Singaporeans & Dating Apps: Trends & Preferences Unveiled

Exploring the landscape of digital romance in Singapore unveils intriguing trends and preferences among its residents. From local matchmaking services like Paktor and Lunch Actually to global giants such as Tinder, Bumble, and Coffee Meets Bagel, the realm of dating apps offers a plethora of options for Singaporeans seeking love.

According to the latest research by Match Group, one in four Singapore residents has dabbled in dating apps, with consistent adoption rates among both genders. Interestingly, the Malay community shows a higher propensity, with one in three stating app usage, surpassing Indian and Chinese counterparts.

Not surprisingly, Gen Z and millennials lead the pack in app engagement, overshadowing Gen X and Baby Boomers in their quest for digital connections.

Among the myriad dating apps circulating in Singapore, Tinder emerges as the top choice for nearly 60% of app users, closely followed by Coffee Meets Bagel, OkCupid, and Bumble. Homegrown platforms like Lunch Actually and Paktor also enjoy a share of the market.

Delving deeper, the study dissects the relationship intentions of app users. Coffee Meets Bagel boasts a substantial segment of ‘serious daters’ seeking exclusive relationships or life partners, while platforms like Hinge and Bumble cater to users pursuing committed relationships, though marriage aspirations vary.

Tinder, on the other hand, attracts a larger contingent of ‘social daters’, focused on expanding their social circles rather than committing to long-term relationships. Casual flings are notably more prevalent on Tinder and Bumble, hinting at diverse user preferences across platforms.

Despite the popularity of dating apps, a significant 76% of Singaporeans remain app-averse, citing reasons ranging from disinterest in relationships to concerns about fake profiles and privacy issues. The hesitancy to embrace digital dating poses a nuanced challenge for app developers.

For the singles open to exploring dating apps, a mere 11% express willingness to try them in the future, underscoring lingering apprehensions and deep-set preferences for traditional offline interactions.

When it comes to partner preferences, shared values top the list for Singaporean daters, followed closely by physical attraction and aligned religious views. While dating app users prioritize appearance and hobbies, non-users also value these qualities but to a lesser extent.

The study sheds light on the nuanced landscape of digital romance in Singapore, revealing diverse user behaviors and preferences that shape the ever-evolving realm of online dating.