What Makes Hinge Different?
Hinges is proud of its tagline: "Designed to be Removable". It might sound a little strange at first, but it actually sums up the app's philosophy. Hinge wants to help you find permanent matches, not a string of casual encounters. It's about connecting with people who could become your long-term partner, not people you'll miss after a few days.
Here's how Hinges achieves this:
Personalized Matching: Likes, Comments, and Algorithmic Precision
While many dating apps rely on swiping to quickly assess a match, Hinges turns that concept on its head by encouraging users to "like" and "comment" on specific parts of someone's profile. This means your connections are more personal and thoughtful. You're not just liking someone's photo and hoping to match; you're engaging with specific aspects of their profile that pique your interest.
- Likes: When you like someone on Hinges, the app shows you which part of their profile caught your attention. This could be a video, a photo, a comment, or an answer to a prompt (Hinges has a lot of prompts to help users express themselves). This makes it easy to start a conversation based on something real rather than superficial attraction.
- Comments: In addition to a simple "like," you can also leave a comment on someone's profile to start a conversation. This feature is perfect for those who want to go beyond the basics and have a meaningful conversation right away.
- Award-winning algorithm: Hinges uses a sophisticated matching algorithm to show you profiles of people you might connect with. The algorithm takes into account overall compatibility between your likes, comments, and your answers to prompts. It's not just about distance or looks — it's about finding people who share your interests and values.
Special Feature: Roses (or Super Likes)
Hinges also offers a feature called Roses, which is similar to Super Likes on other apps. If you send someone a rose, it means you're particularly interested in them. This feature can help you stand out in someone's inbox and increase your chances of receiving a response. Just like a "super like" on Tinder, sending a rose shows that you're not just casually browsing; you're eager to see how things go.
"Like You" Tab: A More Purposeful Approach
Hinges takes a more purposeful approach to matching by offering a "Like You" tab. When someone likes your profile, their photo will appear here. You can then choose to match with them or skip the opportunity - one by one, ensuring you give each potential match your full attention. This is in stark contrast to other dating apps, which push dozens of people at once, encouraging you to make quick decisions that are often based on just a glance.
Hinges Focuses on Long-Term Relationships
What sets Hinges apart is its clear focus on cultivating long-term relationships, rather than one-night stands or fleeting hookups. While other apps like Bumble allow you to set your own relationship goals and filter your matches accordingly, Hinges takes the guesswork out of dating by focusing on helping users find more serious relationships.
Hinges' philosophy of "design for detachability" is baked into the app's design. The app prompts users to think about long-term compatibility rather than short-term attraction. Whether it’s through prompts to share more about yourself or connecting through thoughtful comments, Hinges encourages users to have meaningful, personal conversations rather than just trying to match.
Unique Features: Tips and Highlights
Two standout features of Hinges are Tips and Highlights, which make your profile more appealing and more aligned with your goals.
- Tips: These are short, fun questions you can add to your profile to showcase your personality. It’s not just about showing your best photos; it’s about giving potential matches a glimpse into who you really are. These tips help bring humor, wit, and depth to your profile, making it easier for someone to start a conversation with you.
- Highlights: This feature lists the most compatible matches based on the app’s algorithm
gives you a curated selection of profiles that are most likely to create a lasting connection. It takes the guesswork out of who to follow, giving you a better chance of finding a meaningful match.
Hinges, on the other hand, is focused on long-term, serious relationships. It’s designed to encourage deeper conversations and connections from the get-go. If you’re looking for someone who wants the same thing as you—a committed relationship—then Hinges is built for it.
How to get started with Hinges
If you’re new to Hinges, here’s a quick guide to getting started:
1. Set up your profile: Fill out your basic information and answer prompts to let potential matches get to know your personality. Don’t be afraid to show your humor, interests, and things you’re passionate about. These details help build a deeper connection.
2. Interact with others: Don’t just swipe, but engage with others’ profiles by liking specific sections or leaving comments. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in getting to know them.
3. Send a rose (or a super like): If someone catches your eye, send them a rose to show your interest and make yourself stand out.
4. Check your Likes tab: When someone likes your profile, you’ll see them in the Likes tab. You can then match or skip them based on your preferences.
5. Be honest about your needs: Hinges encourages open communication about what you want in a relationship. Use your profile and the app’s prompts to clarify your intentions and find like-minded people.
Final thoughts
Hinges is changing the way people think about online dating. It sets itself apart from other apps by focusing on long-term connections, offering unique features like Likes, Roses, and Hints, and using a personalization algorithm. Whether you're looking for a partner who shares your values or just a more thoughtful approach to dating, Hinges is designed to help you make meaningful connections. If you're ready to stop swiping aimlessly and start building real relationships, Hinges might be the app for you.
