How to get more matches on Coffee Meets Bagel

Finding love in the digital age often feels like a numbers game, but Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) was designed to be different. Known for its “slow dating” philosophy, CMB replaces the endless swiping of other apps with a curated selection of “Bagels” delivered to your inbox every day at noon.

However, because the app is so selective, many users find themselves frustrated when they aren’t getting the matches they expected. In a system where you only get a handful of chances per day, every detail of your profile matters. Whether you are looking for a local partner or are open to a long-distance relationship, this guide will show you exactly how to optimize your profile to boost your matches on Coffee Meets Bagel.

1. Mastering the Coffee Meets Bagel Algorithm for Maximum Visibility

Unlike Tinder, which relies heavily on your “ELO score” or popularity, the CMB algorithm is heavily dependent on intentionality and activity. The app wants to show your profile to people who are actually going to respond.

Stay Active to Stay Relevant

The algorithm prioritizes active users. If you don’t open the app for a few days, CMB will “pause” your profile to ensure that other users aren’t wasting their limited daily “likes” on someone who isn’t there to see them. To get more matches, make sure you log in at least once a day—specifically around noon when the new Bagels are delivered.

Refining Your Preferences

If you find that your “Suggested” feed is empty or not to your liking, revisit your preferences. CMB takes your “hard” preferences (religion, ethnicity, and education) very seriously. While it’s great to know what you want, being too restrictive can significantly limit your pool. Try widening your distance or age range slightly to give the algorithm more room to find potential matches.

2. High-Quality Photo Strategies to Stop the Scroll

On an app that emphasizes quality, your photos need to reflect a high-standard lifestyle. You don’t need a professional camera, but you do need a professional mindset.

The “First Impression” Lead Photo

Your first photo is the only thing a user sees before they decide to click on your full profile.

• Eye Contact and a Smile: Data shows that profiles with a clear, smiling headshot where the eyes are visible have a 30% higher “like” rate.

• The “Portrait” Effect: Use the portrait mode on your smartphone to slightly blur the background. This makes you “pop” and gives the photo a high-end feel.

• Natural Lighting: Avoid bathroom mirrors or dark rooms. The best photos are taken in natural light, ideally during “Golden Hour” (late afternoon).

Diversity of Content

CMB allows you to upload up to six photos. Use every single slot.

• The Lifestyle Shot: Show yourself doing something you love (cooking, hiking, playing an instrument).

• The Full-Body Shot: Build trust by showing exactly who you are. Transparency is a major “green flag.”

• The Conversation Starter: Include a photo from a recent trip or a unique event. This gives your match an easy “hook” for their first message.

3. Writing Specific Bios: The “Show, Don’t Tell” Technique

The “Details” section in Coffee Meets Bagel is more extensive than in most apps. Since CMB users are generally looking for serious relationships, they actually read your bio.

Avoid Cliches

Instead of saying “I like to travel,” say “I’m still dreaming about the street food in Mexico City.” Instead of saying “I’m active,” say “You can usually find me at the local rock climbing gym on Tuesday nights.”

The “I Am, I Like, I Appreciate” Formula

CMB breaks down your bio into three prompts. Here is how to nail them:

• I am… (Your identity): “A software engineer who spends too much on vinyl records and makes a mean lasagna.”

• I like… (Your passions): “Sunday morning farmers’ markets, psychological thrillers, and planning my next road trip.”

• I appreciate when my date… (Your filters): “Can hold a deep conversation about the universe but doesn’t take themselves too seriously.”

4. How to Use “Beans” and the Discover Tab Effectively

“Beans” are the in-app currency of Coffee Meets Bagel. While you get free Bagels every day, using your Beans strategically can drastically increase your match count.

The Power of the “Discover” Feed

While the “Suggested” feed is curated by the algorithm, the “Discover” tab allows you to take matters into your own hands. Here, you can find people who might be slightly outside your specific preferences but are still highly compatible.

• Sending Flowers: In the Discover tab, you use Beans to “Like” a profile. This shows up as a “priority like,” letting the person know you went the extra mile to find them.

• Unlocking Likes: If you see someone in your “Likes You” section but their profile is blurred, you can use Beans to see them immediately.

Earning Free Beans

You don’t always have to buy Beans. You can earn them by:

• Logging in several days in a row.

• Following CMB on social media.

• Completing every section of your profile.

5. Leveraging Activity Reports to Pick the Best Matches

One of the best features of CMB (available to Premium members) is the Activity Report. This gives you an “inside look” at how a person uses the app.

What to Look For

• Sends the First Message: If the report says they “often send the first message,” they are an active, engaged dater.

• Response Time: If they usually take 24 hours to reply, you know not to panic if you don’t hear back immediately.

• Active Recently: Don’t waste your Beans on someone who hasn’t been active in the last 72 hours.

Using these reports allows you to focus your energy on “high-value” Bagels who are actually likely to engage with you.

6. The Art of the Icebreaker: Moving from Match to Date

On CMB, chats expire after seven days. This is a “use it or lose it” system designed to prevent endless small talk. To get more successful matches that actually lead to dates, you need a strong opening game.

Use the “Profile Hooks”

CMB profiles often list “Simple Pleasures.” Use them!

• “I saw that you’re a fan of 90s nostalgia. Are we talking Spice Girls or Nintendo 64?”

• “You mentioned you’re looking for the best latte in the city. Have you tried [Specific Cafe] yet?”

Moving Toward “Couple Apps”

For many, the goal is to move off the dating app as soon as possible. If you find a strong connection, especially in a long-distance relationship (LDR), suggest moving to a dedicated couple app.

• Paired: Great for daily quizzes to see how compatible you really are.

• Between: Perfect for long-distance couples to share a private calendar and photo gallery.

7. Optimizing for Long-Distance Relationships on CMB

Coffee Meets Bagel is a favorite for those open to long-distance dating because of its high-intent user base. If you are open to meeting someone in a different city, you need to signal this in your profile.

The “Global” Strategy

Mention your flexibility in your bio. Phrases like “Frequent traveler between NYC and London” or “Open to an adventure that requires a passport” let potential matches know that distance isn’t a dealbreaker for you.

Video Dating First

If you are dating at a distance, the “Video Call” is your first date. Suggest a “Coffee Date via FaceTime” early on. It saves time, builds trust, and helps you see if the chemistry translates through the screen before you invest in a plane ticket.

8. Common Mistakes That Stop You from Getting Matches

If your match count is low, you might be accidentally triggering one of these red flags:

• The “Ghost” Profile: Leaving your “Details” blank. This suggests you aren’t serious about finding a partner.

• Negative Language: Saying “No drama” or “I’m tired of the games.” Negativity is an instant turn-off.

• Group Photos Only: If your first photo is a group shot, people won’t spend the time trying to figure out which one you are.

• Inconsistent Activity: Logging in once a week. The algorithm will effectively “bury” your profile if you aren’t a regular user.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Coffee Meets Bagel show your location?

CMB shows your general neighborhood and the distance in miles, but it does not show your exact location. This provides a balance of convenience and privacy.

Why do my matches disappear?

CMB chats expire after 7 days. If you haven’t moved the conversation to text or another app by then, the chat will close to keep your inbox clean and encourage real-world action.

Is it worth paying for CMB Premium?

If you are in a large city and want to save time, Premium is worth it for the Activity Reports and the ability to see who liked you immediately. If you are in a smaller town, the free version is usually sufficient.

How do I get my Bagels at noon?

Make sure your notifications are turned on! The app will send you a push notification the moment your daily Bagels are ready for review.

Quality is a Choice

Getting more matches on Coffee Meets Bagel isn’t about luck; it’s about optimization. By treating your profile as a curated gallery of your life, using specific and engaging language, and understanding the unique mechanics of the CMB algorithm, you position yourself as a top-tier “Bagel.”

The “slow dating” movement is all about finding the right person, not just the next person. Take the time to perfect your photos, be intentional with your Beans, and always keep the conversation moving forward. Your perfect match is out there—and they’re likely waiting for their noon delivery.