Finding gay hookups online has changed a lot over the years. In the 90s and early 2000s, guys looked for M4M chats on AOL, or posted ads on Craigslist and Gay.com. Later, sites like Adam4Adam and Manhunt let users upload profiles and photos. Then smartphones brought GPS dating apps like Grindr, Scruff, Growlr, and Jack’d - and Grindr quickly became the most popular.
Now there is a new site that many people are talking about: Sniffies.
The name comes from an old underwear-trading site, and now stands for “sniffing out what’s nearby.”
So how is Sniffies different from Grindr? We compared both platforms based on what users care about most when looking for the next hook-up.
Round 1 - Accessibility
- Grindr is a mobile app. You just tap the icon and start browsing.
- Sniffies is a website. It can be saved to the phone screen like an app shortcut, but it still feels less direct.
Winner: Grindr
Round 2 - Location
Knowing how far someone is matters.
- Grindr shows profiles in order of distance and tells you how many feet away someone is.
- Sniffies shows users on a live map with street names and buildings, which gives better context when planning to meet.
Winner: Sniffies
Round 3 - Privacy
Some people want to stay unknown.
- Grindr requires a profile, but you can keep it blank.
- Sniffies lets you browse and message as a fully anonymous user, without an account, which is useful for closeted or discreet users. It also has strong moderation.
Winner: Sniffies
Round 4 - Versatility
- Grindr is not just for casual sex anymore. Many users there look for friends, dates, or activity partners.
- Sniffies is more geared toward quick sexual meetups.
Winner: Grindr
Round 5 - Sexiness / Explicit Content
- Grindr usually shows more faces and standard profile pics.
- Sniffies is more explicit, with more sexual photos, live cruising posts, and listings for group events and sex parties.
Winner: Sniffies
Round 6 - Design & Features
Both platforms are clean and easy to use.
- Grindr offers a strong paid version (Grindr XTRA) with more filters and larger profile grids.
- Sniffies paid plans also unlock filters and unlimited views. Sniffies costs less and includes a detailed map of users and cruising spots.
Winner: Sniffies (for novelty and value)
Sniffies or Grindr: Which Dating App is Best for You?
- Grindr is polished, familiar, and better for more than just sex.
- Sniffies is more anonymous, more sexual, and map-driven.
Depending on what you want - both have clear strengths.