To find the types of sex toys that are right for you, start with what sensations you want to add to your sex life. Do you have a G-spot that needs stimulation?
1. Clitoral Vibrators
A clitoral vibrator is a vibrating toy meant to be used on or around the clitoris. They are also called external vibrators, since they’re not designed for penetration. You can use them on any external part of your body where vibration feels good: try them on nipples, labia, testicles, or that one sore spot on your neck.
“Terrible sex ed and confusing pop culture references make it seem like vaginal insertion is the primary way to stimulate people with vaginas, but most orgasms for them are clitoral,” says Carol Queen, PhD, staff sexologist at Good Vibrations. “So exploring clitoral stimulation can be a revelation for those new to toys.”
2. Wand Vibrators
Get your hands on one of these magic wands. Wand vibrators are a type of clitoral vibrator with a long handle and large head that gives intense vibration. They usually come with multiple vibration patterns, so you can find the one that makes you say “Bibbidi-bobbidi-boo!” At least this one won’t turn back into a stick at midnight.
“Wand vibrators are among the most lauded and popular toys because they deliver significant stimulation,” says Queen. “They have helped many people with a clitoris have their first — and many subsequent — orgasms.”
Expert Recommendation:
Vibratex Magic Wand
3. Clit Suction Sex Toys
We’ve had sex toys and vacuums for so long, and yet only recently have these technologies been combined for the greater good. Clitoral suction toys are all the rage because they use air and suction to stimulate the clit, not just vibration. They feel like getting oral sex from someone whose tongue never gets tired and who has no opinions about your pubic hair.
“Many people LOVE these and say they can have orgasms more quickly and easily than ever before,” says Queen. “They can be sneaky-good nipple toys too!”
Expert Recommendation:
Recommended for Her
4. Dildos and Harnesses
A dildo is a phallic-shaped toy that’s used for penetration. They can come in many different shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. Some even have a suction cup base, can be made with materials like glass or stainless steel, thrust automatically, or be double-ended to use on multiple holes.
You can use a dildo in a harness to penetrate your partner, or wear it as a fun fashion statement that will get you kicked out of the grocery store.
“There aren’t lots of vibration-focused nerves deeper in the vagina or anus, but they do feel pressure, motion, and fullness,” says Queen. When shopping for a dildo, consider the weight, depth, texture, and even temperature you want to feel. Glass dildos can be frozen if you like your sex cold and with a popsicle.
Expert Recommendation:
Recommended for Her
5. G-Spot and A-Spot Sex Toys
You don’t need Young Money to make your room into the G-Spot, no matter how much he claims to make your bed rock. G-spot or A-spot toys are curved to help hit the front wall of the vagina, which contains the feel-good clitoral tissue that creates vaginal orgasms. G-spot and A-spot stimulation toys can come in many shapes and sizes, as well with or without vibration.
“They are intended to stimulate either the G-spot or the A-spot (anterior fornix, tucked in under the cervix) so they will be curved to better reach these areas,” says Queen. “G-spot toys may also have a rounded end that can ‘grab’ the G-spot and focus on it.”
Expert Recommendation:
G-Spot Tickler
6. Combination or Rabbit Vibrators
Combination vibrators are like a dildo and a clitoral vibrator put together. They have an internal vibrator and external vibrating parts so you can stimulate the clitoris and the vagina at the same time. These vibrators can come with rotating or thrusting parts to increase the intense stimulation.
“Two separate erogenous areas are stimulated at the same time, and that can result in a blended orgasm or just a lot of pleasure,” says Queen.
They’re perfect for solo play since they can provide so much stimulation with one hand. Otherwise, you’d need one partner to hold the clitoral vibrator, another partner to thrust in the dildo, and somebody to prepare the post-game snacks.
The rabbit was invented by Vibratex and came in bright colors with cute vibrating animals to get around the country’s obscenity laws. They’re called rabbits because of their ear-shaped clitoral stimulators. If you’re looking for the OG, try the This rabbit.
Expert Recommendation: Rabbit Virator
7. Cock Rings
Cock rings go around the base of the penis to keep the blood flow in, which helps erections last longer. They can also have attached vibrators for some extra buzz.
“Vibrating cock rings are often a form of a couple’s toy, with the vibe intended to add clitoral stimulation,” says Queen. “But plenty of users like to experience the vibrations themselves, and they will be more intense if the ring is worn up at the head of the penis.”
Expert Recommendation: Power Cock Ring
8. Butt Plugs and Prostate Massagers
Butt plugs stimulate the anal cavity and, in people who have one, the prostate. It can also create a pleasant “full” sensation if you wear it while receiving vaginal penetration.
“People of any gender and anatomy might enjoy these toys, because they stimulate the sensitive anus and anal canal,” says Queen. Their anal play pro tip: “Always use lube!”
Toys are not one-size-fits-all-holes. Repeat after us: nothing goes in the anus without a flared base. You need a toy that can safely be inserted without getting lost. It’s all fun and games until somebody needs to go to the ER. They don’t have Twister there anymore.
Expert Recommendation: Anal Plug
09. Couples Sex Toys
“Any toy can be a couple’s toy, but some are specifically designed with partner sex in mind,” says Queen. Sex toys for couples may be insertables that create sensations for both partners. Some are remote controlled so your partner can push your buttons. In a fun way this time!
Expert Recommendation: App Controlled Vibrator
