Complete Hinge Guide 2026: The App Designed to Be Deleted

Hinge presents itself as "the app designed to be deleted". Unlike other dating apps, it focuses on quality over quantity. Its goal? For you to find someone and delete the app.

Want to maximize your chances? Start by generating your Hinge profile with our AI or get your profile analyzed for free.

Why Hinge is Different from Other Apps

Forget Tinder's infinite swipe. On Hinge, you must interact with an element of the profile (photo or prompt) to send a like. This mechanic forces you to actually look at profiles.

The key differences:

• Limited likes: You have a daily quota of free likes
• Required comments: You can (and should) comment on each like
• Prompts: 3 questions you must answer to show your personality
• Relationship algorithm: Hinge learns your preferences over time

To see how Hinge compares to other apps, check our dating app comparison.

How to Create a Perfect Hinge Profile

Your Hinge profile consists of 6 photos and 3 prompts. Each element is an opportunity to show who you are.

The 6 photos:

• Photo 1: your face, smiling, well-lit
• Photos 2-4: your passions, your lifestyle
• Photos 5-6: your humor, your personality

The 3 prompts: This is where Hinge shines. Your prompt responses make the difference between a basic profile and one that attracts. Discover our funny prompt examples for inspiration.

Mastering Hinge Prompts

Prompts are the heart of Hinge. They're pre-defined questions you answer to reveal your personality.

How to choose the right prompts:

1. Avoid clichés: "I love traveling and happy hour" says nothing about you
2. Be specific: "My guilty pleasure is rewatching The Office for the 7th time" creates connection
3. Leave a door open: Your prompts should make people want to comment

To master prompts, choose one funny, one sincere, and one that shows your passions.

How to Start Conversation on Hinge

On Hinge, conversation starts before the match. Your comment on a like is your first impression.

The golden rules:

• Always comment on your likes (never like "empty")
• React to something specific in the profile
• Ask an open question related to their prompt or photo

Need inspiration? Discover the opening lines that work on Hinge.

Once you get the match, the real conversation begins. Our complete conversation guide explains how to maintain interest.

And to go further, here are the questions that create connection to move from small talk to a real bond.

Pickup Lines That Work on Hinge

Unlike Tinder, pickup lines on Hinge need to be contextual. You're reacting to a profile element, not the person in general.

What works:

• References to their prompts
• Questions about their activity photos
• Humor related to a detail from their profile

For concrete examples, check our Hinge pickup lines tested and approved.

Conclusion

Hinge is the ideal app if you're looking for a serious relationship. Its system of prompts and commented likes fosters genuine connections.

Want to explore other options? Check our dating app comparison to find the one for you.