I have only tried 2 dating sites, one freebe & one at a reasonable cost. It just seems that the entire process & experience should be smoother & more successful. It seems that each company I read reviews about by users, mentions deceitful practices and the site only aiming for as much profit as possible, the only motive.
That said, it seems that males and females, assuming they are decent looking but not elite, have different issues and concerns. I can only speak to the male issue with certainty. Males can write carefully crafted polite messages, no some males don't, & maybe receive only a 15-20 % response rate. Women seemingly can just wait passively and still get plenty of intro. messages. A lady who I might meet at a party who would think we are fortunate to be meeting one another is different on a dating site because there is a plethora of males for her to ponder, evaluate, and then choose if she wishes to do so.
I am not unusually special but have character assets, am responsible, & keep in fine physical shape. It seems to count for very little in this process. very frustrating it is. My ex who I remain friendly with, told me that she was on Match for a week & deleted her profile after receiving 108 messages. She chose one and they are in a relationship, it is that easy apparently for the ladies.

true that women far outnumber males and most attractive women dont need to use date sites as they get plenty of hits during their day at work or around town ,which leaves just the dregs on date sites and as seen on POF they become very choosy due to their new found high status ,far above their normal status