The 22 Best Vibrators, According to Sex Toy Experts
The vibes are immaculate.
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 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.
The Overall Best Vibrators
- Best Vibrator for Beginners: Lovehoney Magic Bullet 10 Function Silver Bullet Vibrator
- Best Bullet Vibrator: FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet
- Best Wand Vibrator: Magic Wand Original
- Best G-Spot Vibrator: Lovehoney Desire Luxury Rechargeable G-Spot Vibrator
- Best Clitoral-Stimulating Vibrator: Womanizer Pro W500
- Best Oral Sex Simulating Vibrator: LELO Ora 3
- Best Dual-Stimulating Vibrator: plusOne Dual Vibrating Massager
- Best Vibrator for Partner Play: Dame Eva II
- Best Remote-Controlled Vibrator: We-Vibe Sync
- Best On-The-Go Vibrator: Unbound Puff Suction Vibe
- Best Anal Vibrator: Rocks Off Teazer Petite Sensations Beginner's Vibrating Butt Plug
Best Vibrators for Beginners
It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the breadth of sex toy options, particularly if you're new to using vibrators and dildos. Remember that we all have to start somewhere and that the best toys for beginners are those that with simple operations and versatile options. Ahead, expert-approved options that are easy to use and non-intimidating to behold.
Howard specifically recommends this bullet vibrator as an ideal sex toy for beginners—especially those who are new to vibrators. It’s made to be non-intimidating, with quiet vibrations and a petite size. The toy also boasts three vibration intensities and seven rhythms, each of which is designed to provide customizable, on-point external pleasure to the clitoris. Howard adds, "It’s cute, portable, packed with power, and has three different intensities for direct clitoral stimulation." And if you like using your bath time for pleasure, this toy has got you covered—it’s completely submersible.
Pros: Portable; Affordable; Quiet; Expert-approved; Free of latex and phthalates
Cons: Not as suited for those who wanted stronger vibrations
Specs: Three vibration intensities and seven rhythms; AAA battery-powered; Submersible; Made of plastic
Customer Review: "It has a good variety of vibration strengths and patterns that allow for a great buildup. This was the first sex toy I’ve used and it’s great, especially for a beginner like me!" -Lovehoney
Wand vibrators are great for beginners, and have been made famous by television shows like Sex and the City, which extolled these toys’ ability to bring tremendous pleasure to people with vaginas via external stimulation. "Another excellent vibrator for beginners is the Deluxe Rechargeable Mini Massage Wand Vibe," agrees Howard. "This one also comes with various intensity levels and can be used on different body areas." To be specific, it features seven vibration patterns and ten intensity levels, and it has a run time of 60 minutes.
Pros: Versatile; Portable; Expert-approved
Cons: Not very quiet; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Seven vibration patterns and 10 intensity levels; 60-minute battery life; Splashproof; Made of silicone
Customer Review: "As a transgender woman I was advised to get one of those and I'm so glad I got this. It's the best thing to date." -Lovehoney
Best Bullet Vibrators
Howard often tells beginners to use a bullet vibrator 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. Bullet vibrators can also be used on other erogenous areas."
Somatic psychotherapist, sex therapist, and marriage and family therapist Dr. Holly Richmond says, "I tell my clients the FemmeFun Ultra Bullet packs the most bang for the buck and size. It looks like a tiny purple flashlight with a hot pink on/off button, and has 20 different powerful vibration modes. It's perfect for travel, especially if noise is a consideration as well. It’s whisper quiet, so vibe away no matter where you are." Made from soft silicone, it's also fully waterproof—perfect for fun in the tub or shower and for easy washing.
Pros: quiet; portable; suitable for beginners and advanced users; expert-approved
Cons: needs frequent charging; made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 20 vibration modes; Three-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "Powerful for the size and various fun settings. Yet small enough to be discretely slipped into a purse and comes with a classy cloth bag. Smooth silicone. The on/off settings button is placed on the end, not on the side, which prevents it from being accidentally pushed during use. Sturdy and flexible. Quiet enough to be used without detection from another room (such as a hotel room). The USB charger is the magnetic kind—easy attachment. Battery seems to last quite a while too." -Amazon
Unique, beginner-friendly Emojibator aims to make sex toys fun and accessible to all people, regardless of their experience level, by making toys in funny, cheeky shapes like eggplants, chickens, and more. Plus, they’re effective (this one features 10 distinct vibration settings), culminating in what Fretz calls "a unique orgasm experience." In a review, one customer raves that this is their first sex toy ever, and that they're already "obsessed." Get it in this popular eggplant shape, or in one of its other incarnations: the banana, the cherry, the cherry, the pickle, the chili pepper, or the strawberry. Each one is made from medical-grade silicone and is a guaranteed good time.
Pros: Suitable for beginners; Quiet; Expert-approved
Cons: Not as suited for beginners or those who want a more complex experience; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 10 vibration settings; AAA battery-powered; Made from silicone; Waterproof
Customer Review: "First toy ever, I'm OBSESSED!!!!! Really good material, super quiet, strong vibration." -Emojibator
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."
"One tool reigns supreme when it comes to tried-and-true results, and that's the Hitachi Magic Wand," says Dr. Lindsay Byron, a Women's Studies Scholar and the mind behind Dr. Lux ATL, of this legendary toy. "This personal massager covers a larger surface than your average disco stick, and demands more power than a battery can deliver. If it plugs into the wall, you're gonna have a ball—and that's why I'm in a long-term relationship with this consistent and intense vibrator." Indeed, this is the model that started the worldwide wand vibrator craze.
Pros: Tried-and-true; Versatile; Suited for all experience levels; Great for partner play; Expert-approved
Cons: Expensive; Not very quiet; Head is made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Eight vibration modes, four intensities, and four vibration patterns; Three-hour battery life; Neither waterproof nor splashproof; Silicone head
Customer Review: "The wand is a must-have for every woman. No joke. If you don't already own one, what the hell are you waiting for?!" -Amazon
This wand vibrator is a top pick for Christine DeLozier, author of Diet for Great Sex: Food for Male and Female Sexual Health. She says, "You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get the job done! People love this affordable wand vibrator with many unique vibration patterns. For its small price tag, it’s very powerful. The material is also comfortable, soft, and easy to clean." Plus, it’s customizable, with 20 vibration patterns and eight speeds, making it perfect for novices and experienced users alike.
Pros: Affordable; High-powered; Easy to clean; Expert-approved
Cons: Needs to be charged frequently; Head is made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 20 vibration patterns and eight speeds; Two-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "My bedroom's new best friend." -Amazon
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."
Howard recommends this fully waterproof, soft silicone vibrator for those who enjoy g-spot stimulation (AKA penetration), saying, "This vibrator provides direct g-spot stimulation for increased arousal and intense orgasms." It features eight vibration modes and 12 intensity speeds as well, so you can customize your pleasure experience. Its unique curved shape is designed to hit just the right spot, and reviewers rave about how easy it is to use, how comfortable it is to hold, and how much pleasure it brings.
Pros: Curved shape for direct g-spot stimulation; Long battery life; Expert-approved; Waterproof, Flexible; Free of latex and phthalates
Cons: Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Eight vibration modes and 12 intensities; 80-minute battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "This is the absolute best vibrator my wife and I have ever used! I ordered it because the reviews said that there have been more reports of women squirting with this vibrator than any other on the market. And the reviews were absolutely correct! It came in the mail on Valentine's Day. We used it that night and my wife squirted for the first time in her life, and we've been trying for years to do this. Its design is perfect to hit a woman's g-spot and my wife said she's never felt anything like that before" -Lovehoney
Many people with vaginas enjoy g-spot stimulation because they are too sensitive for clitoral stimulation—a preference that Howard says calls for a "classic internal vibrator" like this one from Lovehoney. Plus, this particular model offers a ribbed texture—and anyone who’s ever used a ribbed condom knows that the extra friction can be highly stimulating, potentially leading to a quicker, more intense orgasm. The vibrator also features seven vibration functions, four patterns, is completely waterproof, and offers six impressive inches of length.
Pros: Affordable; Ridged shape provides a unique sensation; Expert-approved; Free of latex and phthalates
Cons: Loud; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Three vibration speeds and four patterns; AA battery-powered; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "This is my first ever sex toy. I was a bit intimated at first, but with plenty lube and taking my time, this is mind blowing! It has 7 settings...The ribbed detail on the shaft makes the toy even more brilliant. I felt every wave. I would highly recommend it as a beginner's toy." -Lovehoney
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. They use innovative means like rumbling, suction, air puffs, and traditional vibrations to incite pleasure.
Polly Rodriguez, founder of sexual wellness company Unbound, says, "This waterproof toy is designed to provide touchless stimulation of the clitoris using pulsating pleasure waves that feel both gentle and powerful. There's really nothing else like it. The interchangeable suction heads are made of soft, hygienic silicone and you can easily switch between eight levels of intensity.” And the toy’s efficacy is backed by testing, too. Rodriguez adds, “Studies showed that women using this vibrator were able to achieve orgasm, on average, in less than two minutes."
Pros: Customizable; Good for all experience levels; Waterproof; Expert-approved
Cons: Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 12 intensity levels; Waterproof; Four-hour battery life; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "An absolute must-have for all women who climax from clitoral stimulation." -Womanizer
This aesthetically pleasing vibrator consistently ranks as a best seller across multiple sex toy sites (thanks, in part, to it going viral on TikTok several times over), providing both traditional rumble vibrations as well as air and suction settings. It’s gone viral multiple times over for its sweet, feminine look and its incredible efficacy, boasting three intensities and several patterns. While not waterproof, it is splashproof, and it can easily be charged with a magnetic, USB-powered charging base. Reviewers swear by this toy, with one attesting, "I was done in under a minute."
Pros: Gentle; Good for all experience levels; Customizable; Expert-approved
Cons: Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Three vibration intensities and seven patterns; Splashproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "Powerful and fun. Great vibration variety for both intensity and patterns. I like how once it's on, the button lights up so it's easy to find and press to change it." -Babeland
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.
Sex and relationship therapist Tammy Nelson specifically recommends this product, explaining that "its outer ring rests against your anatomy to create a rhythmic sucking sensation with five intensity settings that allow you to choose the right amount of suction to get you to the place you want to be. It has not failed any users yet, and I recommend it to all of my female-bodied clients." It’s also waterproof, USB rechargeable, and made with comfort in mind for those with female anatomy.
Pros: Waterproof; Made with medical-grade silicone; Different suction settings; Expert-approved
Cons: Not suited for those who want very intense stimulation; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Five speeds; Two to three-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "Let's just say I was done in under a minute. I highly recommend. It is great for personal use, or for partner play." -Babeland
Laurie Mintz, a sexpert and author of Becoming Cliterate and A Tired Woman’s Guide to Passionate Sex, highly recommends this toy, which has twelve different vibration patterns. In addition to masterfully mimicking the feeling of oral sex, which she calls "the ultimate pleasure for many women," it also "has a very comfortable, smooth nub that moves up and down, rotates, and vibrates. And you can change the speed and intensity of the 'oral sex' you are giving yourself—all without having to tell a partner to do so!"
Pros: Customizable settings; Great for beginners; Expert-approved
Cons: Not as suited for those who want more intense stimulation; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 12 vibration patterns; Approximate one-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "Takes a bit of practice and a couple tries to find the sweet spot(s), but once you find it there’s no going back. Love this thing!!" -Amazon
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.
I'm a big fan of plusOne's products, and so, evidently, is sex expert Kit Richardson, who recommends this toy for those who want to be "confident that your purchase will leave you satisfied and won’t make your bank account cry. Rechargeable, waterproof, and silky-smooth body-safe silicone ensures your pleasure play is a five star experience. With its bulbous and curved internal arm and strong vibrating clitoral arm the plusOne Dual Vibrating Massager is ideal for those looking for a fuller sensation internally while receiving a strong vibration externally." It has 10 different vibration modes—perfect for exploration and customization.
Pros: strong; affordable; waterproof; expert-approved
Cons: may not be suited for beginners or those who are physically very sensitive; made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 10 vibration modes; Three-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "I’ve purchased a few different ones— this is by FAR and away my favorite. Great battery life. Soft outside— easy to clean. The different settings keep things exciting." -Amazon
Sex educator and Lovehoney sex expert Javay Frye-Nekrasova says, "The We-Vibe Nova 2 is a great rabbit vibrator for beginners, advanced users, and partner play. The adjustable arm's flexibility allows for people to adjust it as they need regardless of experience level. The handle length allows for partners to take control of the toy and use it on their partner." It features 12 intensity levels and more than 10 unique vibration modes, has flexible arms designed for comfort, and is completely waterproof.
Pros: works well for both solo and partner play; works for remote play; long handle; expert-approved
Cons: expensive; made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 10 vibration modes and 12 intensity levels; Two-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "Bought this on a whim for use with a long distance boyfriend. Oh boy. Was not at all prepared for just how good it is." -Lovehoney
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.
Sex therapist Dr. Shannon Chavez says that this product, which is designed to wrap around a penis, simultaneously pleasuring the shaft of the penis for one partner and the clitoris (or rectum) of the other during penetration. Colloquially known as a cock ring, it can also be used during anal sex or during solo masturbation for those with penises. Dr. Chavez adds that this option is suited "for any couple who wants to start with a product that is small and simple,” adding that "the vibrator has seven vibration patterns, and its discreet look that will make each person more comfortable introducing toys into their bedroom."
Pros: Long-lasting; High-quality; Long battery life; USB rechargeable; Expert-approved
Cons: Limited to penis-vagina sex; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Seven vibration settings; Two-hour battery life; Splashproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "The silicone is very good quality, easy clean up, and being rechargeable is a big plus!" -Amazon
"Take note that this is the first hands-free, strap-free, non-intrusive couples vibrator," says Polly Rodriguez. "Eva is made of the smoothest silicone, with flexible wings that fit snugly under a woman's labia majora, making it possible to experience clitoral stimulation during sex or while playing solo." It’s completely waterproof, making it a great way to facilitate easier bathtub or shower sex, and it’s made from soft, comfortable silicone with a lightweight feel that prevents soreness after extended play. It comes in four colors, including this chic lavender option.
Pros: Works with penis-vagina and vagina-vagina sex; Easy to use; Works for masturbation; Expert-approved
Cons: Expensive; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Three intensity levels; Four-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "I was very surprised at how much I liked this vibe! It's easy to wear both with and without penetration. The three speeds are great...I particularly loved being able to orgasm more easily in missionary." -Dame Products
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."
Claire Cavanah, co-founder of major sex toy retailer Babeland, cites this as one of the platform's most popular vibrators for couples, explaining that it "can be worn during sex, is more flexible and powerful, and can be operated with an app that also works remotely.” She clarifies, “That means your partner can control your vibrator even when you're far apart." It’s also waterproof, has a battery life of 120 minutes, is USB rechargeable, and has 10 delightful levels of intensity.
Pros: Provides dual stimulation; Works for solo and partner play; Works long-distance; Expert-approved
Cons: Expensive; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 10 intensity levels; Two-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "We really enjoy this one! Quality product that fits and functions perfectly. Vibration are plenty strong and patterns feels great." -Lovehoney
Ohmibod co-founder and creator of the original music vibrator Suki Dunham stands behind this novel product. She explains, "The wearable Bluetooth App-controlled vibrator is perfect for remote play whether you are across the room or across the country. Esca 2's integrated LED lights up and corresponds to the vibrations, letting your partner see exactly what kind of good vibrations they are sending your way." It also has multiple vibration settings, including a “Club Vibe” mode that syncs vibrations to the music of your choice.
Pros: Works long-distance; Expert-approved
Cons: Some users report connectivity issues and short battery life; Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Four vibration settings; Two- to three-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "My wife loves the custom options to change the vibration." -Adam & Eve
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.
This sleek, no-nonsense vibrator is based on a novel concept: A sex toy that you can take with you and wear around, right out in the open. Personally, it's one of my favorite accessories, and I get compliments every time I wear it. Plus, it doesn’t look like a vibrator in an in-your-face sort of way, and matches with just about any outfit—whether you opt for the silver, gold, or rose gold colorways. In terms of use as a vibrator, it features intense, no-frills vibration settings, with four speeds and two modes, and is a breeze to clean.
Pros: can be worn daily; subtle; fashionable; editor-approved; works with all types of lubricant; easy to clean and use
Cons: none found
Specs: Four vibration speeds and two settings; 90-minute battery life; Water-resistant but not submersible; Made from stainless steel
Customer Review: "Perfect for travel. Very powerful vibrations with 4 different settings! Totally worth the money!" -Ulta
Sexologist Dr. Jill McDevitt loves this bullet vibrator, which is waterproof and has eight distinct vibration functions. She says, "It easily passes for a lipstick you can keep in your purse or makeup bag. Plus it's powerful and functional, so you can actually use and enjoy it. I like to recommend this one to clients in need of something discreet and private." If you travel a lot for work, it’s the perfect addition to your toiletry bag. And if your carry-on gets searched by TSA at the airport, you won’t have to worry about a thing—they’ll never know the difference.
Pros: Subtle; Affordable; Expert-approved
Cons: Only good for those who prefer pinpointed, external stimulation
Specs: 10 vibration settings; Two-hour battery life; Waterproof; Silicone tip
Customer Review: "I like this product cause it has many vibration options and it is actually the size of a lipstick tube, which is awesome and discreet" -Babeland
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 anal stimulation, you can’t go wrong with a vibrating butt plug," says Howard. "Like all vibrators, these also have varying intensities and levels, which is why we recommend this option from We-Vibe, which has 15 vibrating patterns and six levels of intensity." It also comes with a wireless remote control that can be used from up to 30 feet away, making this option perfect for both easy solo masturbation as well as partner play. While it’s great for all experience levels, it’s made with beginners in mind.
Pros: Suitable for all experience levels; Customizable; Expert-approved; Free of latex and phthalates
Cons: Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: 15 vibration patterns and six intensity levels; One-hour battery life; Waterproof; Made from silicone
Customer Review: "Got this for my girlfriend and she fell in love with it almost instantly. It takes a little study to learn how to use its adjustable power settings and numerous types of vibration. The remote control makes the introduction to the plug and experimentation with it a delight." -Amazon
Howard says that beginners "would love" this toy specifically, which is no surprise considering its thin, tapered tip that makes for easy insertion its flexible shaft that adjusts to the user’s body and preferences. Reviewers write that its vibrations are powerful, that it's easy to clean, and that it's great for all experience levels, from beginners to veteran users. Completely waterproof, four insertable inches long, and made from soft, body-safe silicone, the vibrator features seven increasing speeds designed to stimulate that sweet spot.
Pros: Easy to clean; Great for all experience levels; Customizable; Affordable; Quiet; Expert-approved
Cons: Some customers find it difficult to switch vibration patterns during use (is not remote-controlled, so users need to reach around); Made from silicone, so not compatible with silicone-based lube
Specs: Seven vibration speeds; Waterproof; N battery-powered (batteries included); Made from silicone
Customer Review: "I would definitely recommend this product for anyone who’s begging to dabble in anal play! It’s super easy to use, quiet, and effective!" -Lovehoney
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 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.
How We Chose
Every vibrator on this list has been hand-chosen by Marie Claire'sBeauty 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, sex experts, or 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 is a sex educator and sex expert for the Museum of Sex in New York City.
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 is a co-founder of the online sexual wellness retailer Babeland. She is currently based in New York City.
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 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 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, 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.
