The popular dating app Tinder ceased operations in Russia in March 2022. This decision was made by its parent company, Match Group, which suspended its activities in the country. This left millions of Russian users without their usual platform for dating. The most popular alternative to Tinder—Badoo—also stopped working in Russia. However, new Russian apps have already emerged to replace the popular service. Over time, the resulting niche has been filled by other projects with similar functionality. In this article, we will explore what has replaced Tinder in Russia and list the main advantages and disadvantages of the existing services.

Mamba

Initially, Mamba was a dating website that has been operating for over 20 years. It is a major alternative to Tinder in Russia, which gained a second wind after Tinder's ban.

Key Advantages of Mamba:

• A large user base of over 50 million people worldwide.
• A convenient and functional interface.
• Versions available for both computers and mobile devices.
• Advanced search and filtering tools for users based on various criteria.
• Numerous additional communication options—chats, private messages, comments on photos and videos.
• A free basic version with limited functionality.

Notable Disadvantages:

• A large number of fake and inactive profiles, making it harder to find real people for communication and meetings.
• Paid additional features (advanced search, guest views, extra filters, etc.).
• A significant amount of ads and notifications.
• Questionable quality of recommendations—the built-in algorithm is not always effective and may suggest random or unsuitable contacts.

As a replacement for Tinder in 2024, Mamba may not suit everyone. Despite numerous updates, the service has not fully adapted to the new demands of users.

Leonardo Da Vinci Bot

This is a specialized dating bot accessible through private messages on the social network VKontakte. It is a fairly simple alternative to Tinder in Russia in 2024.

Advantages of Leonardo Da Vinci Bot:

• Extremely easy to use—profiles are automatically created from VKontakte accounts.
• Completely free.
• A large number of users, with people from across the country.

Disadvantages of Leonardo Da Vinci Bot:

• No options for search customization.
• Uses very basic algorithms for matching based on age range.
• Frequent fake accounts.

If you are looking for what to use instead of Tinder, Leonardo Da Vinci Bot can be recommended for a younger audience, which constitutes the majority of its users.

Teamo

In terms of functionality, this dating app is more suitable for those seeking serious relationships. At least, the service positions itself this way. Considering the updates of recent years, it is an alternative to Tinder with many similar features.

Strengths of Teamo:

• Free usage options.
• A user base exceeding 20 million people (though the number of active users is significantly lower).
• A unique matching system based on interests (a psychological test is required).
• Numerous options and features.

Weaknesses of Teamo:

• Limitations in the free version—full functionality requires purchasing VIP status.
• The app is not the fastest or most optimized.
• Requires providing a significant amount of personal information.

Overall, Teamo can be considered a dating site to replace Tinder. While Leonardo Da Vinci Bot appeals to a younger audience, this service has an average user age of 30+.

VK Dating

This is a development by the social network VKontakte, allowing users to meet new people ready for communication and partnership. Wondering what to use instead of Tinder? The creators have made an effort to closely replicate the popular dating app.

Advantages of VK Dating:

• A large user base thanks to integration with the VKontakte social network.
• The ability to see mutual friends and shared interests when viewing profiles.
• Quick user search based on specified criteria.
• Opportunities to meet people from your city or region.
• Free use of basic features.

Disadvantages of VK Dating:

• Many fake profiles and bots.
• Weak profile verification and moderation tools.
• Limited functionality in the free version of the service.
• Lack of tailored algorithms for matching pairs.

Thus, VK Dating is convenient for finding new contacts among people in your social circle. However, compared to specialized services, it offers fewer chances of finding long-term relationships. This replacement for Tinder in Russia has been well-received by many.

LovePlanet

This is an online dating service that has been around since 2006. In recent years, it has introduced an app and added various options for users. Many people use it for dating instead of Tinder.

Advantages of LovePlanet:

• A large user base (over 20 million).
• Convenient search for people based on various criteria.
• The ability to view live streams from other users.
• Free basic functionality.
• Apps available for Android and iOS.

Disadvantages of LovePlanet:

• Many inactive and fake profiles.
• The website design is somewhat outdated and cluttered.
• Frequent spam messages.
• Limited functionality in the free version.
• Aggressive promotion of paid additional options.

Compared to its competitors, LovePlanet has a loyal audience due to its long-standing presence in the market. For successful dating, it is advisable to use paid plans.