In the crowded world of online dating, the Once dating app aims to stand out with its unique approach of providing users one curated match per day. But does this “quality over quantity” philosophy lead to better connections and relationships? We took a deep dive into the Once app to find out.
How Once App Works
The core concept behind Once is simple: every day at noon, the app presents you with one potential match chosen by the company’s matchmaking algorithm and team. Both you and your match have 24 hours to like each other’s profiles and start chatting before the match expires.
One distinctive feature is that women must initiate the conversation if there’s a mutual match, a concept popularized by Bumble. The Once dating app review found that it recently introduced “Crowns,” an in-app currency that allows users to unlock additional features like sending a chat request to a match.
Pricing and Features
While Once is free to download and use, most of its features require purchasing Crowns. For example, unlocking a chat with your daily match costs 5 Crowns (about $5). There are also premium subscriptions ranging from $19.99/month to $71.99 for 12 months which provide some additional perks.
Some key free features include creating a profile, receiving one match per day, and watching live streams of other users. Paid features include the ability to browse and like other profiles, send chat requests, and see who liked you. This Once dating app review notes that the limited free functionality is a drawback.
User Experience and Reviews
The Once dating app has a sleek, modern interface that’s intuitive to navigate. Setting up a profile is straightforward, although some users have complained about the requirement to provide a phone number for verification.
In terms of matches, many users appreciate the curated approach that prioritizes compatibility over endless swiping. However, some reviewers felt that only receiving one match per day was too limiting, especially considering the need to use Crowns to chat with matches
One major red flag uncovered by this Once dating app review is the overwhelming number of user reports about fake profiles, bots, and scammers on the app. Many users have described matches that seem suspicious, with generic photos and information, and who try to move the conversation off the app quickly – classic signs of romance scams.
Even more concerning are reports that Once engages in manipulative tactics, like guilt-tripping users who try to leave negative reviews. This, combined with the high cost of Crowns needed to communicate with matches, has led many to conclude that the Once dating app is more focused on extracting money from users through deception than fostering genuine connections.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, here are the main benefits and drawbacks of the Once dating app based on our research and user reviews:Pros:
- Unique approach of one curated match per day
- Sleek, user-friendly interface
- Emphasis on compatibility and relationships over casual swiping
Cons:
- Very limited free features, with most actions requiring paid Crowns
- Numerous reports of fake profiles and romance scams
- Manipulative practices like guilting users over negative reviews
- One match per day feels restrictive to many users
This Once dating app review finds the cons significantly outweigh the pros.
Conclusion
While Once’s curated matchmaking concept is intriguing, the execution falls short due to the prevalence of fake profiles, high costs to actually use the app, and dubious business practices. The overwhelming consensus from user reviews is that the Once dating app is one to avoid.
Instead of wasting time and money on an app that seems designed to deceive, we recommend sticking with more reputable dating platforms like Bumble, Hinge, or Coffee Meets Bagel. While no dating app is perfect, these have proven track records of fostering genuine connections without the egregious red flags found with Once.
Ultimately, the key to success on any dating platform is staying vigilant, trusting your instincts, and prioritizing your safety and well-being. By keeping an eye out for romance scam warning signs and only engaging with matches who demonstrate authenticity and respect, you’ll greatly improve your odds of finding a meaningful connection online. We hope this Once dating app review helps you make an informed decision.
FAQs about the Once Dating App Review
What is the Once dating app?
Once is a dating app that provides users with one curated match per day, chosen by the app’s matchmaking algorithm. It aims to focus on quality over quantity when it comes to matches
How does Once work?
Users receive one suggested match every 24 hours, picked based on their age, location and interests. Both users have 24 hours to like each other’s profiles and start chatting before the match expires. Sending messages requires using the app’s currency called “crowns” which cost money.
Is Once free to use?
The app is free to download and create a profile. However, most features like messaging require purchasing “crowns” – 5 crowns cost $4.99 (about $1 per crown). Premium subscriptions range from $19.99/month to $71.99 for 12 months and provide some additional features
Is Once a legitimate dating app?
While the concept is interesting, the overwhelming consensus from user reviews is that Once engages in deceptive and scammy business practices. Most recommend avoiding it and using more reputable dating apps instead.
The app seems designed to extract money from users through emotional manipulation rather than genuinely helping people find relationships. There are frequent reports of fake profiles used to lure people into paying for features. This Once dating app review advises extreme caution.