On the hunt for a sex app that's safe, secure, and simple to use? You're in the right place. Here at Marie Claire UK, we're all about promoting sexual wellness and know that, for some, dating apps aren't what you're after (we're all prone to the occasional right swipe, but might not be looking for a relationship).
Tinder is notorious for being one of the best sex apps out there, but it certainly isn’t the only one. So, why use a sex app? As relationship expert Alex Griffiths explains, sex has been proven to be good for both your physical and mental health. "It has a huge impact on your mental health," he shares.
How? Well, data suggests that if you masturbate or have sex once a week, the influx of oxytocin and dopamine seriously boosts your mood. "Taking a moment for release and to escape from worldly pressures is important for all of us, and frankly, what better way to improve our wellness," Griffiths goes on. Who needs a fitness tracker when you can enhance your quality of life with, well, sex?
We've asked some of the best experts in the business to share their go-to sex apps - you'll find the perfect Netflix and chill buddy in no time. Trust us - there's an app for everyone.
Don't miss our guides to the best fitness apps, best yoga apps, and best sleep tracking apps, while you're here.
Testing process for the best sex app
Things like price, user experience, and quality of in-app navigation were considered - plus, how easy the app was to use.
Sharing their go-to- sex apps are our trusted board of pros, including:
- Alex Griffiths, co-founder of Roam
- Julia Kotziamani, love, sex, and relationship coach
- Barbara Santini, psychologist, sex therapist and relationship adviser at Dime Piecela
- Jessica Leoni, sex and relationship expert with IllicitEncounters
15 best sex apps to try for casual hookups
1. Feeld
How does Feeld work?
Always wanted a threesome but never known where to find that special (extra) someone? Well, just like 3Fun, Feeld is a dating app to help you out. Feeld works much like Tinder; log on through Facebook (there’s an option to change your name), choose the composition of your group (2+1, or 1+1+1) and swipe through hundreds of potential matches in your area.
Why is Feeld one of the best sex apps?
This app has the ease of tinder, and much like that, most of the fun lies in the swiping. Once you’ve matched, how things proceed is up to you. Just remember to keep your friends informed of your whereabouts - taking extra precautions when meeting strangers is always advised.
What the experts think:
Alex Griffiths, Co-Founder of Roam, says: "I definitely suggest giving the Feeld app a go if you're keen to connect with a community of sex-positive members looking to explore. I think it's one of the best sex apps because it brings interesting, open-minded people together at scale. It's worth a go, even if you’re just dipping your toe in.”
Kotziamani agrees, adding: "I’m currently in a non-monogamous relationship and we use Feeld to explore our kinkier side and for group sex. I like how upfront and respectful it is and the platform is pretty user-friendly."
Check out the Feeld website or download it for Apple or Android now.
2. Bumble
How does Bumble work?
Bumble calls itself a feminist app; for any matches that happen, the woman must start the chat within 24 hours, or it disappears. It's become one of the best-known dating and sex apps on the market for helping people to build valuable relationships. Not the best option for casual flings, but definitely worth joining the millions who use the app if you're after something a bit more invested.
Bumble is a location-based dating app that follows the “swipe right or left” format that Tinder made so famous. When two people “like” each other's profile by swiping right, a “connection” (match) is formed and messages can then be exchanged.
Why is Bumble one of the best sex apps?
Pressure is high with that time limit, but it helps you quickly figure out whether that guy is worth the initial message. Plus, the control is totally in your hands, and you know that rules and safety regulations should be strict, as it's such a well-known and developed app.
What the experts think:
Jessica Leoni, sex and relationship expert at IllicitEncounters.com says: "Bumble is best for choosy women. With the app, only the female in heterosexual matches can make the first move with matched male users. So initially at first, everything is done on the woman's terms. You can pick and choose exactly who you think is appropriate according to your needs."
Love, sex and relationship coach Julia Kotziamani agrees, adding: "Bumble is a great dating app for meeting people and has a less smash and dash vibe than Tinder."
Check out the Bumble website or download it for Apple or Android now.
MC UK approved sex toys to shop now:
Nipple clamps might seem intimidating, but they can actually be a fun starting point if you and your partner are keen to try something new. This design from Lovehoney is skin-safe and sex expert-approved.
A viral toy that blew up on TikTok last year, this rose clitoral suction vibrator promises to be both pretty and powerful. For more of a deep dive into the pros and cons of the toy, read a sex expert's Rose sex toy review, here.
Like the sound of a rich and indulgent oil that smells delicious, too? The Coco de Mer products are always top of the range. Add this specific one to basket to scent your intimate moments with notes of fig and orange blossom.
3. Kama
How does Kama work?
Kama calls itself a sex coaching app and focuses on the idea of pleasure as a key component of your health. As per their website, their mission "is to transform how we experience pleasure and its role in our wellbeing. We want to help people of all ages, genders, and sexualities make sexual satisfaction a part of their everyday lives by connecting their mind, body, and heart."
Why is Kama one of the best sex apps?
Keen to learn new sex positions, learn the (literal) ins and outs of tantric sex and improve your sexual confidence? Then Kama is the app for you, as it offers all of this and more, with a focus on sexual wellbeing.
What the experts think:
Alex Griffiths, Co-Founder of Roam, says: "For those looking for some direction on exploration, I'd highly recommend the Kama app as a starting point. Kama is great for anyone looking to better engage with their sexual wellbeing, and has much to learn for couples and solos alike. It's basically Headspace for sex."
Check out the Kama website or download it for Apple or Android now.
4. WeAreX
How does WeAreX work?
WeAreX is a shame-free, sexually liberated social network which encourages emotional and sexual exploration. According to the team, the dating app is groundbreaking in that it promises to revolutionise the way people connect.
Providing a safe platform, their aim is to enable members to "step into their true sexual selves" through connections with others who share their passions and curiosities.
It offers individual and couple accounts and options for shared or individual login details, too. Watch out for the icebreaker questions, designed to help you connect in an authentic way, and the "meet tonight" option designed for instant connections.
Why is WeAreX one of the best sex apps?
Because it's sexually liberating and safe, too.
What the experts think:
Julia Kotziamani, love, sex, and relationship coach, says: "For sex positive content, dating, parties, and socialising, I use this app and love it. It’s the only one permanently on my phone."
Check out the WeAreX website or download it for Apple or Android now.
5. Tinder
How does Tinder work?
You'll probably know - nearly everyone has tried the app. Tinder has over 55 billion matches to date and is one of the front runners for a sex app that offers a bit of everything, from casual hookups to more serious dates. As their website says, "it doesn’t matter if you want to find love, a date, or just have a casual chat, you want an app that’s the right match for you. And it’s not always black and white – when you want to meet new people, your friends at Tinder can help you out with features designed to make the impossible possible. Dating online just got easier."
Why is Tinder one of the best sex apps?
The proof is in the stats, really. Plus it's really simple to use - download the app and swipe left or right to skip or like other members' profiles. If they've swiped right too, you'll have a match and you can get chatting.
What the experts think:
Jessica Leoni, sex and relationship expert at IllicitEncounters.com says: "While it is predominantly a younger person's app - a third of Tinder users are aged 18 to 24 - there are lots of people aged 35 plus giving it a go. Stats show a quarter of users are 25 to 34, and around 20% are aged 35 to 44."
"Given its popularity, you would be a fool not to give it a go if you are 40-plus and looking for some fun. Yes, you might well find some younger guys turned on by the whole Mrs. Robinson thing - and what is wrong with that? They could be a lot of fun and the sex could be great. You are only as old as you feel - get out there and see how it goes.”
Check out the Tinder website or download it for Apple or Android now.
6. Thursday
How does Thursday work?
Perhaps surprisingly, Thursday only works on... yep, you guessed it, Thursdays. The new app is based around the premise that you should actually be having IRL dates, so only gives you a short but sweet 24 hours to chase those matches and arrange those dates.
It's invite-only, and according to the app, 110,000 lucky users are already signed up. Plus, catfishing is banned, and all users must be verified and prove their identity (with a passport or driver's license scan) pre-joining.
Don't worry if you don't live in London or New York - the app is available in Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool, Glasgow, and Dublin, too.
Why is Thursday one of the best sex apps?
Well, it's very talked about at the moment, semi-exclusive, and encourages you to get off your screen and spend more time actually out there dating... what's not to like? Plus, they're hosting members-only events from the summer. Enjoy.
What the users think:
Smudge897 says: "My kind of dating app! I’ve been using Thursday since it launched and I’m a big fan. The concept of the app really works for me and I’ve been on a few dates with matches from Thursday already. It’s great to cut the small talk and make plans off the bat, especially knowing that matches are expecting that."
"Having been on it since the start, I can already see its growth and how the team are taking feedback on board and making improvements to the user experience. I’m excited to keep using Thursday and to see what comes from it!"
Check out the Thursday website or download it for Apple or Android now.
7. Be Naughty
How does Be Naughty work?
Designed for adults on the lookout for a new partner or love interest, Be Naughty lets you get straight to the point, actively encouraging no-strings-attached encounters. Sound up your street? Get downloading.
Why is Be Naughty one of the best sex apps?
It's safe, easy to use, and brings together a community of like-minded individuals looking to hook up.
What the experts think:
Barbara Santini, psychologist, sex therapist, and relationship adviser at dimepiecela.com, says: "I highly recommend this app to anyone looking to better their sex life, dating, and no-strings-attached relationships. With over 13 million users globally, Be Naughty is the app you need to satisfy your sexual needs. It’s easy to operate, fun to look for matches, safe, and fast. The like features allow you to connect with potential matches with a simple swipe in the gallery. Get to learn new naughty ways to spice things in your sex life from this amazing app."
Check out the Be Naughty website now.
More MC UK approved sex toys:
Jordan Dixon, clinical psychosexual and relationship psychotherapist at The Thought House, shares that lots of her clients rave about the Satisfyer. FYI, it's an oral sex stimulator and as close as you'll get to the real thing in machine-form.
Scotty Unfamous, an award-winning erotic romance author and sexfluencer, says that the Bed Geek wand is surprisingly quiet, powerful, and have lots of different settings to enjoy.
According to Annabelle Knight, a sex and relationship expert, this vibrating bullet is a great option if you've never bought a sex toy before. Enjoy..
8. Lover
How does Lover work?
Fun fact: 87% of people said they felt 'greater sex life satisfaction' having used Lover for just a week. Not bad. Lover promises to offer a science-based approach to sexual hiccups and issues and essentially acts as a personal sex therapist. Think research-based content and guides covering exactly what you're keen to explore sexually.
Why is Lover one of the best sex apps?
As above, it comes complete with guides, videos, and educational games, so you can watch, listen, play and learn. Not only will it spice things up in the bedroom, but it'll help you educate yourself on how to improve your sexual wellbeing, too. Think feeling more relaxed during sex, getting connected with your partner, and expressing your sexual desires. Because having a healthy sex life = better health generally. Hear, hear.
It's free to download but to unlock all content, you have to pay a £9.99 weekly subscription fee.
What the users think:
Kevin_Mackey says: "Amazing at the insight and connection to me. It feels as if the author is or has been on the path I am walking. How quickly and accurately I was able to identify areas and reflections about me and my experiences."
"I truly feel the positive possibilities about making amazing improvements and changes in my our sexual journey."
Check out the Lover website or download it for Apple or Android now.
9. HER
How does HER work?
Forget Grindr, Her is a hook-up app for LGBTQ+ women, by LGBTQ+ women. While it sells itself as more of a lesbian/bi/trans community rather than a dating platform, it’s one of the most popular apps for the audience in the entire world. Beyond meeting other like-minded individuals, you’ll also be able to find out about gay-friendly news and events going on in your area so you can take things offline.
Why is HER one of the best sex apps?
There aren’t enough apps out there for our LGBTQ sisters and as far as they go, this is one of the best. We love the news and events updates, too.
What the users think:
JustMeAshe says: "I downloaded this app by recommendation of a friend to branch out and explore my pansexuality more than I have been able to in the past. I really liked the app and I made some friends on there but the biggest thing that came out of this app is my now girlfriend of 4 months."
"I didn’t expect anything from this app, was going to just keep things casual but this girl is literally my world, my literal better half and soulmate and it’s been probably the best 4 months of my life. I don’t think I would have ever met her if it weren’t for her app. It allowed me to meet someone outside of my small town and it’s been the best thing to have happened to me truthfully. She is truly my best friend and my world."
Check out the HER website or download it for Apple or Android now.
10. IllicitEncounters
How does it work?
The UK’s largest dating site for married people, Illicit Encounters is designed to be “discreet, safe, and fun” for those who are already in committed relationships.
Many modern couples are turning their backs on monogamy in order to embrace open relationships, but already being married or attached can be a major deal breaker for people on traditional dating sites - making it tricky to find potential partners. Illicit Encounters make this easier by matching you with people who are in a similar situation who are also looking to date outside of their committed relationships.
Why is Illicit Encounters one of the best sex apps?
The site creates a non-judgemental, no-pressure environment for members. Unlike other sites, members can remain anonymous with password protection on photographs, to protect their identities.
Do note, though - it's a sex site. They don't currently have an app.
What the experts think:
Jessica Leoni, sex and relationship expert at IllicitEncounters.com says: “You are never going to stop people from having affairs but if you are feeling the itch to stray far better to do it with someone who is in the same boat and is looking for a bit of discreet fun. Lots of people having affairs have no intention of leaving their main partner and just need the excitement of a fresh relationship. That is what IllicitEncounters.com provides - lots of fun, minimal complications.”
Check out the Illicit Encounters website now.
More MC UK approved sex toys:
Knight calls this toy two-for-the-price-of-one, pointing out that it enables both G-spot and clitoral stimulation. Plus, it's a good price point. What's not to love?
Aleece Fosnight, board-certified physician assistant specialising in sexual medicine and CEO of the Fosnight Centre for Sexual Health, calls the Dame Kip vibrator small but mighty, adding that it's easy to use anywhere - shower included.
Cooper calls this a great toy for exploring your sexual fantasies with your partner.
Read her in-depth Lovehoney Love Egg review, here.
11. HUD
How does HUD work?
With a tag line like "why be limited to one option at a time," you know what you're getting with HUD. Join nine million users on the casual dating app by linking your Facebook profile or mobile number and you're off. No strings attached.
Why is HUD one of the best sex apps?
It'll definitely help you on your no-strings sex quest, but be warned - people can join anonymously, which does compromise the quality of people you're meeting a little. Although their video chat does have an auto blur safety feature.
What the users think:
Ender5200 says: "So I’ve been using the app for about 2 months now on and off and it does what it is intended to do. so much better than all the other so-called hookup apps... in fact, I would go as far to say this is better than the pure app (if you know what that is). But it does have some drawbacks. It has some great safety features to keep only the right people on the app, but that also means some people get permabanned for no reason and not told what they did wrong."
Check out the HUD website or download it for Apple or Android now.
12. Pure
How does Pure work?
Great if you want to find no strings sex right now. Once you’re a member, you submit a request and state whether you're looking for a man or a woman and where you’d prefer to meet. You’ll then be given some potential matches.
Why is Pure one of the best sex apps?
Great for privacy. Your photo and tagline are only displayed for an hour at a time, which also means you'd better move fast.
What the users think:
Keeley Bennett says: "Definitely the most female-empowering dating apps currently on the market."
"I’m genuinely into one-night-stands - they're just such an exciting thing to do - but I obviously want to have the highest level of security possible when looking for one. Neglected by many girls is data security and anonymity as well. There is no reason to share your social media profile, to share a lot of pictures and give out details on your life. Pure offers the ability to create chats which automatically delete themselves - you can video chat with virtual masks and you can activate the automatic destruction of pictures you send to someone after a fixed time frame."
"It’s not pseudo-anonymity like Tinder or Lovoo, it goes much much deeper than that. This is why I recommend Pure for women looking to have a casual dating experience, as it’s the safest option out there right now. While there are certainly always “creeping” men on every app, Pure has a very responsive support team. Once when I used it, a guy brought up zoophilia. I connected with a support team member and received an answer within minutes. Five stars, I hope this start-up is going to bloom and stick to its core values."
Check out the Pure website or download it for Apple or Android now.
13. Diskreet
How does Diskreet work?
An app that keeps your naked photos, selfies, and sex videos safe and secure. You can only access the files if you and the other person(s) involved enter passwords. The idea behind this is that only you and your partner can watch your previous bedroom antics together.
Why is Diskreet one of the best sex apps?
Good for couples or friends with benefits who want to spice things up in a safe way.
What the users think:
JassonOnin says: "Great idea but needs a few tweaks. I finally found an app that does private messaging through an app that seems to be secure and that only allows one on one conversations to avoid the dreaded “I accidentally messaged my mom scenario”."
"I understand the concept is it is geared for people in relationships that could go south but narrowing its use too tightly will turn a lot of people off (This apps advertised functions are essentially telling you to download this app if you don’t belong in your current relationship and nobody will use it as it is explicitly telling the other person you don’t trust them), especially if they are in long term relationships or want to use the programs function for business."
"I feel that if they were to focus more on trusting relationships by allowing an option to access to photos even without permission at all times. It feels too much like babysitting in the conversation."
Check out the Diskreet website or download it for Apple or Android now.
More MC UK approved sex toys:
One of the best sustainable sex toys on the market, the Love Not War designs are powerful while still being planet-friendly, too.
Dixon loves that these pieces are hand sculpted and have tapered shafts. As you probably guessed, you can use them at the same time as your partner for maximum fun.
Unfamous shares that kegel balls have helped her develop her pelvic floor strength, which in turn have led to stronger orgasms. Sold? Us too.
14. 3Fun
How does 3Fun work?
3Fun recommends profiles based on the GPS and users' preferences. If you want to like someone’s profile, you can tap the heart button. If you don’t like a profile, you can tap the “X” button. Whenever you like a profile and that person likes your profile, then you both become matched. It is Free to chat with your matches.
3Fun is mainly aimed at individuals looking for threesomes, and allows couples to chat synchronously from one account - If new users choose the 'couple' option when they initially create their 3Fun account, they will both be able to log in to that account from two different mobile devices and chat with others at the same time.
Why is 3Fun one of the best sex apps?
3Fun is the fastest-growing dating app in its field. Most of the important features are free. There are a lot of members using the app who are interested in these kinds of “three people” arrangements. The unique photo verification feature helps its users avoid meeting the fake and scammers. It previously had some data privacy issues, but a rep said to MC: "Since the app’s vulnerabilities were discovered in 2019, we've done a comprehensive overhaul of its security and safety features that fully protect user data from leaks, breaches, and vulnerabilities. It now has a Certificate of Penetration Testing, too."
What the users think:
Nolank270 says: "Good looking people but missing a lot of features. The concept of 3Fun is great as a location-based swipe app, and a good portion of the people are fairly attractive. However, there are some big holes in a few of the features."
"One of the biggest needs is to be able to sort and search messages and matches. For example, we traveled to Portland recently, then Dallas, and now back to Florida, but our matches and messages are all jumbled up and it’s cumbersome to sift through them to find who is currently local. What happens when we are back in Portland? How do we then sift back through the hundreds of matches? Suggestion - make the match/message list searchable for terms and other info AND sortable to location, status, etc. It would instantly make this app more usable to actually meet others."
Check out the 3Fun website or download it for Apple or Android now.
15. iPlaysafe
How does iPlaysafe work?
Ok, ok, so not an actual sex app per se... but an important sex app of another kind to have on your radar. iPlaySafe App is a new informative and educational sexual health and wellness app that encourages you to take sexual health testing into your own hands.
Encouraging users to make better informed, more open decisions by means of sexual education, it allows users to order STI tests easily and discreetly, creating a safer physical and digital environment for all ages and communities.
Why is iPlaysafe one of the best sex apps?
The team works with reputable partners, such as Preventx, plus it's normalising sexual health one step at a time.
What the experts think:
Co-Founder Bianca Dunne says: “The rate of STD infections today continues to rise - and unfortunately there’s still a shame and stigma associated with testing. This will help make getting tested easier, and also - asking someone’s status, which can be so awkward!"
Check out the iPlaysafe website or download it for Apple or Android now.
Shop more MC UK approved sex toys now:
While there are thousands of sex toys on the market, only a few are truly excellent for couple's play. This one is loved anomalously by sex experts thanks to its ability to fit between your bodies and pleasure both parties with its nine vibration modes.
Another viral toy, the Satisfyer clitoral suction vibrator has some serious rave reviews online. While it's definitely best suited to those who enjoy suction toys, it has a whole heap of settings and functions, making it a great all-rounder.
Combining suction and sonic vibrations, the LELO Sona 2 Cruise is easy to hold, simple to use, and seriously powerful, too. You heard it here first...
How do you stay safe when using sex apps?
Aka, the important bit. Meeting up with total strangers is not a risk-free exercise, and more so if the prospect of having no-strings sex is on the cards.
First things first - avoid revealing your exact location. The experts advise keeping it vague or changing your address. It's also worth doing a quick background check on your date pre-meeting - that is, type their name into, say, Instagram, Twitter, or Google to find out a bit more about them.
Speaking to them on the phone is also a surefire way of getting an idea of their personality. Be mindful here to look for any inconsistencies or red flags, such as where they say they live or what they do. If you think they are lying, the experts advise making excuses and cutting contact.
Finally, always go with your instinct and trust your gut feeling.
On the day of the meet up, it's advisable to meet first in a public place before it gets dark and to have your own means of transportation, too. It's also with letting a friend know exactly where you are meeting and texting them to let them know you're okay.
What app is better than Tinder for hooking up?
The "best" app will totally depend on how you plan to use the app.
If you're looking for a one-time hook-up, WeAreX and Pure are a good place to start. If you're searching for someone to date or keen to find something a little longer term, our experts recommend Bumble, Tinder and Thursday.
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