helps prospective dates figure out who you are before they match with you. Many modern dating sites are either fully mobile (downloadable on your phone or tablet) or a combination of website and mobile, so you'll find a very streamlined experience for dating sites that you might not have found if you tried them a few years ago.

Inclusivity and advanced filtering features have also made a major update to the online dating sphere. Whether you want someone who has similar religious beliefs, the same music taste, or you want to be more detailed about your sexuality in your profile, modern dating sites offer filters and tags that allow like-minded individuals to find you (and you to find them) faster than ever.

If you're ready to jump into your next whirlwind romance, but don't know which dating site is right for you, don't sweat it. We've put together a list of factors to help you jump into the best online dating pool for your interests:

• Cost. Many dating sites are free to use, but if you want the best chance at finding love, you might need to shell out a little for some advanced features (like extra filters or boosted profiles). In this case, you'll want to make sure you're getting a good value for your money. Check out the features you get and think carefully about how long you plan to subscribe.
• Dating pool. Putting yourself out there can feel discouraging if you don't get matches right away, so you want to make sure that the dating site you choose has plenty of options for you. Are there plenty of active members on your chosen dating site? Does the app or site have filters to help you find your ideal someone? Make sure you've got a solid number of singles to meet when you pick your ideal dating site.
• Platform. Are you a phone-only kind of person or do you prefer to chat on your laptop or PC? Most dating sites have a web version and an app, but some dating sites out there are only for your mobile device. Make sure that you pick a service that fits your preferred communication style and makes it easy to stay in touch with your potential dates.
• Reputation. As always, check out a company's reputation on third-party review sites, app reviews, and the Better Business Bureau. This way you can see how other singles like you have fared on the dating site of your choice, and get unfiltered reviews on the good, the bad, and how likely you are to get catfished.

With a new dating site at your fingertips, you're on your way to your next romantic adventure. To help you find the feeling of love-struck butterflies, Top Consumer Reviews has researched and ranked the top dating sites available online today. This way you can leave the stress of trying to meet new people behind and jump right into your local dating pool. Who knows, your special someone might just be one swipe away!