Tinder vs. Bumble vs. Hinge vs. Aisle vs. TrulyMadly vs. Happn (2025 Update)

August 9, 2025

Industry:

dating app

In 2025, India’s dating app market is fiercely competitive. Hinge leads growth with meaningful connections, while Tinder and Bumble face slower momentum. Aisle and TrulyMadly thrive in niche, trust-focused segments. Happn retains charm through location-based matching but risks being overshadowed. Users now demand depth, safety, and better matchmaking experiences.

The dating app market in India has evolved dramatically over the past few years. What started as a swipe-driven race led by Tinder has now matured into a multi-segment market with clear winners in different niches. From casual connections to serious relationships, and from culturally-aligned matchmaking to location-based encounters, users now have more choice — and more reason — to be selective about which platform they invest their time (and subscription money) in.

So, which app is winning in 2025? Here’s a fresh look.


Tinder – The Swipe Pioneer Feeling the Heat

Tinder is still the first name that comes to mind for many when you mention dating apps. With its massive brand recognition and straightforward swipe interface, it remains popular among younger users seeking casual connections.

But 2025 hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Match Group’s recent earnings show Tinder’s revenue falling 4% year-on-year in Q2 2025, with a noticeable drop in active users. The thrill of swiping is no longer enough for many users who are now looking for deeper connections and curated experiences. While Tinder’s user base is still huge, it is increasingly competing with apps that promise more than just a quick match.


Bumble – Women First, Still Holding Ground

Bumble made its mark by flipping the script and letting women initiate conversations. That USP still works in its favour, especially in India’s urban, progressive dating circles. Over time, Bumble has expanded beyond dating into Bumble BFF for friendships and Bumble Bizz for professional networking, making it more than just a dating app.

However, in 2025, the app finds itself in a tricky middle ground — retaining loyal users but losing growth momentum to newer and more purpose-driven platforms like Hinge. Bumble is still a strong brand, but the competitive pressure is real.


Hinge – The Breakout Star of 2025

If there’s one app that’s clearly on an upward curve, it’s Hinge. Designed around detailed profiles, engaging conversation prompts, and AI-powered icebreaker suggestions, Hinge markets itself as “the dating app designed to be deleted” — a tagline that resonates with singles looking for serious relationships.

And the numbers back it up. In Q2 2025, Hinge’s revenue jumped 25% compared to last year, paying users grew by 18%, and average revenue per user climbed to nearly $32. Its mix of intentional dating, modern tech, and focus on quality over quantity is striking a chord with millennials and Gen Z alike.


Aisle – India’s Answer to ‘Slow Dating’

For those who find swiping too shallow, Aisle has carved out a niche as India’s “slow dating” app. It positions itself as a platform for people looking for meaningful, culturally-compatible relationships rather than casual flings.

While Aisle doesn’t share public user metrics, its brand continues to appeal to working professionals and those who want a more curated dating pool. It remains a homegrown favourite for Indians who prefer substance over speed.


TrulyMadly – Trust, Safety, and Compatibility

TrulyMadly’s biggest differentiator is its focus on trust and safety. With a strong verification system and compatibility-based matching, it aims to build genuine connections while eliminating fake profiles.

Its user base may not match the giants like Tinder or Bumble, but it serves a dedicated audience that values authenticity. For many in India, TrulyMadly feels like a safer, more serious alternative to global dating apps.


Happn – The Charm of Chance Encounters

Happn stands out with its unique “crossed paths” feature, connecting you with people you’ve encountered in real life. This adds a serendipitous, almost cinematic touch to online dating.

The app still enjoys popularity among slightly older users who like the blend of real-world context and online connection. However, as competition intensifies, Happn’s broad feature set sometimes feels cluttered, making it harder to stand out against more focused competitors.


2025 Takeaways

  • Hinge is the fastest-growing player in India’s dating scene, winning over those seeking meaningful connections.

  • Tinder and Bumble remain strong, but their growth curves have flattened as users explore alternatives.

  • Aisle and TrulyMadly hold their niches by appealing to cultural alignment and trust-first dating.

  • Happn offers a unique twist, but risks being overshadowed by the more aggressive growth of competitors.

In short, the market is no longer a one-app game. India’s dating app users in 2025 are spoilt for choice, and the winners are those who can adapt to evolving expectations — whether that’s through stronger safety features, better matchmaking algorithms, or simply making online dating feel a little more human.


Author:

Strategy Boffins Team