Choosing the Right Vibe: The Definitive Guide to Picking a New Toy
(This article covers vibrators for folks with vulvas; more info on penis and booty toys coming soon!)
We get it. Picking out a new vibrator–as a beginner OR an expert–can be intimidating. There are so many options: size, color, material, speeds, patterns, and even which body part to use it on. Whew!
Lots of people ask our staff, “How do I decide between all these vibrators?” and “Which one is best for me?”. While it can be challenging to narrow it down to just *one* perfect toy (we believe that having a variety of toys in your collection is a great way to go!) there are a few things to consider when picking out a new vibrator.
1. Type of Toy
There are generally three kinds of vibrators for vulvas:
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G-Spot/Internal: Insertable vibrators are used inside the vagina. G-spot toys are specially shaped to help reach that sweet spot!
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Clitoral/External: Ranging in size from the big to small, clitoral vibrators are designed for the external clitoris.
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Dual Stimulation: Commonly referred to as "rabbit" vibrators, dual stimulators have two “arms” - one for inside the vagina and another to vibrate the clit.
Bonus category: clitoral suction toys! A fan favorite, these air pulse vibrators use gentle puffs of air to gently pull and suck on the clitoris.
2. Toy Material
Did you know the sex toy industry isn’t regulated in the United States? This means companies can put whatever they want in their toys! We do rigorous research to find toys made with body-safe materials (non-porous and don’t leach chemicals!).
Recommended materials:
- Silicone: Silicone is a polymer that can be made into a variety of shapes as well as a variety of textures. Silicone toys range from very soft to super firm. However, remember not to pair with silicone lubes or it can ruin the toy.
- Glass: Borosilicate glass is the same material as those hard, hearty Pyrex food storage containers. More durable than standard glass, this material offers an unyielding texture that's great for temperature play: just warm in hot water or cool it in the fridge! Glass toys are also compatible with all kinds of lubes.
- Metal: Medical-grade stainless steel has incredible durability that's excellent for temperature play. Like glass, metal toys can be used with all kinds of lubes.
- ABS Plastic: This hard plastic is food grade, so you can feel good about using it on any part of your body! Compatible with all kinds of lubes.
3. Functions
Most vibrators have a variety of strength and vibration patterns to choose from. If you love patterns, choose a toy with lots of options, like the FemmeFun Ultra Bullet). If you’re more into simple toys with with a few intensity levels, the Magic Wand Mini might be the right fit!
4. Price
Vibrators can cost anywhere from $15 to over $200, meaning it's possible to find a toy for most people's budget. With sex toys, you often get what you pay for: higher-priced toys are typically more durable, have stronger motors, better warranties, and lots of functions!
For first time vibrator buyers, we suggest versatile toys that can be used in multiple ways to help you learn what you like best. Some of our faves are included below!
Recommended Vibrators:
1. We-Vibe Touch X Clitoral Vibrator (shop)
Coated in smooth silicone, this palm-sized vibrator is as rumbly as the day is long. The vibrations are quiet and slow, yet powerful. The lowest setting is gentle but deep; crank it up to higher intensities to really *get you there*.
Use the unique scoop on the underside to envelop the clit (or wherever you'd like) in yummy vibrations. The Touch X's pointed tip is perfect for super specific vibrations, and the slim design means it can fit between bodies if you want to play with a partner. Waterproof and rechargeable!
2. Rechargeable Magic Wand Clitoral Vibrator (shop)
There's a reason the classic Magic Wand has been around forever. Its unparalleled strength is renowned not only for its ability to work out stubborn shoulder knots but ALSO for its ability to make people orgasm (...and orgasm...and orgasm...).
The Magic Wand's head is large, covering a lot of surface area. This means you or a partner a partner don't have to be quite as specific with placement!
Magic Wands also have a ton of attachments that can be popped on the head to offer variations, turning them into dual stimulations, strokers, and more. Rechargeable!
3. Fun Factory Miss Bi Dual Stimulator (shop)
We love the curves of the Miss Bi: the thick but petite internal arm easily reaches your g-spot, while also providing a feeling of fullness around the opening of the vagina. Grind onto the wide clitoral arm for double the fun!
This vibe is awesome for anyone looking to explore blended orgasms, as Fun Factory’s motors are notoriously strong and rumbly. Medical grade silicone, waterproof, and rechargeable!
4. VeDo Bam Mini Clitoral Vibrator (shop)
For folks wanting a simple, small clitoral toy without a hefty price tag, this beginner's bullet vibrator is perfect. A little bit more on the buzzy side of vibration, with a tapered tip for various positioning and angles! If you want a more powerful and deep version of this vibrator, we recommend the We-Vibe Tango X. Rechargeable.
5. Satisfyer Dual Pleasure (shop)
This toy is ready to go regardless of your mood. On one side it's a powerful suction toy; turn it around and it can be used as a vibrating dildo! This is a great option if you’re wanting to explore both g-spot and clitoral pleasure, with a variety of sensations from vibration to air suction. After all, variety is the spice of life, babe!
6. Pillow Talk Sassy G-Spot Vibrator (shop)
Explore g-spot pleasure and internal vibration with soft but powerful toy. The curved end is just the right size and shape to apply pressure on the g-spot. Bonus: you can also use this toy on your clit..you're in charge! The Sassy is especially easy to use, with only one button to control the whole thing.