Entertainment
Match vs. eharmony: Which dating app is worth your money?
If you’re looking for a serious relationship, you’ve most likely considered downloading either eharmony or Match. Both of these dating apps are known as more serious platforms (e.g., the place to go when you’re ready to swap keys or walk down the aisle), especially compared to swipe-heavy options like Tinder or Bumble. But just because they share a reputation doesn’t necessarily mean they use the same methodology or cater to the same crowd.
According to a 2026 SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus poll, 50 percent of adults who have used a dating app report being in a committed relationship with someone they met on a platform. The study also shows us who is using these two legacy sites the most: Match is the go-to for 33 percent of users aged 50 and over, while eharmony pulls in 25 percent of that same demographic.
But data can only tell us so much. That’s why I’m putting both of these platforms on the proverbial chopping block (I’ve always wanted to say that) to help you choose the best fit for your soon-to-be-not-situationship.
As someone who’s reviewed dating apps for years, I’ve seen firsthand how the algorithms work and which features are just a thinly veiled cash grab. I even got myself banned from Match for over a year because I kept creating and deleting accounts to test their security protocols (great news: they take suspicious activity very seriously).
So, to save you the trouble of downloading two apps (or maybe neither of these, depending on what you’re looking for), I’ve written up a thorough comparison of eharmony and Match that tells you everything you need to know, from safety features to pricing structures.
How does eharmony’s matching algorithm compare to Match?
It all comes down to how much time you have and how much effort you’re willing to put in.
eharmony asks you to take a 20-minute Compatibility Quiz (it might take you less or more time depending on how much you think about your answers and how forthcoming you are). It feels a bit like a Rorschach test; there’s a section that asks you to look at pairs of abstract shapes and choose which one appeals more to your emotions. I’m not saying this is a good or a bad thing, but it’s definitely something to know before you download the app. Once you’re finished answering the questions, the app uses the data to assign you a compatibility score with other users. You’ll then be able to peruse a “Discover List” of potential matches, but spoiler alert: you’ll have to cough up some cash to move forward (I’ll cover this in a bit).
Match, on the other hand, is more straightforward. The initial questionnaire takes about five minutes, and then you can see who’s out there. It’s similar to Tinder in that you can “like” and mutually match or skip profiles. The algorithm also sends daily curated matches (Highlights) — potential matches the app thinks you’ll find compatible with, based on your stated preferences and in-app behavior.
What about the interface?
The uglier an app interface is, the less likely I am to use it, regardless of its functionality. Fortunately, both of these legacy apps have gone through some serious modernization recently to compete with the swiping giants. But if I had to choose which platform has a more aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly interface, Match wins hands down.
When I first tested eharmony, I struggled during onboarding. The interface makes some questions (like your gender preferences) look like you can only choose one thing, when in reality, multiple selections are possible. Also, eharmony’s dated hunter-green color scheme just doesn’t do it for me. But the biggest UI offense? Once you finally get through the quiz, you are dumped into a feed of aggressively blurred photos with a bright orange banner constantly nagging you to buy a subscription. It comes across as cluttered, restrictive, and pushy.
Match, on the other hand, greets you with a warm and inviting purple-and-pink color palette. The app makes it clear which selections were single-choice versus multiple-choice. More importantly, the interface itself is far more open, and the app doesn’t spam you with upgrade banners every time you click a button. It just feels like a much cleaner, more modern place to spend your time.
How much do these platforms cost, and what features do their subscription tiers offer?
OK, so the No. 1 question people ask about eharmony is “what does it cost?” and rightfully so because it’s expensive and the push for a paid subscription is predatory. That said, you’ll probably need to spring for a paid membership with Match to meet your forever person, but it’ll cost you a lot less, and your results will likely be more aligned with your expectations.
Here’s what you’ll pay and what you get:
eharmony
eharmony’s free version is pretty much a joke — it’s basically a teaser for what could be, but maybe isn’t (if that makes sense). You literally cannot see unblurred photos or have unrestricted messaging without paying for a premium membership. Once they’ve convinced you to pay up, you have to choose a six, 12, or 24-month subscription. Prices fluctuate, but you’re usually looking at a minimum of $59.90 a month for a shorter six-month plan (or around $25.90 per month if you commit for two years). That’s kind of pricey if you ask me.
If you do pay, eharmony’s premium tiers (Light, Plus, and Unlimited) will give you the bare minimum: unlimited messaging, the ability to see unblurred photos, distance searches, and the ability to see who viewed your profile.
But, wait, it gets worse: In June 2025, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) took eharmony to federal court for “misleading and deceptive conduct.” Users complained they were trapped by hidden auto-renewals they didn’t know they were agreeing to, and some were even chased by debt collectors for hundreds of dollars.
Match
Match is less predatory and more transparent in its pricing, and you can explore the app without being constantly badgered to upgrade. Match lets free members chat with their mutual matches and rate up to 50 profiles a day in their Recommended Stack. When you’re ready to upgrade, Match’s premium tiers start at $44.99 for a one-month plan, though that price decreases if you commit to an annual subscription. Premium features include unlimited likes, unlimited rewinds, and the ability to rate an unlimited number of profiles on the “Discover” tab. The more you pay, the better the features. The highest tier will get you Priority Likes and automatic Boosts.
You can also pay for a la carte add-ons, like “Private Mode” (which hides your profile from everyone except people you choose to contact) or one-off “Boosts” that bump your profile to the top six search results for 60 minutes.
The best thing about Match’s premium subscription? There’s a three-day refund window. If you pay for the app, browse for a few days, and realize your local dating pool is a total dumpster fire, users have reported successfully asking for their money back within those first three days. With eharmony, you’re locked in.
So, which one is better?
If you couldn’t tell, Match is the clear winner here. With transparent pricing, a modern interface, and the freedom to see who’s in your dating pool before handing over your credit card (this is the bare minimum, right?), it just respects your time and your wallet a whole lot more. Plus, with that three-day refund window and strict security protocols, it’s easily the smarter, safer investment for finding your forever person.
As for eharmony? I’d consider it a last resort. Because of the steep paywalls and the way the algorithm heavily restricts your options, you really need to have plenty of disposable income and live in a major metropolitan area to make it worth your while. If you live in a smaller city or town, you’re just going to end up paying a hefty premium to look at a handful of blurred photos that are two hours away.
Entertainment
How to contact Amazon customer service during your Big Spring Sale shopping spree
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Another Amazon sale is upon us. The Big Spring Sale returns for its third year in a row in 2026 and runs from March 25-31.
With new deals dropping all week long, shopping can get pretty overwhelming. We know all too well that it’s easy to get caught up in the sales, indulge in some impulse purchasing, and experience a little buyer’s remorse. No judgment.
As with every major Amazon sale, deals started popping off ahead of the official event kickoff, and there are lots more to come. If you run into some questions or concerns during your shopping journey — from classic cases of buyer’s remorse to damaged packages to Prime membership questions — it’s good to know that you can actually speak to customer service.
Since contacting Amazon can be tricky at times, here are all the ways you can get in touch with customer service for a smoother online shopping experience before, during, and after the Big Spring Sale:
Amazon customer service help page
This is probably the most common and easiest way to look for answers to common queries, such as those about Amazon’s return policies or information about international shipping. The page contains a whole library of questions that users can get answers to, including how to track packages, cancel orders, or start a return. Your most recent purchases will pop up at the top of the page for easy navigation.
To access Amazon’s Customer Service Help Page, go to the website landing page and click on “Customer Service” in the top left of the screen.
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Amazon customer service email
Sometimes customer queries need to be worked through on a case-by-case basis, and the answers on the official website need to be more specific to offer any help to shoppers. In these cases, users can email [email protected] and explain their issues. Remember that contacting Amazon’s customer service via email might not be the best solution if you have an urgent question regarding your purchases, since customers are unlikely to get a prompt response.
Amazon customer service phone number
Need a quicker reply? Call Amazon at 1-888-280-4331. When customers call this number, a bot picks up the phone and eventually connects them to Amazon staff, depending on the type of query that needs to be answered. It’s important to note that customers should have a cell phone number connected to their Amazon account. Customers must enter verification codes that will be messaged to their linked contact information before using this service. In other words, things can get a bit tricky if you’re sharing an account with someone else.
Amazon online chat service
Real-time chatting with Amazon representatives is the most convenient way to get all your questions answered. To use the live chat feature, return to the Customer Service help page and click on “Help with something else.” When the list pops up underneath, choose “something else” once again. Another page opens with a list of more help options. Select “I need help with something else.”
Now you’ve officially entered the chat. Type “Talk to associate” in the chat box. Amazon’s messaging assistant might prompt you to give more info on your issue, which you can, but if you’d rather get to a real person ASAP, you can select “I need more help” from the pre-written responses.
From there, you can choose if you’d prefer to talk via chat or call. If you’re looking for immediate help with a Prime Day purchase — be it due to buyer’s remorse, a damaged package, an address change, etc. — this is your best bet to get your needs met.
For simple questions, Amazon’s AI chat feature (launched in 2024) called “Rufus” can help customers solve some problems and make more informed purchase decisions.
If your questions aren’t that urgent, you can contact Amazon Customer Service at @amazonhelp on X, @amazon on Instagram, and www.facebook.com/Amazon on Facebook.
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Amazon
Apps & Software
Entertainment
IKEA released a smart version of its viral Varmblixt donut lamp — I tried it
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In 2023, the internet was ablaze with IKEA’s Varmblixt lamp, aka the viral donut lamp. If you were among the crowd trekking to IKEA, attempting to find the donut lamp in stock, we’ve got some news for you — there’s a new version of the lamp to covet. At CES 2026, IKEA unveiled a smart version of its viral donut lamp. Now you can enjoy the same shape lamp in a whole new array of colors.
As the owner of an OG Varmblixt lamp, I’ve been waiting for the smart version to drop, and it’s finally here. And I got to go hands-on with the new donut lamp to see what it’s all about.
About the IKEA Varmblixt lamp
The OG Varmblixt lamp has the donut design, encased in a warm orange glass shade.
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
The IKEA Varmblixt lamp first debuted in 2023, designed by Dutch artist Sabine Marcelis. Operating as either a table or wall lamp, the Varmblixt is crafted from orange glass, bringing gorgeous ambient glow to any room.
Differences between the OG and smart Varmblixt lamp
The new Varmblixt lamp has a glowing white light, compared to the warm orange of the original lamp.
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
With the Varmblixt lamp getting the smart upgrade, it’s a slight departure from the original. The Varmblixt still has the same donut shape and can still be installed as a table or wall lamp. However, unlike the OG, it’s no longer orange. Instead, the updated smart Varmblixt has a matte white glass finish. The color instead comes from the inside with a color-changing bulb. The old Varmblixt has a simple on/off switch, while the new version has a remote to adjust the lamp’s color and brightness. Plus, the smart Varmblixt is a Matter device, meaning it will connect to any smart home hub.
How does the new Varmblixt lamp work?
The new Varmblixt doesn’t look as exciting from the outside with its white base. But once you turn on the lamp, you can adjust the color and brightness with the included remote.
Using the Varmblixt required a bit more trial and error than I anticipated because, as I should have expected, IKEA’s instructions were sparse. You don’t need a smart home hub to operate the Varmblixt, although it will connect to yours if you have one.
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In classic IKEA fashion, the remote didn’t come with explanation of its controls.
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
If you don’t have a smart hub (or even if you do), use the included remote to turn the lamp on or off, adjust the color, and adjust the brightness. IKEA doesn’t provide instructions on which remote buttons do what. Luckily for you, I struggled through some trial-and-error, so you don’t need to.
The remote has two buttons, marked by a large dot and a small dot. To change the lamp’s color, double-click the large or small button. The large button moves you forward through the color wheel, but you can move back if you skip over a color you like, using the small button. To dim the light, hold the small button; to increase the brightness, hold the large button.
You can swap the Varmblixt bases
A cool feature of all Varmblixt lamps is that the base and glass shades are swappable. So, potentially, I could move the smart base to my existing orange shade, a huge boon for smart home aficionados who want to turn on the Varmblixt with their smart home hub.
How does the new Varmblixt look?
While the OG Varmblixt lamp embraced the warm, orange tones, the new smart version is notably cooler. The matte white shade is quite stark and bright, so to warm it up, adjust the color toward orange or red hues.
The full smart Varmblixt color range.
Credit: IKEA
The color palette of the Varmblixt is not as extensive as you’ll find in other smart light bulbs that let you choose from millions of hues. The IKEA colors are preprogrammed and tend to be cooler pastel shades. It’s a definite departure from the warmth of the original Varmblixt. Luckily, if you’re not into the cool pastels, the OG orange lamp is available.
Will I be swapping the new Varmblixt for the old?
While I don’t love the cool tone of the new Varmblixt lamp, I see its potential.
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
The new smart Varmblixt lamp is a fun progression in the lamp’s lineup, but will I be swapping out my own? Probably not. We’re not big into smart home in my house, so I don’t get the benefit of its Matter connectivity. And while I like the new colors, I still prefer the OG’s warm orange shade that adds an ambient glow to my house. While I could see myself incorporating the new smart Varmblixt elsewhere in my home, it’s not going to take the OG’s spotlight.
Do I think the new light is worth it? Certainly. Especially for those excited about its smart home potential.
Entertainment
Kathy Hilton Shares the Style Rule She Passed Down to Paris and Nicky: 'You Don’t Need the Whole Kitchen Sink'
Less really is more, just ask Kathy Hilton.
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star spilled the effortlessly chic beauty and style tips she passed down to daughters Paris, 45, and Nicky, 42, while hosting a fête for LoveShackFancy’s Sweetheart fragrance at her Bel Air, California home on March 20.
Though Hilton loves a glamorous moment (and throws a party like no other), she’s all about keeping things polished, and never overdone.
“A classic rule I’ve told Paris and Nicky is to be comfortable. I’d rather be a little underdressed than overdressed because you can always throw on fun earrings or change your shoes if you’re leaving work or getting off a plane,” she tells ET.
“You don’t want to come in with the whole kitchen sink and make a fool out of yourself. Dim it down a little bit. Just be fresh, pretty, and confident. That’s the best,” the entrepreneur continues.
Naturally, the mother-daughter trio shares more than just style advice, they share closets too.
“They can’t wear my shoes because I have a smaller foot, but they wear my jewelry, my accessories, and my handbags. … I recently borrowed a bag that was so cute from Paris. She was calling every day saying, ‘I’m going to come by and get my bag.’ … She knows her inventory and doesn’t forget, but I’m happy that she takes care of her things and that she’s appreciative,” the Bravo star says.
When it comes to what Hilton actually keeps in her purse, she leans into easy and practical items.
“I carry an eye mask that I found years ago at a drugstore in New York, pale pink silicone foot pads for comfort, my little fan, and my Lorna Murray hat because it gives an outfit a great look, makes me look a little bit taller, and keeps the sun off my face,” she explains.
“I’m also always trying the latest and newest product to moisturize my lips because they’re chronically dry, and I love the Revive neck cream and can’t put on makeup without it.”
Beyond her essentials, one thing Hilton never leaves the house without is a signature spritz.
“I spray my perfume at the end, but I make sure I don’t have pearls on. … I have a collection of fragrances. … There are ones I would wear to a ladies’ lunch, and others that are romantic and sexy that I would wear after 5 p.m. for dinner with my husband.”
Luckily, her current favorite works for just about any occasion.
“Sweetheart is so fruity and floral, and the bottle is the pinkest, most sparkly, and gorgeous. … It’s perfect for spring and summer because it’s happiness in a bottle. … I like to bring a little bit of summer everywhere I go. … Hot girl summer every day, even in the winter,” Rebecca Hessel Cohen, founder of LoveShackFancy, notes.
“It can take you anywhere. … It’s so beautiful that you want to just hold it or keep it on your dressing table,” Hilton continues.
Still, there is one area where Hilton doesn’t hold back: health and wellness.
“I do Tru Niagen IV treatments every week and take two of their supplements every day to give me energy. … I’m a mad professor with putting things together. I always have my lotions and potions, and everyone loves it. … My girls are very into it and it’s fun to compare notes.”
Through it all though, her philosophy stays grounded.
“I’ve always mixed high and low. I’m as happy at Target and Walmart as I am on the seventh floor of Bergdorf Goodman.”
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