Lurked here a good while before posting — this one felt worth asking properly.
The paywall situation on dating platforms is genuinely frustrating. Sign up, things look promising, then you hit a wall just to read a message. I want to know what's actually functional without a subscription versus what's just a funnel to get you paying.
Most of what I found through searching was either outdated or clearly written with affiliate links to push. Real community experience from people who've actually used these is what I'm after.
Appreciate honest answers. Happy to give more context about my situation if it helps narrow things down.
