Only Lads Review: Dating for Gay and Bi Men 2025

Only Lads is a dating and social networking platform designed specifically for gay and bisexual men. With a user-friendly interface, this app aims to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space where men can connect for friendships, casual dating, or long-term relationships. Only Lads stands out for its commitment to fostering a respectful and supportive LGBTQ+ community, offering a mix of traditional dating features alongside social networking tools.

In this review, we’ll explore how Only Lads works, its key features, pros and cons, and whether it’s the right platform for gay and bisexual men looking to connect in a supportive online environment.

What is Only Lads?

Only Lads is a free dating and social platform for gay and bisexual men, offering a space for members to meet, chat, and form connections. Whether users are looking for casual hookups, long-term relationships, or new friends, Only Lads provides a variety of tools for making meaningful connections. The app allows users to create detailed profiles, browse nearby singles, and communicate through messaging features. Only Lads also focuses on creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals by promoting respectful interactions and minimizing harassment or inappropriate behavior.

Available for free, Only Lads also offers a premium subscription called Only Lads Pro, which unlocks additional features such as unlimited messaging, advanced profile browsing, and no ads.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exclusive for Gay and Bisexual Men: Only Lads is tailored specifically to the needs of gay and bisexual men, creating a comfortable and inclusive space for users to connect.
• Free Basic Features: The platform allows users to create profiles, browse nearby members, and send a limited number of messages for free.
• Simple and User-Friendly Interface: The platform’s clean and intuitive design makes it easy for users to search for matches and start conversations.
• Supportive Community: Only Lads fosters a positive, LGBTQ+-friendly environment, emphasizing respect and inclusion among its members.
• Mobile-Friendly: The app is mobile-friendly, making it easy to use on the go, though there’s no dedicated mobile app.

Cons:

• Limited Free Messaging: Free users are limited in the number of messages they can send, which may hinder communication. Full access to messaging is locked behind a premium membership.
• Smaller User Base: Compared to larger, more popular LGBTQ+ platforms like Grindr or Scruff, Only Lads has a smaller user base, which may limit matches in some areas.
• Ads for Free Users: Free users will see ads while using the platform, which can be distracting and impact the overall experience.
• No Video Chat Feature: Only Lads lacks certain modern features, such as video chat, which are becoming more common on dating platforms.

Key Features of Only Lads

1. Profiles for Gay and Bisexual Men

Only Lads allows users to create detailed profiles that showcase their interests, appearance, and relationship goals. Members can upload photos, write a bio, and specify what they’re looking for—whether it’s friendship, casual dating, or something more serious. Profiles are designed to be straightforward and informative, helping users connect with others who share similar interests and goals.

2. Location-Based Matching

Only Lads uses location-based matching to show users nearby profiles. This feature is particularly helpful for those looking to meet people in their area or arrange in-person meetups. The app displays profiles based on proximity, making it easier to find potential matches who are close by.

3. Free Messaging (With Limits)

Free members can send a limited number of messages to other users, allowing them to test the platform’s communication features before deciding whether to upgrade. For more frequent or unlimited messaging, users will need to upgrade to Only Lads Pro.

4. Only Lads Pro (Premium Subscription)

For users who want more advanced features, Only Lads offers a premium subscription called Only Lads Pro. With this subscription, users gain access to:

• Unlimited messaging: Communicate freely with as many members as you want.
• No ads: Enjoy an ad-free experience.
• More profile visibility: See more profiles in your area, increasing your chances of finding a match.
• Advanced search filters: Narrow down your searches with more specific filters based on appearance, interests, or relationship preferences.

5. Safe and Supportive Environment

One of the standout features of Only Lads is its commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for gay and bisexual men. The platform encourages respectful behavior and has tools to report or block users who engage in harassment or inappropriate conduct.

How to Get the Most Out of Only Lads

1. Complete Your Profile

Ensure your profile is detailed and reflects your interests, lifestyle, and what you’re looking for in a relationship. High-quality photos and a well-written bio will help you stand out and attract more compatible matches.

2. Use Location-Based Matching to Connect Locally

Take full advantage of the location-based matching feature to find people in your area. This feature is great for users looking to meet in person, and it helps narrow down matches based on proximity.

3. Upgrade to Only Lads Pro for Unlimited Messaging

While free users can send a limited number of messages, upgrading to Only Lads Pro unlocks unlimited messaging and removes ads. If you’re serious about connecting with other members, the premium membership will significantly enhance your experience.

4. Engage with Respectful Members

Only Lads fosters a respectful and positive community, so make sure to engage with others in a courteous and friendly manner. Use the platform’s tools to report or block any inappropriate behavior.

Subscription Options and Pricing

Only Lads offers a free version of the platform with basic features, but upgrading to Only Lads Pro unlocks additional benefits. Here’s an overview of the subscription pricing for Only Lads Pro:

• 1-month plan: $9.99/month
• 3-month plan: $7.99/month (billed at $23.97)
• 12-month plan: $4.99/month (billed at $59.88)

The premium membership includes unlimited messaging, ad-free browsing, and advanced search filters, which enhance the overall user experience.

Who Should Use Only Lads?

Only Lads is ideal for individuals who:

• Are Gay or Bisexual Men: The platform is designed exclusively for gay and bisexual men, providing a safe and inclusive space where they can connect with others who share similar identities and experiences.
• Prefer a Supportive, LGBTQ+-Friendly Community: Only Lads offers a welcoming environment that emphasizes respect and safety, making it a great option for those who value a positive and inclusive online community.
• Want a Mix of Casual Dating and Serious Relationships: Whether you’re looking for friendships, casual encounters, or long-term relationships, Only Lads caters to a variety of relationship goals.
• Live in Urban Areas: While the platform works in most locations, users in larger cities are more likely to find a wider pool of matches due to the app’s smaller user base compared to major dating platforms.

Comparison with Other Dating Platforms

Here’s how Only Lads compares to other popular LGBTQ+ dating platforms:

• Only Lads vs. Grindr: Grindr is more focused on quick, casual encounters, while Only Lads provides a more supportive, community-driven experience. Only Lads is also more geared toward users looking for friendships or longer-term relationships, while Grindr primarily targets casual dating.
• Only Lads vs. Scruff: Scruff offers a broader range of features, including travel-related tools and event listings, making it more of a community hub. Only Lads focuses on simplicity and ease of use, providing a more streamlined dating experience.
• Only Lads vs. Tinder: While Tinder caters to a broader audience (including LGBTQ+ users), it is known for quick, swipe-based matches. Only Lads is tailored specifically to gay and bisexual men and offers a more curated and supportive environment.

Security and Privacy on Only Lads

Only Lads takes user privacy seriously by offering features like profile blocking and reporting tools to help users manage unwanted behavior. The platform uses SSL encryption to protect user data and ensure secure communication.

As with any online dating platform, users should practice caution when interacting with new people and avoid sharing personal or financial information too early in the conversation. Only Lads encourages users to report any inappropriate behavior to maintain the safety and respectfulness of the community.

Customer Testimonials

Here’s what some users have experienced with Only Lads:

• “Great for finding new friends and more”
  “Only Lads has been a great platform for meeting new people. I’ve connected with some really friendly guys and appreciate that it’s not all about hookups.”
• “Safe and inclusive”
  “I like that Only Lads feels like a safe space for LGBTQ+ men. It’s easy to use, and I haven’t run into the same problems with trolls or harassment that I’ve seen on other apps.”
• “Limited messaging for free users”
  “The app is great, but the limited messaging on the free version was a bit frustrating. I ended up upgrading to the premium version, which improved the experience a lot.”

Final Thoughts: Is Only Lads Worth It?

Only Lads is a solid platform for gay and bisexual men seeking a safe, supportive space to connect with others for friendships, casual dating, or serious relationships. With its user-friendly interface, emphasis on creating a respectful community, and reasonable pricing for premium membership, Only Lads offers a positive experience for those who value a sense of inclusivity and respect within the LGBTQ+ dating scene.

While the limited messaging for free users and the smaller user base may be drawbacks, upgrading to Only Lads Pro offers full access to the app’s features and enhances the overall experience. If you’re looking for a welcoming space to meet like-minded individuals, Only Lads is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Only Lads free to use?
Yes, Only Lads offers a free membership with basic features, such as creating a profile and browsing nearby users. However, messaging is limited, and upgrading to Only Lads Pro unlocks unlimited messaging and additional features.

What types of relationships can I find on Only Lads?
Only Lads caters to friendships, casual dating, and serious relationships, providing flexibility for users to find connections that match their relationship goals.

Can I cancel my Only Lads Pro subscription at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your subscription at any time through the account settings. Be sure to cancel before the next billing cycle to avoid further charges.