The best gay dating apps of 2025 for love, hookups, or a bit of both
Tired of fleeting relationships and looking for a serious relationship? Then Archer is the app you need. But don’t take our word for it; Bi-male Brooklyn resident and author of Boyslut: memory and manifestoZachary Zane, told Mashable that he recommends downloading Archer for its inclusive and relational approach to queer dating.
Archer is a “social first” dating app owned by Match Group and prioritizes building meaningful connections through shared interests and values. It positions itself as the relationship-focused alternative to heavy hitters like Grindr, targeting Gen Z and millennial guys looking for something more substantial.
We think it’s the best dating app for bisexual and queer men who are looking for more than just casual dating and provides a safer space to explore their sexuality. Along with Grindr, it is also one of the best free gay dating apps.
Although still newer than traditional apps, Archer has firmly cemented its place as the go-to app for gay men looking for something more substantial. Unlike its NSFW competitor Grindr, Archer requires every profile to show a face, underscoring its mission to create a more respectful space for connection. As Archer marketing manager Michael Kaye says, the app is all about “celebrating and showing off your true self.”
The app’s first annual “The Naked Truth” report proves it’s not just marketing talk. It was found that users are almost six times more likely to be looking for a husband rather than a relationship. To address this need, Archer rolled out its “Mode Finder” feature, which lets you toggle between “Connection,” “Date,” or “Friends” mode every time you open the app. This way, you only connect with people who want the same thing as you at that moment.
And to help start the conversation, Archer recently released “Ice Breakers.” This new feature allows you to add fun, flirty, or even cleverly “disjointed” questions to your profile (much like hinge prompts) that potential matches can answer to start a more engaging discussion. Examples include “Describe your favorite sex position using only emojis” and “If you had to lip sync for your life, what song would you choose?”
If you want more, There’s Archer Gold, a premium subscription option. This paid tier unlocks several features, such as “Private Mode” (to browse incognito), “Teleport Mode” (to change your location and explore profiles elsewhere), and advanced filters for more targeted searches. You’ll also get read receipts on posts, the ability to see who viewed or “liked” your profile, and a daily allowance of DMs you can send before matching.
Bonus: Its in-app Health Center provides easy-to-access resources and information on STIs, HIV status, PrEP, and other essential topics.
