Jan 20
It's the Ultimate Smackdown: Sniffies Vs. Grindr. Let's Crown a Winner, Baby!
Jake Myers READ TIME: 8 MIN.
Round 3: Privacy
Sometimes it can feel exposing to put everything out there on the apps, especially when you live in a small town where everyone knows everyone. Sure, you could put up a generic chest pic, or some other obscure body part that no one would recognize, but at the end of the day, you might just be a "looker," and not want to make yourself known.
On Grindr, you'll have to create a profile, but you can choose to keep the default avatar as your profile photo, instead of uploading your headshot. You can also choose not to enter any personal information like your name, age, location, etc., which will keep your profile blank and anonymous.
On Sniffies, however, you don't even have to create an account at all, simply choosing to go on as an anonymous user with the default avatar. When you spot a potential match, you can message them directly as "Anonymous User," sending pics or other info privately if you so choose. This is especially useful for the bisexual or DL guys who aren't out, when they're looking to get their needs met. Additionally, strict moderation policies are in place to maintain a respectful and inclusive atmosphere.
THE WINNER: Sniffies
Round 4: Versatility
No, we're not talking about which platform has more tops, bottoms, vers, or sides (though, that would be an interesting finding)! Instead, we're talking about the guys who are actually looking to connect in more ways than one. After all, who is to say you can't meet your lifelong partner on an app? We certainly know some long-time couples who did.
Grindr seems to have evolved beyond just the casual hook-up, with more guys also looking for friends, dates, and activity partners. There's potential that by chatting with someone, you might end up with a hiking buddy, a work connection, a date, OR a FWB.
Sniffies, while it allows you filter potential connections based on your preferences, including location, interests, and desired activities, seems to be geared more towards getting off, rather than getting off the market.
THE WINNER: Grindr
Round 5: Sexiness
No matter what your reasons are for going on an app, there's always some part of you that wants to be titillated.
While Grindr may feature more cute faces, Sniffies seems to be a lot dirtier, with more photos of certain...body parts, being prominently featured. Not only that, there's a section to post real time cruising updates, as well as your upcoming bukkake party. If you're looking for quick hookups, group sex, sex parties, glory holes, and other ways to engage your irreverent side, this is probably your go-to.
THE WINNER: Sniffies
Round 6: Design & Features
At the end of the day, you're going to want to use a platform that is both pleasing to the eye, but also user-friendly, with lots of helpful features.
It's hard to tell if we like the look of Grindr because we've been seeing it for so long, or if it's actually a great design. That said, Sniffies also offers a clean and intuitive interface, and you can't beat that map, which not only includes guys, but nearby venues and cruising spots in the area (and who might be there now).
Like most apps, both platforms offer a free version, with limited features (including the amount of profiles you can view), and then a paid premium version. The premium version of Grindr (called Grinder XTRA) gives you not only more cool features, but better filters. With the paid subscription, you get zero ads, up to 600 profiles in the grid, read receipts, expiring photos, and then a lot more filters in your search (preferred sexual position, face photo only, etc.). With Sniffies, the premium members also gain access to additional search filters, unlimited profile views, and advanced messaging options.
Cost wise, Sniffies is cheaper, which seems fair since they are also newer on the scene, with less users. Ultimately, it's the refreshing novelty that Sniffies offers that tipped the scale in their favor in our final smackdown.
THE WINNER: Sniffies
FINAL SCORE: 4 SNIFFIES / 2 GRINDR
OUR WINNER: SNIFFIES!
For even more on this topic, check out the latest episode of the EDGE Experience Podcast:
https://www.edgemedianetwork.com/Media/Podcast/331578