Sexting (dirty talk, swapping nudes, sending explicit audio messages...the list goes on) is one way to take your dating life to new heights.
Whether you're single and ravenous for some sexy screen time with a stranger, in a long-distance relationship keeping the passion alive through digital intimacy, or interested in amping up your solo sex toy sessions with steamy instructions from an AI companion, mastering the act (art?) of sexting leads to a more fulfilling physical and emotional experience.
And, no, we're not talking about flirting with your crush on Facebook Messenger or sliding into someone's DMs uninvited on Instagram. We're talking about good old-fashioned dirty talk with a modern twist (think: video chat, sexy snaps, and erotic audio messages, with self-destructing features for added privacy). We made a lot of accounts to test the best sexting apps, and we've gathered our favorites below. You'll recognize some of them from our guide to the best dating apps, and for more adult fun, check out our review of the top hookup apps, too.
According to a 2023 survey of U.S. adults by the market research platform Statista, 77 percent of participants said they've sent at least one sext. Other research surveys have found even higher rates of sexting. We also know that millennials are the most likely group to engage in sexting, though they're hardly the only demographic sending naughty messages and nudes.
We're also pretty sure these numbers will only rise as messaging apps get more advanced and our society evolves to be more accepting and sex-positive.
Sexting isn't just a saucy way to get off; it's a great tool for building trust and intimacy and sharing or exploring your wants and fantasies in a consensual and safe manner. It can also help you and your partner feel more connected and maintain a strong sexual bond (so the next time you get together IRL, it may be even hotter). This is especially true in long-distance relationships or during periods of physical separation.
For some, just the thought of sending an explicit message or racy photo can be intimidating. (And that's OK!) Fortunately, there are so many apps and resources out there to help the most novice sexters feel empowered and confident. If you need some inspiration or tips, Mashable's Beginner's Guide To Sexting is a good place to start. Just remember: Sexting is supposed to be consensual, fun, and sexy.
And to make sure you're using the right apps for sexting, we have some practical suggestions. Based on our research and hands-on testing, we've narrowed down the best sexting apps of 2024 to the following top contenders:
