You won't necessarily get a lower quality date from using free personals but you will take a higher risk. Many of the reputable dating sites "vet" individuals who are looking for a relationship whereas using free personals you have to do the vetting yourself. Of course, there is still a small risk on a pay date site that an individual will lie about who they are, their age, what they do, etc. I read an article on online and personal dating safety and the recommendation is that no matter which type you use that you should take it very slow. If in doubt use Google or a free investigation service like www.inet-investigation.com to find out more about the person you are talking to.