Match.com Dating Site Review: Is This Legacy Site Right for You?

Match.com account types and features 

Match offers five account types, with four subscriptions requiring payment: free, Bronze, Silver, Platinum and Diamond. 

Free accounts allow browsing, filtering and messaging mutual matches, though they restrict features such as how many messages you can send. (Users with free accounts can only send one message per day to people they have not “matched” with.) 

The paid account tiers — Bronze, Silver, Platinum and Diamond — unlock additional tools such as unlimited “likes” and unlimited “rewinds” (which allow you to undo accidental passes on profiles you’re interested in), with additional advanced features available depending on the tier you select. For example, at the Bronze level, you also can explore and indicate your interest for unlimited profiles on the platform’s Discover tab. At the Silver level, you get all Bronze features, plus the opportunity to see who “likes” you. Platinum includes all Bronze and Silver features, plus additional tools such as unlimited introductions, unlimited search and message read receipts. 

Diamond tiers include all features included at the Bronze, Silver, and Platinum levels, plus additional tools such as three weekly “super likes” and the ability to see who’s viewed your profile. But these subscriptions may not be available in all locations. When available, these Diamond subscriptions also are the only plans with Match’s “anti-ghosting” feature, which encourages members to respond to current matches before being able to match with anyone new. When prompted, you can message these matches or “snooze” them for 24 hours. After 24 hours, if you still haven’t initiated contact, you won’t be able to send any likes or messages to new profiles until you unmatch or message the existing match. This anti-ghosting feature could be helpful for people who want to make sure they’re using the site intentionally. 

Want a quick comparison of paid account tiers? Check out the table below to see the features that each paid account type offers. 

*Diamond accounts are only available in certain locations

How much does Match.com cost?

Match uses a subscription model that features lower monthly prices for longer-term commitments (with terms available for three months, six months and 12 months). 

Please see the chart below for a breakdown of monthly prices by term. Note: While these prices are listed monthly, users are charged for the full term up front, in one payment. (That means, for instance, that a Platinum plan for six months would be billed at about $165)

So could a paid subscription to Match be worth it for you? Maybe, if you like the platform and want to be able to send unlimited “likes” and use unlimited “rewinds.” 

In our survey, for instance, 45 percent of Match users were satisfied with the platform’s value because of the added features, while 30 percent of Match users were dissatisfied, citing limited matches in their area or feeling that free features were sufficient. And 25 percent said they were neutral. About two-thirds (65 percent) of Match users paid for a subscription. “It was worth the cost since it saved me time and gave me more control over finding quality matches faster,” said one respondent. Another respondent said “profile boosts and seeing who likes you are especially valuable for efficiency” and that the free version restricts messaging too much. In fact, the ability to send and receive messages was the biggest benefit of a paid membership, according to respondents.

How can you contact Match.com customer service?

Match does not offer phone support, relying instead on an online contact form. While this approach is common across dating sites, some other sites, like SeniorMatch, offer live or phone support.

How can you avoid fake profiles and online dating scams on Match?

Online dating scams do happen, and older adults are often targets. In fact, new AARP research finds that romance scams — schemes in which criminals build trust only to exploit it to steal money and sensitive information — are affecting older adults at significant rates. And that nearly 1 in 10 adults 50 and older have had an online romantic interest ask them for money.

No dating site is completely free of fake profiles, and you can be exposed to potential scams on any site. But Match seems to have fewer fraudulent profiles. Our online dating survey found that about 15 percent of people encountered a fake profile on Match. Meanwhile, 43 percent of all respondents in our survey who used other sites — nearly three times the Match percentage — encountered fake profiles.

These days, fake profiles are extremely common on dating sites because of AI, says Danny Jenkins, CEO and co-founder of ThreatLocker, a cybersecurity firm in Orlando, Florida. “It’s easy to generate realistic photos and short videos on a scale, and to carry on conversations that sound natural and fluent,” he says.

Therefore, “you can’t fully rely on audio and video to confirm someone’s identity,” says Ricardo Amper, founder and CEO of Incode Technologies, an authentication and identity verification company, in San Francisco. 

Although AI-generated, highly realistic fake videos (also called “deepfakes”) aren’t perfect, they can fool you if you’re basing your evaluation simply on the “eye test,” says Amper. He suggests that you evaluate how the user behaves, since a person’s behavior over time matters more than the existence of a “polished profile.”

Most online dating sites have verification and safety features that are designed to detect fake profiles and keep users safe. However, no single safeguard is enough on its own, according to Jenkins. That’s why most platforms use a “combination of automated tools and human review to spot dangerous behavior,” he says. 

Consider the following tips to avoid scams on online dating sites.

• Beware of sending anyone money. Research from AARP shows nearly 1 in 10 adults age 50 and older have had an online romantic interest ask them for money. Scammers may seek to accomplish their schemes by asking for financial help, including for supposed emergencies like the need to pay medical bills. Scammers also have been known to ask people to transfer cryptocurrency or other funds to fraudulent investment platforms. And they often will make these requests after a period of “love bombing,” in which they shower you with attention to build your trust. So, if you ever receive a request for money or other currency, put your guard up. And never send money to anyone you haven’t met in person.
• Review related safety guidance. You can’t eliminate scams completely. But you can get familiar with the safety materials provided by dating platforms, says Jenkins. You often can find this advice on the platform’s website. For example, Match offers materials on advice and safety on its website under the link at the bottom of the page for “online safety tips.” Also consider reviewing our AARP article on how to avoid online dating scams. 
• Be cautious about moving conversations to other apps. Conversations via phone and text are a common way to get to know people. But be cautious about moving your conversations from dating platforms to platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp that don’t have built-in security measures, especially if it feels like a user is rushing you offline (see our next tip for more context). Also be wary if a user is only willing to talk or text and isn’t willing to meet face-to-face, as scammers often will pretend to be stationed abroad or unable to afford travel.
• Go slow. There’s no need to rush a connection. “Scammers work on volume and momentum,” says Amper. So, to best protect yourself go slow by asking questions to get to know the person and giving yourself time to think about your response. If you refuse to be rushed, a scammer may just decide to move on, he says.

For support and guidance, the trained fraud specialists at the free AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline, 877 -908-3360, can share information on what to do next and how to avoid future scams. The AARP Fraud Watch Network also facilitates online discussion groups for support. 

Match.com security incident: What you should know

In January 2026, Match Group responded to an alleged hack affecting internal company data. A company spokesperson told Mashable there was “no indication that user log-in credentials, financial information, or private communications were accessed” and that the company was “in the process of notifying individuals, as appropriate.” 

In addition to Match.com, Match Group also owns Tinder, Hinge and OkCupid. 

The takeaway for online daters? Given the prevalence of cyber threats and the potential for unknowns, you should be particularly skeptical of messages from strangers that come directly to your email if you haven’t had a previous conversation on a dating site. "If a person says they saw your dating profile and wanted to connect, it’s likely they obtained your contact information from a data breach,” says Jenkins. 

Match.com FTC complaint: What you should know

In 2025, Match Group agreed to pay $14 million and permanently stop deceptive advertising, cancellation and billing practices, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The original complaint, filed by the FTC in 2019, alleged that Match Group Inc. had maintained “five deceptive or unfair practices to induce consumers to subscribe to Match.com and to keep them subscribed.” 

How does that complaint affect Match’s operations today? Per an FTC press release issued in August 2025, Match is now required to take the following actions. 

• Clearly and conspicuously disclose the terms of its “six-month guarantee,” as well as any other material restrictions, limitations or conditions relating to guarantees
• Not misrepresent any material restrictions, limitations or conditions relating to guarantees
• Refrain from retaliating, threatening to take adverse action, or taking any adverse action against consumers for filing billing disputes and denying consumers who file billing disputes access to paid-for goods or services
• Provide simple mechanisms for consumers to cancel their subscriptions

If you have questions or concerns about Match’s current billing or cancellation policies, or questions about your account, you can contact its customer service via its online contact form. 

Is Match.com right for you?

Maybe, particularly if you’re looking for a serious relationship and you value a free trial. That said, if you’re considering signing up for Match, but aren’t sure yet, you may ask yourself a few questions. 

Do I want a dating site for adults 50 and older?

If you do, Match may not be the best choice for you because it is marketed to people age 18 and older. So you will likely see people outside of your preferred age range. That said, some dating sites that are marketed to adults age 50 and older accept younger users. SeniorMatch, for example,  accepts people ages 40-plus, and SilverSingles accepts users 18 and older. 

Do I want a larger pool of potential matches?

Match is one of the largest dating sites and reports having users in 16 countries. More niche sites, however, may have fewer users but be more targeted to your interests. So if your goal is to have the most potential dating prospects, across a variety of data points (such as location, education or intention), you may decide that a site like Match is a match for you. 

Match also lets you filter by distance or a selected city, a feature that frequent travelers may appreciate. 

Do I want to pay for add-on features?

Match offers extra features that help your profile get more exposure. For example, the hour-long “boosts” put your profile at the top of the discovery feed for other users, which increases the chance of getting more views. “Super likes” highlight your profile to users of your choice to show your interest. But both “boosts” and “super likes” often are available for a fee. For example, although the Platinum membership plan includes a weekly Super Like and a monthly Boost, you would pay for these features if you have a plan that is a lower tier. 

You can see the breakdown of the boost and super like features in the charts below.

Am I focused on finding a long-term relationship?

Half of the Match users in our survey (50 percent) were looking for a long-term romantic partner. So if you’re looking for this relationship, Match may be a good fit for you. The platform also offers a “dating intention” filter that lets you view users whose relationship goals align with yours.

FAQs

Is Match.com free?

Match offers a free plan that allows you to message mutuals, browse curated profiles (which are personalized daily selections of people Match thinks you’re compatible with) and “like” up to 50 profiles per day. It also offers paid memberships that allow you to access additional features.

How do you pay for Match.com?

To pay for a Match membership, you can use standard credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express as well as prepaid credit cards (including gift cards). You also can pay with PayPal in North America. Match also offers financing with four payments via Buy Now Pay Later, with no credit checks or interest fees applied. 

What is Match.com's age range?

Match accepts adults ages 18 and older. If you’re looking for people in a specific age range, you can set age preferences to filter potential matches.

Is Match.com worth it?

It could be, depending on your goals. Match is a legacy dating platform that’s geared towards people looking for a meaningful connection. The platform offers several subscription options, including a free account with limited functionality. More than half (54 percent) of the Match users we surveyed were satisfied with their overall experience using the platform. 

Questions or feedback? Email us at AARPSmartPicks@aarp.org.