What are the most popular online dating websites on the net? It mainly depends on what sources you are going by. There are hundreds of "top 10" or top 100" list websites online, though these are dubious sources considering that they are owned by affiliate marketers. In determining the real top 10 or top 20 online dating websites, you must consider factors such as overall hit traffic, membership and unique site visitors.

If you go by Alexa measured traffic, then a more accurate top 10 listing of online dating websites would include Match.com, American Singles, MatchMaker.com, Date.com, FriendFinder.com (or Adult Friend Finder.com), DatingDirect.com, DreamMates.com and E-Harmony. However, you must also consider the fact that Alexa traffic changes frequently.

If you are going by Nielsen ratings (up until recently used only for top TV shows) then among the online dating websites would be E-Harmony, Yahoo Personals, Match.com, True.com, Singles.net, Plenty of Fish, Do U Like, Spark Networks (which operates a number of niche sites), Mate1 and AOL Personals. Reportedly, the Nielsen people track these sites based on their total unique visitors.

Wikipedia reports that online dating websites seem to be controlled by only a few major companies , including AOL Personals, Yahoo Personals, Match.com and E-Harmony. You also have to consider adult websites like Adult Friend Finder and Ashley Madison, which claim to have a high number of members, though various sources state that their total active membership is exaggerated. Last but not least, you have "free" dating sites like Craigslist, MySpace and Face Book, though these sites are mostly unfiltered and have no special features made for single users.

What are some of the features an online dating website might include? These might include video and audio features, free browsing, matchmaking and instant chat. If you have been thinking about online dating for a while, try signing up with one of these top services. Choose a website that really gives you your money's worth-a site with lots of customizable options that you cannot get on your own.

In the end, popular doesn't really cut it for you. You must make a decision as to which site you feel most comfortable with. Consider your goals, short-term and long-term. Then, look up reviews for online dating websites. You never know, within a few months, you may meet the one true love of your life!