Is Badoo a Good Dating App? An In-Depth Look at It

Let’s face it, the world of online dating can be exhausting. We’ve all been there. You download an app, spend an hour crafting the perfect bio, and then dive into a sea of endless swiping. Sometimes you hit gold; other times, you just get digital fatigue.

Amidst giants like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, Badoo has been quietly plugging away for years. It’s massive globally, yet often overlooked in the United States.

So, this naturally leads to the big question: is Badoo a good dating app? Is it a hidden gem or just another time-waster?

I decided to dive deep into the platform. I spent several weeks actively using Badoo, testing its features, analyzing the user base, and seeing what kind of connections it actually fosters. This review is a straightforward look at what works, what doesn’t, and whether it deserves a spot on your smartphone.

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What Exactly Is Badoo and How Does It Differ from Tinder?

Badoo is often confusing for first-time users. Is it a dating site? A social network? Or something else entirely?

In reality, it’s a bit of both. Badoo launched way back in 2006. Think about that for a second. It predates Tinder and even the iPhone app store.

Because of its age, Badoo has evolved significantly. It started more as a social discovery site. The goal wasn’t just dating. It was about meeting new people for any reason—friendship, chatting, or romance.

Today, however, it functions primarily as a dating app. Yet, it retains some of that “social discovery” DNA.

The History and Global Reach of Badoo

While Badoo is popular in the US, it’s an absolute behemoth in other parts of the world. Specifically, it dominates markets in South America, Eastern Europe, and parts of Asia.

It boasts hundreds of millions of users worldwide. This massive user base is one of its main selling points.

Interestingly, Badoo is now part of the same parent company that owns Bumble. This means they share technology and resources. Consequently, you might notice similarities in their interfaces and safety features.

The “Hybrid” Approach: Social Media Meets Dating

How does Badoo differ from Tinder? Tinder is laser-focused. It’s about the swipe, the match, and the chat. It’s streamlined for quick connections.

Badoo, on the other hand, offers multiple ways to connect. You can swipe (they call it “Encounters”). But you can also browse profiles of people in your vicinity. Furthermore, you can see who has viewed your profile.

It feels less restrictive than Tinder. Badoo allows users to message others without matching first, although this feature is often limited to prevent spam. This hybrid approach makes the platform feel more open and exploratory.

Getting Started: How Do You Sign Up for Badoo?

Jumping into Badoo is relatively straightforward. Like most modern apps, the onboarding process is designed to get you up and running quickly.

I grabbed a cup of coffee and sat down to create my profile. The whole process took maybe ten minutes.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Registration Options: You can sign up using your Facebook account, Google account, or your phone number. Using social media is faster, but using a phone number offers more privacy.
• Basic Information: You’ll enter the usual details: name, birthday, and location.
• Photos: Uploading photos is crucial. Badoo encourages users to upload several high-quality images.
• Interests and Bio: You can add details about your hobbies, what you’re looking for, and a short bio.

The app pushes you strongly toward completing your profile. Incomplete profiles get less visibility. Therefore, it’s worth taking the time to fill everything out.

Is Profile Verification on Badoo Reliable?

One feature Badoo heavily promotes is its verification process. This is essential for safety and trust. So, how does it work?

Badoo asks you to take a selfie mimicking a specific pose shown on the screen. For example, they might ask you to wave or give a thumbs-up.

A real human moderator then reviews the selfie against your profile pictures. If they match, you get a blue checkmark on your profile.

Is it foolproof? No system is perfect. However, it does a surprisingly good job of filtering out obvious catfish and fake profiles. I always recommend interacting only with verified profiles. It significantly increases the chances that the person you are talking to is who they say they are.

This verification step felt reassuring. It shows that Badoo is at least attempting to create a safer environment.

The User Experience: Navigating the Badoo Interface

Once your profile is set up, it’s time to start exploring. Badoo’s interface can feel a bit cluttered compared to the minimalist designs of Bumble or Hinge.

This is likely due to the sheer number of features packed into the app. It takes a little getting used to. The main navigation is located at the bottom of the screen.

You’ll find tabs for:

• People Nearby: Browsing local profiles.
• Encounters: The swiping game.
• Messages: Where your chats live.
• Profile: Your personal space to edit info and settings.

Let’s break down the two main ways to meet people.

What Is the “Encounters” Feature?

Let’s talk about “Encounters.” This is, essentially, Badoo’s version of the swipe-left/swipe-right game. It feels very familiar if you’ve used any other app in the last five years.

The app shows you a profile, including photos, age, and location. You tap the heart icon if you’re interested, or the X icon if you’re not. If both users tap the heart, a match is made, and you can start chatting.

Honestly, I found myself zoning out after about ten minutes. It’s quick, but it can feel a bit shallow. The Encounters game prioritizes photos over substance.

However, it is an efficient way to quickly see a large volume of potential matches in your area.

Using “People Nearby”: Does It Actually Work?

This feature is what sets Badoo apart from many competitors. “People Nearby” ditches the randomized swiping algorithm. Instead, it shows you a grid of users who are currently (or were recently) near your location.

This is great if you prefer a more traditional browsing experience. You can scroll through the list, click on profiles that catch your eye, and learn more about them.

Does it work? Yes, it does. It’s very effective for seeing who is actually active in your community.

However, there’s a catch. In the free version, you usually cannot message someone directly from this section without a match, unless you use “Credits” (more on those later). Still, you can “like” their profile, and they will be notified.

This feature feels more organic. It allows you to be more intentional about who you choose to interact with, rather than relying solely on the algorithm.

Badoo’s Features: What Makes It Unique?

Beyond the basics of swiping and browsing, Badoo offers a suite of features designed to enhance the user experience. Some are genuinely useful, while others feel a bit gimmicky.

The “Lookalikes” Feature: A Bit Strange?

One of the most talked-about (and strangest) features is “Lookalikes.” Badoo uses facial recognition technology. You can upload a picture of someone—perhaps a celebrity crush or just someone you find attractive—and the app will find users on Badoo who resemble them.

It sounds a little creepy, right?

In practice, it’s mostly just a novelty. I tried it with a picture of Ryan Reynolds (because why not?). The results were mixed. Some users vaguely resembled him, while others looked nothing alike.

It’s an interesting use of technology, but I doubt it leads to meaningful connections. It feels more like a party trick than a useful dating tool.

Video Chat and Live Streaming

Badoo incorporated video chat early on. This is a fantastic feature, especially in the modern dating landscape. It allows you to have a virtual date before meeting in person.

Moreover, it’s a great safety tool. A quick video chat can confirm someone’s identity and vibe.

Badoo also experimented with live streaming in the past, though this feature seems less prominent now. The focus has shifted more towards one-on-one video interactions.

Profile Scores and “Crushes”

Badoo used to have a feature where users could rate each other’s photos. Thankfully, they removed this. It felt superficial and often mean-spirited.

However, they still have ways to boost your visibility. If you really like someone in the Encounters game, you can send them a “Crush.” This immediately notifies them of your interest, rather than waiting for them to stumble upon your profile.

You only get a limited number of Crushes on the free tier.

The Cost of Connection: Is Badoo Free?

The short answer is yes. Badoo is entirely usable without paying a dime. This is a significant advantage over platforms like Match.com or eHarmony, which require a subscription for almost any interaction.

On the free version of Badoo, you can:

• Create a profile.
• Use the Encounters (swiping) feature.
• Browse “People Nearby.”
• Chat with matched users.

This makes Badoo very accessible. You can try it out thoroughly before deciding if you want to invest money into it.

However, the free version has limitations. You’ll encounter daily swipe limits, and you won’t have access to advanced features that can improve your success rate.

Understanding Badoo Premium: Is It Worth the Money?

Like most dating apps, Badoo offers a premium subscription called “Badoo Premium.” This unlocks several powerful features, often referred to as “superpowers.”

What do you get with Premium?

1. See Who Liked You: This is the big one. You can see a list of everyone who has already liked your profile. This saves a ton of time. You can instantly match with them.
2. Incognito Mode: You can browse profiles without them knowing you viewed them. This is great for privacy-conscious users.
3. Undo Your “No” Votes: Accidentally swiped left on someone interesting? Premium lets you undo it.
4. See Who Added You as a Favorite: Another way to gauge interest.
5. Chat with New Users First: Premium members can often message new users before others.
6. Ad-Free Experience: Removes all the annoying advertisements.

Is it worth it? If you are actively using the app and find the free limitations frustrating, Badoo Premium offers good value. The ability to see who likes you is a game-changer.

The pricing is reasonable, often cheaper than competitors. They offer various subscription lengths, from one week to a lifetime pass.

What Are Badoo Credits Used For?

In addition to the subscription model, Badoo also uses a “freemium” currency system called “Credits.” This is where things can get a little confusing.

Credits are used for specific actions designed to increase your visibility. You buy them separately from the Premium subscription.

You can use Credits to:

• “Rise Up”: This pushes your profile to the top of the “People Nearby” section for a limited time.
• Get Featured: Your photo appears on a featured bar visible to many users.
• Extra Shows in Encounters: This makes your profile appear more frequently in the swiping game.

Think of Credits as short-term boosts. They are useful if you want a quick burst of activity. For example, if you’re heading out on a Friday night and want to see who’s around, using Credits to “Rise Up” might be effective.

However, relying on Credits can become expensive quickly. It feels a bit like a mobile game monetization strategy. For most users, Badoo Premium offers better long-term value.

The Reality of Badoo: Pros and Cons from Real Use

After spending several weeks on the platform, I have a clear picture of Badoo’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s certainly not perfect, but it has a lot going for it.

Let’s break down the good and the bad.

What Are the Main Advantages of Using Badoo?

Badoo excels in several areas. Here are the biggest pros:

• Massive User Base: The sheer number of users is staggering. This means you are unlikely to run out of potential matches, especially in urban areas.
• Accessibility: The free version is very functional. You don’t need to pay to meet people.
• Multiple Ways to Connect: The combination of swiping (Encounters) and browsing (People Nearby) caters to different preferences.
• Strong Verification System: The photo verification feature significantly reduces the number of fake profiles.
• Global Reach: If you travel frequently, Badoo is a great app because it’s popular worldwide.

The atmosphere on Badoo also feels slightly more relaxed and less pressured than on apps like Bumble or Hinge.

What Are the Biggest Drawbacks of Badoo?

However, the app is far from flawless. Here are the main cons I encountered:

• Variable Profile Quality: Because the barrier to entry is so low (it’s free and easy to sign up), you will encounter many low-effort profiles. I saw countless profiles with blurry photos and no bios.
• Cluttered Interface: The app can feel overwhelming. There are too many features, notifications, and monetization prompts.
• Spam and Bots: Despite the verification system, some spam accounts and bots still slip through the cracks. You need to be vigilant.
• Monetization Strategy: The mix of Premium subscription and Credits feels confusing and sometimes pushy.
• Focus on Appearance: Like many dating apps, Badoo is heavily photo-centric, which can feel superficial.

The quality of matches can be very hit-or-miss. You have to sift through a lot of noise to find the signal.

Safety First: How Safe Is Badoo for Dating?

When evaluating any dating app, safety is paramount. Is Badoo a safe platform?

The answer is complicated. Badoo has implemented several features designed to protect its users. However, the ultimate responsibility for safety still lies with the individual.

Badoo’s Safety Features

We already discussed the photo verification system. This is the first line of defense against catfishing.

Additionally, Badoo offers:

• Blocking and Reporting: You can easily block users who make you uncomfortable and report suspicious behavior. Badoo’s moderation team seems relatively responsive.
• Private Detector: Badoo uses AI to automatically detect and blur unsolicited explicit images (e.g., nude photos) sent in chats. You receive a warning and can choose whether to view the image or not. This is a fantastic feature.
• In-App Video Chat: As mentioned earlier, this allows you to verify someone’s identity before meeting in person.

These features put Badoo on par with, or even ahead of, other major dating apps in terms of safety technology.

Real Risks and Precautions

Despite these features, risks remain. Online dating inherently involves interacting with strangers.

It’s crucial to remember that people are not always who they claim to be. Even verified profiles can belong to individuals with bad intentions.

Research from organizations like the Pew Research Center highlights that harassment and negative experiences are unfortunately common in online dating spaces, particularly for women. (You can read more about the experiences of online daters in the U.S. here.)

Therefore, you must take precautions:

• Protect Your Personal Information: Never share sensitive details like your home address, workplace, or financial information.
• Meet in Public: Your first meeting should always be in a safe, public place.
• Inform Someone: Let a friend or family member know where you are going and who you are meeting.
• Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to end the conversation or the date.

Badoo provides the tools, but you need to use them wisely.

Who Is Badoo Best Suited For?

Badoo occupies a unique space in the dating app ecosystem. It’s not as casual as Tinder, but it’s not as serious as eHarmony.

So, who is it really for?

Badoo is best suited for individuals who want flexibility. It’s ideal if you’re open to different types of connections—whether that’s casual dating, friendship, or something long-term.

It’s also great for people who are frustrated with the limitations of algorithmic swiping. The “People Nearby” feature allows for a more organic discovery process.

Demographically, Badoo’s user base is diverse. While it skews slightly younger (18-35), there are plenty of users in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.

Is Badoo Good for Serious Relationships or Just Hookups?

This is perhaps the most common question. Can you find a serious relationship on Badoo?

Absolutely. With such a large user base, there are many people looking for long-term commitment.

However, Badoo’s open nature also attracts users looking for casual encounters or hookups. It’s a mixed bag.

The key is to be clear about your intentions. Badoo allows you to state what you are looking for on your profile (e.g., “Dating,” “Chatting,” “Something serious”). Use these filters to narrow down your search.

If you are looking exclusively for a serious relationship, a platform like Hinge or Match might be more efficient. But if you are open-minded and willing to put in the effort to filter through profiles, Badoo can yield great results.

The Final Verdict: Should You Download Badoo?

We return to the original question: is Badoo a good dating app?

In my experience, yes, it is a good dating app—provided you understand what it is and how to use it effectively.

Badoo is not a magic bullet. It won’t instantly solve your dating woes. It requires patience, effort, and a healthy dose of skepticism.

Why Badoo Is Worth Trying

Badoo’s strengths lie in its massive user base, its functional free tier, and its robust safety features. The hybrid approach of combining swiping with location-based browsing is refreshing.

If you feel like you’ve exhausted your options on other apps, or if you simply want to cast a wider net, Badoo is definitely worth a try.

When You Should Skip Badoo

If you prefer a highly curated, minimalist experience, Badoo’s cluttered interface might frustrate you. If you are looking for a platform exclusively dedicated to serious relationships, there might be better options. And if you are easily overwhelmed by too many choices, Badoo’s massive user base could be a liability rather than an asset.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best dating app is the one that works for you. Badoo offers a compelling alternative to the mainstream options. It’s accessible, versatile, and widely used.

My advice? Download it, get your profile verified, and explore the free version. You have nothing to lose, and potentially, someone special to gain. Just remember to use it wisely, stay safe, and try to have some fun along the way. Dating is a journey, and Badoo is just one potential path.

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