OutPersonals

There's a free standard account that lets you try things out. An upgrade lifts the restrictions and allows you the ability to view profiles, videos and photos and to make contacts with other people.

Getting In

To register for a free account you will need to visit the homepage and complete the joining form. The signup takes no more than a few seconds - it asks the usual formalities and you'll need to supply an active email address. Once that's complete you're in.

While you can use the site with a minimal profile, it's good practice to add some details and upload at least one good photo. Online dating is highly visual - adding a picture or two and completing each of the sections on your profile will ensure you have the best chance of meeting people. The gauge on your edit page will tell you how complete your profile is.

Tip: Adding some Cupid Preferences is a good starting point. Not only will people be able to find you better if they're searching for someone like you, but also your own searches will be more relevant because it will bring back only those people who match your basic preferences.

Outpersonals is a very open community. You can specify what types of relationship you are in to, whether that's meeting other singles, couples or both.

Searching and Making Contact

Guests are allowed to do basic searches, however the more advanced searching - including locating people by proximity to you are only available to paying users. Additionally, searching for people by other criteria such as their appearance, body type, sexual orientation, & relationship status are also extras that you won't be able to access until you shell out some cash.

Outpersonals is highly active and it benefits from being part of Friendfinder's enormous global community. Unlike Gay Friendfinder and Gay Cupid it is better suited to those looking for hookups and casual encounters rather than anything long-term.

When you click into a profile you'll find a few different ways to communicate, including sending a flirt, requesting to see a private picture and of course direct messaging. Guests can't initiate contact, rather they have to wait for a paying member to contact them first.

Full Membership Perks

As with other Friendfinder sites, this one follows a standard format. Gold and Silver memberships grant you full access to photos and videos but at least Silver is needed to communicate with anyone. Once upgraded you benefit from better placement in searches so that people can find you more easily. Gold, is slightly more expensive but you'll appear at the top of searches and for this reason these people tend to get a higher response rate. Upgraded users also benefit from 24x7 support.

A basic plan will set you back $22.95 with discounts applying if you sign up for longer periods. Friendfinder regularly offer incentives to sign up including additional months and access freebies.

In Summary

Although Outpersonals.com offers friendship and romantic matchmaking, it is more for those interested in finding a sexual encounter or as a way for couples to meet other couples for adult fun. If you are easily offended beware, since the site is heavily laden with sexually explicit content and pornographic text.

For those on the move, there's an iPhone app that will get you access on your phone.