There are dating apps and then there’s Badoo, one of the fastest-growing dating apps. But, is Badoo worth your time?

The question is no longer about whether online dating is a thing; the truth is that online dating is not just here to stay, it is the only option some people have. The problem now is how to find the right dating platform.

There are a plethora of dating apps out there, with each one offering users the opportunity to meet their next date. That said, we can’t ignore the stories of online dating scams. Too many platforms have been infiltrated by scam artists and users have learned to be wary.

If you’re considering a dating app, then you should read this review. In it, we will do our best to give you an honest review of the dating app. At the end of this article, you should be able to decide whether Badoo is worth your time or not.

Everything you need to know about Badoo

Created in 2006, Badoo is an app that combines dating and social networking in one platform.

Badoo works almost in the same way as most dating platforms work; you find someone you like and try to get a match. The difference with Badoo is that you can message a person before you decide on a match.

Where this dating app stands out from others lies in its more casual approach to dating. We dig this because dating should not be riddled with stress and unnecessary pressure.

Badoo takes the pressure out of dating and gives the user a bit more control over the process. Also, the app focuses on conversations, giving a more natural feel to the entire dating thing.

Key Features of the app

Many features make the app stand out from other dating apps. These features are all designed to make it easier to connect with others within the app. Some features include:

Messaging without matching: this feature allows users to message someone they like before they match. This is different from other apps, where you have to be matched before you can even start a conversation.

Link social media accounts: one of the standout features of the app, it lets you message people who are within your social circle. You can easily see those with whom you already share mutual friends.

Voice and video chats: easily use voice and video chats to connect with verified users.

Live-streaming: want to go a little extra? You can broadcast a live stream to share a little more about yourself.

People Nearby: the app lets you see people who live near you. Let’s face it, it’s kind of annoying to connect with someone who lives on the other side of the country.

How the app works

The first step is to download the Badoo app. You can get it from the Google Play Store for Android devices or the Apple App Store. You can also download the Badoo app through the link at the end of this article.

Once you have the app, you will be asked to choose whether you identify as male, female, or another gender. Next, you need to create an account. You can do that with Facebook, email account or Apple (on iOS devices).

After you’ve signed in, you can decide whether you want to date, make new friends or just chat. The app is quite chill, so, no pressure.

It is important to fill out your profile, as this will help you find matches that you can vibe with. With Encounters, you can see all those with whom you have something in common.

Once you have a match, the app will notify you, and then you can chat with the person. Note that you can also chat with someone even if you don’t have a match with that person. Also, if you have a crush on someone, you can tap that and the app will notify them.

The alternatives to Badoo

In terms of dating apps, yes, there are alternatives to Badoo. Apps like Tinder, Hinge, Coffee Meets Bagel, the list is endless. But, the key features of Badoo make it stand out from the other apps.

Badoo is free to download and free to use. There is a premium version which removes ads and is supposed to improve your matches. However, we think the free version is good enough.