What’s New

Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.

Read More

Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.

Read More

Read More

Have you heard of Seeking Arrangement? They’ve rebranded as Seeking and are no longer a dating site for sugar daddies and babies. Nope, Seeking is now a mainstream dating site.

Seeking has been seriously blowing up of late. Just a few months ago, they had roughly 20 million members. Now? Try 40 million! When you add the fact that people in 130 countries are using Seeking, this is a dating app that may be rivaling Tinder before long.

While it’s true that Seeking Arrangement was focused on helping attractive and successful people meet up, Seeking now claims to be about “identifying what drives us and how we can live our best lives with someone by our side.”

In other words, Seeking is now for everyone, and this is a site that you may regret leaving out of your dating app repertoire.

So, read on to learn more about Seeking in 2022, including its pros and cons, how to sign up, how much it costs, how the platform works, handy tips, and more.

Pros

Super active community
Intuitive search and filtering functions
Enjoyable site design and interface
Thorough verification process
Global availability (including languages)
Certain discounts available

Cons

Somewhat controversial
Fake accounts and bots slip through the cracks
Inactive profiles still visible
Can get expensive
Scammers

Registering on Seeking is relatively straightforward. You start by stating if you’re a man or woman and whether you prefer meeting men or women (or both). You’re then prompted to answer a few other questions, which helps the site calibrate its matching algorithms (ideally resulting in more successful matching). After a bit more personal information, that’s just about everything to get registered!

(Keep in mind that you may want to be careful about what email you use if you want to remain relatively anonymous.)

After completing the registration process, you’ll need to wait for Seeking to verify your account. This process generally takes 1-2 business days on average, but you may get a faster turnaround.

While it can be frustrating to wait, the account verification process is in the best interest of all the people trying to use the site legitimately. Unfortunately, some scammers and bots still manage their way through, so it doesn’t appear to be a perfect process.

Any Free Features?

If you’re worried about immediately shelling out a ton of money to use Seeking, luckily that’s not the case. Once you’ve registered and been verified, you’re free to start browsing around (see what we did there?).

This is nice because you’re able to get a feel for how Seeking works and what you can reasonably expect in terms of possible matches later on.

The downside is that you will be fairly limited with what you’re able to do. For example, you won’t be able to contact other members of Seeking for free.

Like many dating apps nowadays, Seeking wants to get you on their platform and get you thinking about all the beautiful and successful people you could potentially meet. This means that members will be more likely to open up their wallets in order to gain complete access to the site.

If you think that’s a frustrating business model, you’re definitely not alone. For better or worse, it’s becoming more and more normal in the dating site community. So, you may as well get used to it and at least enjoy the benefit of browsing for free. There are some sites where you can’t even do that without paying.

Seeking may also offer free memberships to certain clients that are particularly “desirable.” You can apply for the free membership once you’ve registered.

Setting Up Your Profile

After entering in your basic info as part of the registration process, you’ll be all set. And how Once you’ve registered and been verified, you can now set up your Seeking profile.

You’ll need to choose a username and upload a photo. We recommend going with something reasonably “adult” (as in not immature, like “sexgod69”). You’ll also want to choose a flattering photo. And please don’t be one of those people who uses a group photo on dating sites! Ultimately, your profile is a big part of your first impression, so take some time with it.

As part of your profile, you have the ability to list lots of information. You can add your height, education, relationship status, children, etc. There are a wide variety of relationship statuses you can pick, from “married but looking” and “separated” to “open relationship” and more.

You can also add your income and net worth, which may seem weird to you if you’re more used to traditional dating apps.

In order to try to make matching as seamless as possible, the profile set-up gets a bit complex. For example, you have to pick different “tags” that give more detail about what you’re looking for on the Seeking platform. Some of the tags include different character traits and preferences such as “flexibility,” “attentiveness,” “monogamous,” etc.

Lastly, you need to write up a little bio for the “About Me” section. It’s best to be honest but also modest, if that makes sense. You don’t want to sell yourself too short, but you also don’t want to be way over the top. So, keep that in mind as you try to craft a compelling little bio. Try to have it reflect who you really are. If you’re funny, be funny, for example.

How Much Does Seeking Cost?

As we said, Seeking can be joined for free. And, if you’re an attractive and/or quite successful individual, you may be able to get to use the site for free.

To actually become a verified member, however, you’ll have to shell out $50 for a background check. For this, you don’t have to verify income at least. Getting verified is a good way to make others feel like you can be trusted right off the bat, especially—let’s be honest—if you’re a man (and particularly an older man).

While Seeking memberships can end up costing a significant amount for men, many of these members come from wealthy backgrounds, meaning it shouldn’t be too much of an issue. If you’re looking to use Seeking as a mainstream dating site, however, be aware that it might end up costing you more than other dating sites out there.

Bottom Line Costs

Current premium membership packages certainly aren’t cheap for the average person, but this isn’t an average dating site:

1 month premium = $90/month
3 months premium = $80/month
6 months premium = $70/month

As you can see, you’ll get a better monthly rate if you pay for more months up front, which is standard with dating sites (and a lot of subscriptions in general).

Using Seeking To Find a Hookup

Okay, so we’ve covered getting registered, getting verified, getting your profile set up, and the cost of using Seeking.

But what about the thing you’re actually interested in Seeking for? Dating, that is.

The simple answer is that Seeking may very well be a good option for finding dates. With its large user base of over 40 million people all around the world, chances are good that you can find some compatible people in your area (or who are close enough).

So, in general, it’s not that hard to get dates on Seeking. That said, it can be highly competitive—especially if you’re a young woman, thanks to the high female-to-male ratio.

One thing that helps you get matched up on Seeking is the fact that it has a sleek, modern-feeling interface. While some dating sites have an outdated or downright spammy look to them, Seeking has clearly invested in creating a good user experience when it comes to the interface and user friendliness.

Since browsing around is intuitive and straightforward, it doesn’t take long to start finding people to message on Seeking. You can even join “VIP rooms” if you opt for the Diamond Membership, which clocks in at $250 each month—nope, not cheap! These rooms, however, will help you get around the BS of scammers and fake profiles, since every member there has to be verified with a full background check.

Even the basic search functions are really helpful as well. Right away you can sort users into useful categories like “most active” or “new members.”

Keep in mind, however, especially as Seeking transitions into a more mainstream dating app, that not everyone will be looking to get down and dirty right away. There will be many people who want to build a relationship rather than simply casually hooking up. A good mentality to have is to simply view the site as a way to meet people, and then take it from there.

Does Seeking Work? Or Is It a Scam?

Overall, you could say that Seeking is pretty much as advertised. As it’s transitioning to becoming a more mainstream dating site, it will be interesting to see if its user base becomes more diversified.

With more than 40 million users, there’s certainly some people out there who you are likely compatible with. How much time and effort you have/want to put in and how much money you have will be a factor in how successful your search for dates is.

While Seeking is a legitimate platform with a global presence and tons of users, it’s also true that there are many unhappy reviews online. People using sites such as TrustPilot and sitejabber have given an average rating of just 1.5 stars out of 5 for Seeking.

That said, it’s important to remember that people generally go on these sites either because they’re incredibly pleased or extremely dissatisfied. This naturally means that reviews tend to be skewed. Nonetheless, it’s not exactly encouraging to see so many unhappy customers.

So, if you want to sign up for Seeking you may want to do your own due diligence by exploring online reviews like those mentioned above.

Here are some other tips to help ensure that you have a positive experience.

Be Upfront About Expectations

You’re going to want to be transparent on Seeking, which is really the case for any dating site. If you’re looking for casual hookups, say so. If you’re looking to build something more meaningful, make that clear. Beating around the bush and/or being openly dishonest will not get you anywhere good.

Be Authentic

Yeah, yeah, this is as cliché as it gets. It’s true in this case, though. If you aren’t really a While this is a bit of a cliché, it’s true when it comes to dating sites and builds on the last tip. You won’t end up with matches that are a natural fit for you if you’re not yourself.

Spend Time on Your Profile

Again, this is true of all dating sites, not just Seeking. Think of your profile as a kind of billboard—you’re putting yourself out there for anyone who drives by to see. This is your virtual first impression, and it matters in terms of how much attention you draw. You want to find a careful balance between intriguing and mysterious and open and honest.

In essence, you want to do your best to stand out, but your profile also shouldn’t be weird or off-putting. If you’re unsure about your profile, see about getting a second opinion from someone you trust. Above all, don’t lie. Boosting yourself by one inch of height (or length…) is one thing, but two or three or more will definitely be obvious. You don’t want to set yourself up to fail by being disingenuous.

So, is Seeking Legit?

Yes, overall Seeking is a legitimate dating site. Like many dating sites out there, you will find scammers, bots, and inactive accounts. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do about that. As long as you’re careful and use common sense, you should have no problems finding legit matches on Seeking.

A Few More Tips

Before wrapping up, here are some more hookup site tips, which should apply well beyond Seeking. That said, they’re particularly pertinent to Seeking, so you’ll want to keep them in mind!

Beware of Scammers and Catfishers

Scammers definitely make their way onto Seeking, even though the site does a pretty good job at maintaining a legit platform. Unfortunately, pretty much any dating site you go to will have bots and fake profiles trying to scam people. In essence, these exist just to try to get people to spend money even though they are not the person they are pretending to be. This is known colloquially as “catfishing” and here it’s used for purposes of extortion.

In short, beware of scammers. If things seem too easy and suspicious in any way, it’s probably someone just looking to get money out of you before disappearing.

Keep an Eye on Your Bill

Seeking is in the business of hooking people up, but they’re also in the business of making money. Just scroll up and take a look at those prices. $250 for one month of the “Diamond” membership? The pricing is smart because they know their audience—they’re truly catering to upper-class people who average 6- or 7-figure incomes.

So, just be aware that you may want to keep an eye on your bill to ensure that you’re not racking up more money than you’re trying to spend. You might want to take it slowly and go with a one- or three-month membership rather than a six-month one, for example. This way you can feel out the site. And hey, you might just meet someone who you want a more serious, long-term relationship with (though we must say that’s not the typical relationship sought after on Seeking).

Then again, you might not care how much the site costs you if you’re wealthy.

Matches Don’t Always Come Easily

While there are forty million+ people on Seeking, that doesn’t mean matches are guaranteed to come right away. There’s generally a lot of competition, especially for younger women, for example, and you may have to really work to stand out on such a large platform.

Ultimately, you’ll want to stay patient the best you can. Just because things don’t work out right away doesn’t mean that they won’t eventually. You may go on some awkward dates, but that’s often just a part of life. Sooner or later you’re likely to match with someone who you’re really compatible with. Just be sure to give yourself the time, which means don’t give up too soon and don’t force the issue.

Be Safe

It’s always advisable to meet someone in a public place for your first meet up. A coffee shop or restaurant is perfect, for example. This way you’re much less likely to face danger from people with bad intentions. This isn’t meant to scare anyone; it’s just meant to help keep people safe. In general, trust your instincts and you should be fine.

Final Verdict

So, is Seeking really worth it?

That comes down to you, ultimately. Your wants, your needs, your bank account, your age, etc. If you’re just an average Joe, you may want to stick to other dating sites.

All in all, Seeking has a massive customer base all around the world, an intuitive and user-friendly interface, and relatively reasonable pricing. It also has robust filtering and searching tools, VIP rooms, verified profiles, and other useful features. If you’re trying to find a date or maybe even true love, Seeking might end up being a good option for you.

Read More

Traditional dating isn’t for everyone. Some people want serious relationships while others want something more casual, like a hookup. The taboo around casual dating has subsided in recent years. Casual daters have plenty of options, but most opt to try hookup sites to find what (and who) they want.

Different sites cater to different tastes. A site’s speciality is not always immediately apparent. So it can be a challenge to find the right site for you. That’s where we come in. We’ve signed up for and tried the best hookup sites and apps for casual encounters to get some action.

Let’s dive into the reviews and ratings.

Click ↓ next to the name of the site to jump straight to the review.

Best Hookup Sites and Apps for Casual Dating in 2022

RankSiteBest For1.Adult FriendFinder ↓Best overall hookup site2. BuddyBang ↓Runner-up3.BeNaughty ↓Best for flirtiest singles4.Ashley Madison ↓Best for affairs5.Seeking ↓Best for sugar baby/sugar daddy/mommy6.ALT ↓Best for alternative and BDSM sex7.OKCupid ↓Top choice for millennials8.Hinge ↓Somewhat serious, but mostly FWB9.Zoosk ↓Best for short-term dating10.Bumble ↓Best for women11.Plenty of Fish ↓Best for lots of options12.Tinder ↓Most popular app13.Pure App ↓Best for fantasy based14.Feeld ↓Most open-minded singles15.Sex Messenger ↓Best for anonymous hookups16.Reddit R4R ↓Best completely free option

1.  Adult FriendFinder – Best overall hookup site

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

Adult FriendFinder is the oldest and most popular hookup site. As its name suggests, it’s primarily interested in helping adults make, *ahem*, adult friends.

It caters to swinging, non-monogamous relationships, threesomes, and experimental arrangements. Whether you’re looking for an NSA (no-strings-attached) relationship, a one-night stand to spice up your marriage, or a quick fling, you’ll find someone looking for the same thing.

Once you create a profile on Adult FriendFinder, you can customize your search to narrow down people interested in the same arrangement as you.

Adult FriendFinder has bonus additional content such as webcam shows and erotic stories. So if you need a little warming up before connecting with someone, you’re covered.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$39.95 totalThree months$26.95/month ($80.85 total)One year$19.95/month ($239.40 total)

What Users Think About Adult FriendFinder

“I was on another site. Met a guy who told me about Adult FriendFinder (AFF). I signed up. Have been on AFF for a little over a year and a half. Have nothing but praise. When AFF works, it WORKS! For the most part, I have met some truly wonderful men. Local men, business men coming through my area, couples. Overwhelmingly positive experience and exactly what I was looking for: no strings, no drama, casual sex.”

Need a little more info before taking the plunge? Check out our in-depth Adult FriendFinder review.

2.  BuddyBang – Runner-up

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★★

BuddyBang helps you find a buddy to sleep with. That shouldn’t be hard for you to figure out. This no-judgement site operates like an express train to the friends-with-benefits phase. It’s as simple as browse, chat, bang.

While you won’t find romance here, you will find passion. Lustful adults flock to BuddyBang to chat and make connections. Ultimately, the goal is to arrange a meetup with a saucy stranger in your area. If you’re lucky, that one-night stand might turn into a long-term arrangement.

With a relatively affordable monthly subscription and advanced search filters, getting laid on BuddyBang is a piece of cake. It’s way easier than shelling out tons of cash for dinner dates that may lead nowhere.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$39.95 totalThree months$26.95/month ($80.85 total)One year$19.95/month ($239.40 total)

What Users Think About BuddyBang

“A lotta hookup sites out there, which means a lot of scams. Gotta be honest, at first I was skeptical of BuddyBang. Seemed like another fake site that just wanted your cash. But I was pleasantly surprised. More than that, I was very happy with my experience. I met a couple real girls here who, let’s just say, were down to get down. And that’s all I wanted. I wasn’t a creep. I kept it cool, wasn’t aggressive with messaging and it all worked. I recommend it!”

3.  BeNaughty – Best for flirty singles

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★★

BeNaughty naturally draws some of the most frisky singles in your area. It’s in the name. Plus, breaking the ice is easy as BeNaughty gives users tons of ways to connect. Browse the gallery or enter a naughty chat room for potential dates. When you find someone you like, you can send a wink, a message, or start a live one-on-one chat.

BeNaughty works because it’s to-the-point. While users are looking for fast fun, there is no time for games. They want a hookup, and quickly.

Open-minded and discreet, BeNaughty gives you the option to seek out singles or couples for a fast fling. By adjusting your search filter, you can find your ideal scenario and weed out people who aren’t your type.

Membership LengthPriceThree day trial$1.05/dayOne month$27.01 totalThree months$15.15/month ($45.45 total)Six months$12.24/month ($73.44 total)

What Users Think About BeNaughty

“Here you can be selective. The choice of profiles is quite large. The girls are active, many of them are constantly online. There are those who only like online communication and do not want to go on dates. However, it is their choice. If you are interested in online flirting, it will be a lot of fun with this site. Some people want more, so I’m still looking for someone to go on a real date with me.”

4.  Ashley Madison – Best for affairs

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★★

Ashley Madison has the reputation of being a site for affairs and discreet married dating. Its slogan is literally “Life is short. Have an affair.” The brand has become notoriously known over the years for being a site for married people to flirt and hook up.

The site caters to students in relationships, lonely wives, married men, and everyday people who want to find a safe space to maintain an affair and not be judged. This hookup site is excellent for those who are attached and seeking excitement from a monotone lifestyle and exploring the world of extramarital affairs.

Ashley Madison is the first married dating website and is committed to discretion. Despite the backlash and reputation, this site continues to be popular and has an immense database that crosses every major city in the world.

Membership TierPriceBasic100 credits at $0.59/creditClassic500 credits at $0.34/creditElite1,000 credits at $0.29/credit

You message and live chat with users in exchange for credits. It’s about 5 credits to sent a message or 50 credits/hour to live chat. For more information about credits and other aspects of the site, see our full Ashley Madison review.

What Users Think About Ashley Madison

“As a woman, I can tell you that this site works. I’ve met and hooked up with a lot of great guys. However, I will say that since there are considerably more men than women on the site you have to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Women like to be wined and dined and brought on business trips, to a nice hotel, etc… Be patient, it works. I found a great guy who I have been hooking up with on a regular basis for over 2 years now and we are very happy with the arrangement.”

5.  Seeking – Best for sugar relationships

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★

Seeking has undergone a brand transformation, but it still attracts a straightforward target audience: rich and experienced individuals seeking the young and gorgeous. This sugar daddy site is about helping daddies and mommas find sugar babies or cubs for hookups.

It has a much higher user base of women because the “sugar baby” theme brings many young women to the site. The site claims to have four times the number of women than men in their database. The prerequisite is that sugar daddies have to be wealthy and successful. They give priority to verified “elite members” who join with the sole intention of spoiling their sugar babies with money and attention.

Seeking is a great site for beautiful young women looking for fun, attention, and a “daddy” to spoil them! This site is not the best to find a lasting love story—it’s geared toward hookups and has a more transaction-like nature.

Women who’d like to meet a well-off older man (or would be babies), you’re in luck – you do not have to pay to use Seeking.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$89.95/monthThree month$79.95/month ($239.85 total)Diamond (more premium features)$249.95/month

What Users Think About Seeking

“Came across them on Facebook and decided to spend a few bucks to find some men. Although not all the men were true to their description and some being scammers, it was pretty easy to find the genuinely interested ones from the fakes. It is a dating site for the wealthier crowd as we spend a lot of money but you can find a suitable candidate here.”

Still not sure or need more information? Check out our full Seeking review.

6.  ALT – Best for alternative relationships

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

ALT is a full-on casual sex website. It’s not for anyone who is on the hunt for a serious relationship. This site is all about casual sex in every form to gratify any sex-seeker! The website’s community is made up of those who are into alternative bondage, who enjoy hooking up online, live, and in-person for sex dates.

It’s a dating site that caters to people who want to find alternative, BDSM, bondage, and fetish partners who can connect online and meet in person. ALT speaks to swingers, dominatrixes, and mistresses looking for power exchange.

ALT is the leading BDSM site, with almost 2 million members. You can easily customize your fetish and find someone who is into the same kinks as you! Remember that this site is all about kink, such as orgies, being humiliated, or being tortured, and not about vanilla sex. So, if you’re looking for just plain sex, opt for another option on this list.

Membership TierPriceSilver$19.95/monthGold$29.95/month

What Users Think About ALT

“Don’t listen to all the haters!!!! Alt.com is one of the best sites. Been using it in the past and it worked quite good. Nowadays I’d also try Casuasexonly.com and Fetlife.com. And there are also a few smaller sites that work but they are more ‘special niche sites’.”

7. OKCupid – Best for millennials and young people

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★Customer service★★★★★

OKCupid is a mainstream dating app that caters to many different kinds of relationships. It provides a multitude of choices for millennials looking not just for long-term relationships but options for short-term relationships, casual dating, and hookups. All you have to do is set that as what you are looking for, and they match you to like-minded people!

This site gears toward a generally younger audience—the age group between 18-29. This site is also one of the most inclusive mainstream dating websites that includes many gender and orientation options, helping you zero in on the particular pool of choices you want!

OKCupid may be a mainstream dating app that includes finding long-term relationships, but given its wide range of options, filters, and preferences, it’s a great app for hookups and casual sex as well. Just be up-front and be prepared to meet a great bunch of locals looking for the same things as you.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$19.95 totalSix months$9.95/month ($59.70 total)

What Users Think About OKCupid

“OkCupid is a dating app worth checking out. For the most part I have been disappointed with my dating app experiences. I have been pleasantly surprised with the results from OkCupid. There seems to be an endless supply of genuine women interested in a relationship. After several weeks of using the app for free, I decided to become a subscriber. I have been satisfied with my decision.”

8.  Hinge – Best for hybrid serious and FWB relationships

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★★

Hinge is a mainstream dating app that focuses on finding real romance—but it is also used to find casual sex and friends with benefits. The truth about Hinge is that it’s “designed to be deleted.”

But fear not! This app is incredibly popular with the younger crowd (18 to 29 years of age) and has filters to state the nature of the relationship you’re interested in. This setup is the best for friends with benefits because you have to answer questions about yourself and your preferences, which will bring you closer to meeting someone you share similar interests with and are attracted to!

Hinge is a great hookup app for those who want to find a casual relationship where you hook up with the same person a few times instead of just a one-night stand. Just be straight up with what you’re looking for—and you might just meet a new FWB with absolutely no strings attached.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$19.95 totalThree months$20.99 totalSix months$29.99 total

What Users Think About Hinge

“Hinge is amazing! I think the thing that I like about it is that if you don’t pay it limits you to 10 likes a day and so it’s more likely that people will pay attention to you rather than getting distracted by yet another profile. And everyone is more careful about who they pick so if you match you’re more likely to talk I think. It also does a great job of conversation prompts that go with photos or without. Definitely check it out.”

9.  Zoosk – Best for short term dating

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★Customer service★★★★

Zoosk is a great short-term dating site that is internationally famous. It has a community of 35 million users in 80 different countries, and it is open to singles of all ages, races, religions, and sexual orientations—making it one of the most diverse casual dating apps.

This app may not be the best for casual hookups and one-night stands, but it is a good contender for short-term dating. If you’re in your early to mid-20s, you’ll find a great selection of singles who are interested in short-term or casual relationships.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$29.95 totalThree months$19.98/month ($59.94 total)Six months$12.49/month ($74.94 total)

What Users Think About Zoosk

“Satisfied with the outcome, pretty good dating site. I think the price is OK and I liked the option of pausing account, very useful when you’re trying to focus on one person. As we all know, it takes several attempts to meet someone you are really interested in.”

10.  Bumble – Safest for women

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★★

Bumble has gained a reputation for being different from most other mainstream dating and hookup apps. If you haven’t heard of this app already, Bumble is one of the first and only sites where women make the first move and get to screen potential men immediately. Men simply cannot reach out to any women unless they’ve initiated contact and interest.

It is catered towards and attracts more women than men looking to mingle or find networking opportunities, friends, or hookups! Even though it has a relatively positive and clean rep, it’s a great site for educated, good-looking men who are searching for successful, bold women.

Membership TierPricePremium$8.99/month

What Users Think About Bumble

“The Bumble app has an easy format to navigate and I like that women have to make the first contact. That Helped me out of my comfort zone. I liked that you can adjust your distance from possible matches.”

11.  Plenty of Fish – Best for lots of options

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★

Plenty of Fish has the largest user base. POF was launched in 2003, being one of the oldest dating sites. Since it’s free and easy to sign up, you’re going to be exposed to a lot of different types of people, looking for different things, so you’ll have to filter through them all.

Since it’s been around for a long time, it has gained a reputation as a matchmaker site that will ask questions about your family, career, and interests to match you with similar users. It’s catered for people who want to dip their toes into dating and hookup sites to explore options.

Plenty of Fish may or may not have people looking for casual sex, depending on your luck. It’s a matchmaker site that is geared more for a long-term commitment. So you have to be prepared to screen different kinds of people.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$19.99/monthThree months$9.80/month ($29.40/total)One year$5.95/month ($71.40 total)

What Users Think About Plenty of Fish

“Plenty of catfish and foreigners who can’t speak English. However, even if you’re not a paid subscriber you can opt in for only paid subscribers. The site also provides an option for voice calls through the app. I’m going to try the site out for a month or so, then may upgrade to being a paid subscriber. POF has really improved its website since I was on it a year ago. Have fun and meet someone!”

12.  Tinder – Most popular app

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

You didn’t think this list was going to end without this sex gem of an app, did you? Tinder is the most widely known hookup app of this generation. It has an infamous rep for finding casual sex ASAP.

Tinder caters to men and women looking to get laid based on appearance. It’s known for its classic swiping left to reject and swiping right to like someone’s profile. If you’re looking for sex, Tinder has a huge user base and a large number of locals, meaning you can probably secure a sex date tonight—but the catch is that your profile needs to stand out. If you’re not conventionally attractive, you’re going to struggle to find dates.

For men who can’t seem to find dates, Tinder has a large user base of escorts who will private message their rates. If you’re horny and want it—then maybe you can meet a potential escort on Tinder.

Membership Length/TierPriceLimited SwipesFreeOne month$9.99 total if you’re under 30One month$19.99 total if you’re over 30

What Users Think About Tinder

“I’ve been using tinder for quite some time and I really enjoy it! I travel a lot and t’s great way to meet new people. Tinder has a feature called Face To Face you can use to video chat within the app. Tinder has on-demand safety features via Noonlight, which offers a Timeline feature where users can share first date details on their Timelines, like who they’re meeting, when and where. Users can also discreetly contact emergency services via Noonlight.”

13.  Pure App – Best for fantasy based hookups

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

Pure App was created for shameless and judgment-free fantasy and desire-based dating. This app is purely for NSA affairs and is completely secretive and anonymous. It encourages its users to be whoever they choose to be and still be themselves.

It caters to people who have wild fantasies or desires that aren’t celebrated on mainstream dating and hookup apps. It allows your individuality to shine through—choosing your gender and sexuality—and providing guaranteed privacy and safety to video chat and meet whoever shares the same fantasies as you.

Pure App uses your GPS location on your phone to find other Pure users looking for some NSA action. You just have to post a photo and an up-front headline and wait to see if anyone close is interested. When you’re done, your profile will vanish, along with all your messages and photos—no need to worry about deactivating or privacy issues.

Membership LengthPriceOne week$14.99 totalOne month$19.99 total

What Users Think About Pure App

“I am a 25 year old attractive woman, I have never been on a site before however After almost a year of dating and taking things slowly and 4 months of not being interested enough to take things further, I broke and downloaded pure. Downloaded Wednesday, Thursday (yesterday) spontaneously arranged to meet a really really attractive guy who spent a few great hours with me. We got along really well. I also had a video chat with a really attractive couple who I’ll be meeting soon. I’m speaking to other really attractive guys as well.”

14.  Feeld – Best for adventurous singles

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

Feeld is a hookup app for couples and singles to explore their kinks and desires in a no-judgement atmosphere.

It includes couples’ accounts where you and your partner can date a lover or meet someone for a threesome. It’s inclusive for all genders and sexual orientations. Overall, it’s a sex-positive space for anyone looking to explore beyond “the norm” in today’s society.

Feeld prides itself on being responsible and ethical. It connects people with like-minded folk and encourages curious monogamous couples to link with partners who are also interested. It is a safe space that allows couples to explore their desires in the most honest way possible.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$14.99 totalThree months$29.98 total

What Users Think About Feeld

“It’s called the ‘Tinder for threesomes’ for a reason. I’ll let you do the imagining.”

15.  Sex Messenger – Best for anonymous hookups

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★

Sex Messenger is an anonymous instant messaging app—like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. But you never share your name because it’s meant to be discreet and only for sexting and trading nudes.

This app is an adult social network that is much more than an online sex chat. It caters to people who want to connect with other people who want to engage in sex and dirty talk, and fulfill each other’s sexual fantasies. Instant messaging on this app and posting blog entries will help you gain the attention you want from like-minded people.

All members must verify their accounts, so this weeds out fake profiles, scammers, and bots. Members can contribute to the website through Sex Messenger’s forums, chats, group sections, sex stories, and blogs. It’s all anonymous and fully discrete. This app is a great way to sext, increase sexual tension, and finally meet up to do the deed.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$14.95 total

What Users Think About Sex Messenger

“I’m recently single and wanted to have a little fun but was skeptical about trying something online. You hear about the horror stories. I found Sex Messenger and immediately thought SCAM. But I gave it a shot and found a couple fun guys within a couple weeks. I didn’t need to renew my membership.”

16.  Reddit R4R – Best completely free option

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★

Reddit R4R is one of the best options for browse casual sex options for free. If you’re looking for a hookup but don’t want to sign up, post photos of yourself, and write out a bio to describe who you are and what you want . . . you found the site for you!

This site works as a personals subreddit. It works like any other subreddit. Anyone can post—no photos, no personal information needed! All you have to do is list some things about yourself and the type of person you’re looking for. And then you wait to see if anyone responds to your post.

Reddit R4R is free, so all you have to do is download the Reddit app, and you don’t need to worry about spending money. If you want to be a trusted member and not get blocked, just follow the posting rules! Users love this site to get laid because it’s easy to use, free, and starts an instant conversation with like-minded people.

Membership TierPriceUnlimitedFree

What Users Think About Reddit R4R

“Look, it’s Reddit. You ‘get what you pay for,’ but it’s cool to scroll the profiles and chat for free. Too many guys but I definitely found and met up with a couple hotties.”

Hookup Site Guide

Still on the fence about whether or not you should start using hookup apps? Or maybe you’re already using them but want some more information? Check out this useful guide to answer any lingering questions you may have and walk away with some important safety tips about casual sex.

What Makes a Hookup Site Good?

It’s important to note that different sites cater to different kinds of people. So before creating a profile on any old hookup site, read the reviews to make sure it meets your needs.

Here are a few tips to find the best hookup site specific to you:

If you have a particular kink or preference, keep an eye out for it. (example: Looking for discreet affairs? Ashley Madison is the one for you!)
Make sure the size of the user base is relatively large. More options mean a better chance of finding someone to hook up with.
Find a site that allows users to be up-front about what they want. Usually, apps have preferences, and you can set yours to “casual relationship” or “hookup.”
Make sure the customer service contact information is front and center. You shouldn’t have to go on an expedition to contact the site.

FAQs About Hookup Sites

Q: Are hookup sites safe?

Like any online dating platform, reputable hookup sites have embedded safety features that still require user discretion. It can be dangerous if you don’t take proper safety measures. Generally, these sites and apps regulate safety by banning bots and scammers and have options to report any bad or suspicious behavior. So if you’re planning on joining, be aware and try your best not to be too gullible—you can never be sure who you will come across online!

Q: Are there any completely free hookup sites?

It sucks that most dating apps and casual sex apps require you to subscribe to get optimum results. But sites like Reddit R4R and Craigslist Activities offer a free platform to chat, flirt, and arrange sex dates. But the only downside is that there is no moderation and you won’t be talking to a verified profile and have to be extra cautious.

Q: What hookup sites are free for women?

The reality is that dating apps make it very easy for women to find sex. Most high-rated dating sites offer women free memberships (mostly to balance out the male/female ratio on their site). Sex sites that are free for women include Bumble, OkCupid, Tinder, Seeking, Hinge, Her, and Pure.

Q: What is the best LGBTQ+ option?

Though there are a few options, only two rise to the top. HER is the best for women seeking women and Grindr is best for men seeking for men. These two sites also cater to non-binary people.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for some action tonight, welcome to the world of casual sex sites and apps.

The best hookup sites are on top for a reason—everyone on there is eager to find sex and casual flings just like you! More than mainstream dating apps that cater to a plethora of things such as long-term dating, friendships, and so on, hookup apps are catered only towards sex and NSA fun!

The best hookup site is Adult FriendFinder (AFF) followed closely by BuddyBang. AFF emphasizes anonymity, safety, a massive user base, and a brand name that is verified. Most people on this site are looking for a good time with so many different types of kinks and fantasies. So what are you waiting for?

Hopefully, this list gives you an idea of what sex app is the best for you to get started on today.

Read More

Read More

Have you heard of Seeking Arrangement? They’ve rebranded as Seeking and are no longer a dating site for sugar daddies and babies. Nope, Seeking is now a mainstream dating site.

Seeking has been seriously blowing up of late. Just a few months ago, they had roughly 20 million members. Now? Try 40 million! When you add the fact that people in 130 countries are using Seeking, this is a dating app that may be rivaling Tinder before long.

While it’s true that Seeking Arrangement was focused on helping attractive and successful people meet up, Seeking now claims to be about “identifying what drives us and how we can live our best lives with someone by our side.”

In other words, Seeking is now for everyone, and this is a site that you may regret leaving out of your dating app repertoire.

So, read on to learn more about Seeking in 2022, including its pros and cons, how to sign up, how much it costs, how the platform works, handy tips, and more.

Pros

Super active community
Intuitive search and filtering functions
Enjoyable site design and interface
Thorough verification process
Global availability (including languages)
Certain discounts available

Cons

Somewhat controversial
Fake accounts and bots slip through the cracks
Inactive profiles still visible
Can get expensive
Scammers

Registering on Seeking is relatively straightforward. You start by stating if you’re a man or woman and whether you prefer meeting men or women (or both). You’re then prompted to answer a few other questions, which helps the site calibrate its matching algorithms (ideally resulting in more successful matching). After a bit more personal information, that’s just about everything to get registered!

(Keep in mind that you may want to be careful about what email you use if you want to remain relatively anonymous.)

After completing the registration process, you’ll need to wait for Seeking to verify your account. This process generally takes 1-2 business days on average, but you may get a faster turnaround.

While it can be frustrating to wait, the account verification process is in the best interest of all the people trying to use the site legitimately. Unfortunately, some scammers and bots still manage their way through, so it doesn’t appear to be a perfect process.

Any Free Features?

If you’re worried about immediately shelling out a ton of money to use Seeking, luckily that’s not the case. Once you’ve registered and been verified, you’re free to start browsing around (see what we did there?).

This is nice because you’re able to get a feel for how Seeking works and what you can reasonably expect in terms of possible matches later on.

The downside is that you will be fairly limited with what you’re able to do. For example, you won’t be able to contact other members of Seeking for free.

Like many dating apps nowadays, Seeking wants to get you on their platform and get you thinking about all the beautiful and successful people you could potentially meet. This means that members will be more likely to open up their wallets in order to gain complete access to the site.

If you think that’s a frustrating business model, you’re definitely not alone. For better or worse, it’s becoming more and more normal in the dating site community. So, you may as well get used to it and at least enjoy the benefit of browsing for free. There are some sites where you can’t even do that without paying.

Seeking may also offer free memberships to certain clients that are particularly “desirable.” You can apply for the free membership once you’ve registered.

Setting Up Your Profile

After entering in your basic info as part of the registration process, you’ll be all set. And how Once you’ve registered and been verified, you can now set up your Seeking profile.

You’ll need to choose a username and upload a photo. We recommend going with something reasonably “adult” (as in not immature, like “sexgod69”). You’ll also want to choose a flattering photo. And please don’t be one of those people who uses a group photo on dating sites! Ultimately, your profile is a big part of your first impression, so take some time with it.

As part of your profile, you have the ability to list lots of information. You can add your height, education, relationship status, children, etc. There are a wide variety of relationship statuses you can pick, from “married but looking” and “separated” to “open relationship” and more.

You can also add your income and net worth, which may seem weird to you if you’re more used to traditional dating apps.

In order to try to make matching as seamless as possible, the profile set-up gets a bit complex. For example, you have to pick different “tags” that give more detail about what you’re looking for on the Seeking platform. Some of the tags include different character traits and preferences such as “flexibility,” “attentiveness,” “monogamous,” etc.

Lastly, you need to write up a little bio for the “About Me” section. It’s best to be honest but also modest, if that makes sense. You don’t want to sell yourself too short, but you also don’t want to be way over the top. So, keep that in mind as you try to craft a compelling little bio. Try to have it reflect who you really are. If you’re funny, be funny, for example.

How Much Does Seeking Cost?

As we said, Seeking can be joined for free. And, if you’re an attractive and/or quite successful individual, you may be able to get to use the site for free.

To actually become a verified member, however, you’ll have to shell out $50 for a background check. For this, you don’t have to verify income at least. Getting verified is a good way to make others feel like you can be trusted right off the bat, especially—let’s be honest—if you’re a man (and particularly an older man).

While Seeking memberships can end up costing a significant amount for men, many of these members come from wealthy backgrounds, meaning it shouldn’t be too much of an issue. If you’re looking to use Seeking as a mainstream dating site, however, be aware that it might end up costing you more than other dating sites out there.

Bottom Line Costs

Current premium membership packages certainly aren’t cheap for the average person, but this isn’t an average dating site:

1 month premium = $90/month
3 months premium = $80/month
6 months premium = $70/month

As you can see, you’ll get a better monthly rate if you pay for more months up front, which is standard with dating sites (and a lot of subscriptions in general).

Using Seeking To Find a Hookup

Okay, so we’ve covered getting registered, getting verified, getting your profile set up, and the cost of using Seeking.

But what about the thing you’re actually interested in Seeking for? Dating, that is.

The simple answer is that Seeking may very well be a good option for finding dates. With its large user base of over 40 million people all around the world, chances are good that you can find some compatible people in your area (or who are close enough).

So, in general, it’s not that hard to get dates on Seeking. That said, it can be highly competitive—especially if you’re a young woman, thanks to the high female-to-male ratio.

One thing that helps you get matched up on Seeking is the fact that it has a sleek, modern-feeling interface. While some dating sites have an outdated or downright spammy look to them, Seeking has clearly invested in creating a good user experience when it comes to the interface and user friendliness.

Since browsing around is intuitive and straightforward, it doesn’t take long to start finding people to message on Seeking. You can even join “VIP rooms” if you opt for the Diamond Membership, which clocks in at $250 each month—nope, not cheap! These rooms, however, will help you get around the BS of scammers and fake profiles, since every member there has to be verified with a full background check.

Even the basic search functions are really helpful as well. Right away you can sort users into useful categories like “most active” or “new members.”

Keep in mind, however, especially as Seeking transitions into a more mainstream dating app, that not everyone will be looking to get down and dirty right away. There will be many people who want to build a relationship rather than simply casually hooking up. A good mentality to have is to simply view the site as a way to meet people, and then take it from there.

Does Seeking Work? Or Is It a Scam?

Overall, you could say that Seeking is pretty much as advertised. As it’s transitioning to becoming a more mainstream dating site, it will be interesting to see if its user base becomes more diversified.

With more than 40 million users, there’s certainly some people out there who you are likely compatible with. How much time and effort you have/want to put in and how much money you have will be a factor in how successful your search for dates is.

While Seeking is a legitimate platform with a global presence and tons of users, it’s also true that there are many unhappy reviews online. People using sites such as TrustPilot and sitejabber have given an average rating of just 1.5 stars out of 5 for Seeking.

That said, it’s important to remember that people generally go on these sites either because they’re incredibly pleased or extremely dissatisfied. This naturally means that reviews tend to be skewed. Nonetheless, it’s not exactly encouraging to see so many unhappy customers.

So, if you want to sign up for Seeking you may want to do your own due diligence by exploring online reviews like those mentioned above.

Here are some other tips to help ensure that you have a positive experience.

Be Upfront About Expectations

You’re going to want to be transparent on Seeking, which is really the case for any dating site. If you’re looking for casual hookups, say so. If you’re looking to build something more meaningful, make that clear. Beating around the bush and/or being openly dishonest will not get you anywhere good.

Be Authentic

Yeah, yeah, this is as cliché as it gets. It’s true in this case, though. If you aren’t really a While this is a bit of a cliché, it’s true when it comes to dating sites and builds on the last tip. You won’t end up with matches that are a natural fit for you if you’re not yourself.

Spend Time on Your Profile

Again, this is true of all dating sites, not just Seeking. Think of your profile as a kind of billboard—you’re putting yourself out there for anyone who drives by to see. This is your virtual first impression, and it matters in terms of how much attention you draw. You want to find a careful balance between intriguing and mysterious and open and honest.

In essence, you want to do your best to stand out, but your profile also shouldn’t be weird or off-putting. If you’re unsure about your profile, see about getting a second opinion from someone you trust. Above all, don’t lie. Boosting yourself by one inch of height (or length…) is one thing, but two or three or more will definitely be obvious. You don’t want to set yourself up to fail by being disingenuous.

So, is Seeking Legit?

Yes, overall Seeking is a legitimate dating site. Like many dating sites out there, you will find scammers, bots, and inactive accounts. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do about that. As long as you’re careful and use common sense, you should have no problems finding legit matches on Seeking.

A Few More Tips

Before wrapping up, here are some more hookup site tips, which should apply well beyond Seeking. That said, they’re particularly pertinent to Seeking, so you’ll want to keep them in mind!

Beware of Scammers and Catfishers

Scammers definitely make their way onto Seeking, even though the site does a pretty good job at maintaining a legit platform. Unfortunately, pretty much any dating site you go to will have bots and fake profiles trying to scam people. In essence, these exist just to try to get people to spend money even though they are not the person they are pretending to be. This is known colloquially as “catfishing” and here it’s used for purposes of extortion.

In short, beware of scammers. If things seem too easy and suspicious in any way, it’s probably someone just looking to get money out of you before disappearing.

Keep an Eye on Your Bill

Seeking is in the business of hooking people up, but they’re also in the business of making money. Just scroll up and take a look at those prices. $250 for one month of the “Diamond” membership? The pricing is smart because they know their audience—they’re truly catering to upper-class people who average 6- or 7-figure incomes.

So, just be aware that you may want to keep an eye on your bill to ensure that you’re not racking up more money than you’re trying to spend. You might want to take it slowly and go with a one- or three-month membership rather than a six-month one, for example. This way you can feel out the site. And hey, you might just meet someone who you want a more serious, long-term relationship with (though we must say that’s not the typical relationship sought after on Seeking).

Then again, you might not care how much the site costs you if you’re wealthy.

Matches Don’t Always Come Easily

While there are forty million+ people on Seeking, that doesn’t mean matches are guaranteed to come right away. There’s generally a lot of competition, especially for younger women, for example, and you may have to really work to stand out on such a large platform.

Ultimately, you’ll want to stay patient the best you can. Just because things don’t work out right away doesn’t mean that they won’t eventually. You may go on some awkward dates, but that’s often just a part of life. Sooner or later you’re likely to match with someone who you’re really compatible with. Just be sure to give yourself the time, which means don’t give up too soon and don’t force the issue.

Be Safe

It’s always advisable to meet someone in a public place for your first meet up. A coffee shop or restaurant is perfect, for example. This way you’re much less likely to face danger from people with bad intentions. This isn’t meant to scare anyone; it’s just meant to help keep people safe. In general, trust your instincts and you should be fine.

Final Verdict

So, is Seeking really worth it?

That comes down to you, ultimately. Your wants, your needs, your bank account, your age, etc. If you’re just an average Joe, you may want to stick to other dating sites.

All in all, Seeking has a massive customer base all around the world, an intuitive and user-friendly interface, and relatively reasonable pricing. It also has robust filtering and searching tools, VIP rooms, verified profiles, and other useful features. If you’re trying to find a date or maybe even true love, Seeking might end up being a good option for you.

Read More

Traditional dating isn’t for everyone. Some people want serious relationships while others want something more casual, like a hookup. The taboo around casual dating has subsided in recent years. Casual daters have plenty of options, but most opt to try hookup sites to find what (and who) they want.

Different sites cater to different tastes. A site’s speciality is not always immediately apparent. So it can be a challenge to find the right site for you. That’s where we come in. We’ve signed up for and tried the best hookup sites and apps for casual encounters to get some action.

Let’s dive into the reviews and ratings.

Click ↓ next to the name of the site to jump straight to the review.

Best Hookup Sites and Apps for Casual Dating in 2022

RankSiteBest For1.Adult FriendFinder ↓Best overall hookup site2. BuddyBang ↓Runner-up3.BeNaughty ↓Best for flirtiest singles4.Ashley Madison ↓Best for affairs5.Seeking ↓Best for sugar baby/sugar daddy/mommy6.ALT ↓Best for alternative and BDSM sex7.OKCupid ↓Top choice for millennials8.Hinge ↓Somewhat serious, but mostly FWB9.Zoosk ↓Best for short-term dating10.Bumble ↓Best for women11.Plenty of Fish ↓Best for lots of options12.Tinder ↓Most popular app13.Pure App ↓Best for fantasy based14.Feeld ↓Most open-minded singles15.Sex Messenger ↓Best for anonymous hookups16.Reddit R4R ↓Best completely free option

1.  Adult FriendFinder – Best overall hookup site

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

Adult FriendFinder is the oldest and most popular hookup site. As its name suggests, it’s primarily interested in helping adults make, *ahem*, adult friends.

It caters to swinging, non-monogamous relationships, threesomes, and experimental arrangements. Whether you’re looking for an NSA (no-strings-attached) relationship, a one-night stand to spice up your marriage, or a quick fling, you’ll find someone looking for the same thing.

Once you create a profile on Adult FriendFinder, you can customize your search to narrow down people interested in the same arrangement as you.

Adult FriendFinder has bonus additional content such as webcam shows and erotic stories. So if you need a little warming up before connecting with someone, you’re covered.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$39.95 totalThree months$26.95/month ($80.85 total)One year$19.95/month ($239.40 total)

What Users Think About Adult FriendFinder

“I was on another site. Met a guy who told me about Adult FriendFinder (AFF). I signed up. Have been on AFF for a little over a year and a half. Have nothing but praise. When AFF works, it WORKS! For the most part, I have met some truly wonderful men. Local men, business men coming through my area, couples. Overwhelmingly positive experience and exactly what I was looking for: no strings, no drama, casual sex.”

Need a little more info before taking the plunge? Check out our in-depth Adult FriendFinder review.

2.  BuddyBang – Runner-up

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★★

BuddyBang helps you find a buddy to sleep with. That shouldn’t be hard for you to figure out. This no-judgement site operates like an express train to the friends-with-benefits phase. It’s as simple as browse, chat, bang.

While you won’t find romance here, you will find passion. Lustful adults flock to BuddyBang to chat and make connections. Ultimately, the goal is to arrange a meetup with a saucy stranger in your area. If you’re lucky, that one-night stand might turn into a long-term arrangement.

With a relatively affordable monthly subscription and advanced search filters, getting laid on BuddyBang is a piece of cake. It’s way easier than shelling out tons of cash for dinner dates that may lead nowhere.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$39.95 totalThree months$26.95/month ($80.85 total)One year$19.95/month ($239.40 total)

What Users Think About BuddyBang

“A lotta hookup sites out there, which means a lot of scams. Gotta be honest, at first I was skeptical of BuddyBang. Seemed like another fake site that just wanted your cash. But I was pleasantly surprised. More than that, I was very happy with my experience. I met a couple real girls here who, let’s just say, were down to get down. And that’s all I wanted. I wasn’t a creep. I kept it cool, wasn’t aggressive with messaging and it all worked. I recommend it!”

3.  BeNaughty – Best for flirty singles

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★★

BeNaughty naturally draws some of the most frisky singles in your area. It’s in the name. Plus, breaking the ice is easy as BeNaughty gives users tons of ways to connect. Browse the gallery or enter a naughty chat room for potential dates. When you find someone you like, you can send a wink, a message, or start a live one-on-one chat.

BeNaughty works because it’s to-the-point. While users are looking for fast fun, there is no time for games. They want a hookup, and quickly.

Open-minded and discreet, BeNaughty gives you the option to seek out singles or couples for a fast fling. By adjusting your search filter, you can find your ideal scenario and weed out people who aren’t your type.

Membership LengthPriceThree day trial$1.05/dayOne month$27.01 totalThree months$15.15/month ($45.45 total)Six months$12.24/month ($73.44 total)

What Users Think About BeNaughty

“Here you can be selective. The choice of profiles is quite large. The girls are active, many of them are constantly online. There are those who only like online communication and do not want to go on dates. However, it is their choice. If you are interested in online flirting, it will be a lot of fun with this site. Some people want more, so I’m still looking for someone to go on a real date with me.”

4.  Ashley Madison – Best for affairs

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★★

Ashley Madison has the reputation of being a site for affairs and discreet married dating. Its slogan is literally “Life is short. Have an affair.” The brand has become notoriously known over the years for being a site for married people to flirt and hook up.

The site caters to students in relationships, lonely wives, married men, and everyday people who want to find a safe space to maintain an affair and not be judged. This hookup site is excellent for those who are attached and seeking excitement from a monotone lifestyle and exploring the world of extramarital affairs.

Ashley Madison is the first married dating website and is committed to discretion. Despite the backlash and reputation, this site continues to be popular and has an immense database that crosses every major city in the world.

Membership TierPriceBasic100 credits at $0.59/creditClassic500 credits at $0.34/creditElite1,000 credits at $0.29/credit

You message and live chat with users in exchange for credits. It’s about 5 credits to sent a message or 50 credits/hour to live chat. For more information about credits and other aspects of the site, see our full Ashley Madison review.

What Users Think About Ashley Madison

“As a woman, I can tell you that this site works. I’ve met and hooked up with a lot of great guys. However, I will say that since there are considerably more men than women on the site you have to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Women like to be wined and dined and brought on business trips, to a nice hotel, etc… Be patient, it works. I found a great guy who I have been hooking up with on a regular basis for over 2 years now and we are very happy with the arrangement.”

5.  Seeking – Best for sugar relationships

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★

Seeking has undergone a brand transformation, but it still attracts a straightforward target audience: rich and experienced individuals seeking the young and gorgeous. This sugar daddy site is about helping daddies and mommas find sugar babies or cubs for hookups.

It has a much higher user base of women because the “sugar baby” theme brings many young women to the site. The site claims to have four times the number of women than men in their database. The prerequisite is that sugar daddies have to be wealthy and successful. They give priority to verified “elite members” who join with the sole intention of spoiling their sugar babies with money and attention.

Seeking is a great site for beautiful young women looking for fun, attention, and a “daddy” to spoil them! This site is not the best to find a lasting love story—it’s geared toward hookups and has a more transaction-like nature.

Women who’d like to meet a well-off older man (or would be babies), you’re in luck – you do not have to pay to use Seeking.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$89.95/monthThree month$79.95/month ($239.85 total)Diamond (more premium features)$249.95/month

What Users Think About Seeking

“Came across them on Facebook and decided to spend a few bucks to find some men. Although not all the men were true to their description and some being scammers, it was pretty easy to find the genuinely interested ones from the fakes. It is a dating site for the wealthier crowd as we spend a lot of money but you can find a suitable candidate here.”

Still not sure or need more information? Check out our full Seeking review.

6.  ALT – Best for alternative relationships

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

ALT is a full-on casual sex website. It’s not for anyone who is on the hunt for a serious relationship. This site is all about casual sex in every form to gratify any sex-seeker! The website’s community is made up of those who are into alternative bondage, who enjoy hooking up online, live, and in-person for sex dates.

It’s a dating site that caters to people who want to find alternative, BDSM, bondage, and fetish partners who can connect online and meet in person. ALT speaks to swingers, dominatrixes, and mistresses looking for power exchange.

ALT is the leading BDSM site, with almost 2 million members. You can easily customize your fetish and find someone who is into the same kinks as you! Remember that this site is all about kink, such as orgies, being humiliated, or being tortured, and not about vanilla sex. So, if you’re looking for just plain sex, opt for another option on this list.

Membership TierPriceSilver$19.95/monthGold$29.95/month

What Users Think About ALT

“Don’t listen to all the haters!!!! Alt.com is one of the best sites. Been using it in the past and it worked quite good. Nowadays I’d also try Casuasexonly.com and Fetlife.com. And there are also a few smaller sites that work but they are more ‘special niche sites’.”

7. OKCupid – Best for millennials and young people

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★Customer service★★★★★

OKCupid is a mainstream dating app that caters to many different kinds of relationships. It provides a multitude of choices for millennials looking not just for long-term relationships but options for short-term relationships, casual dating, and hookups. All you have to do is set that as what you are looking for, and they match you to like-minded people!

This site gears toward a generally younger audience—the age group between 18-29. This site is also one of the most inclusive mainstream dating websites that includes many gender and orientation options, helping you zero in on the particular pool of choices you want!

OKCupid may be a mainstream dating app that includes finding long-term relationships, but given its wide range of options, filters, and preferences, it’s a great app for hookups and casual sex as well. Just be up-front and be prepared to meet a great bunch of locals looking for the same things as you.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$19.95 totalSix months$9.95/month ($59.70 total)

What Users Think About OKCupid

“OkCupid is a dating app worth checking out. For the most part I have been disappointed with my dating app experiences. I have been pleasantly surprised with the results from OkCupid. There seems to be an endless supply of genuine women interested in a relationship. After several weeks of using the app for free, I decided to become a subscriber. I have been satisfied with my decision.”

8.  Hinge – Best for hybrid serious and FWB relationships

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★★

Hinge is a mainstream dating app that focuses on finding real romance—but it is also used to find casual sex and friends with benefits. The truth about Hinge is that it’s “designed to be deleted.”

But fear not! This app is incredibly popular with the younger crowd (18 to 29 years of age) and has filters to state the nature of the relationship you’re interested in. This setup is the best for friends with benefits because you have to answer questions about yourself and your preferences, which will bring you closer to meeting someone you share similar interests with and are attracted to!

Hinge is a great hookup app for those who want to find a casual relationship where you hook up with the same person a few times instead of just a one-night stand. Just be straight up with what you’re looking for—and you might just meet a new FWB with absolutely no strings attached.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$19.95 totalThree months$20.99 totalSix months$29.99 total

What Users Think About Hinge

“Hinge is amazing! I think the thing that I like about it is that if you don’t pay it limits you to 10 likes a day and so it’s more likely that people will pay attention to you rather than getting distracted by yet another profile. And everyone is more careful about who they pick so if you match you’re more likely to talk I think. It also does a great job of conversation prompts that go with photos or without. Definitely check it out.”

9.  Zoosk – Best for short term dating

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★Customer service★★★★

Zoosk is a great short-term dating site that is internationally famous. It has a community of 35 million users in 80 different countries, and it is open to singles of all ages, races, religions, and sexual orientations—making it one of the most diverse casual dating apps.

This app may not be the best for casual hookups and one-night stands, but it is a good contender for short-term dating. If you’re in your early to mid-20s, you’ll find a great selection of singles who are interested in short-term or casual relationships.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$29.95 totalThree months$19.98/month ($59.94 total)Six months$12.49/month ($74.94 total)

What Users Think About Zoosk

“Satisfied with the outcome, pretty good dating site. I think the price is OK and I liked the option of pausing account, very useful when you’re trying to focus on one person. As we all know, it takes several attempts to meet someone you are really interested in.”

10.  Bumble – Safest for women

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★★

Bumble has gained a reputation for being different from most other mainstream dating and hookup apps. If you haven’t heard of this app already, Bumble is one of the first and only sites where women make the first move and get to screen potential men immediately. Men simply cannot reach out to any women unless they’ve initiated contact and interest.

It is catered towards and attracts more women than men looking to mingle or find networking opportunities, friends, or hookups! Even though it has a relatively positive and clean rep, it’s a great site for educated, good-looking men who are searching for successful, bold women.

Membership TierPricePremium$8.99/month

What Users Think About Bumble

“The Bumble app has an easy format to navigate and I like that women have to make the first contact. That Helped me out of my comfort zone. I liked that you can adjust your distance from possible matches.”

11.  Plenty of Fish – Best for lots of options

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★

Plenty of Fish has the largest user base. POF was launched in 2003, being one of the oldest dating sites. Since it’s free and easy to sign up, you’re going to be exposed to a lot of different types of people, looking for different things, so you’ll have to filter through them all.

Since it’s been around for a long time, it has gained a reputation as a matchmaker site that will ask questions about your family, career, and interests to match you with similar users. It’s catered for people who want to dip their toes into dating and hookup sites to explore options.

Plenty of Fish may or may not have people looking for casual sex, depending on your luck. It’s a matchmaker site that is geared more for a long-term commitment. So you have to be prepared to screen different kinds of people.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$19.99/monthThree months$9.80/month ($29.40/total)One year$5.95/month ($71.40 total)

What Users Think About Plenty of Fish

“Plenty of catfish and foreigners who can’t speak English. However, even if you’re not a paid subscriber you can opt in for only paid subscribers. The site also provides an option for voice calls through the app. I’m going to try the site out for a month or so, then may upgrade to being a paid subscriber. POF has really improved its website since I was on it a year ago. Have fun and meet someone!”

12.  Tinder – Most popular app

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

You didn’t think this list was going to end without this sex gem of an app, did you? Tinder is the most widely known hookup app of this generation. It has an infamous rep for finding casual sex ASAP.

Tinder caters to men and women looking to get laid based on appearance. It’s known for its classic swiping left to reject and swiping right to like someone’s profile. If you’re looking for sex, Tinder has a huge user base and a large number of locals, meaning you can probably secure a sex date tonight—but the catch is that your profile needs to stand out. If you’re not conventionally attractive, you’re going to struggle to find dates.

For men who can’t seem to find dates, Tinder has a large user base of escorts who will private message their rates. If you’re horny and want it—then maybe you can meet a potential escort on Tinder.

Membership Length/TierPriceLimited SwipesFreeOne month$9.99 total if you’re under 30One month$19.99 total if you’re over 30

What Users Think About Tinder

“I’ve been using tinder for quite some time and I really enjoy it! I travel a lot and t’s great way to meet new people. Tinder has a feature called Face To Face you can use to video chat within the app. Tinder has on-demand safety features via Noonlight, which offers a Timeline feature where users can share first date details on their Timelines, like who they’re meeting, when and where. Users can also discreetly contact emergency services via Noonlight.”

13.  Pure App – Best for fantasy based hookups

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

Pure App was created for shameless and judgment-free fantasy and desire-based dating. This app is purely for NSA affairs and is completely secretive and anonymous. It encourages its users to be whoever they choose to be and still be themselves.

It caters to people who have wild fantasies or desires that aren’t celebrated on mainstream dating and hookup apps. It allows your individuality to shine through—choosing your gender and sexuality—and providing guaranteed privacy and safety to video chat and meet whoever shares the same fantasies as you.

Pure App uses your GPS location on your phone to find other Pure users looking for some NSA action. You just have to post a photo and an up-front headline and wait to see if anyone close is interested. When you’re done, your profile will vanish, along with all your messages and photos—no need to worry about deactivating or privacy issues.

Membership LengthPriceOne week$14.99 totalOne month$19.99 total

What Users Think About Pure App

“I am a 25 year old attractive woman, I have never been on a site before however After almost a year of dating and taking things slowly and 4 months of not being interested enough to take things further, I broke and downloaded pure. Downloaded Wednesday, Thursday (yesterday) spontaneously arranged to meet a really really attractive guy who spent a few great hours with me. We got along really well. I also had a video chat with a really attractive couple who I’ll be meeting soon. I’m speaking to other really attractive guys as well.”

14.  Feeld – Best for adventurous singles

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★★Customer service★★★★

Feeld is a hookup app for couples and singles to explore their kinks and desires in a no-judgement atmosphere.

It includes couples’ accounts where you and your partner can date a lover or meet someone for a threesome. It’s inclusive for all genders and sexual orientations. Overall, it’s a sex-positive space for anyone looking to explore beyond “the norm” in today’s society.

Feeld prides itself on being responsible and ethical. It connects people with like-minded folk and encourages curious monogamous couples to link with partners who are also interested. It is a safe space that allows couples to explore their desires in the most honest way possible.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$14.99 totalThree months$29.98 total

What Users Think About Feeld

“It’s called the ‘Tinder for threesomes’ for a reason. I’ll let you do the imagining.”

15.  Sex Messenger – Best for anonymous hookups

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★★

Sex Messenger is an anonymous instant messaging app—like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. But you never share your name because it’s meant to be discreet and only for sexting and trading nudes.

This app is an adult social network that is much more than an online sex chat. It caters to people who want to connect with other people who want to engage in sex and dirty talk, and fulfill each other’s sexual fantasies. Instant messaging on this app and posting blog entries will help you gain the attention you want from like-minded people.

All members must verify their accounts, so this weeds out fake profiles, scammers, and bots. Members can contribute to the website through Sex Messenger’s forums, chats, group sections, sex stories, and blogs. It’s all anonymous and fully discrete. This app is a great way to sext, increase sexual tension, and finally meet up to do the deed.

Membership LengthPriceOne month$14.95 total

What Users Think About Sex Messenger

“I’m recently single and wanted to have a little fun but was skeptical about trying something online. You hear about the horror stories. I found Sex Messenger and immediately thought SCAM. But I gave it a shot and found a couple fun guys within a couple weeks. I didn’t need to renew my membership.”

16.  Reddit R4R – Best completely free option

SpecificationRatingUser experience★★★★Real profiles★★★★Success rate★★★★Customer service★★★

Reddit R4R is one of the best options for browse casual sex options for free. If you’re looking for a hookup but don’t want to sign up, post photos of yourself, and write out a bio to describe who you are and what you want . . . you found the site for you!

This site works as a personals subreddit. It works like any other subreddit. Anyone can post—no photos, no personal information needed! All you have to do is list some things about yourself and the type of person you’re looking for. And then you wait to see if anyone responds to your post.

Reddit R4R is free, so all you have to do is download the Reddit app, and you don’t need to worry about spending money. If you want to be a trusted member and not get blocked, just follow the posting rules! Users love this site to get laid because it’s easy to use, free, and starts an instant conversation with like-minded people.

Membership TierPriceUnlimitedFree

What Users Think About Reddit R4R

“Look, it’s Reddit. You ‘get what you pay for,’ but it’s cool to scroll the profiles and chat for free. Too many guys but I definitely found and met up with a couple hotties.”

Hookup Site Guide

Still on the fence about whether or not you should start using hookup apps? Or maybe you’re already using them but want some more information? Check out this useful guide to answer any lingering questions you may have and walk away with some important safety tips about casual sex.

What Makes a Hookup Site Good?

It’s important to note that different sites cater to different kinds of people. So before creating a profile on any old hookup site, read the reviews to make sure it meets your needs.

Here are a few tips to find the best hookup site specific to you:

If you have a particular kink or preference, keep an eye out for it. (example: Looking for discreet affairs? Ashley Madison is the one for you!)
Make sure the size of the user base is relatively large. More options mean a better chance of finding someone to hook up with.
Find a site that allows users to be up-front about what they want. Usually, apps have preferences, and you can set yours to “casual relationship” or “hookup.”
Make sure the customer service contact information is front and center. You shouldn’t have to go on an expedition to contact the site.

FAQs About Hookup Sites

Q: Are hookup sites safe?

Like any online dating platform, reputable hookup sites have embedded safety features that still require user discretion. It can be dangerous if you don’t take proper safety measures. Generally, these sites and apps regulate safety by banning bots and scammers and have options to report any bad or suspicious behavior. So if you’re planning on joining, be aware and try your best not to be too gullible—you can never be sure who you will come across online!

Q: Are there any completely free hookup sites?

It sucks that most dating apps and casual sex apps require you to subscribe to get optimum results. But sites like Reddit R4R and Craigslist Activities offer a free platform to chat, flirt, and arrange sex dates. But the only downside is that there is no moderation and you won’t be talking to a verified profile and have to be extra cautious.

Q: What hookup sites are free for women?

The reality is that dating apps make it very easy for women to find sex. Most high-rated dating sites offer women free memberships (mostly to balance out the male/female ratio on their site). Sex sites that are free for women include Bumble, OkCupid, Tinder, Seeking, Hinge, Her, and Pure.

Q: What is the best LGBTQ+ option?

Though there are a few options, only two rise to the top. HER is the best for women seeking women and Grindr is best for men seeking for men. These two sites also cater to non-binary people.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for some action tonight, welcome to the world of casual sex sites and apps.

The best hookup sites are on top for a reason—everyone on there is eager to find sex and casual flings just like you! More than mainstream dating apps that cater to a plethora of things such as long-term dating, friendships, and so on, hookup apps are catered only towards sex and NSA fun!

The best hookup site is Adult FriendFinder (AFF) followed closely by BuddyBang. AFF emphasizes anonymity, safety, a massive user base, and a brand name that is verified. Most people on this site are looking for a good time with so many different types of kinks and fantasies. So what are you waiting for?

Hopefully, this list gives you an idea of what sex app is the best for you to get started on today.

Read More

Back in week two, the Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers game had no doubt when it came to who was going to be under center for each team. You knew that Justin Fields was going to go up against Aaron Rodgers in the big rivalry match. Green Bay pulled off a win.

Since then, the Bears continued to develop Fields and he has looked amazing. However, that has not translated into wins.

You’d think that Aaron Rodgers and the Packers would be well on their way to the playoffs at this point but that doesn’t seem to be the case. They only have one more win than the Bears which is not good for the Packers at all. One team is trying to tank and one is trying to win a Super Bowl.

In this game, it is unlikely that we see Fields play because of his separated shoulder injury. There is a chance but he did not play this past Sunday against the New York Jets. As you’d expect, the Bears did not win that game.

A few hours later, the Packers were beaten down by the Philadelphia Eagles who are one of the best teams in the NFC right now. Green Bay just had no chance. The big story from the game, however, wasn’t the final score. It was the fact that Aaron Rogers left the game with an injury.

Jordan Love came in and played well but losing Rodgers would all but end the season for the Packers. The speculation of his status apparently isn’t going to last very long though as he seemed to clear some things up on Tuesday afternoon.

Aaron Rodgers will be in the game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.

It is Aaron Rodgers Tuesday on the Pat McAfee show as Rodgers joined the crew to discuss how things are going. It is a weekly segment that Aaron has never shied away from. During the show, he confirmed that he expects to play on Sunday against the Bears.

There were some rumors after the Eagles/Packers game that he was done for the year and potentially forever but that was obviously a wildly exaggerated rumor that had no base. He is going to be right back in there on Sunday.

It is unfortunate that the Bears have to continue dealing with him but it isn’t that big of a deal right now. Green Bay is going nowhere this year and the more games the Bears lose, the better.

From a human being’s point of view, it is nice that Rodgers isn’t hurt too badly but it is going to come at the expense of our Chicago Bears. The 2023 NFL Draft will make all of this worth it.

Read More

It’s the final week to catch the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s “SAIC Faculty Sabbatical Triennial” exhibition, which features work produced by 38 faculty members who completed a sabbatical or a similar paid leave during the last three academic years. Not only does this show represent the breadth of ideas and creative practices at an influential local arts institution, but it also demonstrates how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the artistic inquiries of these instructors. There’s some great Chicago history hidden in the show, including documentation of art historian Romi Crawford’s Black Arts Movement School Modality, which “explores the ideological structures that emerged in Chicago from the Black Arts Movement in the 1960s and 1970s.” New media artist Mary Patten debuts the video Hokey Sapp Does SPEW, which features Kate Schechter as the facetious media character Hokey Sapp interviewing people at SPEW: The Homographic Convergence, a zine convention hosted at Randolph Street Gallery in 1991. SPEW is recognized as a crucial connection point for midwestern queer culture in the 90s, including what led to the Homocore punk shows. Patten edited and shaped the piece this year using video footage that she shot with Schechter in 1991. The “SAIC Faculty Sabbatical Triennial” is on view at SAIC Galleries (33 E. Washington); open hours from 11 AM-6 PM today through Saturday 12/3. Saturday also offers a closing program and meet and greet with artist Ruth Margraff and other SAIC faculty from 4-6 PM. (MC)

If you’re a fan of French New Wave cinema—you know, the 60s experimental film movement heavy with jump cuts, mod style, and ennui—then you’ll want to check out Looking for Jean-Luc, an online-only panel discussion of director Jean-Luc Godard. Independent filmmakers Joël Akafou and Thavary Krouch, Chicago International Film Festival programmer Sam Flancher, and University of Chicago Cinema and Media Studies department chair Dan Morgan will gather to discuss the work of the director known for films such as Breathless and Weekend. Join them via Zoom at 6:30 PM. This event is organized by Alliance Française de Chicago. If you are not a student, or a member of Cinema/Chicago, the Gene Siskel Film Center, or Facets, Alliance Française kindly requests a $15 donation to support similar future programming. (MC)

Here are three music options for tonight:

Pianist and composer Robert Glasper starts a four night run at City Winery tonight, with two shows scheduled each evening. Unfortunately, all of the 7 PM shows are currently sold out, as is the 10:30 PM Friday show, but waiting list information as well as tickets for the remaining 10:30 PM shows are available at the venue’s website. (Today through Fri 12/2, 7 and 10:30 PM, 1200 W. Randolph, $55-$78, all-ages, tickets here)
British singer-songwriter Beabadoobee visits Riviera Theatre for an all-ages show; Lowertown opens. (7:30 PM, 4746 N. Racine, $30-$45, tickets at AXS)
A record release show for two improvisational ensembles, the Gilgamanians and Maku Sica (formerly Mako Sica) happens tonight at Elastic. More at Reader contributor Bill Meyer’s concert preview. (8 PM, 3429 W. Diversey, second floor, $15, all-ages, tickets at the door) (SCJ)

Previews begin tonight at 7:30 PM for Manual Cinema’s Christmas Carol at Writers Theatre (325 Tudor Ct., Glencoe). The company originally created the piece as a live Zoom play during the pandemic, and now the story of Aunt Trudy, a grieving widow finding it hard to find holiday cheer, gets a full live production, featuring Manual Cinema’s usual array of puppetry, live music, and projections to give a contemporary twist to the Dickens classic. The show runs through 12/24 and is recommended for 6+; tickets are $35-$90 at writerstheatre.org. (KR)

Read More