” If anal stimulation is what you’re after

A Newcomers Guide to Masturbating with a Vibrator

While they are often referred to as male masturbators, Dr. Lehmiller says these sex toys are an option for anyone who has a penis and wants to explore new sensations. “That said, different strokers may feel better for different bodies because everyone is a little different in terms of penile size and shape, as well as what feels good to them,” he says. “For example, some masturbators are designed specifically for trans men who have started to transition. The key is to shop around and find the right toy for you and your body—and maybe consider trying a few different ones.” If anal stimulation is what you’re after, consider the Shimmy vibe from Unbound Babes.

We also asked about different ways to use the various styles of vibrators, and what to look for when shopping for one. Then we scoured the massive pool of vibrator options (and read tons of reviews) to find the ones that hit a variety of pleasure points, and that can be used alone or as a couple. This vibrator is a good option for anal exploration because of its unique, slim shape, which allows it to be used as a vibrator for vulvas as well as anal play. Users also love that it’s smooth, silky to the touch, and very easy to clean. Don’t let the size of this vibrator fool you — it packs a punch, with six different vibration patterns. And it’s just about silent, making it as discreet as can be in every way.

The build quality receives mixed feedback, with some describing it as sturdy while others find it weak, and customers consider it well worth the price. Customers disagree on the ease of use, with some finding it easy to manage with one hand while others say it’s hard to handle. At its price point, the Enigma Double Sonic is certainly an investment.

The starfish-style shape and texture of this toy give you a lot of different angles and textures to experiment with. Queer- and trans-owned company Cute Little Fuckers makes a wide range of gender-inclusive products, all of which are adorable-looking, but this frilly little starfish might just be the standout. You want the toy to be a part of the experience, not the entire focus of the experience. Be sure to remind your partner how sexy they are and how much you love their penis/vulva/body. The last thing you want to bring home to a nervous partner is some scary, veiny, Rabbit vibrator with a million spinning beads and a realistic penis-head.

It comes with a one-year warranty, plus a 10-year guarantee that allows you to purchase a replacement model for 50% of the original price should your toy break in the decade following the initial year of coverage. With eight vibration settings , this stimulation can range from gentle to extremely intense, and a little goes a long way. It’s also a good toy to use in tandem with penetrative intercourse—it is small and easy for either partner to hold and position. We found that it lasted three and a half hours at maximum speed, spread out over a series of 20-minute intervals; it may last longer at lower speeds. If it runs out of power, you can connect it to the removable AC cord and continue using it. Dealbreakers included poor-quality materials, a short battery life, a tendency to break easily, a lack of power, and a design that was awkward, inconvenient, or painful to use.

These two-in-one toys have the benefits of a girthy, and sometimes thrusting, shaft that’s combined with the pleasure of your favorite clit stimulators. If direct stimulation (or external stimulation overall) doesn’t get you off, don’t sweat. Below are a few sex toy alternatives that are guaranteed to tempt you with a good time. This aesthetically pleasing stroker comes recommended by Danielle Bezalel, a sex educator and the creator/host of the Sex Ed With DB podcast. “The Flex’s spiral-ribbed casing has created spinning stimulation,” she explains. “Cover the air hole at the top of the item during use, and the Flex will wind and unwind, creating a spiraling movement!

I discovered that even the highest of the eight vibration settings is pretty darn moderate—especially as far as wand vibrators are concerned. This is likely because the Vibrato’s head is pretty small, meaning the motor at that end is tinier and less powerful than those in more rumbly options, like the Hitachi Magic Wand. Further viberators, the Vibrato is a rechargeable toy, not a plug-in one, which means it isn’t getting nonstop power from the wall the way some other wand vibes do. Although all vibrators share a common goal of making you climax, different kinds of toys call for various uses. Taylor Nolan, PhD, PlusOne Sexology Expert, tells Allure, “A tongue/oral vibrator is typically used externally on the clitoris; not all are meant for insertion.” she adds.

But for those seeking a deeply personal, luxury experience and willing to take the time to master its use, it’s worth every penny. All in all, I think the Snail Vibe Curve is a delightful non-phallic vibe. It’s certainly been a welcome addition to my—as well as thousands of TikTok content creators’—sex toy collection.

With more options, you’re less likely to get bored or give up if your first trial option doesn’t quite hit your spots. “For instance, get a silicone vibrator, a clit-sucking wand and a rose toy that mimics the licking motion,” Dr. Suwinyattichaiporn says. Adding sex toys into your self-care routine comes with myriad benefits, explains Dr. Hack.

And it achieved a higher score from our panel of testers this time round, so it’s clear the upgrade has paid off. Thanks to its warming effect, this toy left our panel feeling hot – in all the right ways. Able to heat up or cool down, from the inside out, it’s perfect for those who enjoy temperature play. If you’re using a vibrator for the first time, start by placing it on your clitoris with light pressure. It’s important to make sure that the lube is compatible with your toy. Some vibrators plug into the wall, while others are battery-operated.