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Adding some of the best sex toys for women to your bedroom cache can improve your sex life faster than deleting Slack from your personal cell can boost your work-life balance. These gadgets “offer sensations that extend beyond human capacity,” Jessica O’Reilly, PhD, sex and relationships expert at Womanizer, host of the Sex With Dr. Jess podcast, and co-author of The Ultimate Guide to Seduction and Foreplay, tells SELF. For instance, tongues and fingers may be able to move at a fast clip, but vibrators offer another level of intensity (and won’t get tired), she says.
The only trouble is that there are more pleasure products out there than unread emails in your inbox. Whether you’re looking for your first-ever vibrator or a saucy gift for your partner, the sheer number of options available can make your quest feel more like work than play.
To help you out, we created the ultimate list of our very favorite sex toys for all. Below, shop top-rated, expert-recommended, and staffer-tested options from brands like Lelo, Dame, We-Vibe, and more.
Our top picks
- Best Wand Vibrator: Magic Wand Original
- Best G-Spot Vibrator: Biird Gii
- Best Rabbit Vibrator: We-Vibe Nova 2
- Best Butt Plug: B-Vibe Novice
- Best Grinding Toy: Rocks Off Ruby Glow Dusk Massager
Vibrators
Vibrators come in a ton of shapes and styles, with different power and speed settings. Many vibes are designed for external stimulation, but there are also lots of options that can be used internally to target the G-spot, A-spot, cervix, and prostate. Dual-stimulation vibrators can reach two hot spots at once—rabbit vibes, for example, focus on both the clit and the G-spot.
Best Wand Vibrators
Most wand vibrators have ball-shaped heads, long handles, and intense motors. This combo allows them to spread rumbly vibrations across a larger surface area than smaller vibrators, which can feel more pin-pointed. “Wands are great for clit stimulation during solo play or partnered play,” licensed clinical social worker and AASECT-certified sex therapist Shamyra Howard, PhD, CST, LCSW, tells SELF, adding that they can also feel excellent across nipples, butts, and penises.
Best Overall: Magic Wand Original
Pros
- Very powerful
- Rechargeable
- Optional cord
- Flexible neck
Cons
- Bulky
- Not waterproof
- A little noisy
The Magic Wand Original is our podium pick for wand vibrators. A popular option for power-hunters, this 13-inch wand has four intensity settings and four vibration patterns. It also has a flexible neck that lets you apply pressure at different angles for a more targeted sensation. Another bonus? It has a cord, so you never have to worry about it crapping out on you mid-session.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 180 minutes | Waterproof: No | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Power cord
Best Mini Wand Vibrator: Lovehoney Deluxe Rechargeable Mini Massage Wand
Pros
- Compact
- Affordable
- Rechargeable
- Cordless
- Flexible
Cons
- Noisy
Don’t be fooled by its size: This wand is “small but mighty,” Megan Fleming, PhD, a psychologist and AASECT-certified sex therapist, previously told SELF. Over 1,400 Lovehoney shoppers rate the toy an average of 4.5 stars because of its strength (it has 10 intensity levels and seven vibration patterns) and travel-friendly size (it clocks in at 7.5 inches long). Plus, its price tag isn’t as high as those of some of its competitors. If you’re not sure where to start and don’t want to spend a lot up front, we highly recommend this easy-to-use pick.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Splashproof | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord
Best for Beginners: FemmeFunn Ultra Wand
Pros
- Textured silicone body
- Rumbly vibrations
- Intuitive controls
- Flexible neck
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not as powerful as larger toys
Measuring just 8 inches long, the Ultra Wand is shorter than most traditional wand vibes, but has 10 vibration modes that are surprisingly rumbly for its small size. Also worth mentioning: its honeycomb-like texture, which one SELF writer is particularly fond of: “Each time I shifted the head of the vibrator a millimeter or two, the pattern added a little extra something,” she wrote in a review. Plus, the toy’s flexible neck makes it easier to use in partnered positions, like spooning and missionary, she says.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Charging cord
Best Value: Playboy Pleasure Vibrato Vibrator
Pros
- Handle doubles as a dildo
- Waterproof
- Comes fully charged
- Each side has a separate motor
Cons
- Less intense compared to other wands
- Button labels can be confusing
If you’re short on storage space, you’ll love this three-in-one vibrator from Playboy. One side has a round, squishy head that functions as an external vibe. The other (a.k.a. the handle) is a 5.75-inch long dildo with a motor inside that enables it to vibrate, twist, and twirl, so it can also target your G-spot—talk about multitasking. And since each side has a separate motor, you can use them independently.
One tester really enjoys the toy’s accessible, 1.4-inch diameter: “About the girth of one and a half fingers, it’s a great way for me to enjoy penetration when my body isn’t able to accept something thicker (like multiple fingers or a penis, for example),” she writes.
For more: Best Wand Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 2 hours | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Charging cord
Best G-Spot Vibrators
What’s known as the G-spot or G-zone is most likely a small area of spongy tissue located near the front of the upper vaginal wall. Although its exact location is debated by researchers, it’s no secret that stimulating the area can feel fantastic.
There’s a huge range of insertable vibrators and sex toys that target this zone, including dual-stimulation ones (like rabbit vibrators), curved toys, and models with bulbous heads that pulse or thrust.
Best Overall: Biird Gii
Pros
- Lightweight
- Curved design
- Intuitive buttons
- Whisper quiet
Cons
- Not anal-safe
We’re huge fans of this beginner-friendly vibe’s unique, curved shape, which is designed to target your G-spot, AASECT-certified sex educator Suzannah Weiss, CES, MA, author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject, previously told SELF. It also has intuitive controls, so you can cycle through its nine vibration modes and eight intensity settings without stopping to check the manual. Not to mention, the Gii is also lighter than many other toys on our list and whisper quiet, making it the perfect companion for long sessions.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 80 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Velvet pouch, iron-on patches, charging cable, sticker
Runner-Up: Lelo Gigi 3
Pros
- Lightweight
- Curved shape
- Waterproof
Cons
- Turning it on and off isn’t super intuitive
The Lelo Gigi is a classic G-spot vibrator—and the latest version doesn’t disappoint. The ultra-quiet toy has a uniquely flattened tip that makes it easier to find and stimulate the hot spot.
Our testers love that the toy can also be used on your clit: “The flat head covers the entire surface area of my clitoris, which helps me get aroused enough for pleasurable penetration quite quickly,” one says. We're also fans of the non-vibrating handle, which makes this vibe easy to hold (and means your hand won't go numb while you use it).
Product specs
Materials: Silicone, ABS plastic | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB charging cord, satin storage pouch
Best Luxury G-Spot Vibrator: Womanizer Duo 2
Pros
- Dual-stimulating
- Unique settings
- Attachment options
Cons
- Pricey
- Magnetic charger comes loose
“If you want to enjoy more intense and overwhelming sensations (both internally and externally), it doesn’t get better than the Womanizer Duo 2,” Dr. O’Reilly tells SELF. It combines the air-pulse technology of a clitoral suction vibrator with a curved arm that has 14 vibration settings and slips inside. The result? A toy that targets your clit and your G-spot at the same time, she says (sort of like a rabbit vibe, but better).
For more: Best G-Spot Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Two stimulator heads, USB power cord, storage bag
Best Clitoral Suction Vibrators and Stimulators
Clitoral suction vibes (sometimes also called oral sex stimulators or air-pulse vibrators) “are a broad category of toys that are designed the create a sensation similar to that of cunnilingus, fellatio, or analingus,” says Rachel Wright, LMFT, a New York–based sex and relationship psychotherapist.
Toys made for vulva-owners might have a nozzle that surrounds the clit, pulsing tiny waves of air without touching it. Others have body-safe silicone lips, tongues, or petals that flick across the clit.
Best Overall: Satisfyer Pro 2
Pros
- Under $100
- Larger nozzle
- Intuitive button design
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Learning curve
- Noisy
- Short battery run time
This clit sucker comes previously recommended by AASECT-certified sex therapist Indigo Stray Conger, LMFT, for its affordable price, waterproof body, and 11 levels of intensity. It’s also on the smaller side and can be easily controlled with just one hand, making it a great option for beginners. Note: The nozzle is slightly larger compared to other toys (like the Lelo Sona 2), so it may not fit everyone’s clit the same—although reviewers note that it also feels great on nipples.
Product specs
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Battery life: 30 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord
Most Intense: Lelo Sona 2
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Narrow mouth
- Long battery life
Cons
- Pricey
- Noisy
O’Neill says the Lelo Sona 2 is one of the best clit vibrators because of its slim mouth: It fits well around the head of the clitoris and can provide a powerful sucking sensation. The toy pulses in 12 different patterns that build from an insistent hum to a powerful roar, but even the lowest setting will feel intense to most, according to Amazon reviewers. As a bonus, the curved shape and lightweight design will feel comfortable in the palm of your hand: “Easy to keep a hold on it and small enough to use with a partner,” one happy shopper wrote.
Product specs
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Best Gentle: Dame Aer
Pros
- Medium-sized nozzle
- Subtle intensity options
- Rechargeable
- Ergonomic shape
Cons
- Pricey
Soft to the touch with five subtle settings, this clit sucker from Dame is ideal for anyone who's highly sensitive. It’s made from silky, medical-grade silicone and is comfortable to hold, according to Dame reviewers, meaning it won’t give you hand cramps. “The different modes make me feel like I'm on a good journey—not just being handled, like some of my other products,” one shopper wrote. “Aer delivers.”
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB-C power cord, storage bag
Best Oral Sex Simulator: Lelo Ora 3
Pros
- Node actually feels like a tongue
- Rechargeable
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not a suction toy
- Pricey
- Noisy
Unlike some toys that use air to massage your clit, the donut-shaped Ora 3 has a nub-like “tongue” that rotates around your hot spot. The device’s silicone body is easy to hold thanks to an ergonomic cut-out for your fingers, while 12 vibration settings offer plenty of variety. Compared to earlier generations, the Ora 3 has a firmer node for a more realistic sensation and LED lights that blink to tell you how charged it is.
For more: Best Oral Sex Toys, Best Clitoral Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Best Rabbit Vibrators
Sex and the City fans might already know about the rabbit vibrator. That original vibe had a long body that could enter the vagina, with rabbit “ears” that stimulated the clit. Some rabbit vibes today have preserved this signature style—because if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Others have replaced the “ears” with shorter arms that curve towards the clit or suction mechanisms.
Best Overall: We-Vibe Nova 2 Rabbit Vibrator
Pros
- Dual-stimulating
- Flexible design
- Travel lock
- App- and remote-controllable
- Quiet
Cons
- Pricey
- App can lag
This dual stimulation vibrator has a bendy, arched arm that can apply pressure to the G-spot and the clit at the same time. It has a two-hour battery life, is totally waterproof, and can be controlled via the We-Vibe app. (FYI: The app also gives you the option to sync the toy with music downloaded on your device—talk about taking your sex playlist to the next level).
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Runner-Up: Lovehoney Happy Rabbit
Pros
- 15 different vibration options
- Two motors controlled separately
- Travel lock
- Waterproof
Cons
- Somewhat bulky
If you enjoy dual stimulation with a nice range of intensity options, Dr. O’Reilly says this two-in-one toy from Lovehoney is a great pick. The classic design combines flexible ears that tickle the clit with a curved vibrating arm that pulses against the G-spot. As a bonus, each arm has its own motor, so you can control them separately. Plus, it has a travel lock, which is “great if you’re a traveler and don’t want to run into any surprises at TSA,” Dr. O’Reilly says.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord
Most Discreet: Je Joue Rabbit Bullet Vibe
Pros
- Rumbly vibrations
- Compact and travel-friendly
- Under $75
Cons
- Purely clitoral stimulation
This Je Joue option (as its name indicates) is the love-child of the classic rabbit and fun-sized bullet vibrator, with ears that flutter against or hug the clit for orgasmic ripples. Just shy of four inches long, it’s ideal for when you want all the clitoral stimulation of a rabbit vibe in a pocket-friendly size. “Don’t be fooled by how cute this toy is—the low rumble of Je Joue’s motor packs some serious power for an intense climax,” Babeland brand manager Lisa Finn previously told SELF. Just note that, unlike other rabbit vibrators, this one doesn’t target the G-spot.
For more: Best Rabbit Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord
Best Finger Vibrators
Finger vibrators either slide onto one finger (like a ring) or fit between two of them and can be used on breasts, butts, clits, or anywhere else you like. They’re great additions to masturbation (especially if you’re a beginner to vibrators) and partnered play because they let you use your hand as you ordinarily would, Good Vibrations education director Andy Duran previously told SELF.
Best Overall: Dame Fin
Pros
- Intuitive design
- Beginner-friendly
- Discreet
- Under $75
Cons
- May not feel strong enough for some
The bestselling Dame Fin can be held between your fingers and has an optional tether that can loop around them for even more movement and exploration. “If you prefer the tactile sensation of your partner’s hand to that of a sex toy, you can position the Fin on the top side of your fingers, turning them into a conduit for the vibration,” says Finn. Dame reviewers also enjoy the toy’s silky smooth exterior and foreplay-friendly intensity.
For more: Best Finger Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Water-resistant | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Best Remote-Control Vibrators
There’s a lot to love about remote-control vibrators: Often cordless, they can be operated from a few feet away using a remote or from miles away using an app on your smartphone—a real turn-on for anyone in a long-distance relationship.
Best Overall: We-Vibe Moxie+
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Wearable
- Remote- and app-controllable
- Discreet
Cons
- App connectivity can reportedly be inconsistent
Searching for a wearable vibrator? Dr. O’Relly suggests this remote- and app-controllable option from We-Vibe. It magnetically fastens into underwear (of any style) or a strap-on harness so “you can wear it out on the town or at a dinner party to take pleasure in secrecy and/or breaking the rules,” she says. The vibrations themselves are powerful but quiet—idea for thrill-seekers who enjoy the playful side of pleasure, she adds.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag, remote control, We-Vibe lube sample
Runner-Up: Lovense Lush 3
Pros
- Long battery life
- Rechargeable
- Wearable
- App-controllable
Cons
- Noisy at full power
The Lovense Lush 3 is one of the best hands-free sex toys, hands down (pun intended). Its curved shaft is designed to fit inside the vagina, and it has a slender external arm that makes for easy removal. “It can be controlled from anywhere in the world, the curved head nestles comfortably against the sensitive tissues of the G-spot, and the vibrations range from a rumble to a pulsing earthquake,” Francis says. Like other remote-control offerings, the Lush 3 can also sync up with your music, creating unlimited vibration patterns for an ultra-customizable experience.
For more: Best Remote-Control Vibrators, Best Panty Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 4.5 to 5 hours | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord
Best Egg and Bullet Vibrators
Bullet vibrators are tiny sex toys with a pointed tip for targeted external sensation. Many can fit inside a strap-on harness for additional stimulation during pegging and other strap-on sex acts, according to Wright. Egg vibrators are also easy to tuck away and hide, but their round shape fits more comfortably in the palm of your hand.
These vibes are more travel-friendly and discreet than most other sex toys—they’re small enough to slip into a clutch, a pocket, or, hell, even wear as jewelry. Just keep in mind that they’re usually not anal-safe, since most models don’t have a flared base.
Best Overall: Je Joue ILY Pebble
Pros
- Squishy, soft body
- Single button control
- Very quiet
Cons
- Not waterproof (keep it out of the bath or shower)
If your search for the best sex toy is feeling like an Easter egg hunt, let us point you to Je Joue's ILY Pebble. While it's the size and shape of a skipping stone, the aptly named Pebble is anything but rock-hard—instead, it's made of ultra-squishy silicone.
“The softness of the material is a welcome reprieve from harder sex toys,” one SELF tester says. “I like to really press my vibrators against my vulva when I use them, and I can do that with the Pebble without pain.” This quiet toy can also be used on nipples, penises, and the nerve-dense region between your bits and butt.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Splashproof | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord
Runner-Up: Lelo Lyla 2
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Remote-controllable
- Travel lock
- Quiet
Cons
- Pricey
- Not anal-safe
You get the best of both worlds with the Lelo Lyla 2. This egg vibrator has a rounded shape for easy entry into the vagina, as well as a silicone loop for seamless removal. Thanks to the motion sensors in the remote control, you can shift between eight patterns and different speeds just by tilting your hand.
Product specs
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag, remote control
Best Bullet Vibrator: We-Vibe Tango X
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Discreet
- Intuitive buttons
- Travel lock
- Quiet
Cons
- Not anal-safe
“If you’re looking for a versatile vibe that can be used on almost all body parts, the Tango X is the ideal option,” according to O’Reilly. It has seven vibration modes, eight intensity levels, and is super easy to use. “The angled tip can be tilted for pinpointed pleasure, or you can roll the vibrator across erogenous zones like your nipples, perineum, or vulva for a more smooth and diffused sensation,” she says. It also fits into most strap-on harnesses and hollow dildos.
Product specs
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Best Uniquely-Shaped Bullet: Maude Vibe
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Discreet
- Under $50
- Easy to use
Cons
- Limited intensities and patterns
One SELF editor called the compact Maude Vibe the “sex toy I didn’t know I needed.” Its slim, elongated body lets you use it like an extension of your finger, with a tapered tip that targets the clit. This simple, whisper-quiet vibe has three intensities that ramp up from fluttery to “eye-poppingly powerful,” she says.
For more: Best Egg Vibrators, Best Bullet Vibrators
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Water-resistant | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Best Palm Vibrator
Palm vibrators are named for the fact that they fit into, yep, the palm of your hand. Most have a slightly curved shape that enables them to rest on your vulva hands-free when you’re lying down, Wright says. Since they have a larger surface area than some other toys, they can diffuse sensations across the vulva, beyond the clit.
Best Overall: Le Wand Point
Pros
- Stainless steel handle feels heftier
- Waterproof
- Powerful vibrations
- Travel lock
Cons
- Pricey
Our favorite palm vibe, the Le Wand Point, has a sleek stainless steel handle and an uber-soft ridged silicone tip. The heavier steel end allows the toy to provide more pressure than an all-silicone option, Finn previously told SELF. Other nice-to-haves include an intuitive button display, a travel lock, and a fully waterproof design (shower sex, anyone?).
Product specs
Materials: Silicone, stainless steel | Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, micro suede travel bag
Runner-Up: Dame Pom
Pros
- Rumbly vibrations
- Discreet shape
- Versatile design
- Quiet
Cons
- May not feel intense enough for some
Although Dame’s Pom vibrator may not look like much, it’s impressively versatile. The body is almost entirely bendable and wide enough to touch the whole vulva, while the tip is pinpointed for extra clit stimulation. It can feel nice around the anal opening too. An added bonus: Dame reviewers confirm that it’s super quiet.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Most Comfortable Shape: Smile Makers The Ballerina
Pros
- Soft and squishy
- Intuitive design
- Pretty powerful, for an external vibe
Cons
Smile Maker’s Ballerina is designed to wrap your entire vulva in a hug of rumbly vibrations. It’s curved to match the shape of your body, which means you can use the toy hands-free when you’re lying on your back.
With a partner? The Ballerina stays easy to maneuver in any position and can even rest between two bodies without you holding it there. It has 12 different settings, two simple buttons, and is quiet (even at its strongest).
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 180 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage bag
Best Anal Toys
Anal toys include butt plugs, anal beads, prostate massagers, and some dildos. Butt plugs are usually carrot-shaped toys with flared bases. “They are designed to go in your butt and stay in your butt,” Wright says. This creates a feeling of fullness while leaving your hands free for other activities. Meanwhile, anal beads are meant to move in and out of your butt, massaging all of the nerves you have down there, she adds. Some anal toys also vibrate, notes psychotherapist Joy Berkheimer, PhD, LMFT, an expert at SXWA, a sexual wellness award platform, which can feel even better.
FYI: All anal toys should have a flared base so they won’t get stuck inside your rectum. You’ll also want to find a lube you like—and if you’re using a toy inside or on both a vagina and a butt, always clean it carefully between uses to prevent the transfer of bacteria.
Best Butt Plug: B-Vibe Novice
Pros
- Beginner-friendly size
- Remote-controllable
- Lots of vibration options
Cons
- Pricey
Brand new to butt play? Start with the B-Vibe Novice. It's only about the size of a pinky (3.35 inches) and has 15 vibration patterns for a wide range of sensations. If vibration feels daunting for your first go-around, try using it as-is without turning it on first.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Waterproof | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: USB power cord, storage case, remote control
Best Anal Beads: Adam & Eve Booty Bliss Vibrating Beads
Pros
- Bullet vibrator included
- Under $25
- Finger loop for easy removal
Cons
- Requires batteries
- Single-speed
With the Booty Bliss Vibrating Beads, you get two toys for the price of one: These beads are powered by a removable bullet vibe that fits inside the base (and boasts seven vibration modes). Each silicone bead on the chain grows in diameter from 0.25 inches to 1 inch, making it a great choice for anyone looking to slowly (and comfortably) work their way up to more intense anal pleasure.
For more: Best Butt Plugs, How to Use Anal Beads
Product specs
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Bullet vibrator
Best Dildos and Strap-Ons
The basic dildo is a penis-shaped toy that can be inserted into the vagina or anus. Some have suction bases that provide stability, some are double-ended, and some are designed to pair with strap-on harnesses for hands-free vaginal and anal penetration with a partner. Many strap-on sets are sold with dildos included, which is a cost-effective option for beginners looking to try both. A word to the wise? Double-check that a dildo is anal-safe before you sit on it, as not all of them are.
Best Dildo for Beginners: Lovehoney Ignite Mini Dildo
Pros
- Under $25
- Beginner-friendly
- Compatible with a strap-on
Cons
- Suction may not be strong enough for some
- Doesn't vibrate
The Ignite is a top suction dildo that comes highly recommended by O’Reilly. “It’s perfect for hands-free play, as well as those who want to play in different locations around the house,” she says. “The suction cup allows you to use it on different surfaces, so you can explore various angles of penetration and pleasure.” Measuring just 4.5 inches long, it’s perfectly sized for newbies—plus, it’s just $20.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Storage bag
Best Dildo for G-Spot or P-Spot Stimulation: Njoy Pure Wand
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Curved body
- Different-sized endings
- Shaped to provide pressure
Cons
- Pricey
- Doesn't vibrate
- May be too heavy for some
This toy got a truly ringing endorsement: three different experts recommended the Njoy Pure to SELF. It’s a metal dildo with an arched body that lets you angle it more easily for internal massage. It has different-sized weighted balls on each end to apply varying pressure. “Curved toys can be great to stimulate sensitive internal nerve bundles, like the G-spot or prostate,” Francis told SELF. It’s made of stainless steel—a material that warms and cools, making it great for temperature play.
Product specs
Materials: Stainless steel | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: All | Included accessories: Storage case
Best Strap-On Set: Tantus Intermediate Unisex Vibrating Strap-On Harness Kit
Pros
- Comes with lots of accessories
- Harness is machine-washable
- Dildos are curved to reach the G-spot
Cons
- Bullet vibe may not feel strong enough for some
- Requires batteries
This set includes everything you need to explore strap-on sex for the first time: two O-rings, two dildos, a machine-washable harness, and a bullet vibrator. “This purchase removes any stress someone might have about buying a harness and dildo that are compatible or getting the ‘right’ dildo,” one SELF writer says. Another perk is that the harness is machine-washable and can be adjusted to fit hips 15 inches to 60 inches around, which means partners with different body sizes can share.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone (dildos), plastic (bullet vibrator) | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Splashproof | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Two dildos, harness, bullet vibrator, and two O-rings
Best Strap-On Harness: SpareParts Hardwear Joque Harness
Pros
- Includes two pockets for bullet vibes
- Versatile O-ring
- Good adjustment range
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Pricey
“I love this SpareParts harness because it’s super-versatile, friendly to lots of body types and sizes, metal-free, and very comfortable for both the wearer and the other partner," Ori Nelsen, PsyD, founder of San Francisco Intimacy and Sex Therapy Center, previously told SELF. The O-ring stretches up to two inches to fit a variety of toys with flared bases, and the harness adjusts between 20 and 50 inches. Not to mention, it has two separate bullet vibrator pockets for additional hands-free stimulation.
For more: Best Dildos, Best Strap-Ons
Product specs
Materials: Spandex, nylon | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: N/A | Included accessories: Storage bag
Best Grinding Toys
Grinding sex toys provide pleasure from pressure, according to Wright: “Most are designed to be ridden or humped from a face-down position,” she says. Some grinding toys vibrate, while others are textured, Berkheimer previously told SELF, “which allows for further teasing and stimulation of areas that could be missed by smooth, non-textured toys.”
Best Overall: Rocks Off Ruby Glow Dusk Massager
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Textured
- Motors are controlled separately
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Not waterproof
The Ruby Glow Massager contours to your body—one side has raised ridges that you can grind your vulva against, while the other features a smooth nub that targets your perineum. Each side has its own motor, so “you can either rock back and forth along the toy, or simply sit down on it and let the vibrations do all the leg work,” Finn tells SELF.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Splashproof | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Charging cord
Best Value: Cute Little Fuckers Starsi Vibrator
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- Unique texture
- Versatile design
- Vibrates
Cons
- Not for internal use
- May not be intense enough for some
There’s more to this beginner-friendly grinder from Cute Little Fuckers than meets the eye. The smiling star design “provides a [wide] variety of sensations and textures, which makes this a great external vibe and grinding toy, no matter the shape of your bits,” Finn previously told SELF. Place Starsi in your palm or face-up on a surface to zhuzh up your solo time. Or, you can angle the arms to provide more pinpointed stimulation wherever you want it.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 110 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Charging cord
Best Grinding Vibrator: Womanizer Vibrator
Pros
- Broad stimulation and edges for pinpointed pleasure
- Easy to hold in one hand
Cons
- Pricey
Womanizer may be best known for their air suction gadgets, but the brand’s Vibe might just be one of the greatest grinding toys around. “The ultimate pampering pleasure tool, the Womanizer Vibe is made to be held in one hand and lies on the vulva,” says Dr. Howard. Its curved shape enables the toy to cup your entire vulva, she adds: “There are also Pleasure Edges along the vibrator’s outside, which can be used to provide direct clitoral contact." Lovehoney reviewers also appreciate how quiet it is and how easy it is to hold, thanks to its round shape and smooth texture.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Magnetic USB cord
Best Sex Toys Under $50
While in some cases, you get what you pay for, “there absolutely are sex toys for under $50 that are safe and well-made,” says Wright. Many of the budget-friendly options below are great for beginners, as luxury toys can have too many intimidating bells and whistles.
When browsing less expensive sex toys, your best bet is to shop at reputable retailers, says Wright. Alternatively, you can watch for sales—some of which we cover here at SELF.
Best Overall: FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet
Pros
- 20 intensity settings
- Velvety soft
- Easy to operate
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not anal-safe
This petite vibrator from FemmeFunn is made from velvety silicone and measures just 4.3 inches long. Babeland reviewers are huge fans of its rumbly vibrations and impressive 20 intensity settings: “I'm fond of my Hitachi Magic Wand, with its crazy vibey buzz, but I really wanted something discreet and pocketable. This little bullet fits the criteria nicely, providing nearly that same crazy vibey buzz in a small, reasonably priced package,” one wrote. It’s also waterproof, rechargeable, and operated by a single button.
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: 72 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: Charging cord
Best Single-Use: Iroha Petit Plum
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- Easy clean up
- Very budget-friendly
- Shower-friendly
Cons
- Single-use product
- Doesn’t vibrate
Single-use sex toys are “the most underrated option for first-time sex-toy owners,” according to one SELF sexual wellness writer. These one-and-done products allow you to explore your sexual tastes and try something new without breaking the bank, she explains.
This $7, highly textured option from Iroha is a great addition to your masturbation practice. Nestle the toy between your fingers with the petal-like indentations facing down. From there, you can stroke, encircle, or tap your clitoris, allowing your fingers and Plum to work as a team.
Product specs
Materials: Water, agar, propylene glycol (a moisturizer), castor oil | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Any | Included accessories: N/A
Best Anal: Unbound Nudge
Pros
- Beginner-friendly size
- Comes with clear, detailed instructions
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Doesn’t vibrate
Curious about anal play, but don’t want to dip into your savings? Try the Nudge from Unbound, which is fairly thin, beginner-friendly, and easy to use. This short, non-vibrating pick has a tapered tip for easy entry and plenty of fans: “This was my first time venturing into anal play and I was pretty nervous, but the clear instructions that came with it were really helpful and it was super comfortable,” one reviewer wrote. “If you’re a beginner, I would definitely recommend this.”
Product specs
Materials: Silicone | Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes | Lube compatibility: Water-based | Included accessories: N/A
What to consider when shopping for sex toys
To help you narrow down your options and find what’s right for you, our experts recommend keeping the following in mind.
Type
First, do a little introspection: “Have an idea of the type of stimulation and pleasure you want to experience, which will help narrow down the [types of] toys that will best meet your needs,” Malika O’Neill, LPC, MEd, a sex and relationship therapist, tells SELF. If you love how it feels when someone goes down on you, take a look at oral sex toys. If you enjoy—or are curious about—anal play, then take a peek at some butt toys.
Material
Before you purchase a sex toy, check that it’s body-safe (like all of our picks are). That means they’re made of sanitizable, non-porous materials like medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, borosilicate glass, and ABS plastic, psychotherapist Joy Berkheimer, PhD, LMFT, an expert at SXWA, a sexual wellness award platform, tells SELF.
Each option also has a few extra pros and cons to consider. Most motorized toys (e.g., vibrators, thrusters, oral stimulators) are made from silicone, which has a silky, skin-like texture. Just know that silicone-based lube can cause silicone sex toys to break down over time. Instead, try water-based lube, which is usually a safe, solid choice for most toys, as SELF has previously reported.
Meanwhile, stainless steel and borosilicate glass toys are harder and heftier, which makes them optimal for applying pressure. Plus, they can be used for temperature play.
Additional features
Finally, consider: Where do I plan to use this toy, and how loud is it? Naturally, if you want to use your new toy in the shower or bath, it needs to be waterproof. If you plan to use it in a shared apartment, a quiet or non-motorized option is best. And a travel lock might be a must if you’re in a long-distance relationship or otherwise plan to fly with your new toy.
Also worth researching: How intense is the toy, and how many settings does it have? Typically, the larger the toy, the stronger it will be. (Wand vibrators are notoriously high-powered, for example, while bite-sized bullets deliver buzzier, lower-intensity pulses.)
How we picked the sex toys on this list
Our in-house team of reviewers has collectively tried over 500 sex toys—the ones we featured here are amongst their tried-and-true faves. We also asked sex educators and therapists to share the products that have been the biggest game-changers in their clients’ and patients’ solo and partnered sex lives. The final list only includes options that earned two enthusiastic thumbs up.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the best places to buy sex toys?
The sex toy industry is unregulated—so, whether you’re shopping in person or online, it’s essential to seek out reputable retailers, says Dr. Berkheimer.
She suggests opting for a “well-established retailer that has positive reviews, as this ensures quality merchandise and high standards for hygiene.” If you’re too busy for an in-person excursion (relatable) or you feel more comfortable shopping for sex toys from your sofa, “pick a retailer that provides free educational resources, including info about sex toys more generally as well as size guides and material information on specific products,” she says.
Sex toy retailers that vet their products for safety and pleasure include Babeland, Good Vibes, Spectrum Boutique, Lovehoney, Lovers, and Organic Loven. All these shops carry products from the luxury sex toy manufacturers included on this list, like Dame, Lelo, Le Wand, Womanizer, and more.
How do you clean sex toys?
“Cleaning your sex toys thoroughly between uses is essential for sexual health and hygiene,” Melanie Bone, MD, a board-certified obstetrics-gynecologist and the U.S. medical director at the virtual women’s health clinic Daye, tells SELF. Why? “Sex toys come into direct contact with bodily fluids, bacteria, and potential pathogens, so without proper cleaning, they can harbor bacteria, viruses, and fungi, significantly increasing the risk of infections,” she says. Cleaning your toys after use also helps them work properly and last longer, she adds.
The toys on this list are all made from non-porous materials (think: silicone, stainless steel, glass, and ABS plastic), so they’re pretty easy to sanitize, according to Bone. “First, rinse the toy under warm water to remove visible residue. Then, wash it thoroughly using mild fragrance-free soap or a specialized sex toy cleaner,” she says. Pay close attention to textured areas or ridges, taking extra care to clean them thoroughly.
Rinse the toy again to remove any soap and lingering residue, and finish by placing it on a clean towel to air dry before storing, she says. Her pro tip? Stash them in a clean, closed box to prevent dust from building up on their surface.
Our experts
- Malika O’Neill, LPC, MEd, sex and relationship therapist and founder of The Pleasure Collective
- Andy Duran, education director with Good Vibrations
- Megan Fleming, PhD, psychologist and AASECT-certified sex therapist
- Indigo Stray Conger, LMFT, AASECT-certified sex therapist
- Lisa Finn, Babeland brand manager
- Shadeen Francis, LMFT, AASECT-certified sex therapist
- Rachel Wright, LMFT, sex and relationship psychotherapist
- Jessica O’Reilly, PhD, doctor of human sexology
- Shamyra Howard, PhD, CST, LCSW, licensed clinical social worker and AASECT-certified sex therapist
- Joy Berkheimer, PhD, LMFT, an expert at SXWA, a sexual wellness award platform
- Melanie Bone, MD, a board-certified obstetrics-gynecologist and the U.S. medical director at the virtual women’s health clinic Daye
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