Understanding the Bumble Algorithm: Increase Your Matches

The Bumble algorithm uses your preferences (like age, location, and gender), filters out inactive or low-quality profiles, and rewards active engagement on the app. To get better matches, keep your profile complete, stay active, and consider using features like Boost or Spotlight to increase your visibility.

Dating app algorithms don’t just focus on your preferences—it also learns from your behavior. For example, how often you swipe, who you match with, and how you interact with those matches can influence the types of profiles you see.

Active users tend to get prioritized in others’ match queues, so logging in regularly and engaging with the app is key to doing well with online dating. Additionally, Bumble encourages high-quality interactions by rewarding profiles with clear photos and detailed bios.

Simply put if you want to stand out on dating apps, invest time in crafting a strong profile, stay active, and take advantage of app features like Bumble Boost or Spotlight to get in front of more potential matches.

The Bumble algorithm is important because it determines how visible your profile is to other users, directly affecting how many matches you get and the quality of those matches.

By understanding how the algorithms work within dating apps, you can optimize your profile and activity to stand out, giving you a significant edge over those who swipe without strategy. This means more legitimate connections and a better overall experience on the app.

Beyond visibility, the Bumble algorithm plays a crucial role in shaping your overall experience on the app. It ensures that your match queue is curated based on your preferences and engagement, helping you connect with people who are more likely to be compatible.

By staying active and maintaining a complete, engaging profile, you signal to the algorithm that you’re a quality user, which can boost your placement in others’ queues.

Bumble’s algorithm is a carefully guarded secret, much like Tinder ELO, which means everything we know is based on research, user observations, and a bit of educated guesswork. While Bumble doesn’t disclose its inner workings, understanding its key components can help you increase visibility, improve match quality, and make the algorithm work in your favor. The good news? Bumble algorithm results should line up with your behavior - naturally rewarding high-quality profiles.

We previously did the job for you by demystifying Tinder's ELO system in our article about Tinder's algorithm, check it out!

Below, we’ve compiled everything we know about how the Bumble algorithm operates and actionable strategies to help you optimize your profile for better results.

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Key Factors That Influence the Bumble Algorithm

Profile Matching

Your profile is the foundation of your success on Bumble, and the algorithm places significant emphasis on its quality. Here's what you need to know:

• Profiles are ranked based on quality:
  • Clear photos, detailed bios, and completed prompts are key indicators of a strong profile. The more effort you put into your profile, the higher your ranking.
• New profiles get a visibility boost:
  • When you first join Bumble, your profile is given an initial boost to assess user interest, so make the most of this period by launching with a polished profile.
• Best profiles are shown first:
  • Profiles that consistently receive right swipes are prioritized, meaning they appear higher in match queues.

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Location Settings

Your location settings directly affect who you see and who sees you:

• Location accuracy matters:
  • Bumble uses GPS data to filter profiles within your set radius, ensuring relevant matches.
• Filters impact visibility:
  • Filters that are too narrow can limit the profiles you see, while overly broad filters may dilute match relevance.
• Travel Mode refreshes your profile:
  • Travel Mode temporarily boosts your visibility in new locations, increasing your chances of connecting with users in the area.

Engagement and Interaction

Activity and behavior on the app are critical factors for maintaining visibility - especially if you are a new user to bumble:

• Activity is rewarded:
  • Frequent logins, thoughtful swiping, the time you spend on the app, and prompt responses signal to the algorithm that you’re an engaged user.
• Selective swiping matters:
  • Too many users think swiping right on every profile is helpful. However, it actually confuses the algorithm, leading to lower-quality matches. Be intentional to help the algorithm better understand your preferences.
• Behavior tracking:
  • Bumble monitors swiping patterns, match responses, and interactions to refine its suggestions. This is sometimes known as the ELO rating system

Finally, if you're really feeling stuck and are at a loss for words, we can help you with that.

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Quit wasting your time — next time you get on the app, be completely sure that your bumble profile is polished. You can do so with the help of ROAST. ROAST is an app and service that analyzes your profile based on thousands of successful profiles and tells you how to make yours better. Nobody knows better than ROAST how the Bumble algorithm works. Try it today.

Small aside. Did you know it is possible to make your profile more attractive in 2 minutes and get more dates every day?

Thanks to our AI trained on 10,000+ pictures rated by hot guys and girls, you will be able to access personalized feedback and tips to boost your dating profile for good.

You will know exactly which pictures are good or not, and most importantly why.

Start Strong from Day One

Your first few days on Bumble are critical for establishing your profile’s ranking:

• Early impressions matter:
  • The algorithm begins assessing your profile immediately. Launch with high-quality photos, a well-thought-out bio, and completed prompts to capitalize on the new-user boost.
• Avoid rushing:
  • Don’t start swiping until your profile is fully set up. Early interactions heavily influence your ranking.

Optimize Your Profile

A great profile is essential to catching attention and improving your ranking:

• Use good photos:
  • Start with 1–2 strong headshots and add lifestyle photos that showcase your interests and personality. Avoid poor-quality, overly zoomed, or group photos.
  • Tools like ROAST can provide AI-driven feedback on your photos to identify what works and what doesn’t.
• Write a compelling bio:
  • Use Bumble’s built-in prompts to craft a bio that’s authentic, concise, and engaging. Highlight your hobbies, values, or what you’re looking for in a match.

Engage Actively

Consistency and deliberate usage signal to the algorithm that you’re an active participant:

• Log in regularly and respond promptly to matches.
• Swipe selectively to provide clear data about your preferences.
• Periodically update your profile to keep it fresh and relevant.

You Get Out What You Put In

Just like those early matchmaking systems in the 1950s that relied on questionnaires, Bumble’s algorithm works with the data you give it. Make sure your profile reflects accurate and meaningful information about you:

• Your bio, preferences, and photos set the tone for how others perceive you and how the algorithm ranks you.
• Your behavior on the app, from swiping to interactions, tells the algorithm who you’re interested in and helps refine its recommendations.

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Key Takeaways

• First impressions are critical: Launch with a polished, attractive profile to maximize your visibility during the new-user boost.
• Quality over quantity: Thoughtful swiping and a strong profile lead to better matches.
• Engagement drives visibility: Stay active, respond promptly, and log in frequently to maintain a high ranking.

Success on Bumble isn’t just about swiping endlessly—it’s about understanding how the algorithm works and making it work for you.

With the right strategies, you can optimize your profile, refine your behavior on the app, and increase your chances of connecting with someone special. Let’s dive into actionable tips to beat the Bumble algorithm.

1. Refine and Update Your Profile

Your profile is the foundation of your success on Bumble. A strong profile increases your visibility and improves match quality. Follow these tips for profile optimization:

• Complete all sections: Include details about your job, interests, height, and other optional fields. A complete profile signals effort and authenticity.
• Use high-quality photos:
  • Start with 1–2 clear headshots.
  • Add lifestyle photos that showcase your hobbies and personality.
• Update regularly: Refresh your profile photos or rewrite your bio every few weeks to keep it engaging.

Key Takeaway: A well-maintained profile makes you more appealing to both the algorithm and potential matches.

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2. Use Bumble’s Filter Options Wisely

Filters can refine the profiles you see and ensure better compatibility. Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Start with free filters: Adjust for basics like distance, age range, and verified profiles.
• Consider Bumble Premium: To use advanced filters, you'll have to spring for one of the paid accounts. With these you can filter based on advanced preferences such as:
  • Drinking and smoking habits
  • Pets or children
  • Astrological signs
  • Exercise frequency
  • Education level
• Avoid over-filtering: Too many restrictions can limit your options, so strike a balance.

Key Takeaway: The advanced filters found within Bumble's Premium and Premium+ accounts are very powerful—use them thoughtfully to narrow down profiles without overly restricting your pool.

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3. Stay Active and Engaged

Activity is one of the strongest signals Bumble’s algorithm uses to rank profiles. Here’s how to stay engaged:

• Log in daily: Even just a few minutes of activity signals to the algorithm that you’re an engaged user.
• Respond promptly: First messages and timely responses to matches improve your ranking and prevent matches from expiring.
• Make mindful swipes:
  • Don’t swipe right on every profile; this confuses the algorithm. The goal should always be to find meaningful connections and not to connect with every single person.
  • Be selective to help the app learn your preferences.

Okay, so staying active means talking to your matches. Are you chronically unsure of what to say? The dating experts at ROAST can get to know you and work out the best conversation tips for you. Not only that, they’ll know all the ways to improve your profile based on years of research into dating app profiles! Start on the road towards more Bumble matches by taking their quiz today.

Key Takeaway: A few minutes of daily activity can significantly boost your visibility and ranking.

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4. Maximize Your Free Likes

Bumble limits free likes for non-premium users, so use them strategically:

• Swipe thoughtfully: Focus on profiles you genuinely find interesting to maximize your chances of a match.
• Avoid rushing: Swiping too quickly may lead to missed opportunities or matches that don’t align with your preferences.

Key Takeaway: Treat your free likes as a valuable resource—use them wisely for better match results.

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5. Update Your Location

Your location affects who you see and who sees you:

• Keep your location updated: If you’ve moved or are traveling, ensure Bumble reflects your current location.
• Use Travel Mode: For premium users, this feature boosts visibility in new areas and introduces you to potential matches before you arrive.

Key Takeaway: Location updates and Travel Mode can refresh your profile and expand your dating pool.

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6. Reset Your Profile (as a Last Resort)

If you've made mistakes along the way (like swiping with an empty profile) and the improvement suggestions we've made here aren't cutting it, you've got one more option. Resetting your Bumble profile is the easiest way to start from scratch:

• Delete and wait: Delete your old account and wait at least 24 hours before creating a new one to avoid being flagged as a duplicate.
• Start strong: Use the lessons you’ve learned to create a polished profile from the beginning.
• Be cautious: Avoid resetting frequently, as Bumble may shadowban accounts that abuse resets.

Key Takeaway: A reset can give you a clean slate, but it’s best used as a last resort.

When you do start over, remember to build your new profile will all of our best Bumble profile advice in mind.

You can also recruit help from someone who knows Bumble better than you ever will. It can’t hurt to try something that will only increase your chances of meeting the love of your life. What have you got to lose? Let the experts at ROAST optimize your Bumble profile so that it gets more likes and matches. ROAST has already done so for so many others — now it’s your turn. Try ROAST today.

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7. Practice Mindful Swiping

Swiping intentionally is crucial for training the Bumble algorithm to understand your preferences and showing you better matches. While it might be tempting to swipe right on everyone to maximize your chances, this approach can backfire. Here’s why mindful swiping matters:

• Avoid muddying the data: When you swipe right on every profile, the algorithm can’t accurately determine your preferences, leading to less compatible matches.
• Prioritize quality over quantity: Be selective and swipe right only on profiles you find genuinely interesting.
• Signal the algorithm: Thoughtful swiping helps Bumble refine its suggestions, showing you profiles more aligned with your preferences over time.

Key Takeaway: Swiping intentionally not only improves the quality of your matches but also helps the algorithm work in your favor.

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8. Respond Timely and Check in Daily

Consistency and responsiveness are key factors in maintaining your profile’s activity ranking. Bumble rewards users who actively engage with the app and their matches:

• Timely responses: Matches expire within 24 hours, so respond promptly to avoid losing potential connections.
• Daily check-ins: Logging into the app at least once a day signals to the algorithm that you’re an engaged and active user.
• Avoid ghosting: Engage with matches and keep conversations going to maintain a positive interaction history.

Key Takeaway: Set aside a few minutes each day to check Bumble, swipe thoughtfully, and respond to matches to stay active and relevant.

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9. Fill Out Your Entire Profile

A complete profile is essential for attracting matches and signaling effort to the Bumble algorithm. Here’s what to include:

• Basic details: Fill out your job, education, and location to give potential matches a clear picture of who you are.
• Personal information: Include optional details like height, religion, and interests to connect with people who share similar values.
• Prompts and bio: Use Bumble’s prompts to craft a thoughtful bio that highlights your personality and what you’re looking for in a match.

Benefits of a complete profile:

• Increased visibility: Complete profiles rank higher in the match queue.
• More compatibility: Including detailed information helps the algorithm suggest better matches.
• Stronger first impressions: A polished profile shows effort and authenticity, making you more appealing to potential matches.

Key Takeaway: Take the time to fill out every section of your profile for better matches and improved algorithm performance.

How do I reset my Bumble algorithm?

Delete your account, wait at least 24 hours, and create a new profile with updated details and photos.

Does Bumble algorithm penalize you for swiping too much?

Yes, swiping right on too many profiles can lower your ranking by signaling a lack of selectiveness.

Does Bumble’s algorithm ever ignore someone completely?

No, but inactive or low-quality profiles are shown less frequently.

Does Bumble algorithm bring back someone I already swiped left on?

Yes, Bumble may show previously left-swiped profiles again if there’s a limited pool in your area.