The 22 Best Vibrators, According to Sex Toy Experts

The vibes are immaculate.

collage of a woman with a sex toy
(Image credit: Brittany Holloway-Brown)

Whether you're enjoying some much-needed alone time or engaging in partner play, introducing sex toys can make a huge difference in the bedroom. And while there are myriad categories within the sex toy world—from dildos to anal toys to kink toys—the vibrator reigns supreme as the most consistently popular and well-known style of all time.

"One of the main reasons why vibrators feel so good is because of electricity," explains Shamyra Howard, a Lovehoney sexologist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). "Every vibrator, no matter the size, operates with a motor inside. This explains one reason why there are several different types of vibrators. This allows our bodies to have different response signals to varying speeds, motions, and intensities. It is thought that vibrators feel so good because they transmit frequencies that we as humans are incapable of doing to some of the most sensitive areas of the body."

Personally, I used to think that vibrators were overrated, but when I learned more about the many styles and types of vibrators, I realized that this sex toy is far more versatile than many of us have given it credit for. Vibrators come in a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, and vibration options, and the sensations they can offer range from gentle to mind-blowingly intense.

With that in mind, I've spoken to a variety of sexperts to set the record straight about different types of vibrators, choosing the right one for you, and, of course, the very best vibrators on the market today.

How To Use a Vibrator

If you're unsure how to use a vibrator, there are a number of sex toys designed for beginners. Plus, countless resources are available online, from the instruction manual that comes with your toy to thorough online guides by brands like Smile Makers and Lovehoney. Howard reminds us that not all vibrators are built the same, and different types have different purposes. Thus, it's important to take note of whether your vibrator is meant to be used on external or internal genitalia, on the anus or on the vagina, and so on. 

Plus, one should always be stimulated and properly lubricated before using any toy. Howard points out that vibrators won't feel good if the user isn't already aroused, and explains, "The more aroused you are, the better the vibrator feels." So before you start using your toy, try stimulating yourself with your hands or watching something titillating, and consider adding some lube to the mix to ensure your vibrator experience is safe and comfortable.

There is some room for creativity, though. "They can be used for various reasons and on other body parts," she says. "That’s right: Vibrators are not just for use on the genitals."

So, once you're comfortable with how to use your vibrator the traditional way, see how it feels on other erogenous zones, like the nipples, base of your neck, or back of your knee. 

Finding the Right Vibrator

Sexual pleasure is an incredibly personal, subjective experience, so selecting the right vibrator should be one, too. "The materials and shape of the vibrator are often the most influential factors in how vibrators impact everyone differently," says Kris Fretz, co-founder of sex toy brand Emojibator. "Personally, I’m more sensitive to the vibrator’s texture vs. intensity, so I look for toys that are made with medical-grade silicone so they are safe for bodily insertion."

In that vein, it's important to take note of what toys are made of when buying them. Silicone toys, for instance, should never be used with silicone lube, or they'll break down. And while sex toys can get pricey, Howard says that buying a high-quality option is well worth it. 

"Since vibrators are used in one of the body's most sensitive areas, it’s essential to only use body-safe toys," she says. 

Fretz also adds that one should consider how and for how long a toy will be used when looking at what it's made of, warning, "A toy can be made with other materials such as metal, and in those cases it’s important to not overuse the toy beyond the recommended usage time and spare your most sensitive areas from burning up."

Once you know what materials you're selecting and the type of stimulation you're going for, Fretz recommends staying open-minded. After all, the world of sex toys is characterized by constant innovation.

"While the vibrator industry began with rabbits and phallic-shaped dildos, our society has advanced so much further than these rigid ideas of what vibrators should look like," elaborates Fretz. "I encourage all shoppers to feel confident that they can experience great orgasms from any shaped vibrator that is made with safe materials. This freedom to explore makes sex toys more inclusive to the queer and sexual trauma communities who don’t feel represented in the mainstream sex toy industry."

Keep scrolling for a low-down on the different categories of vibrators meant to cater to all sexual preferences, along with products that are notorious for their good vibes.

Best Vibrators For Beginners

Everybody has to start somewhere, and for those who have never used a vibrator before, it's important to start slow and focus on exploration. The sex toys for beginners below have been vetted by sexperts and are wildly popular with customers, so that you can ease your way into vibrator play and learn what works best for you. 

Best Bullet Vibrators

According to Lovehoney, "Bullet sex toys are small, handheld vibrators that resemble the size and shape of a spitzer bullet. They’re one of the most popular first sex toys as they’re easy to use and non-invasive, yet offer precise clitoral stimulation." Indeed, Howard often tells beginners to use a bullet as a means of gently exploring vibrational pleasure for the first time, explaining that the model is "easily accessible, inexpensive, and provides fantastic clitoral stimulation. Bullets can also be used on other erogenous areas."

Best Wand Vibrators

Wondering what type of vibrator is best for exploring erogenous zones beyond your clitoris, vagina, and anus? Consider the wand vibrator. Howard says, "If you’d like a vibe that can be used for clitoral stimulation and to explore erogenous zones such as nipples, behind the knees, ankles, the labia, and more, then a wand will be your toy of choice."

Best G-Spot Vibrators

Ah, the mysterious g-spot. Women who orgasm from penetrative sex are usually triggered by stimulation to this elusive area—a preference that may call for a g-spot vibrator or other penetrative toy. 

Not sure where the g-spot is, exactly? You're not the only one, so Howard is here to explain: "The g-spot is said to be a sensitive area located at least two to three inches inside the vagina," she says. "One way to stimulate the area is by using a finger in the 'come here' motion. New theories suggest that the g-spot is actually a part of the internal clitoris. Some people report intense orgasms when this area is stimulated. A better way to stimulate the g-spot is by using a g-spot vibrator."

Best Clitoral-Stimulating Vibrators

The clitoris is the only known human organ whose sole purpose is physical pleasure, so why not celebrate it? The following types of vibrators are designed specifically for women who prefer clitoral stimulation, and use innovative means like rumbling, suction, air puffs, and traditional vibrations.

Best Oral Sex Simulating Vibrators

Oral sex is an extremely specific sensation, and sometimes the feeling of sucking, blowing, or tongue-like strokes is precisely what one craves when indulging in some sexy time. As a result, a number of vibrators are made to mimic that feeling, and we've uncovered some of the very best. 

Best Rabbit Vibrators

It is, of course, possible to want both clitoral and g-spot stimulation at the same time, which can be difficult to maneuver if you're stimulating yourself sans partner or if you have a toy geared only for one from of pleasure. But never fear: There are products made specifically for dual stimulation, the best of which we've gathered below. A keyword to look out for when shopping for dual-stimulation toys is "rabbit vibrators," which Howard says are perfect for when you're looking to have it both ways.

Best Vibrators for Couples

Just because you have a pal in bed with you, doesn't mean you need to abandon your toys. In fact, there are countless toys made specifically for partner play. They're perfect for adding variation and additional stimulation to your sexual repertoire, and may also be just the ticket for spicing up a relationship.

Best Remote-Controlled Vibrators

Technology really can be a wonderful thing, and in the case of sex toys, it can be a gamechanger, injecting playfulness into a routine or maintaining a sense of intimacy between long-distance partners. 

"Remote-controlled vibrators are often made for clitoral stimulation and work really well with a partner controlling the motions," Howard agrees. "Several app-control vibrators work well on dates and for people in long-distance relationships."

Best On-The-Go Vibrators

Sexual pleasure is an important part of many people's lives, and there is nothing wrong with wanting to ensure you have the tools you need to feel good when you're on the go. Here, we've gathered some of the best products for when you have to keep your bag light and your sex toys subtle—because it's not always feasible to carry around a 6-inch silicone toy.

Best Anal Vibrators

If you haven't given anal sex toys a chance yet, you could be missing out on a world of pleasure. It is, however, important to educate oneself about anal stimulation, acquire the proper lube, and start slow before jumping in. 

"When it comes to anal stimulation, it’s always important to only use vibrators specifically designed for anal stimulation," Howard adds. "Anal vibrators will always have a flared base to prevent them from getting lost in the anus. Beginners would love the Rocks Off Teazer Petite Sensations Vibrating Butt Plug."

For more, visit our Sexual Wellness section, where we unpack topics around consent, kink, sex toys, and more so you can have your safest and very best sexperiences yet.

How We Test

Every vibrator on this list has been hand-chosen by Marie Claire's E-Commerce Writer, Gabrielle Ulubay, or has been recommended by a sex expert, such as a gynecologist, sex therapist, pelvic floor specialist, or other professional with verified, substantial experience in the sexual wellness field. Every single product is made from body-safe, high-quality material, has been rigorously tested for safety, is made by a well-established brand, is sold by reputable vendors, and has been tested by our editor, by sex experts, or by reviewers to guarantee efficacy. The best vibrator(s) for you depends on your anatomy, sexuality, and preferences, all of which we've taken into account when compiling this list.

Meet the Experts

Shamyra Howard
Shamyra Howard

Shamyra Howard is an international award-winning sexologist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and AASECT certified sex therapist committed to helping people improve their relationship and intimate lives. She is also the founder of On the Green Couch, where she helps people overcome sexual obstacles, and has authored two books.

Dr. Laurie Mintz
Dr. Laurie Mintz, Ph.D.

Dr. Laurie Mintz is an award-winning tenured professor at the University of Florida, where she teaches the Psychology of Human Sexuality. Her work has been published in over 50 peer-reviewed academic research journals along with six chapters in academic books, and she has maintained a private practice for over 30 years that helps couples and individuals with sexual issues. A Fellow of the American Psychological Association, she has also authored two books: Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters and How to Get It and A Tired Woman’s Guide to Passionate Sex: Reclaim Your Desire and Reignite Your Relationship. Her overall mission is to provide scientifically accurate, sex positive education that prioritizes female pleasure.

Kris Fretz
Kristin (Kris) Fretz

Kris Fretz is an entrepreneur who, along with her co-founder Joe Vela, founded Emojibator in 2016. The brand seeks to create body-safe, non-intimidating sexual wellness products at affordable price points.

Dr. Holly Richmond
Dr. Holly Richmond

Dr. Holly Richmond is certified sex therapist as well as a licensed marriage and family therapist. She has a PhD in Somatic Psychology and, through her work, aids clients with relationship and sexuality concerns through a unique combination of cognitive and somatic, or body-based, means. 

Dr. Lindsay Byron
Dr. Lindsay Byron

Dr. Lindsay Byron is a Women's Studies scholar who has been published in a number of peer-reviewed journals. She is also a former university instructor and a lifelong exotic dancer. She is now based in Atlanta, Georgia, and coaches womxn on how to step into their power.

Christine DeLozier
Christine DeLozier

Christine DeLozier is a licensed acupuncturist who combines her education in Eastern Medicine with her backgrounds in counseling and psychology in order to help patients develop better, more holistic habits to make for better, more comfortable sex. She is also the author of Diet for Great Sex: Food for Male and Female Sexual Health.

Polly Rodriguez
Polly Rodriguez

Polly Rodriguez is the CEO and co-founder of the sexual wellness company Unbound. She was inspired to found Unbound after experiencing early onset menopause after a cancer diagnosis at the age of 21. The experience led her to develop an interest in sex toys, and subsequently realize the need for toys made from high-quality, body-safe materials. She is currently based in New York City.

Dr. Tammy Nelson
Dr. Tammy Nelson, PhD

Dr. Tammy Nelson, PhD is a Board Certified Sexologist, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Imago Relationship therapist, and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor. She works with both couples and individuals in search of love, healing, and improved sex. She also serves at the Director of the Integrative Sex Therapy Institute, hosts the podcast The Trouble with Sex, and is the author of multiple books about sex and relationships.

Kit Richardson
Kit Richardson

Kit Richardson is a sex educator and sex expert for the Museum of Sex in New York City. 

Dr. Shannon Chavez
Dr. Shannon Chavez

Dr. Shannon Chavez is a Licensed Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist based in Beverly Hills. She has published work on using psychodynamic therapy to treat love addiction and specializes in treating sexual disorders, sexual trauma, and compulsive behaviors surrounding intimacy. 

Claire Cavanah
Claire Cavanah

Claire Cavanah is a co-founder of the online sexual wellness retailer Babeland. She is currently based in New York City.

Suki Dunham
Suki Dunham

Suki Dunham and her husband, Brian, co-founded OhMiBod, the first music-powered vibrator. Today, the business has expanded to include other sex toys along with kegel balls, lubricants, and other sexual wellness products. 

Dr. Jordin Wiggins
Dr. Jordin Wiggins, ND

Dr. Jordin Wiggins is a Naturopathic Doctor, sex educator, and author. She founded, owns, and operates the naturopathic health clinic Health Over All, and has expertise on hormones, mood imbalance, libido, and bio-marker testing.

Dr. Jill McDevitt
Dr. Jill McDevitt

Dr. Jill McDevitt is a sexologist, sexuality educator, and sexual wellness coach. She hold a PhD, MEd, and BA in human sexuality, and she currently serves as a resident sexologist for CalExotics.

Javay Frye-Nekrasova
Javay Frye-Nekrasova, MEd

Javay Frye-Nekrasova, MEd, is a sex educator, pleasure professional, and sex expert for Lovehoney. Specializing in pleasure, communication, and sex toys, she is passionate about making comprehensive sex education accessible for all and is in the process of earning a PhD in Human Sexuality from the California Institute of Integral Studies. Her research focuses on sex work, porn, as well as the relationship between the media and society's understanding of sexuality. She also provides sex education via YouTube and social media for her digital series, In Bed With a Millennial. You can find her on Instagram here: @MillennialSexpert.

Gabrielle Ulubay
Beauty Writer

Gabrielle Ulubay is a Beauty Writer at Marie Claire. She has also written about sexual wellness, fashion, culture, and politics both at Marie Claire and for publications like The New York Times, Bustle, and HuffPost Personal. She has worked extensively in the e-commerce and sales spaces since 2020, including two years at Drizly, where she developed an expertise in finding the best, highest quality goods and experiences money can buy. As a film school graduate, she loves all things media and can be found making art when she's not busy writing.