2026 Latest Ranking of Friend-Finding Apps: Prioritize Safety First

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in apps that help users find friends rather than for romantic purposes, especially among working adults and those seeking hobby partners. The needs are diverse, including building new relationships in their 40s and 50s, casually connecting with same-sex friends, or meeting like-minded activity partners. However, concerns remain about whether these apps truly connect users for friendship and whether safety is adequately ensured.

A recent survey conducted by MyBest in 2026 rigorously evaluated 15 popular friend-finding apps based on security measures, free usage features, and user purpose alignment. This article introduces recommended services in a ranking format, focusing on “choosing safe and trustworthy apps.”

The 3 Most Important Safety Points When Choosing Friend-Finding Apps

When selecting a friend-finding app, the level of security measures is a key criterion. Focus on these three points:

① 24-Hour Monitoring System
The ability to respond quickly to issues as they arise is crucial for reliability. Apps with 24-hour monitoring tend to offer immediate support and are generally safer.

② Identity Verification via ID
Verifying age and gender with a photo ID helps prevent impersonation. Apps that implement this process tend to have higher-quality users.

③ Reporting and Blocking Features
Ensure the app has functions to report and block inappropriate users.

Women-Only and Women-Focused Apps: Prioritizing Safety and Ease of Use

Apps designed exclusively for women often have enhanced security features.

Favomatch (Favosia)
A platform tailored for women interested in hobbies and fan activities. Features include extensive search options based on interests and regular offline meetups. The timeline feature allows SNS-like interaction. However, it lacks 24-hour monitoring, which could be improved.

Touch (Curuju)
A women-only friend-making app that requires photo ID verification for identity confirmation. It offers 24-hour monitoring and reporting/blocking functions, earning high safety ratings. Unlimited free messaging is also available.

Dote Match (Tokugawa)
Specialized in building female friendships, with practical features like timeline updates, holiday searches, and area-specific restaurant info. It verifies age and gender via ID but lacks 24-hour monitoring, which is a concern.

tipsys (Relation Design Laboratory)
A women-only app with over 300,000 users nationwide. Group chat functions enable multiple users to interact. Users can set exclusion keywords for a comfortable environment. However, the absence of 24-hour monitoring poses challenges for immediate trouble response.

All-Purpose Apps Supporting Same-Sex and Opposite-Sex Friendships

Suitable for male users or those seeking friendships across genders.

Bumble (Bumble Inc.)
Features mode switching for dating and friendship. “BFF Mode” allows building friendships with both same and opposite sex. Equipped with 24-hour monitoring and reporting systems for safety. The low cost for men is a major advantage. Location search is available, but searching by residence is not supported.

Tantan (Tantan Japan)
A Chinese platform with over 300 million members worldwide. Messaging is unrestricted, and same-sex searches are possible. It has 24-hour monitoring and reporting functions, ensuring safety. However, limited filtering options may be a drawback.

Tinder (MG Japan Services)
One of the largest platforms with over 55 billion matches. Supports same-sex filtering and has 24-hour monitoring and blocking features. While primarily known for dating, many users seek friendship. Men can use basic features free of charge.

Specialized Apps for Specific Groups or Purposes

Designed for particular needs or demographics.

Somri (MAMATALK)
Aimed at users in their 30s to 50s seeking friends or romantic partners. Features a “Same-Sex Friend Search” mode for targeted matching. Includes reporting and blocking for safety. Search options include weekends and children presence. Men need to pay for full access.

JOIN US (Vikona)
Focused on instant drinking party matchmaking. Users can select and register for different party styles. Uses location info to find nearby participants. Lacks 24-hour monitoring and age verification, raising safety concerns.

GolWho (Golf Activity)
A golf-specific matching app with detailed search filters like scores and ride-sharing options. Ensures safety with 24-hour monitoring and blocking. However, it also attracts users interested in dating or marriage, so for strictly friendship purposes, it may not be ideal.

Prioritized Criteria for Safety

When choosing a friend-finding app, consider the following in order:

1. 24-Hour Monitoring: For immediate response to issues
2. ID Verification: To ensure user authenticity
3. Reporting and Blocking: To handle inappropriate behavior
4. Purpose Alignment: Friend-making vs. dating functions
5. Search Functionality: Ease of finding suitable matches

By evaluating these factors in relation to your goals, age group, and preferred interaction style, you can select the most suitable app for building safe and meaningful friendships.