Hornet vs Grindr: Welcome to the battle of the top gay dating apps!
With so many options in 2023, it can be challenging for UK guys to decide which app is right for them. That’s why we’re putting two of the biggest names in gay dating head-to-head: Hornet and Grindr. Read on to discover how these two apps compare for UK users on metrics like features, user bases, interfaces, pricing models, etc. By the end, you’ll know which app reigns supreme this year!
Key Features of Hornet and Grindr
Founded in 2011, Hornet positions itself as more of a social network than just a basic dating app. Some key features that appeal to UK users include:
- In-app articles and gay-themed content relevant to UK issues
- Digital wallet for making payments in £
- Verified UK profiles and selfie verification
- UK-based group chats and forums based on interests
- Ability to search UK-wide profiles or locally
Grindr, launched in 2009, is laser-focused on enabling hookups based on location. Some core features popular with UK guys:
- Geosocial networking showing nearby UK users
- Filters like body type and what I’m looking for
- Chat and photo sharing
- Push notifications when UK users are nearby
- Local UK LGBTQ+ news and safety alerts
Winner:
Hornet offers more well-rounded features for dating, socialising and reading news, while Grindr focuses solely on facilitating hookups.
User Base Comparison in the UK
As one of the first significant gay dating apps, Grindr has amassed a vast UK user base over the past decade. It has about 4 million daily active users globally, with hundreds of thousands estimated to be in the UK. This gives it broad reach for UK guys seeking hookups.
While smaller globally, Hornet has over 4 million registered users in the UK. So, its UK-specific user base is still substantial. An advantage is that UK Hornet users tend to be relationship-minded men seeking more than a quick fling. Its articles and UK community features foster engagement.
For UK users, both apps cater primarily to gay and bisexual men. Grindr includes filters for trans and queer users. Hornet has more comprehensive options like non-binary and pansexual that resonate in the UK.
Winner:
Grindr has more UK users overall, but Hornet likely attracts more relationship-oriented UK guys.
Ease of Use and Interface for UK Users
Let’s start with Grindr – its app design and interface have changed little over the past decade. You’re presented with a grid of nearby UK profiles, tapping one to view photos and send messages. It looks basic and dated compared to newer apps.
Hornet stands out with a more visual, modern interface. UK profiles have large photos at the top, and you scroll down to view details rather than just tapping a grid. Colourful graphics and sections provide relevant UK content, shops and groups. Overall, Hornet appears more polished and appealing to UK users.
In terms of ease of use, both apps are reasonably intuitive once you understand the essential matching and messaging functions. Hornet may have a slight learning curve for UK guys due to additional features like its digital wallet and groups.
Winner:
Hornet offers a more modern, visually appealing interface than Grindr’s dated design.
Premium Features for UK Users: Hornet X vs Grindr Xtra vs Unlimited
Now, let’s compare the premium subscriptions. Hornet X costs £7.99/month for UK users and offers perks like:
- No ads
- Unlimited UK swipes and matches
- Up to 200 chats
- Unlimited profile filters
- Access to exclusive UK articles
For Grindr Xtra, it’s £19.99/month in the UK. Benefits include:
- No banner ads
- Unlimited blocks and UK favourites
- Chat with up to 600 UK people
- 100+ profile filters
Grindr also offers Grindr Unlimited for £39.99/month with unlimited swipes, chats, filters, etc.
Winner:
Hornet Premium provides the best extra value for UK guys, especially given the price.
Safety, Privacy and Moderation in the UK
Both apps include profile reporting and blocking tools. But Hornet goes further with optional selfie verification to confirm UK identity and prevent catfishing. Its moderator team actively removes offensive or dangerous UK users, too.
Grindr has faced backlash in the UK previously for security flaws that exposed users’ HIV status and locations. The app now limits data sharing, but privacy concerns remain in Britain.
So, while neither app is perfect, Hornet appears to invest more in moderation and protecting its UK community specifically. However, users should take reasonable precautions when meeting matches in person.
Winner:
Hornet edges out Grindr for UK users needing verification, robust blocking, and active moderation.
Pros and Cons of Each App for UK Users
To recap, here are some key pros and cons of each app from the perspective of UK gay and bi men:
Hornet
Pros:
- More relationship-focused UK community
- Modern interface and user experience
- Built-in news, content and UK forums
- Verified UK profiles and tight moderation
- Affordable Premium package
Cons:
- Smaller UK user base overall
- Potential learning curve with added features
- Fewer niche filters and options
Grindr
Pros:
- Huge global and UK user base
- Efficient for local hookups and casual encounters
- A simple grid design is easy to navigate.
- Robust unlimited package for power users
Cons:
- A very hookup-focused crowd in the UK
- Interface looks dated compared to newer apps
- Ongoing privacy concerns in the UK
- Pricier packages with less value
Making Your Choice: Hornet vs Grindr for UK Guys in 2023
So, which gay dating app comes out on top for users in the UK in 2023? It depends on your priorities as a gay or bisexual man:
For relationships, community and verified UK profiles, go with Hornet. The variety of features engaged the UK user base, and moderation makes it easier to find meaningful connections beyond hookups.
For efficiency, scale and casual fun, choose Grindr. With a vast global and UK user base, Grindr is ideal for no-strings-attached local encounters and short-term dating while travelling around Britain.
Whichever you choose, take reasonable safety precautions when meeting matches. We hope this detailed comparison highlights the key pros and cons of Hornet and Grindr for British gay and bisexual men in 2023. Now get out there, choose your app, and enjoy LGBTQ+ dating in the digital age across the UK!
Disclaimer: This article compares subscription pricing for Hornet Premium and Grindr Xtra/Unlimited based on rates at the time of writing in 2023. However, app subscription costs can change over time, so be sure to check current pricing if you are considering a paid membership. The comparisons and conclusions made in this article are intended to be generally applicable based on the overall features and reputations of each app, regardless of short-term price fluctuations.
