Afftank
Looking for the expert review of DatingGold? Worry not, our team of expert advertisers and publishers have curated this comprehensive review for you to get a bird-eye view, as well as verified user reviews of DatingGold affiliate network.
What Is DatingGold?
DatingGold is a premier dating affiliate program that has been in business for nearly 20 years. It operates as a direct advertiser for adult dating and cams primarily targeting US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa markets. With over 40 unique offers and a support team with extensive affiliate marketing experience, DatingGold has positioned itself as a significant player in the dating affiliate space.
The network owns over 30 dating brands directly, which allows them to offer competitive rates and accommodate various traffic types, including email, media buy, display, installs, and social traffic. This direct ownership also enables them to provide customized solutions for affiliates, making it potentially lucrative for the right traffic.
DatingGold Key Features
DatingGold offers several standout features that make it worth considering for affiliates looking to monetize dating traffic:
1. Multiple Commission Models
- Single Opt-In (SOI): Earn for simple sign-ups, rates vary based on traffic quality
- Double Opt-In (DOI): Earn up to $5 for confirmed sign-ups (email/SMS verification)
- Pay Per Sale (PPS): Earn up to $75 for each paid membership
- Revenue Share: Earn up to 65% commission on recurring payments
2. Payment Options and Terms
- Payment Methods: PayPal, Wire Transfer, Check, Paxum, Payoneer, Bank Transfer
- Payment Schedule: Net-15 basis (twice monthly on the 10th and 25th)
- Minimum Payout: $100 threshold before payment processing
3. Marketing Tools
- Extensive collection of landing pages and creatives
- Various banner sizes and formats
- Custom branding opportunities
- Smart link technology for traffic optimization
4. Traffic Types Accepted
- Email marketing
- Media buying
- Display advertising
- Social traffic
- Mobile traffic
- Push notifications
- Native advertising
5. DG Elite Program
Top-performing affiliates gain access to the exclusive DG Elite program, which offers:
- Dedicated resources
- Custom branding options
- Tailored creatives
- Invitations to industry events
DatingGold Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Long-standing reputation (nearly 20 years in business)
- Direct advertiser with owned offers (not a middleman)
- Multiple commission models to maximize earnings
- Competitive payouts (up to $75 per sale or 65% revenue share)
- Frequent payments (Net-15 basis)
- Diverse payment methods
- Variety of promotional tools and landing pages
- Smart link technology
- Exclusive offers not found elsewhere
Cons:
- Some user reports of account blocks without clear explanation
- Mixed reviews regarding communication with managers
- Strict quality requirements for traffic
- Limited to primarily adult dating niche
- Registration and approval can take time
- Primarily focused on specific geolocations (US/CA/AU/NZ/ZA)
How to Join DatingGold
Joining DatingGold is straightforward but requires approval:
- Visit the DatingGold website and complete the registration form
- Provide details about your traffic sources and volumes
- Wait for account approval (can take 24+ hours)
- Get assigned a personal affiliate manager
- Access your dashboard to select offers and grab promotional materials
- Implement tracking and begin promoting
DatingGold vs Competitors: How Does It Compare?
When comparing DatingGold to other dating affiliate networks, several factors stand out:
| Feature | DatingGold | Cupid Media | eHarmony Affiliate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Years in Business | ~20 years | ~24 years | ~23 years |
| Commission Model | Multiple (SOI/DOI/PPS/RevShare) | 75% of initial sales | 30% + $10 per questionnaire |
| Max Commission | Up to $75 per sale or 65% RevShare | Up to $89 per sale | Varies by subscription |
| Payment Terms | Net-15 | Monthly | Varies by network |
| Minimum Payout | $100 | Varies | Varies by network |
| Number of Offers | 40+ | 30+ niche sites | Limited offers |
| Direct Advertiser | Yes | Yes | No (through networks) |
| Smart Links | Yes | No | No |
| Target Market | Adult dating | Niche dating (ethnicity, religion) | Relationship-focused |
DatingGold positions itself between mainstream dating programs like eHarmony and niche-specific networks like Cupid Media. Its strength lies in owning direct offers and providing multiple monetization models for affiliates with adult-oriented traffic.
Is DatingGold Legit?
This is perhaps the most important question for potential affiliates. Based on our research, DatingGold is a legitimate affiliate program with a long history in the industry. However, as with many affiliate networks, experiences vary between publishers.
Most established affiliates report positive experiences with timely payments and good support. There are some concerning reviews about account blocks and payment issues, particularly for new affiliates or those using SEO traffic. It’s advisable to maintain clear communication with your assigned manager and understand the terms thoroughly before investing significant resources.
Expert Tips for Success with DatingGold
- Focus on quality traffic – DatingGold scrutinizes traffic quality closely, so avoid low-quality or bot traffic
- Test multiple offers – Try different offers to find what converts best with your traffic
- Utilize their smart links – These can optimize conversions automatically
- Build relationship with your manager – Regular communication can help resolve issues quickly
- Start with DOI or RevShare – These models often provide the best balance of conversion and earnings
- Request custom landing pages – These can significantly improve conversion rates
- Understand compliance requirements – Adult dating has specific restrictions in different regions
FAQs
Is DatingGold real or fake?
DatingGold is a real affiliate network that has been operating for nearly 20 years. It has mixed reviews, with most established affiliates reporting positive experiences.
How does DatingGold payment work?
DatingGold pays affiliates on a Net-15 basis, with payments distributed on the 10th and 25th of each month. Multiple payment methods are available, including PayPal, wire transfer, and check.
What are DatingGold pros and cons?
The main pros include direct advertiser status, multiple commission models, and competitive payouts. Cons include some reports of account issues and strict traffic quality requirements.
What are good DatingGold alternatives?
Top alternatives include Cupid Media, Datify.Link, TraffCore, and EliteSingles, depending on your traffic type and target audience.
How to use DatingGold effectively?
Focus on providing quality traffic, test multiple offers, utilize smart links, and build a good relationship with your affiliate manager.
What is DatingGold pricing for affiliates?
There is no cost to join DatingGold as an affiliate. They offer various commission structures, including up to $5 per free member, $75 per sale, or 65% revenue share.
Is there DatingGold payment proof available?
While some affiliates have shared positive payment experiences, we recommend checking affiliate forums and networks for the most recent payment proofs.
Conclusion
DatingGold represents a solid option for affiliates with quality traffic in the dating niche, particularly those focusing on adult dating offers. Its longevity in the industry, direct advertiser status, and multiple commission models make it potentially lucrative for the right publishers.
However, potential affiliates should approach with appropriate expectations, understanding that strict quality controls are in place and that communication with management is essential for success. For those with suitable traffic and a professional approach, DatingGold can be a valuable addition to their affiliate portfolio.
