Size: “Smaller is always better when trying a sex toy for the first time,” Cooper says. Start small, and once you’ve get some experience under (below?) your belt, you can size up. In that case it might be a good idea to check the measurements of the toys you already own, to give you a sense of where you’d like to go from there.
Usage: Prior to shopping for a new toy, think about how you want to use it: By yourself, with a partner, or both? In combination with another toy or on its own? In the bath? On vacation? In your thin-walled apartment while your nosy roommate is home? Each of these situations might call for particular features or surface some dealbreakers. Some nice-to-have features that might be more like necessities, depending on your situation: waterproofing (for shower fun), a travel lock, quietness, and the ability to be controlled hands-free or from long-distance (usually with an app).
The Best Vibrator: Magic Wand Rechargeable
Materials: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery Life: About 3 hours
How to Use: Turn on using power button, control vibration speed or change settings with the other two buttons, and place wherever you want some vibration.
Why you’ll like it: This toy has a fervent fanbase, which might explain its frequent appearance in porn—and it got even better when its maker introduced a cordless, rechargeable version in 2015. It may not be the most versatile or discreet massager in the world, but its impressive vibration settings more than make up for what it lacks in subtlety.
Pros: Very powerful, 4 vibration intensities and 4 vibration patterns, doubles as a great massager for sore/tense muscles; long battery life, and can be used while charging if it dies mid-session
Cons: Too big and bulky for some sex positions, can get loud on higher settings, less-than-glamorous aesthetic
The Best Bullet Vibrator: We-Vibe Tango X
Materials: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery Life: Up to 2 hours
How to Use: Position on your clit (or wherever you want it) and turn it on with the “+” button. Adjust vibration speed or change settings with the buttons on the toy.
Why you’ll like it: They say that good things come in small packages, and this vibe is a prime example. Its petite size makes its powerful vibrations all the more remarkable. It’s also waterproof so it’d be an ideal companion for bath-time masturbation or your next shower rendezvous.
Pros: Amazingly powerful, rumbly motor for its size, petite enough to be used in a variety of positions, 7 vibration modes with 8 intensities each; waterproof; quiet; silicone handle makes it easier to hold onto
Cons: Hard plastic may rattle uncomfortably against genital piercings if you have them
The Best G-Spot Vibrator: Dame Arc
Materials: Silicone
Battery Life: 90 minutes
How to Use: Apply water-based lube to the toy before inserting it vaginally. Hold down the power button for a few seconds to turn the toy on or off, and press that same button to change the vibration mode. Use the other two buttons to turn the vibration intensity up or down on any given mode.
Why you’ll like it: With its soft, smooth silicone and slightly squishy tip, the Arc is ultra-comfortable to use. The deep curve of this vibrator helps it reach the G-spot with ease, and it packs a punch, power-wise, as well. You can also use it as a regular ol’ clitoral vibe when you want to, making it extra versatile. One Amazon reviewer raved, “Excellent quality product! We love it! Worth every penny!”
Pros: Can be used both internally and externally; five vibration modes with five vibration intensity levels each; squishy tip for comfort; curve for G-spot stimulation; waterproof; quiet
Cons: Not anal-safe; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Dual-Stimulation Vibrator: We-Vibe Nova 2
Materials: Silicone
Battery Life: Up to 2 hours
How to Use: Apply water-based lubricant to both arms of the toy. Slip the internal arm inside your vagina, and position the external arm comfortably on your clit. Use the buttons on the toy to turn it on or off, adjust its intensity, or change settings. You can thrust the toy in and out or just hold it still.
Why you’ll like it: “By stimulating multiple nerve pathways (externally via the clitoris and internally via the upper vaginal wall or G-zone), you’re more likely to experience intense and more full-bodied sensations,” Dr. Jessica O’Reilly, a sexologist and sex and relationships expert for Lovehoney, says. However, even among dual-stimulation toys, this one stands out, due to its flexible clitoral arm which can maintain contact with your clit even as you thrust the toy in and out, for ultra-satisfying climaxes.
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