Tinder’s still the king of dating apps — and it keeps evolving. If you’re new here, Tinder lets you swipe through profiles, like who you’re into, and message when it’s mutual. The app is free to use, but paid tiers unlock more control, visibility, and perks. Here’s the updated 2025 guide that keeps the original tone but adds the latest trends, features, and facts.
TL;DR
- Tinder’s algorithm adapts dynamically to your behavior — Elo is gone for good
- Subscription tiers remain Plus, Gold, and Platinum, with an elite Select option
- Explore now features high-intent tiles like Serious Dater and Long-Term Partner
- Video selfie verification adds 3D and liveness checks for safety
- Around 60–75 million monthly users and nearly 10 million subscribers worldwide
How To Download Tinder
Tinder is free on both the App Store and Google Play.
- Search “Tinder” and tap Install.
- Sign up using your phone number (required) or link Google/Facebook.
If you delete your account, you’ll need a new number to rejoin.
The app’s free version includes swiping, matching, and messaging, while paid plans (Plus, Gold, Platinum) unlock premium tools.
How Tinder Profiles and Photos Work
You can’t browse Tinder without a profile, but setting it up is quick.
Profile Setup
Add your name, age, job, school, and location. Write a short bio (up to 500 characters) that shows your personality — short, witty, and authentic works best.
Tinder Photos
Upload up to 9 photos or short Loops. Use at least 3 clear shots with variety. Turn on Smart Photos so Tinder tests and rearranges your best-performing picture automatically.
Interests, Basics & Lifestyle
Select interests and fill in optional details like zodiac sign, education, family plans, love style, or social habits. It’s not mandatory, but profiles with details perform better.
Connect Instagram & Spotify
Show off your hobbies and music taste. Linking these helps spark natural conversations.
Gender and Orientation
You can select from a wide list of gender identities and orientations (up to three). Show or hide your gender as you prefer.
Privacy Controls
Paid users can hide age, distance, and even go Incognito — only visible to people they like.
Verification
Video selfie verification now includes 3D facial mapping and liveness detection. Once approved, you’ll get a blue check next to your name.
Other Tinder Profiles
Swipe through photos or tap the up-arrow for full details. The green dot means the user was active within 24 hours. You can hide your own activity if you prefer.
How Tinder Preferences Work
Control who you see by setting gender, age range, and distance in Discovery Settings. If matches run low, Tinder may slightly expand your range. You can also Block Contacts or Block Profiles to avoid specific people.
How Tinder Swiping Works
Swipe right to like, left to pass. Tap the blue star for a Super Like, or rewind your last swipe (paid feature). Free accounts have a limited number of daily likes. Paid users get unlimited swipes and extra Super Likes each week.
Top Picks
The diamond icon shows your Top Picks — curated profiles selected by Tinder’s matching system. Free users see a few per day; Gold and Platinum members see more and can match instantly.
Explore
The Explore tab now features expanded categories for different intentions: Serious Dater, Long-Term Partner, Short-Term Fun, and Non-Monogamy. You’ll also find themed tiles like Pet Lovers, Travelers, or Gamers. Event decks such as Free Tonight help you meet local matches available now.
Swipe Surge
When activity spikes in your area, Tinder triggers a Swipe Surge. Matches happen faster, and your profile gets more exposure. Enable push notifications so you can join the surge as it starts.
How Tinder Matching Works
When two users swipe right on each other, it’s a match — and you can chat. You can unmatch anytime via the blue shield icon. Premium users can even message before matching (Platinum feature).
How Tinder Messaging Works
Either person can send the first message. Messages, GIFs, and video chat are all available once you match. Read Receipts are optional add-ons for paid tiers.
How Does The Tinder Algorithm Work?
The old Elo system is gone. Tinder now uses a dynamic model that continuously adjusts based on your activity — likes, skips, and engagement. Keeping your profile active and authentic boosts visibility. Good photos, regular logins, and genuine interaction still matter most.
How Paid Tinder Works
Tinder offers Plus, Gold, and Platinum, plus an invite-only Select tier for elite users.
Tinder Plus
- Unlimited Likes & Rewinds
- Passport (swipe anywhere)
- No ads
- Incognito mode
Tinder Gold
Includes everything in Plus, plus:
- See Who Likes You
- Extra Top Picks
- 5 Super Likes per week
- Monthly Boost
Tinder Platinum
Includes everything in Gold, plus:
- Priority Likes (appear earlier in others’ stacks)
- Message Before Matching (First Impressions note feature)
Tinder Select
An exclusive, high-end tier for select members, offering priority exposure and exclusive features. It’s pricey and invitation-only.
One-Time Add-Ons
- Boosts (30-minute visibility boost)
- Super Boosts (longer boosts)
- Super Likes
- Read Receipts
Is Tinder Plus Worth It?
Plus is best for privacy or travelers who use Passport.
Gold saves time with “See Who Likes You.”
Platinum helps in crowded markets with priority placement.
Upgrade based on your activity level and goals — it’s about time saved, not just matches.
Tinder University
For college students in supported regions, Tinder U connects users within the same campus or nearby schools. Join by verifying your .edu or university email.
Tinder Demographics
Tinder remains the world’s most popular dating app with around 60–75 million monthly active users and close to 10 million paying subscribers. Most users are aged 18–35, and men still slightly outnumber women. Revenue continues to grow, surpassing $1.9 billion globally.
Is Tinder For A Hookup Or Dating?
Tinder supports both. Whether you want a quick meet-up or a long-term relationship, use Explore’s intent filters and mention what you’re looking for in your bio to attract the right matches.
Tinder Safety Centre
Tinder’s Safety Center and Photo Verification help protect users from scams and catfishing. Always meet in public, share your plans with a friend, and report or unmatch anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
Reporting on Tinder
Before matching: open profile → scroll → Report.
After matching: open chat → blue shield → Report or Unmatch.
FAQ
Does Tinder still use an Elo score?
No. Tinder no longer uses Elo. The app now uses a dynamic algorithm that constantly adapts to your swiping behavior and engagement patterns.
What does the green dot mean on Tinder?
The green dot shows that a user was recently active, typically within the last 24 hours. You can turn this off in settings if you prefer privacy.
What’s new in Explore in 2025?
The Explore tab now includes categories like Serious Dater, Long-Term Partner, Non-Monogamy, and Short-Term Fun, making it easier to match based on intentions.
Can I message someone before matching?
Yes — Platinum and Select members can send a short message attached to a Super Like before matching.
How do I avoid seeing people I know?
Use Block Contacts to upload numbers or emails you want to avoid, and Block Profile to hide users you’ve already seen.
What is Tinder Select?
Tinder Select is an exclusive, invite-only tier offering top visibility, early access, and premium features for a very small group of users.
