BlackPeopleMeet vs Zoosk

Founded in 2002 and later acquired by Match  Group, BlackPeopleMeet positions itself as the largest dating service for Black singles in the U.S. It serves a predominantly U.S. audience, with about 900,000 U.S. members and roughly 5  million members globally. Signing up requires basic information and photo verification. Free users can browse profiles, receive daily matches, and send flirts. Those interested can take advantage of a free trial option to explore the platform further. Premium plans unlock unlimited messaging, instant chat, ConnectMe private calling, and a “see who viewed you” feature. Token packages allow you to boost visibility or send virtual gifts, while membership plans range from approximately $11.95 to $16.75 per month, depending on the subscription term. Despite its helpful features and niche focus, the service receives mixed reviews; Sitejabber’s users award it an average of 1.3/5, with complaints about fake profiles and billing issues, while editorial reviewers note its ease of use and large community.

Since its launch in 2007, Zoosk has carved a niche in online dating with its Behavioral Matchmaking™ system—an algorithm that learns from user interactions to refine matches over time. With 40+ million members across 80+ countries, it offers a blend of swipe-style discovery (Carousel) and advanced filters, appealing to both casual daters and those seeking serious connections. Standout features like Zoosk Live (free livestreaming) and robust photo verification tools enhance engagement and safety. However, Zoosk’s freemium model draws criticism. Free users face restrictive messaging limits, while premium features, like seeing who liked you, often require additional Zoosk Coins, creating a layered paywall. User reviews highlight inconsistent match quality, technical glitches (especially on Android), and frustrations with auto-renewing subscriptions. While its global reach and adaptive tech are strengths, Zoosk struggles with transparency and competes with sleeker rivals like Bumble or Hinge. For daters willing to invest in a subscription, Zoosk’s data-driven approach can yield results, but it’s best suited for urban users or those open to international matches. Read our full review to see if its perks outweigh the pitfalls.