This is the right question. The answer is mostly how precise the filters really are.
The thing nobody mentions about free dating app is how precise the filters really are.
About 120 profiles into it, the pattern around whether 'free' means free to browse or free to talk became obvious.
If you are only browsing, the app is fine. The moment whether bans stick or get walked back matters, it changes.
Whatever you land on, test free dating app for a week before you judge it.
Datescout - worth a look came up when I asked the same question last year.