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5.2

Overall Score

Author: Kaitlyn Short

LAST UPDATED: December 28th, 2024

What is Bumble? Bumble is a self-proclaimed feminist dating app that prides itself on being a game-changer. Bumble was launched in December of 2014 by the co-founder of Tinder, Whitney Wolfe. It is a location-based dating app that always gives females the power to make the first move.

In addition to Bumble dating, the company also offers two other social networking services: Bumble BFF and Bumble Biz

How does Bumble work?

Users can browse through profiles and either swipe right if they like what they see, or swipe left if they don't. If both users mutually swipe right, they make a match, and a connection is made. From there, women can choose if the interaction will go any further by initiating a conversation via video chat or messaging. After the match is mutually made, the woman has 24 hours to contact the male user; if she chooses not to reach out within the allotted time, the connection and the potential dating opportunity disappears.

While ladies have the power to make the first move in opposite gender matches, you should know that anyone can sign up for Bumble. The difference is that in same-sex matches, either party can make the first move by sending the first message.  

Bumble is a location-based dating app. You have to enable your mobile device's geolocation permission to use the app. When you go to swipe for matches, you are presented with local daters first. Once you get past the local users, the distance moves out further. 

Bumble believes that healthy relationships are central to living a positive and productive life. Bumble is an online dating app and a social network that encourages women to feel empowered as users make meaningful connections. Whether Bumble users are looking for friends, increasing their professional network, or finding love, Bumble is one of the most vocal dating apps that advocates for integrity, kindness, equality, confidence, and respect. 

What can you do for FREE on Bumble?

Like most online dating platforms, Bumble is free, but offers paid upgrades. However, unlike most platforms, you can do lots of things truly for free, including swiping, matching, and messaging — that's right FREE MESSAGING. 

This is compared with many online dating sites where free users don't have full access to messaging, like Zoosk, or aren't allowed to see the whole profile, like Match. 

What are the premium or paid features on Bumble?

While most things you can do for free on this dating app, there are a few benefits to users who pay for premium features.

Bumble Boost

With the premium Bumble Boost subscription, you get the following added benefits: 

  • Added filters — A free membership gets anyone access to two free search filters for things like height, pets, religion, education, fitness, users with verified profiles, connection preferences (whether you are looking for something casual, an LTR, or marriage) and more. Boost subscribers get unlimited filter access.
  • Extend the time limit on matches
  • Re-match with connections that have expired
  • See everyone that has right-swiped on your profile

Subscriptions are available as in-app purchases and vary from just a one-day boost to a Lifetime option. Here's what it will cost to upgrade to Bumble Boost: 

  • 1 Day — $2.99
  • 1 Week — $9.99
  • 1 Month — $22.49
  • 3 Months — $16.66 per month ($49.99 total)
  • 6 Months — $13.33 per month ($79.99 total) 
  • Lifetime — $119.99

Bumble Coins

Bumble Coins are purchasable in the app to give you access to premium features like Spotlight and SuperSwipe. Coins can be purchased in the app, in groups of 5, 15, or 30: 

  • 5 Coins — $7.99
  • 15 Coins — $19.99
  • 30 Coins — $34.99

Spotlight 

For two Bumble coins, your profile gets shuffled to the top end of the deck for everyone swiping for 30 minutes, so you are visible to more people instantly. 

SuperSwipe

For one Bumble Coin, SuperSwipe lets you tell someone that you are 'super' interested, so you stand out from other connections. They even get a notification saying that you are really interested in them. 

Keep reading our 2020 Bumble app review for pros and cons of using this online dating platform. To find out what other online daters are saying about this dating site, scroll down for Bumble reviews

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The Good

  • User-Friendly App
  • Not Just For Dating
  • Unique Approach
  • Post-Match Chat Rate
  • Focuses on Safety
  • Lots of Users
  • Photo Verification 
  • Snooze Feature

User-Friendly App

The app is user-friendly and easy to navigate. To get started: 

  • Download the app (iOS or Android)
  • Set up the profile
  • Choose the preferred gender (Men, Women, or Everyone)
  • Start swiping

Previously, users were required to initially log in through their Facebook account to access Bumble. However, since the Cambridge Analytica debacle, users now have the option to sign up with a phone number instead. 

If you do sign up with your Facebook account, the platform pulls from their social media profile, making it faster and easier to build your dating profile. You can even import photos from your Facebook profile. The app displays employment history, age, and education information on users' profiles unless otherwise specified. In addition to Facebook, users also have the option of linking their Spotify or Instagram account. 

Another way that Bumble offers a more user-friendly experience is by offering more inclusive gender descriptions. Rather than having to select your gender as Male or Female, as you often are required to do on some of the more old-school dating sites, Bumble offers inclusive gender identity and sexual orientation options on its app. 

Not Just For Dating

Although Bumble started primarily as a free dating app, users can also use their Bumble account to expand their career opportunities and social network. On Bumble Bizz, members can pursue a career change, meet team-members, co-workers or become a mentor.

Bumble Bizz was created so that professionals can connect with other professionals and help make networking feel more natural. 

Bumble BFF is an excellent option for people who are new to a city or are wanting to expand their social circle. BFF was designed to make it easier for users to build a supportive community. No matter where users are located, Bumble BFF makes it easier to create meaningful and lasting relationships. 

All three modes are available to access easily in one account, without needing to download multiple mobile apps. 

Unique Approach

Unlike the majority of dating sites, this app gives men a break and females the power. Bumble hopes that by giving women the power to make the first move, it creates a safer dating environment built on equal ground. Stereotypically, the man is the one who is expected to initiate the conversation, and Bumble is trying to bring equality into the mix.

So how does Bumble work?

It only allows communication once both users have mutually selected each other, a safety and compatibility feature that many women enjoy when using the app. Going into that first conversation, both individuals will have already expressed some form of interest for one another.

This app is also great for men that find initiating conversations with women stressful or daunting. Men on the app commonly claim that when women contact them, it makes them feel "flattered." However, for men who have their eyes set on a woman who did not contact them in the first 24 hours, they can choose to extend the allotted time to 48 hours, once a day. Even with the time extension, however, it is not guaranteed that the women will respond. If she chooses not to, the connection still disappears.

In addition, Bumble is a same-sex friendly dating app, if there is a mutual connection, both users have the ability to make the first move and start the conversation. If you are interested in pursuing a same-sex relationship or a platonic relationship on the Bumble app, keep in mind that the 24-hour time frame still applies for either of the two parties to start the conversation.

Post-Match Chat Rate

Common complaints about dating apps like Tinder are that once a match is made, users don't always follow-through and chat with their matches. With this dating service, Bumble's unique approach to matching and messaging and its 24-hour rule, provide a higher incidence of post-match messaging. 

Focuses on Safety

Bumble aims to create a safe and enjoyable experience for every member using the app/site. As Bumble has a diverse community, the company urges its users to be respectful of others' beliefs, interests, and property. Bumble states that it takes a strong stance against hate speech, rude or abusive behavior, bullying, and misogyny. The online dating app encourages all its users to report any inappropriate behavior.

Bumble also has particular photo guidelines:

  • No kids on their own. They must be in the photo with an adult, and fully clothed
  • No photos in bikinis/swimwear indoors
  • No pictures in underwear
  • No Shirtless/underwear Mirror Selfies. (praise the maker)
  • Face must be clearly visible in all photos
  • No watermarks or text overlaid
  • No pornographic material
  • No graphic hunting photos
  • No guns

Bumble users can also report a fake profile by scrolling to the bottom of the profile and clicking on the ‘Block and Report’ option. Users will then be asked to give a report reason and include any additional comments for the Bumble moderation team to consider. 

On top of that, iOS users can try out the Private Detector, which will warn you if any lewd photos are sent to you via messaging. 

Lots of Users

As of September 2019, Bumble was the second-most popular dating app in the United States by size, with an audience of 5.03 million. The first place was Tinder, with 7.86 million. 

What does it mean for you?

Using one of the most popular dating apps means that your local dating pool should be larger, than if you use a less popular option. According to Statista, less popular options include online dating apps like Plenty of Fish (4.28 million), Match (1.95 million), or OK Cupid (1.79 million). 

Photo Verification 

To help cut down on fake profiles, Bumble has an option to verify your profile. The system provides a selfie pose that you have to copy. Once you submit the picture, it will be reviewed by a real (human) administrator, within a few minutes. 

Once your profile is verified, you can request verification on your matches' profiles as well. 

Snooze Feature

Bumble offers a snooze feature that keeps you out of potential matches' dating/swiping pool while preserving your account and any saved connections. There are a few different snooze time limit options:  

  • 24 hours
  • 72 hours
  • 7 days
  • Indefinitely

So, if you are too busy to Bumble, you don't have to worry about not responding quickly enough to potential matches, before they expire. You can also take a social media cleanse, without having to delete your app or profile. 

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The Bad

  • Only 24 Hours to Connect with Someone
  • Bumble Profile Limitations
  • Lack of Complete Algorithm
  • Not All Features Are Available on the Website

Only 24 Hours to Connect with Someone

Some men are frustrated that women don't always start the conversation in the 24 hour period, resulting in a lost dating connection. The time limit adds pressure and can make the process feel inorganic and rushed. Not only that, but the 24 hour time period is easy to forget. If women don't initiate the conversation with guys in the allotted time, he is left powerless, and the match disappears. If turned on, push notifications can act as reminders for women.

There is an Extend option. All app users get a free Extend per day. If you subscribe to Bumble Boost, you get unlimited Extend use. 

Bumble Profile Limitations

Bumble only allows users to have 6 pictures, their job title, place of employment, education, and then a tagline that is limited to 300 characters on their complete dating profile. Users don't have access to much information right off of the bat, but setting up your account is way faster than dating sites that require a long questionnaire. 

Like Tinder though, a majority of users base their decision on the physical attractiveness of your profile picture, so word count might not be the biggest issue on this platform. 

Lack of Complete Algorithm

There is no formula or complete algorithm to how matches are chosen. Bumble will match based on age, Facebook information and location. While users can add their education, and job information, there is no verification process to make sure those are correct. When specifying preferences for what the user wants in the other person, the only customizable options are age gender preference.

As far as distance goes, Bumble will first show the closest options. Once those run-out, the dating app will show options farther and farther away. 

Not All Features Are Available on the Website

While Bumble recently made its online dating services available on the web, Bumble Web currently does not offer Bumble Bizz, Bumble BFF, Beeline, or Advanced filters. In addition, purchases for Bumble Boost and Bumble Coins must be processed via mobile device on the Bumble app (you can find the dating app on the app store) to access all the features that this dating platform has to offer.

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The Bottom Line

Bumble is a popular dating app. Users can swipe through profiles of nearby singles and, once a connection is mutual, ladies (in opposite-gender matches) have the option to contact. Messaging is free. Bumble boasts about having over one billion swipes across the entire platform since its beginning. Bumble encourages women to break the stereotypical gender role by acting as the initiator. This dating app is great for women who are tired of receiving unsolicited messages, cheesy pickup lines, and unwanted pictures from guys. 

The app does seem to cater toward those looking for a hookup or casual dating site (the profiles aren't extensive and there doesn't seem to be a comprehensive matching algorithm). However, that doesn't mean you can't find a real and meaningful connection, just be prepared to sort through a number of potential suitors.

Scroll down to read real Bumble reviews to decide if Bumble is right for you. If you have used this app, would you recommend it to a friend? Let us know about your online dating experience with a quick review below. 

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Star Rating

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3.7

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171 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

39%

4 grade

26%

3 grade

13%

2 grade

7%

1 grade

15%

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Justin Pumilia , NJ

Had much more luck from Bumble then other apps, however there have been many matches that just don't respond in 24 hours and are gone forever unless you pay up. The app is pretty easy to use and I like that you can react to specific pictures/answers.

4 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Pete Centerville, UT

I haven't used Bumble a lot but I like that it makes the girls talk first, makes it more fun because you can see if they are actually wanting to talk or not. There are a lot of fake accounts on here too, that would be nice if they could get that fixed.

7 years ago

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MBA Dallas, TX

Great place. Find a That special someone. You will find a match. In other words the site is easy to use and straight forward . When you match youbwill meet someone that will be ready for a physical relationship.

2 years ago Edited February 28, 2023

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Samantha Fayetteville, AR

I like that it has women users make the first move before a match can be initiated. I dislike that there is no requirement to answer the prompts or include a certain number of photos because some users would just put a single photo of a black screen and answer no prompts.

4 years ago

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Anonymous

so maybe it is not bumbles fault however it seems even though you report fraudulent members asking for I'm sick and love to come see you give me cash to fix my car and so on those members still come up on your feed of people that you match with maybe find a safe way to remove?

5 years ago

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Cayla Koga Fremont, CA

Bumble is one of my favorite free dating apps. Plus it's versatile. You can do bumble BFF if you are just looking for new friends, Bumble Date, if you are wanting to date, or Bumble Bizz if you're wanting a new job. Plus they will sometimes run fun Ad's for community events in your area.

6 years ago

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Joyce West Jordan, UT

Like that the girl makes the first move, easy to make many connections quickly Dislike because of high number of connections it can often lead to low quality communication

2 years ago

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The Bean Spiller Provo, UT

I really like the idea of giving a safer space for women in the dating world by only allowing them to make the first interaction. Unfortunately, the design doesn't feel super polished, but the intent is definitely there

3 years ago

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lscho2 Salt Lake City, UT

It is cool girls can make the first move, but less effective then tinder. Even with a verified account. Very similar to tinder. Although do not accidentally buy coins you will not be refunded.

4 years ago

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ValCar Salt Lake City, UT

Connected online with many guys, but they never keep up a conversation. I think some of the ya on here are fake. Guys have been pretty respectable. Even though girls make the first move guys still have the last day.

5 years ago

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Brenda Spanish Fork, UT

With Bumble I like that I am in control of the conversation. I also feel like the guys on Bumble are a little more established. I have been on a few dates but nothing has ever come of it.

5 years ago

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Rebecca Provo, UT

Not a huge fan of this app. It’s nice, but I don’t like the requirement for girls to message first. Feels a little forced and the matches often expire before I have time to say anything.

5 years ago

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Sebastian Garcia San Antonio, TX

I believe Bumble is a decent application, it looks like it copied much of Tinder's stuff but still interesting. You do get to network with individuals as well.

4 years ago

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Juan Beaver, PA

I did meet a few people on bumble but it never went anywhere more than just casual friendly convos. I would recommend for people trying to make new friends in the area

5 years ago

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Riley Smith American Fork, UT

Bumble let me get a few dates but for the most part when I connected with someone the girl never messaged me. Maybe monitor the usage and kick those who aren’t using it?

6 years ago

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Inara Jivanee Katy, TX

I really liked how the app was set up. The questions aspect was unique compared to other apps which made it easier to use.

4 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Dominic Jeong Durham, NC

Bumble is a really interesting concept, but I find it hard to get matches since its compatibility algorithm doesn't seem to work as well

5 years ago

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Vy Ha Birmingham, AL

I like how it offers an explicit format for people seeking friends. It also has fun quotes and templates

3 years ago

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Erna Valcin Tallahassee, FL

Not a lot of people in my area used this app so it was very hard to meet a selective group of people.

3 years ago

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Ryan Matheson Garden City, ID

It is an okay place to meet people but I hate that the girl has to talk first. I used to enjoy making the first move.

4 years ago

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jaci finch Corpus Christi, TX

I prefer tinder to bumble. I think there was a larger dating pool on tinder than bumble.

4 years ago

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OwenE. Hattiesburg, MS

The app is cool but I have found other apps that work better and faster, like tinder.

5 years ago

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Amanda Warrendale, PA

Bumble was fine. I like that they have a BFF feature and it's not only for dating

5 years ago