Okcupid functions as a large central clearinghouse. Frequented mostly by those under 30, the site offers everything from personal ads to extensive pop psychology quizzes. Unlike Eharmony, Okcupid’s quizzes are mostly user-generated and the results are of dubious real-world use. Nonetheless, the community is large and active. It is free to join, and as you take quizzes the results can be stored as part of your profile.  This allows other users to view your results.

Many users join primarily for friendship and casual encounters.  The user-generated quizzes are a large draw, as code is provided, allowing users to post their quiz results into other online blogs such as livejournal and myspace.

Often users find their way to the site through quiz results posted in a friend’s blog, and wind up becoming active in the community. Others join for the personal ads, but find the quizzes and other aspects of the site addictive, and become active members, staying long after they have found the person of their dreams.

This site, due to its sheer size and number of users, has a rather impersonal feel. It may be difficult to find a real and lasting connection in the sea of casual users. For those who are looking for casual online dating, or simply want to create and take quizzes, Okcupid offers a relaxed atmosphere and innumerable resources. Although it is a fun addition to a repertoire of dating resources, Okcupid is not the best site for deep and meaningful interactions.

OK Cupid

Posted by Lisa.