What is Facebook Dating and how does it work? Here’s how to set it up, find matches, and use it safely — step-by-step, with tips that work in 2025.
Heard of Facebook Dating but not sure what it is — or how to actually use it?
You’re not alone. Facebook Dating has flown under the radar compared to apps like Tinder or Bumble, but it’s still around, and for certain people, it works really well.
Here’s everything you need to know about what Facebook Dating is and how it works in 2025 — plus how to use it without messing up your main Facebook profile.
1. What Is Facebook Dating?
Facebook Dating is a free feature built into the Facebook app. It lets you create a dating profile that’s separate from your main profile and matches you with people based on your preferences, location, and interests.
It’s optional, private, and won’t show up on your news feed — so your friends won’t know unless you tell them.
2. How to Set Up Facebook Dating
You need to be 18+ and have the latest version of the Facebook mobile app.
To activate Facebook Dating:
- Open Facebook app → Tap Menu (☰)
- Scroll down and tap “Dating”
- Follow prompts to set up your profile
You’ll be asked to add photos, answer prompts, and set preferences for:
- Age range
- Location distance
- Gender and interests
Your dating profile pulls from your existing photos and interests — but you can customise everything.
3. How Matching Works on Facebook Dating
This part feels familiar if you’ve used other apps.
Instead of swiping, you like individual prompts or photos. It’s closer to Hinge than Tinder.
- Tap the heart to “like” something
- If they like you back, you can chat
- All convos happen in the Dating section — not Messenger
You can see who likes you, but unlike Tinder, there’s no endless swipe deck.
4. What's Different About Facebook Dating?
There are a few features that make Facebook Dating different from other apps:
- Secret Crush: You can choose up to 9 Facebook friends or Instagram followers as a secret crush. If they add you too, it’s a match.
- Shared Events & Groups: You can match with people who attend the same Facebook events or are in the same groups.
- Video Chat: After matching, you can video call them directly from the app
It feels a little more connected — like dating within your extended digital circle.
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5. Is Facebook Dating Safe?
Yes — if you follow basic safety rules.
- Don’t share your phone number or location too fast
- Use Facebook’s block/report tools for red flags
- Meet in public the first time
Since Facebook Dating connects through your real profile (but privately), catfishing is less common — but still possible.
6. Who Is Facebook Dating Best For?
Facebook Dating works best if:
- You already use Facebook often
- You want something low-key, without downloading a new app
- You’re looking for people in your area who aren’t on mainstream apps
It tends to attract users 25+ — and it’s less chaotic than apps with swipe culture.
7. What People Don’t Like About It
Here’s the downside:
- The user base is smaller than Tinder or Bumble
- No desktop version — mobile only
- It’s not as polished or “fun” as gamified apps
But if you’re tired of endless swiping and ghosting? That’s a feature — not a flaw.
8. Can You Use Facebook Dating Without Your Friends Knowing?
Yes. Your Facebook Dating profile is completely separate.
Your activity isn’t posted to your timeline, feed, or visible to friends. You can also choose to hide your dating profile from friends of friends.
Secret crush is the only feature that connects to friends — and it’s only mutual if you both opt in.
Final Word: What Is Facebook Dating and How Does It Work?
Facebook Dating is a free, private dating feature inside the Facebook app. It’s low-pressure, less swipey, and works best for people already active on Facebook.
If you’re looking for something simple, local, and less chaotic — it’s worth trying.
No downloads. No drama. Just one more option in your dating toolbox.