Grindr review

Grindr calls itself the world's number one free dating app for the LGBTQ community, and it works differently from the swipe apps: you see a grid of people near your location and can message anyone. That makes it quick for meeting people nearby and useful on trips, where it suggests logging in to meet locals and get tips on bars, restaurants and events. The free version lets you chat, share private photos and albums, add and search tags, filter your search, star favorites and block or report people. It carries third-party ads. XTRA removes those ads, shows up to 600 profiles at once and adds filters such as online now, photo only, position and relationship status. Unlimited adds unlimited profiles, the full Viewed Me list, Incognito mode and the ability to unsend messages and photos. The US App Store lists XTRA from $14.99, Unlimited from $27.99 and a day pass at $9.99. It is rated 4.4 from about 390,000 App Store ratings.

Who it is for

Gay, bi and queer men who want to see who is nearby right now, at home or when traveling.

Price

Free with ads; the US App Store lists XTRA from $14.99 and Unlimited from $27.99.

XTRA $14.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• Grid of people nearby based on location
• Private albums you can share and unshare
• Tags to share and search interests
• XTRA removes third-party ads and shows up to 600 profiles
• Unlimited adds Incognito mode, Viewed Me and unsend

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free version covers browsing, chat and photo sharing
• Strength: Useful for meeting locals when traveling
• Strength: 4.4 rating from 390,000 App Store ratings
• Weakness: Free version shows third-party ads
• Weakness: Best features sit in the Unlimited tier
• Weakness: Focus is on nearby people rather than long profiles

Key facts

• Free version: Yes, with ads
• Paid tiers: XTRA, Unlimited
• Lowest App Store price: $14.99 (XTRA)
• Profiles shown on XTRA: Up to 600
• App Store rating: 4.4 from 390K ratings

Where it ranks

Grindr is No. 7 in our Best Dating Apps verdict.