Search Options And Matching Algorithms
The table below compares the search options only for those those dating sites that allow members to browse through the profiles of other members. Sites that focus on computerized matchmaking, such as Chemistry.com and eHarmony, do not allow membrs to search their membership bases and therefore do not provide search features.
Search Options Comparison
Search Criteria
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Match.com |
PerfectMatch |
Spark.com |
Lavalife |
| Photo Profiles Only |
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| Online Now |
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| Location |
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| Keyword |
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| Age |
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| Religion |
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| Languages |
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| Ethnicity |
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| Pet Preferences |
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| Drinking |
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| Smoking |
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| Music Preferences |
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| Hobbies |
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| Education Level |
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| Body Type |
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| Height |
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| Occupation |
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| Sense of Humor |
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| Personality Traits to Include |
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| Personality Traits to Exclude |
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| Children |
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| Relationship Status |
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| Who's Viewed Me |
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| Who's Favorited Me |
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| Personality Compatibility |
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Matching Algorithms
Instead of using search functions, compatibility matching services use distinct algorithms to help you find your mate. Each compatibility matching site offers a different approach to what makes a good relationship and how you can find the right partner.

After studying the 'science of attraction' for over 30 years, biological anthropologist Dr. Helen Fisher brought her expertise to Chemistry.com, where she developed a system that allows you to find a match with whom you can have a 'chemical' relationship as well as a romantic one. Dr. Fisher has identified 4 primary personality types: the Builder, Director, Explorer and Negotiator. When you complete your Personality Test you will receive an assessment of your own personality as well as a guide to how other personality types can impact your life. With this information you can assess each suggested match and determine which partnerships you're interested in pursuing.
Although the site's registration is referred to as a Personality Test, Dr. Fisher claims that Chemistry.com provides more than just a psychological or personality assessment – it assesses who people are at the core of their being and uses this information to suggest compatible matches. The goal of this approach is to provide matches that will result in enduring and satisfying relationships.
Read Full Chemistry.com Review >>

eHarmony was founded by Dr. Neil Clark Warren who spent 35 years counseling couples and studying what makes relationships successful (and what makes them fail). Dr. Warren's conclusion was that couples need more than mutual attraction – they need to build relationships based upon "29 Dimensions of Compatibility" that have proven essential in the creation of long-lasting relationships.
The Dimensions include:
- Self Concept
- Emotional Status
- Energy: Emotional
- Obstreperousness
- Passion: Romantic
- Character
- Kindness
- Dominance
- Sociability
- Autonomy
- Adaptability
- Intellect
- Curiosity
- Humor
- Artistic Passion
- Energy: Physical
- Passion: Sexual
- Vitality and Security
- Industry
- Appearance
- Communication Style
- Emotion Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Spirituality
- Family Goals
- Traditionalism
- Ambition
- Altruism
- Family Background, Family Status, and Education
eHarmony also invests in continual research into the science of love and sex so that they can provide members with findings that can help them establish stable and satisfying relationships.
Read Full eHarmony Review >>
The Duet Compatibility Profile is PerfectMatch's response to other compatibility matching systems. Developed by Dr. Pepper Schwartz based on over 30 years of research in the field of human relationships, the goal of Duet is to determine your romantic personality based on your values, ideals, love and lifestyles, among other things. PerfectMatch offers the most comprehensive personality assessment of any compatibility matching service as they offer unique insights into multiple dimensions of your personality. This information gives you insights into your own personality that can help you focus on (or refocus) your goals and preferences when it comes to finding a suitable partner.
PerfectMatch is the only compatibility matching service that also allows you to search independently for a match. This site also provides a side-by-side profile comparison between your profile and any profile that you view to determine whether you're interested in pursuing the match.
Read Full PerfectMatch Review >>