Say the word “vibrator,” and visions of a cylindrical, buzzing thing will undoubtedly come to mind. And while this dildo-like toy is what a lot of people are referring to when they talk about a vibrators, phallic objects really only comprise one branch of the larger vibrator tree in the diverse and beautiful garden of sex toys. The overall landscape is far vaster and more varied. In fact, there are a bunch of different kinds of vibrators out there—and it’s sensible to understand each kind before selecting one (or a few) to spend money on.
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Though many of us use the term “vibrator” to describe any kind of penetrative sex toy, the label is best applied to toys that actually vibrate . Not all dildos are vibrators, because not all dildos vibrate. And not all vibrators are dildos—in fact, a bunch of vibrators aren’t phallic or penetrative at all. While there’s a lot of overlap between the two categories, the words aren’t always interchangeable. Now that we’ve gotten that common misconception out of the way, it’s time to focus on what the different kinds of vibrators are . (Rather than what they aren’t.) Though there’s a range of toys on the market , shoppers can easily sort them into a handful of categories: classic penetrative vibrators, clitoral vibrators, rabbit vibrators, wand vibrators, bullet vibrators, finger vibrators, tongue vibrators, vibrating cock rings, and vibrating butt plugs. There’s a lot of variety within some of these categories and less within others. But for the most part, each genre offers a different experience.
There’s no one-size-fits-all beginner vibrator, because vibrators do all kinds of different things and all of our tastes are different . To figure out which one to buy, take a moment to consider what kind of pleasure you enjoy, as well as what kind of play you’d be interested in exploring. From there, peruse the different types of vibrators to determine which toy genre best fits your wants and needs. There might be an obvious winner, or a few toys you’re tempted to try. And it’s really no problem if you find yourself in the latter category—after all, you can always buy more than one.
Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Tracy’s Dog is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
A version of this story was published October 2019.
This 4-in-1 vibrator from Tracy’s Dog works to stimulate multiple spots. It combines a G-spot vibrator, anal vibrator, clitoral vibrator, and nipple stimulator into one enjoyable toy. The vibrator has a slim and sleek design that is easy to maneuver and is made with an odorless, liquid silicone, which is easy to clean. If you’re in the market for a clitorial sucking toy, use code “Sheknows15” to save 15%.
This glittery toy is a perfect fit for dildo die-hards who want to venture into the vibrator space. Everything about it—from its soft silicone material to its realistic-looking appearance — screams dildo. But it comes with a built-in vibrator that customers can turn on and off (or remove entirely!) as they see fit.
Where penetrative vibrators are all about internal stimulation, clitoral vibrators are focused (often exclusively) on external stimulation. They come in a range of shapes (sometimes resembling butterflies, other times resembling tongues), but most of them tend to be shorter and squatter than penetrative vibrators. Some clitoral vibrators are more suited for solo play, while others are intended for use during partner play—offering an extra dose of hands-free clitoral stimulation during penetrative intercourse.
The Womanizer clitoral stimulator is a fan favorite in the suction vibrator family. Said to mimic oral sex with its Pleasure Toy Technology, the toy has received rave reviews time and time again, making it a great beginner clitoral toy (albeit a slightly pricey one).
Many clitoral vibrators try to mimic oral sex through suction-based stimulation, but the Mimic Plus takes a different approach: It offers sensation through deeper, more rumbly vibrations. The Mimic Plus is great for solo play, but its subtle profile makes it great for partner play, too—simply slide it over you (or your partner’s) clitoris during intercourse, and let the Mimic Plus do its thing.
Rabbit vibrators offer penetrative and clitoral stimulation at the same time. Often shaped like a penetrative vibrator with a built-in clitoral vibrator on the side, the rabbit vibrator tends to resemble a lobster claw — just a very sleek, very curvy one. The clitoral stimulators on a lot of rabbit vibrators feature fluttering “rabbit ears” on the end. These are responsible for a lot of the clitoral sensation on offer, and they’re also where the rabbit vibrator genre gets its name. Some of the clitoral attachments have rabbit ears, others have loops, and others have silicone mouths. A good rule of thumb? If it’s a two-in-one vibrator, it’s probably a rabbit.
The Happy Rabbit is a rabbit vibrator through and through. Two modes of stimulation, fluttering rabbit ears, and a semi-realistic form? This two-in-one toy is about as classic as it gets.
The Impulse Rabbit Vibrator is rendered in a seriously sleek silhouette. Not only does it come with seven vibration modes, but it also offers five levels of “zap intensities” that purport to tone your kegel muscles. A toy that doubles as a pelvic floor workout? Yes, please.
Most rabbit vibrators offer two-in-one pleasure, but a handful offer three-in-one pleasure. A semi-realistic penetrative dildo. A rabbit ear-adorned clitoral stimulator. And a textured anal stimulator. This triple threat is fit for all kinds of play, so if you find yourself pulled in a few different directions, this vibe might be a great option for you.
Wand vibrators are technically just a subsection of classic penetrative vibrators, but they’ve become so widespread they deserve their own category. Most wand vibrators generally resemble microphones: They’re large, powerful, and characterized by the generally round head on the tip of the vibrator. Like many classic vibrators, wands can be used for penetrative or clitoral stimulation (though they rarely offer both at the same time).
The toy that practically defined the wand vibrator genre, the Hitachi Magic Wand is a classic worth adding to your repertoire. Though many wand vibrators retail for luxury (read: expensive) prices, this one is exceptionally affordable.
This take on the wand vibrator is sleeker and smaller than most, making it particularly beginner-friendly. But don’t be fooled—this small toy still packs a serious punch: The Shibari offers 20 intensity settings.
Bullet vibrators are small, cylindrically shaped vibrators that typically resemble—you see where this is going—bullets. Bullets are typically thinner and shorter than other vibrators (though some bullets are thicker than others). They tend to have relatively smooth, round ends, but some boast tips that look like rabbit ears. (Remember, it’s only a rabbit vibrator if it offers two-in-one stimulation, so any bullet with rabbit ears would still be classified as a bullet.)
A bullet in its truest form, the Tracey Cox Supersex Bullet Vibrator is an excellent intro toy. (It comes personally recommended for beginners by Sammi Cole, Lovehoney’s in-house sexpert.) Small, slim, and incredibly strong, this toy is as discreet as it is powerful—and it’s very powerful.
Je Joue is a great option for those who love the idea of rabbit ears, but are a little intimidated by the size and intensity of a two-in-one toy. This bullet vibrator is small, subtle, and shaped for all kinds of different stimulation. It also comes with two sets of settings — one that adjusts for intensity, and one that changes up the pulsing pattern — leaving you with plenty to explore.
A wearable vibrator? Say it ain’t so. The Crave Vesper is an incredibly slim bullet that doubles as a chic necklace. Accessorize with it, and let its true form be your little secret. (Or let your partner know exactly what you’re wearing as you settle down for dinner on your next date night.)
Slide this ring over two of your fingers, and let one finger rest on each side of the nub. The larger side is great for targeted stimulation, while the other is incredibly smooth to the touch. With each of these options — and the Fin’s three speed intensities — there’s plenty of exploration to be had.
Like finger vibrators, tongue vibrators are very small toys meant to enhance (not supplant) regular play. They look a lot like finger vibrators, but they’re technically crafted in slightly different shapes and sizes. (If you want to repurpose a tongue vibrator as a finger vibrator, for example, you might have to slip two fingers into the ring instead of one.)
This mini vibrator stretches to fit tongues of many different sizes. Unlike many sex toys, which are rechargeable, this vibrator is meant for one-and-done use. It’ll offer 40 minutes of fun, but if you want more than that, you’ll have to buy a second.
The largest of the tongue vibes on this list, the Trinity Vibes Lick It offers a sleeker (albeit wider) profile than many similar toys. Crafted from soft, hot pink silicone, the Lick It can switch up your oral sex routine. Remember, you can always repurpose it as a finger vibrator and enjoy it on your own.
Cock rings round out the wearable vibrator genre, partners with penises and without pleasure in equal measure. Partners with a penis can slip the vibrating ring on and enjoy all the stimulation it has to offer. Then, they can penetrate you from any position that puts you two face-to-face. If the ring is placed appropriately, it should rub up against the clitoris, adding all kinds of exciting sensations to the mix.
Worth noting: As you well know, penises come in an array of shapes and sizes. So some cock rings will not fit some penises. To avoid discomfort, open up a conversation about cock rings before splurging on one as a surprise gift for someone else. (The last thing you’d want is to spend a bunch of money on something that doesn’t fit! Plus, conversations are generally an important precursor to sexual exploration.)
Cock rings can be intimidating, but ColorPop’s pastel palette leaves them feeling decidedly approachable. The ColorPoP Screaming O Vibrating Ring makes for a fun birthday gift, a sexy surprise on a getaway, and an all-around accessible way into the cock ring genre. And at an $8 price point, this fun toy is hard to pass up.
The Lovehoney Double Fun Strap-On is a next-level vibrator. Part cock ring, part penetrative strap-on, the Double Fun is excellent for those looking for an intense and out-of-the-box experience. This toy is definitely not for everyone, but we suspect those who find themselves intrigued will absolutely love it.
Though our collective associations with vibrators tend to be pretty vulvovaginal, it’s important to remember that vibrating anal toys are, very much, on offer. Butt plugs are generally small and round—frequently shaped like teardrops, spheres, or tapered cylinders. Though butt plugs are excellent for anal penetration, they’re also great for explorative anal play. Simply turn on the vibrator and massage your (or your partner’s) anus with it to get accustomed to the sensation. From there, you can experiment with penetration—or not. Focus on what feels good to you.
(Pro-tip: If you’re buying an anal toy of any kind, make sure to purchase one with a flared base. Vaginas are like cul-de-sacs—they dead-end at a certain point, so even if something gets lost in your vagina, it can’t go very far. Your anus feeds into your rectum, which is part of your large intestine. If something gets lost in there, it can travel up through your intestines and cause serious problems for you. Thankfully, all of this can be easily avoided: Anything that widens at the end is less likely to get engulfed—and that’s definitely a positive.)
Can we just take a moment to acknowledge how cute the Rocks Off Berry Vibrating Butt Plug is? Its small size makes it perfect for beginners, and its adorable profile renders it pretty discreet. If a friend (or family member) spots it in your nightstand, there’s little chance they’ll know what it is. (Not that it really matters if they do.)
Not sure what size to start with? Babeland recommends its smaller Snug Plugs for beginners, and its XL size for those looking for something a little more intense. Each plug comes with a tapered tip for easy insertion, and each offers four levels of intensity (as well as six pulsing patterns).
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