Features
Everything You Need to Meet Someone Real
Daily matches near you, profiles people actually read, private messages and ID checks. Here's what you get free, and what VIP and VIP Plus add.
- Free to join
- 18+ only
Joining The Ugly Bug Ball takes a few minutes. You build a profile, say who you would like to meet and what you are hoping for, and each day you get a fresh set of members near you who fit. You message the people you like, at your own pace, on your phone or your computer. Here's how each part works.
Date from any phone, tablet or laptop
The site runs in any modern web browser. On a phone you can add it to your home screen, where it opens full screen like an installed app and copes when your signal drops. Native apps for iPhone and Android are offered in selected markets. Your messages, matches and settings are the same wherever you sign in, so a conversation started on your lunch break carries on from the sofa.
A profile that shows who you are
On most apps your profile is a photo with a caption. Here it is the main event. Your bio, your interests and what you are looking for sit right alongside your pictures, so people can read them before they decide whether to say hello. Write the way you talk, mention the odd things you love, and the right people will find you. Our dating profile tips cover what to write and how to choose photos when you do not like being photographed. As you use the site, badges appear on your profile: Verified once you pass an ID or video check, and Chatterbox, Heartthrob and Most Popular as people respond to you.
Matches chosen for you, every day
The matching looks at the age range you set, who you want to meet, how far away they are, how recently they were active, the kind of relationship you want, habits such as drinking and smoking, and your interests. Shared interests count for a lot on a site like this, because a love of pub quizzes or old horror films is a better start than a good jawline. The matching finds people worth a look. The first message is yours.
More than one-to-one messages
There is also a members' feed where people post photos and updates and comment on each other's, plus polls and quizzes. VIP members can join the members-only chat rooms and set up private group chats of up to 50 people, with free members welcome in them. For shy members especially, a group chat is a relaxed way to get to know a few people before talking to one.
Free, VIP and VIP Plus side by side
What each kind of membership gives you.
| Free | VIP | VIP Plus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Join and build a full profile | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Browse members and get daily matches | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Post to the feed, comment, join polls | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Messages | A limited number a day, plus replies to paid members | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| ID check and profile verification | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Advanced search filters | No | Yes | Yes |
| Chat rooms and private group chats of up to 50 | No | Yes | Yes |
| See everyone who likes you, rewind swipes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Top of the match stack, priority for messages and likes | No | No | Yes |
| Exclusive matches | No | No | Yes |
| Profile boost and Super Match add-ons | No | No | Can be bought |
Want to be seen first?
VIP Plus puts your profile at the top of each potential match's daily suggestions, shows your messages and likes ahead of everyone else's, and opens a set of exclusive matches. Two extras can be bought on top: a profile boost, which shows you to every active member in your area for a while, and Super Match, a highlighted message your match always sees first and can reply to straight away.
Real people, checked
ID verification is open to every member and adds a badge to your profile. If you would rather not upload documents, a short live video check with a moderator does the same job. Every protection is listed on the safety page, every plan and price is on the pricing page, and our comparisons show how The Ugly Bug Ball differs from the big swipe apps.
Anything else you would like to know?
Is there an Ugly Bug Ball app?
The site works in your phone's browser and can be saved to your home screen, where it behaves like an app. Native apps for iPhone and Android are offered in selected markets.
Can free members send messages?
Yes. A free account comes with a number of messages each day, and you can always read and reply to messages from VIP and VIP Plus members.
Do I have to show my face?
No. A clear photo helps people trust you, but you can start with a picture of yourself doing something you love and add more once you feel comfortable.
Do I have to verify my ID?
No, it is optional. A verified badge shows people you are real, so it is worth the few minutes.
Will people I know see me on the site?
Only if they are members too. Your profile shows your username and nearest town, and your real name and email are never shown.