Stimulation
One of the first things to consider is where exactly on your body you will be using your vibrator. Are you looking for clitoral stimulation? Do you want to be able to put the vibrator inside of your body? Are you looking for something that can stimulate your clit and G-zone at the same time? These options can be separated into three categories: external vibrators, internal vibrators, and dual-stimulating vibrators.
External Vibrators
External vibrators are intended for use on the surface of the body, i.e. not in any orifice. For vulva-owners looking for optimal clit action, you’ll want something that can lay flat against your body in order to stimulate all of the nerve endings in the clitoris. The Tenga iroha mini is a great option for something small and portable that can lay flat against all parts of your body (feel free to explore past your obvious buttons!). This vibrator is made out of elastomer, which is a material safe for external use. Keep in mind it cannot be fully sterilized due to its porous exterior. The Je Joue Mimi is another great vibe for clitoral stimulation. The Mimi is made out of silicone, which is a 100% body-safe material.
Internal Vibrators
The material is one of the most important things to consider when picking an internal vibrator. Hard-plastic and 100% silicone are both body-safe materials that are safe to put inside of you (beware of labels that read “silicone-like”!). These materials are non-porous, so they are less likely to hold onto harmful bacterial. They can also be easily cleaned with hot water and soap.
If you plan to use your vibrator for anal play, make sure that it has a wide base (otherwise known as a flange). The rectum, unlike the vagina, is the black hole of the body. A flange will prevent a vibrator from getting lost, and save you from an awkward trip to the emergency room.
Dual Stimulating Vibrators
For those who don’t want to pick and choose, a dual stimulating vibrator will be your best option. These vibrators have a vibrating shaft safe for penetration, as well a smaller attached piece that is meant to hit the clitoris. The LELO Ina 2 is a great option for simple curves to hit all the right places. Keep in mind that not all bodies are shaped the same, so be prepared that everything might not line up on your first buy! The Pretty Love Yedda Bendable Vibrator can fix this problem slightly, as its shape is adjustable to transform from a G-spot vibrator to a dual-action toy.
If you’re still experimenting with where your hot spots are, keep in mind that external and internal vibrators follow the square/rectangle rule. All internal vibrators can be used externally by simply pressing them against the body, but not all external vibrators are made of materials that are safe to put inside of you. If you want to have all of your options, it’s best to buy a body-safe internal vibrator.
We do not recommend purchasing any toys made with “jelly,” rubber, or PVC. These materials contain harmful toxins, and their porous exteriors hold onto bacteria. Besides checking the packaging, watch out for toys that have a rubbery smell. If you do have a toy made out of material that isn’t totally body-safe, be sure to use it with a condom.
Partner Play or Riding Solo
Vibrators aren’t just for alone time; they can also be enjoyed during partner playtime. If you’re looking for something that both you and a partner can enjoy, try something that can offer pleasure for both of you. The We-Vibe Touch Vibrator allows for clitoral and G-spot stimulation while still leaving room for a partner to slide inside and feel the vibrations as well.
Keep in mind that many sex toys have vibrating options, even if they don’t come in the traditional form of “a vibrator.” Fingertip vibrators, like the Vedo Izzy Rechargeable Clitoral Vibe , can add a little extra sensation to any manual stimulation play. Vibrating cock rings, like the Screaming O PrimO Tux and vibrating harnesses, can distribute the vibration between both partners for simultaneous play.
Vibrating toys can enhance the natural touch of your partners. However, there are also some great options for long-distance lovers. The We-vibe Moxie Panty Vibe is a toy controlled by a Bluetooth app for pleasure that knows no distance.
Vibration Strength
Vibrators come in many different speed settings. Are you looking for butterfly kisses, or are you hoping for your toy to imitate a jackhammer? Many battery-powered and rechargeable vibrators have multiple settings to adjust the strength of vibration. If you’re buying your first vibrator, it’s important to buy one that has multiple settings so you have room to experiment. Check out the Sensuelle Impulse Rechargeable 7+1 Function Slimline Vibrator for something with lots of options. Also take a look at how to switch speeds on the vibrator. Easy access to buttons or switches is important if you want to adjust the power levels throughout a session.
If you have the opportunity to shop for vibrators in person, your nose can tell you a lot about how much vibration will be comfortable for you. If you hold the vibrator up to the tip of your nose and you feel like sneezing, that level of vibration may be too much to handle on more sensitive areas of your body.
For super strong vibrations, take a look at the Magic Wand—a classic masturbatory aid. For a wide-variety of mid-power settings, check out the LELO Mona Wave. The material of the vibrator may also affect how the vibrator to feel against your body. Silicone will provide a softer feel while hard plastic may transmit stronger vibrations.
Power
Another important factor in your vibrator’s performance is how it is powered. There are three options: battery-powered, electric, and rechargeable. Battery-powered and rechargeable vibrators are both more portable, as electric vibrators need to be plugged in to work. However, battery-powered are usually less powerful and do not last as long. Batteries also have the potential to fink out at the most inopportune moment. (Not to mention that a rechargeable vibrator is the most eco-friendly option!)
One of the most important things that the power source will affect is the price of the vibrator. While battery-powered vibrators may not last as long, they will also most likely be less expensive. If you’re experimenting with a new style or buying your first vibrator, your wallet will thank you for getting the less expensive vibe if it ends up not being a perfect match. On the other hand, if you’ve found a style that makes you see stars, a long-lasting rechargeable vibrator is worth the investment.
Sound
If you’re living in close quarters, or if whirring sounds are a major turn-off to you, you’ll want to consider how much noise your vibrator makes. Generally, softer toys will make less sound than harder ones. For example, wands with a hard, vinyl head will have an audible rumble. Softer silicone vibes, have a near-silent mode. If you’re able to shop in a store, try putting the vibrator on its highest setting under a sweatshirt. This will mimic what the vibrator will sound like under the sheets.
Presentation and Color
Vibrators come in all different aesthetics. Some people may want their vibrator to emulate a cock as much as possible, while others may be uncomfortable having a phallic object in their nightstand drawer. Vibrators come in all different shapes and appearances, so there’s no need to limit yourself to an unappealing style.
The last thing to consider when buying a vibrator is the color. However, that doesn’t mean that this isn’t an important part of the buying process! If you hate all things pink, then chances are a hot pink vibrator won’t be getting you into a sexy mood. If you find yourself drawn to certain colors, it might not be a bad idea to buy accordingly.