Wondering whether singles events or dating apps are going to give you the best chances of finding a potential partner? We’ve weighed up the pros and cons of each to help you figure out where your soulmate just might be waiting.
The two are obviously wildly different. One chucks you right in at the deep end, while the other gives you the opportunity to consider your options a bit more first.
And, actually, both are great ways of finding dates. But it’s really more about what (or who) you’re looking for.
The sorts of people you’ll meet at singles events will probably be different to those you’ll meet on a dating app. They’ll likely be more outgoing and might not necessarily be looking for anything serious too quickly.
On the flip, you’ll discover a whole range of personalities on dating apps, and they may be a bit more picky about who they want to spend their time on (and who can blame them in today’s dating world?).
If you’re not sure where is best to start dating, here’s what we think…
Types of Dating Events for Singles
Before you jump into a dating event, it’s important to learn the different types, how they work and the thinking behind them.
There are lots of types of singles events, such as…
- Tailored singles events
- Singles parties
- Speed dating
- Traffic light parties
Singles Parties
Singles parties are exactly what they sound like — parties full of single people.
They’re often organised by event companies (and sometimes dating apps) in pubs, bars, clubs, or other venues, often with around 20-50 people attending, although this really depends on the nature of the event, how well-known it is, and where it is.
You can expect loud music and a lively atmosphere, providing many opportunities to interact with other singles. These events may have a theme, such as a specific age range, interest, or profession, to help participants find others who share common interests.
Some singles parties also include icebreaker activities and games to help break the ice and facilitate conversation between attendees.
They are usually ticketed events and may require advance registration or payment, so don’t expect to just show up and join in.
Speed Dating
Speed dating is all about short, timed conversations — usually just 3 to 10 minutes — with different people. You rotate between tables, which makes it a super-efficient way to meet a lot of new faces quickly.
The fast pace can be exciting and fun, pushing you to focus on the most important things in a potential connection.
It’s a great way to get a quick snapshot of different personalities, perfect if you’re short on time.
But let’s be real, the time limits can feel a little intense, and it’s not for everyone. Plus, those quick chats don’t leave much room to really get to know someone on a deeper level.
Traffic Light Parties
Traffic light parties are exactly what they sound like. Attendees wear coloured indicators, green means single and open to meeting someone, so it’s super easy to know someone’s relationship status.
It’s perfect if you’re shy since it takes the pressure off starting those “are you single?” conversations. This setup makes it easy to have direct, meaningful chats with people who are clearly available.
That said, it might feel a little less spontaneous compared to other events since the focus is all about your current status instead of organic interactions.
Plus, the coloured indicators can make those first interactions feel a bit surface-level.
Tailored Singles Events
Tailored singles events are just like singles nights, except they tend to be focused on specific interests, demographics, or beliefs (like single Christians or horse lovers).
Everyone there is single and looking to connect, which makes things way easier than a traffic light party.
And, because these events are tailored, you’re more likely to meet people who share your interests and values, making it easier to build meaningful connections.
The downside?
There might be a smaller pool of people compared to general singles events, especially depending on how niche the demographic is.
But overall, these parties are ideal for meeting someone when their beliefs or interests are a priority for you.
What Are the Pros & Cons of Singles Dating Events?
So, if those are the different types of singles dating events, what are the good and not-so-good things about them?
We’ve summarised the main advantages and disadvantages for you below…
| Pros of Singles Events | Cons of Singles Events |
| Instant face-to-face interaction | Can feel pressured or overwhelming, especially for introverts |
| Efficient way to meet multiple people quickly | Conversations are often short and rushed |
| Everyone is there to meet someone (shared intent) | Not all attendees may be your type or share your values |
| Held in safe, controlled, public environments | Noisy venues or alcohol can detract from meaningful conversation |
| Can help build social confidence and communication skills | Conversations can also feel awkward or forced |
Are Dating Apps Better Than Real-Life Dating Events?
Now, the other side of our debate: dating apps.
A bit like dating events, dating apps are diverse and varied. There are apps created for certain ages, sexualities, locations, relationship preferences, and more.
You’ll likely have a much higher chance of success if you use a tailored dating app, rather than one of the generic ones since you can narrow your search down to people who are already interested in the same things as you.
They Are If You Use Wisp!
At Wisp, we like to do things differently.
Our dating app has been created for singletons looking for genuine connections that actually last.
That seemingly endless talking stage? You won’t get that here.
Instead, our app gives you the functionality to arrange a date straight away, so you don’t have to suffer through weeks of back-and-forth messaging.
Plus, our app utilises advanced algorithms to match you with people who share similar interests and values. This means you’ll have a better chance of finding someone truly compatible, rather than just swiping through endless profiles.
So if you’re tired of wasting time on dating apps that don’t align with your preferences or values, give Wisp a try and see the difference it can make in your love life.
Who knows, you may just find your perfect match right here.
Download Wisp now and start your journey towards meaningful connections.
Shameless promo out of the way… let’s look at the advantages of dating apps over dating events…
1. Connect With So Many Singles Quickly
While singles events are popular, there’s no way you can meet as many people there in a short amount of time as you can on a dating app.
Don’t get us wrong — we know that quality over quantity is the rule when it comes to dating, but meeting more people increases your chances of meeting the right person.
It’s just a numbers game.
Of course, with dating apps, there are smart algorithms that help make sure you’re only seeing the profiles that match the things you’ve said you’re looking for, so it’s not quite like scrolling through a list of randos.
2. Meet People Easier With Social Anxiety
If you struggle with social anxiety, the thought of attending a singles night is enough to make you feel sick. That’s where dating apps come in.
It’s much easier to meet people when you’re not having to introduce yourself in person every five minutes.
It also gives you a bit of space to craft responses to messages, so you feel less likely to put your foot in it when nervously interacting.
3. Introduce Yourself More Easily
Speaking of introducing yourself…
We’re not sure we’ve ever met someone who’s nailed introducing themselves to new people. It’s a skill that’s hard to master. That’s why dating apps are so convenient.
You fill out your profile, and everything they need to know about you is right there, so you don’t have to think of new ways to make yourself sound interesting all the time.
With Wisp specifically, when potential matches are scrolling through, they’ll see the most important information about you so they can make a quick, informed decision about whether to match.
These include:
- Your exercise habits
- Your name, age, & profile picture
- Your height
- Your star sign
- Your dietary preferences
- What you’re looking for
- Whether you have children
- Whether you want children
- Your religious beliefs
- Your political leaning
- Your education level
- Your smoking habits
- Your drinking habits
4. Plenty of Safety Precautions in Place
While dating event organisers make every effort to make the events safe and vet people, it can be harder than on a dating app, especially if it’s in a public place.
With dating apps like Wisp, you can relax knowing we’ve vetted our users using ID checks. We’ve also made it super easy to report anyone who’s behaving in a way that makes you uncomfortable.
You can check out how the app works more in-depth in our complete guide to how Wisp works.
How to Stay Safe When Using Dating Apps
When using dating apps to find love, prioritising your safety is essential. Start by keeping your personal information secure — avoid sharing sensitive details like your home address, workplace, or financial information early on.
Engage in conversations within the app to benefit from its safety features and communication tools. When you decide to meet someone in person, choose a public location and inform a trusted friend or family member about your plans.
It’s also wise to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting.
Lastly, trust your instincts — if something feels off, don’t hesitate to end the interaction or report the behaviour to the app’s support team.
Staying cautious doesn’t mean compromising on fun, and it ensures your experience remains safe and positive.
How to Avoid Dating App Fatigue
Feeling stuck in an endless loop of swiping and repetitive dates? It might be time to hit pause.
Overusing dating apps can leave you feeling drained, turning dating into a chore instead of something fun and exciting.
Taking a break from the apps can help you reset, figure out what you’re really looking for, and come back with a fresh mindset when you’re ready.
Another way to mix things up is to try meeting people in real life. Whether it’s at a pub, club, or a live music event, social settings are great for sparking natural connections.
Plus, doing activities you actually enjoy increases the chance of meeting someone who shares your interests, with zero app pressure!
By balancing online dating with real-life interactions, you can keep things fresh and more enjoyable.
Try a Dating App With a Difference With Wisp
Wisp is the perfect middle ground between traditional dating apps and singles events.
Unlike conventional apps, Wisp’s new dating app goes beyond endless swiping by offering opportunities for genuine, in-person connections.
With a carefully curated algorithm designed to connect you with like-minded people and a messaging feature that avoids an endless back-and-forth, Wisp makes it easy to meet new people without the pressure or discomfort of typical speed dating scenarios.
Take the plunge and get set to meet by downloading the brand new Wisp app today!
FAQs
What Percentage of Singles Are on Dating Apps?
Around 50-60% of singles use dating apps globally, depending on the region and demographic. These platforms are increasingly popular for meeting potential partners conveniently, with many users finding meaningful connections through them.
Are Gen Z-ers Using Dating Apps?
Yes, Gen Z-ers are actively using dating apps, as they value digital connections. These platforms align with their fast-paced, tech-savvy lifestyle and provide a less intimidating way of meeting new people.
Are Singles Events Better Than Online Dating?
No, singles events are not necessarily better than online dating. While they offer face-to-face interaction, they can feel intimidating or pressured, whereas online dating provides convenience, wider options, and the ability to connect at a comfortable pace.
Is it Better to Meet People in Real Life or Online?
Both have merits. Real-life meetings offer genuine connections and body language cues, while online platforms provide accessibility and a broader pool of people. The choice depends on personal preferences, comfort, and the desired pace of forming relationships.