The best online dating site is the website with the best features. A dating site may be hugely popular, but if it features a complicated system or a tedious joining process, then most users may be hitting the back button before long. What features should you look for when finding the best online dating site?

It depends largely on what you are willing to pay. Free websites are indiscriminate and rather basic. Many dating sites restrict the abilities of users until they start paying for a higher membership. The most expensive websites offer customized service where they match you up with a "handpicked" partner and provide dating advice. Some may even provide a dating scenario, such as a restaurant gift card.

When it comes to finding one of the best dating sites, you are primarily looking for both freedom and complexity. You want a website that allows you to search for members and browse users within your specified range of interests. Some websites do not allow you to search outside of their "recommendations." At the same time, you want the company to put some thought and effort into their matchmaking. You want the option of meeting their suggested match. The matching system may be based on algorithms, common interests, races or faith, personality test compatibility, and a number of other factors.

Other features that are included in the best online dating site might be privacy. The last thing you want is a crazy person knocking at your door at four a.m. in the morning! Privacy allows you to date safely. You can stay completely anonymous until you start to trust someone. You can also protect yourself from unwanted SPAM. Some dating sites actually conduct criminal background checks.

The best online dating site might also give you access to various dating tools, social media activities, games and other options that help to break the ice between two people. Another feature to look for is that of video and audio sharing. In this age of fast Internet, cheap webcams and Microsoft universal compatibility, there is really no excuse for a person not to have a webcam and a microphone (or a digital phone). Make sure that your dating website of choice allows you have your own blog, and upload whatever video or audio features you would like. Likewise, you should be able to browse other member profiles so you can get an "up close and personal" view of your prospective mate.

The best online dating site gives you your money's worth in terms of features. All you need to bring is your charm!