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Everything You Need to Know About Shopping for a Vibrator

Everything You Need to Know About Shopping for a Vibrator

There are a lot of options when it comes to buying sex toys, so we've created this guide to make shopping for a vibrator as simple—and fun—as possible.

WHAT'S THE BEST VIBRATOR?

This is one of the toughest questions for our staff to answer. There are many different types of vibrators to choose from and some are better for certain activities than others. Everyone is different, so there isn't one that is best for all.

I WANT TO BUY A VIBRATOR BUT I DON’T KNOW WHICH ONE. HOW TO DO I CHOOSE?

Buying your first, second, or hundredth vibrator is an important decision. How do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few questions to consider as you contemplate the options:

IS IT YOUR FIRST VIBE?

If so, you may want to get something versatile that allows you to explore both penetration and external stimulation. A longer, cylinder style vibrator is a good choice. These come in a few different types of materials, shapes, and sizes. Consider some of these for your first vibe:

  • Velvet Touch – A simple, waterproof cylinder shape with variable speeds at an affordable price.
  • Yummy Sunshine or Mr. Boss – Made of soft silicone, with variable speeds and different vibration patterns to tease and tempt.
  • Gee or Gee Plus Rechargeable– This pretty and petite vibe has variable speeds, soft tip and a great shape. Not so effective for internal pleasure due to its short length. 
  • Blush Lush Maya- Thin and soft and rechargeable. Long enough for vaginal pleasure. Good for those who want slim and soft. 
  • Liv 2 or Amy – A rechargeable, great-quality sex toy, perfect for internal or external stimulation.

ARE YOU LOOKING PRIMARILY FOR INTERNAL/VAGINAL PLAY?

Most vibrators intended for penetration can also be used in just about any way you dream up—including external erogenous zones like the nipples, penis, testicles, anus, or anywhere else you can dream up. But if you are looking primarily for a penetration vibrator, consider some of these top picks that are softer, which is better for thrusting:

  • Big Boss or Mr. Boss or Master– For realism, quality, and softness, you can’t go wrong with the Bosses.
  • Charming Smile – This vibe has a nice thick curve for G-spot stimulation.
  • Yummy Sunshine – Easiest to insert with subtle texture for added pleasure. 
  • Lola G - Softest and most flexible
  • Blush Lush Maya-  Good for those who want slim and soft. 
  • Posh Teaser or Inu – Inexpensive with a soft head and slight ripples (battery-operated).
ARE YOU LOOKING PRIMARILY FOR EXTERNAL OR CLITORAL STIMULATION?

Vibrators that are intended for external clitoral stimulation tend to be smaller, and frequently make use of shapes that allow for focused stimulation. These toys also tend to be easy to use during intercourse. These are a few of our top picks for clitoral vibes:

  •  Le Wand Deux or Vedo Kitti– Great power, dual motors, soft, rechargeable, and completely waterproof.
  • Je Joue Rabbit – A lower-cost vibrator that you can use for firm pressure on the shaft or for tickling or pressure on either side of the clitoris with the ears. 
  • Mimi Soft – This is a great softer vibrator that can stimulate most of the vulva when laid flat and has a soft tip for more direct pleasure. 
  • Echo – Small and compact with a nice curve to fit the contours of the vulva. 
  • Satisfyer Pro 3 – Vibration and/ or air pressure for intense, deep stimulation around the clitoris. 

WHAT ABOUT DUAL STIMULATION?

Why not have it all? Dual stimulation vibrators (sometimes called rabbit vibrators) allow for simultaneous vaginal and clitoral use. They typically have a larger shaft for penetration and a smaller branch to provide clitoral stimulation. Here are a few of the dual stimulation vibes that Good For Her carries:

  • Satisfyer Magic Bunny – Soft and flexible with a comfortable handle, vibrations stimulate the clitoris and vagina.
  • We-Vibe Nova – This innovative take on dual stimulation gives shallow but effective G-spot stimulation and a soft clitoral branch that can’t miss the target. Also can be used with the We-Connect app for control from anywhere in the world. 
  • Satisfyer Suction Dual Vibrator or Womanizer Duo – Not ideal for thrusting, these toys use suction around the clitoris outside with internal vibration at the same time.
  • Ina Wave – A unique toy that "waves" at the G-spot by bending at the shaft to simulate the "come here" sensation with pressure against both the G-Spot and the clitoris.
  • Jack Rabbit – A rabbit-style vibrator with a rotating shaft and pearls for the vagina as well as fluttering ears for the clitoris. 

DO YOU WANT A VIBRATOR FOR G-SPOT STIMULATION?

G-spot vibrators are some of our most popular sex toys. These toys usually have an upturned angle that can range from mild to wild, and come with a range of power and designs.

  • The Mood Frisky Orchid or Gee Slim Rechargeable – A basic plastic vibe with a round head. Many folks find this toy great for locating the G-spot.
  • Gigi 2 – The Gigi is rechargeable, powerful, and perfectly shaped for targeted G-spot or clitoral stimulation and comes with a 10-year guarantee.
  • Amy – Great for alternating from the outside on the vulva and sliding easily inside to the G-spot. 

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOMETHING WITH A LOT OF POWER?

Lots of people enjoy sex toys with a lot of power to them. There are a few options for ultra-powerful toys that get the job done.

  • Magic Wand – The most powerful vibrator on the market, hands down, bar none. You can also use attachments for penetration.
  • Form 2 – One of the most powerful rechargeable toys we carry, with focused clitoral stimulation.
  • Womanizer – Suction/air pressure style vibrator that's popular with folks who need a little or a lot of stimulation. 

WHAT ABOUT VIBRATORS THAT WORK WELL DURING INTERCOURSE?

There are more and more toys on the market that are specifically intended for hands-free use during intercourse to allow greater pleasure for both partners. These can be put on a dildo (non-vibrating), internal vibrator, or penis. 

  • Come Together – This is a vibrating cock ring worn at the base of a penis (or dildo) that gives extra clitoral stimulation during sex.
  • Mio – Rechargeable and variable speeds.

In addition, just about any other vibrator can be used on the clitoris during intercourse. 

DO YOU NEED SOMETHING QUIET?

Some sex toys are louder than others and this can be especially important in circumstances that require discretion. Some people also find louder toys to be distracting or a turn-off. For something strong and quiet, the Gigi, and Form 2 are good choices. Rechargeable toys, in general, tend to be quieter than their plug-in and battery-operated counterparts, and silicone toys are quieter than toys made of hard plastic.

WHAT ABOUT QUALITY?

Price is generally a pretty good indication of how long something will last, however not always. At Good For Her, we take pride in the products we sell and believe that our prices generally reflect the quality of the toys we carry. Sometimes a less-expensive choice (under $30) may be a great toy to start with and many people upgrade to a higher quality model if they like that style of sex toy. There are many great options that are not expensive—but it is important to keep in mind that you are buying a small electrical appliance.

CAN I USE A VIBRATOR WITH MY PARTNER?

Lots of couples like to use sex toys, including vibrators, together. It can make it easier to orgasm, add variety and also be another pleasure option alongside what fingers, tongues and/or penises are doing! Try using the vibrator on each other so that you both can get pleasure from it. See the video at the top of the page for creative ways to use a vibe on any body. Read more here about the popularity of using toys as a couple.

 

For even more about choosing—and using—your vibrator, check out Cozy Conversations with Carlyle, Good for Her's founder:

 

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLUG-IN, BATTERY-OPERATED, AND RECHARGEABLE SEX TOYS

Feature
Plug-In / Electrical
Battery Operated
Rechargeable Internal Battery
Quality/Lifespan
High/Good. Usually several years. Most models include a warranty.
Moderate/Limited. Hard to say how long these will last (2 weeks–2 years).
High/Good. Most models include a warranty. Quality and longevity is similar to plug-ins.
Power Capabilities
High-Very High. Great for people who need more power and recommended for anyone who is non-orgasmic or not easily orgasmic.
Medium-High. Might not provide enough power for someone who needs a lot of stimulation.
Medium-High. Often provides high and consistent power that is also quiet.
Volume/Sound
Medium
Medium-High
Low
Speeds
High and low only
Variable, pulses
Variable, pulses
Price/Value
Moderate investment. Longer lasting.
Least expensive initial product cost. The cost of batteries adds up. Rechargeable batteries are a better option to keep long-term costs down.
Higher cost but more versatility.
Type of Stimulation
Usually clitoral only, attachments sold separately for internal stimulation.
External only or internal/both depending on model.
External only or internal/both depending on model.
Roam-ability
Must stay close to an outlet, but electrical power is consistent and reliable.
Batteries give you the freedom to roam, but they can also give out at the most critical or inopportune times.
Lots of freedom to roam, power is consistent and reliable. Will need to be recharged (after 40 mins-1 hour of use).
Appearance
Generally don’t look like a vibrator, but can be quite large.
Often have a sexier, sophisticated, or smaller look.
Often have a sexier, sophisticated, or smaller look.
Environmental Impact
Longer lasting in general, which means fewer end up in the landfill.
Many inexpensive toys are not high quality, so they often end up in the landfill. Batteries, unless rechargeable, are not environmentally friendly. Batteries are best disposed of at a municipal depot or environmentally friendly organization/retailer.
Longer lasting and easier on the environment than toys with disposable batteries. These toys are usually good quality and will last a while.