Welcome to the world of vibrators! If you’re on a quest to find the best vibrator that promises waves of pleasure, you’ve landed at the right place. Let’s dive into understanding the basics, the types, and some top contenders.
For those of you (like me!) with the attention span of a gnat, let’s get stuck right into our top vibrator pleasure picks!
1. Best for beginners
Elemi
A discreet, compact and versatile bullet vibe! Perfect for beginners!
2. Best for Couples
Cilantro
For cis-heterosexual couples, a vibrating cock ring with bunny ears for clitoral stimulation,
increasing pleasure for both of you at the same time.
3. Best for Clitoral Stimulation
Jasmine
A clitoral suction toy that cuddles your clit and provides an intense sucking sensation.
4. Best Multipurpose Vibrator
Cassia
Imagine a dildo and a magic wand had a baby. A dual ended toy, with a classic wand element for
clitoral stimulation, and a curved dildo ‘handle’ for G-Spot stimulation.
5. Best Vibrator for the Prostate
Davana
A vibrating prostate massager with a remote control and a rotation function.
6. Best Male Vibrator
Bergamot
Vibrating masturbation cup for sensational penis stimulation
7. Best Thrusting Vibrator
Yarrow
Combining all the classic elements of a rabbit vibrator, with a thrusting shaft.
8. Best Remote-Controlled Vibrator
Cistus
A dual G-spot and clitoral vibrator that can be controlled from a distance by anyone who has the remote.
9. Best Dual-Stimulation Vibrator
Camphor
Rabbit-style vibrator, with clitoral suction instead of bunny ears!
10. Best Anal Vibrator
Quince
A silky smooth vibrating butt plug with a looped end.
So, what is a vibrator, anyway?
Well, in our minds, they’re magical gifts descended from the gods to bring you happiness and infinite orgasms… but if you want a real definition, a vibrator is a sex toy with a built-in vibrating motor designed to give pleasure and sexual stimulation through vibration. (Sounds a little more boring, but still pretty magical though, right?) Just like us, they come in lots of different shapes and sizes to cater for different needs, uses and preferences.
Why do people use vibrators?
People use vibrators for a multitude of reasons, from experimentation, relaxation, stress relief, improved sexual health (and health in general), but the primary use of vibrators is for sexual pleasure, baby!
They can begin as a tool for exploring your body and sexuality, and can quickly become your absolute bestest most favouritest thing in your bedside table. Vibes are widely appreciated for aiding in achieving orgasm, helping make the big O easier, faster and more enjoyable to reach by providing an intense and consistent stimulation. It’s totally normal to desire pleasure, and vibrators are a revolutionary way to obtain pleasure byyyyy theeeee truckload! They can be used to enhance solo sex, as well as sex with a partner.
They can be part of exploring kinks and fantasies, a foreplay staple, or just a super fun way to get to sleep a little quicker at bedtime.
Types of vibrators
Bullet Vibrators
A bullet is a small bullet-shaped (hence the name) vibrating sex toy, which isprimarily used for externally stimulating the clitoris. They’re one of the most discreet vibrators and are a great choice for beginners. It feels like we all started with the humble bullet vibe.
Rabbit Vibrators
They’re exactly as they sound, they’re literally shaped like a bunny rabbit, and we know that sounds weird but they’re actually sensational! They’re basically a dildo, with an element of clitoral stimulation (that come in the form of vibrating bunny ears). Rabbits are a “dual action” toy, meaning they’re designed to stimulate multiple erogenous zones at the same time. They can simultaneously stimulate internally *and* externally, stimulating the clitoris with their bunny ears and the g-spot with the shaft element.
Wand Vibrators
A wand vibrator is a toy that is usually larger than most toys in size, made up of a handle with a vibrating rounded ball on the end. Wand vibrators can also be known as “magic wands” (we did say vibrators are magical) and they can be used as a massager as well as a sex toy. Wands are known or clitoral stimulation and a more “rumbly” sensation of vibration.
Finger Vibrators
Finger vibes are similar to a bullet vibrator, but with a loop element to secure the toy to your finger for ease and comfort of use. (It’s basically like turning your finger into a vibrator!)
Vibrating Dildos
A sex toy, shaped to resemble an erect penis, that also vibrates! A classic!
Cock Ring Vibrators
Literally a ring designed to be worn around the base of the penis, with a vibrating element that’s intended to provide stimulation to both the wearer and their partner during intercourse. Prioritising pleasure for both partners, we love to see it.
Vibrating Butt Plug
An anally inserted toy, usually fairly small in size and have a flanged end designed to keep it in place in order to prevent the toy from entirely entering the rectum. We regularly spare a thought for the person who had to figure out that this element needed to be added to the design. Butt plug vibrators be used as preparation for anal sex or to increase pleasure by stimulating the anal nerve endings or prostate during sex or masturbation.
Prostate Massager
Another anal toy. They’re kind of similar to a butt plug, but usually a fair and yield the specific goal to stimulate the prostate. They also have an extra external element that rests on the perineum (that’s the little smooth area between the anus and genitals). As well as vibration, prostate massagers commonly have a rotation feature.
Suction Vibrators
These are a little newer to the sex toy market. They’re a kind of clitoris stimulating vibrator and usually feature a small hole-like “suction cup” designed to be placed over the clitoris and give a sucking sensation. They are as phenomenal as they sound.
Panty Vibrators
What they say on the tin. A type of vibrator designed to be worn inside your underwear. Brilliant for discreet, hands-free play.
Remote-Controlled Vibrators
These can come in the form of any kind of vibrator, and just means they can be controlled from a distance, usually using an app or remote control! A very popular option for couples for obvious reasons. You can give your partner literal control over your pleasure and vice versa. Between you, me, and the gatepost, remote controlled vibrators are a fabulous choice for discreet public play. Picture the scene, you’re on a night out with your partner, you’re wearing a vibrator and they have the control!
Masturbation Cups
Not something to drink out of, but a vibrating sex toy that is specifically designed to “cup” around the penis for intense pleasure during masturbation.
What are vibrators made out of?
The most common outer materials used for vibrators are silicone or plastic. Our favourite vibrator material is silicone because it’s body-safe, durable and easy to clean!
The inner structure of a vibrator is usually made with plastic and metal. Besides thinking about things like durability and cleanliness of a sex toy material, many people also like to consider how environmentally friendly their toys are. As a sex toy company built with sustainability at the forefront of our ethos, we’ve thought about this a lot! That’s why we, at The Natural Love Company, introduced our Ocean Plastic range. This is a range of (ridiculously beautiful) vibrators with an inner structure masterfully crafted out of recycled ocean plastic, each then adorned in a sanitary grade silicone exterior. Our goal was to provide the world with vibrators, without harming the world itself. Each toy from this range helps reduce plastic waste and protect marine life.
How to choose the right vibrator
To choose the right vibrator for you, there are a few things to take into consideration, things like your preferences, your needs and wants, the use you intend it for, your experience level, what material you’d like, and your budget.
Different vibrators also come with unique features like different speeds, intensity and patterns of vibration. Some are waterproof, some are not. There are rechargeable options as well as battery-powered options. Some vibrators have a remote control. If something looks appealing to you and fits your criteria, that’s a pretty good sign to give it a go!
We do have some recommendations, of course!
For newbies looking for their first vibe, we’d recommend a humble bullet vibe, like Elemi. Bullets are discreet, compact and approachable. They’re not quite as intimidating for a beginner as a full on thrusting dual stimulating vibrating dildo with all the works.
Anyone who’s in a couple and looking for a toy to enjoy alongside their partner, we suggest having a look into a vibrating cock ring like Cilantro, or if you enjoy a little bit of power play, maybe explore remote-controlled toys like Cistus and Nepeta.
POV: you have housemates and you don’t want them to hear when you’re having a cheeky one. Look for a vibrator with a quiet motor! Our entire range of Ocean Plastic sex toys have a “whisper quiet mode” for those who want to keep the noise down. If you want something compact for the same reasons (easier to hide from people you live with), a bullet vibrator like Elemi will effortlessly conceal itself in the back of your bedside drawer. For those on a budget, again, a bullet like Elemi is a superb option. Or if you want to make the most out of your money, try a two in one multitasker like Cassia, which is a wand vibrator AND a vibrating dildo, AT THE SAME TIME! The wand handle is literally a vibrating dildo. Two for theprice of one.
If you already have a solid collection of toys (and have a vulva), and you’re looking for something new, a thrusting dildo like Yarrow might hit the (G) spot – or maybe something like Jasmine or Camphor if you’ve never tried the wondrous world of clitoral suction.
How to use a Vibrator
For some, using a vibrator for the first time feels intuitive, but for others it might be a little daunting. But that’s okay! Theres not a one-size-fits-all process to using a vibrator because there are different types of vibrators, different bodies and everyone has different preferences, but we can definitely offer some tips!
Our Top Tips:
• Be sure to clean your vibrator before and after every use.
• When you’re first starting out, cycle through the different modes and intensities on the vibrator before using it on yourself. Find the gentlest setting and start with that.
• LUBE! Lube is a good shout for all toy play and sex in general. Lube supremacy! Adding a personal lubricant decreases friction, increases comfort and accelerates pleasure. A water- based lube is a good place to start. Our favourite lube is our Simply Lube. Are we biased??? Or is it just the best lube in the whole wide world????? Simply Lube is a vegan, cruelty free and kind to your skin personal lubricant. It’s made with 99.2% organic ingredients and comes in a compostable bottle (so that you can f**k yourself, not the planet) and of course, its water-based, which means it’s toy safe and condom compatible. Simply Lube comes in two editions, Aloe Vera and Wild Strawberry!
• If you have a vulva, pressing the vibrator on or around the clitoris is going to give you the most pleasure.
• If you find you’re a little too sensitive at first (or ever), try using the vibrator over your underwear instead of directly on the skin. Even if you’re not too sensitive, this can feel sooo good.
• For anal play, only use toys and vibes that have a flanged end (example: butt plug, prostate massager) or a larger loop end (example: anal beads) if you’d like to avoid a trip to A&E having lost a toy in your rectum. We feel like most people probably want to avoid that!
• Remember that there’s no right or wrong way to feel pleasure through a vibrator, just do what feels good!!!!!
• If you’re using a vibrator with a partner, communicate with each other on what you each like and what’s comfortable. This is vital!
• If you’re penetrating with a vibrator, start off slow and only do what feels comfortable – it shouldn’t hurt!!!!! Add some lube (as much as your heart desires!) for an easier insertion.
How to clean and take care of your vibrator(s)
Cleaning and maintaining your vibrator is ESSENTIAL for hygiene and longevity, and all sex toys should be cleaned before and after every use. Every vibrator can be different to clean depending on its type, material and whether or not the toy is waterproof. It’s important to read the manufacturers advice for each specific toy.
For a thorough clean, it’s recommended to use a cleaner specifically for sex toys, like Simply Toy Cleaner! That way you can make sure it’s compatible with the material of your toy and be certain it’s doing the job properly. In the case of any toy cleaner, always follow the instructions on the bottle.
When it comes to storing, first of all, make sure the toy is fully dry post-clean before putting it away and then the general rule of thumb is to keep your sex toys in a cool dry place, but again, it’s important to read manufacturers advice for each individual toy. Vibrators also often come packaged in a cute little storage pouch or case to keep the toy dust-free. Ours certainly do!
Safety when using a vibrator and when sharing vibrators
As with anything in sex, it’s important to be safe when using a vibrator! Things to think about include making sure your vibrator is made with a body-safe material (silicone is the safest option when it comes to vibes), making sure you clean your toys properly and thoroughly before and after every use, and listening to your body both with what feels good and when something doesn’t feel right.
If you’re sharing vibrators, again, first step is cleanliness. Not to be the bearer of bad news, but you can get an STI (sexually transmitted infection) from sharing sex toys. If you’re sharing a vibrator with a new partner or in a non-monogamous relationship, using protection (in combination with thoroughly cleaning your vibes) like condoms or dental dams can prevent any kind of STIs from spreading. Yay!
In these cases you’ll need to change the protection whenever the toy is swapped from person to person. Putting a condom on the toy and then sharing the condom would be the same as just sharing the toy without the condom, so make sure you switch them up between each person!
Tip, check if your toy is porous. If your vibrator is made of a porous material, like jelly rubber, some kind of barrier protection like a condom will actually be necessary with every use, no matter how thoroughly you’ve cleaned it! (This applies to when sharing and when using them solo!!! If the material is porous, it cannot be properly cleaned!) This is why we would always recommend a body-safe material like silicone, because it’s non-porous and can be cleaned thoroughly between uses. Lastly, when sharing vibrators, always always always ask for consent before using a toy on another person. Even if they’ve already consented to the sex! “Can I use this toy on you?” is all it takes!
Vibrator myths and misconceptions
There are a whole bunch of myths and misconceptions when it comes to vibrators. (Ugh, am I right?) Lets address some together.
1. “Vibrators are only for women”
Vibrators are often associated with female pleasure, but the truth is, they can be used by people of all genders! Woo-hoo! Vibrators are for everyone, and nobody should feel any shame for enjoying them because of their gender. There are even vibrators designed specifically to stimulate the penis and massage the prostate!
2. “Vibrators are only for masturbation”
While there’s no doubt that vibrators can enhance solo play to orgasmic levels, there’s also no denying that vibrators can do incredible things when they’re incorporated into partnered sex. Using a vibrator with a partner can add sexiness, excitement, variety, and pleasure to sexual encounters and can be a really fun way to explore each other’s bodies.
3. “Vibrators desensitise you”
It is very, very, very unlikely that a vibrator will desensitise you, and if that ever were to happen, it would only be temporary. Many people worry that using a vibrator may “ruin” any future sex with a partner and that it may impact your ability to orgasm with a partner. But actually, specialists have said that the psychological factor of just worrying about that can do more damage to your ability to orgasm than a vibrator ever could.
4. “Buying a vibrator is embarrassing”
So yeah, it can feel embarrassing sometimes, but actually, more than half the adult population in the UK own a vibrator. You’re in the majority and it’s totally normal, so there’s not even anything to be embarrassed about! We’re all doing the same thing, which means we’re all embarrassed for no reason!
More FAQs about Vibrators
Can you use lube with vibrators?
We always recommend lube when it comes to sex and masturbation (including when vibrators are involved!), but it’s important to note that there are different kinds of lube and that some may not be safe for use with your toys.
Here are the basic rules. Silicone-based lube should not be used with silicone toys because it can degrade the material of the toy. Oil-based lubricant can be used safely with most sex toys, but it is important to remember that oil-based is not compatible for use with condoms because it can break down and degrade the material of the condom. Water-based lube (such as Simply Lube) is always the safest option. It’s almost always compatible with sex toys and is usually safe for use with condoms.
Are there male vibrators?
First of all, all sex toys can be used for all genders and do not need to be bound to one specific use! Hooray! Secondly, yes! There are a whole bunch of vibrators designed specifically for the penis, as well as to stimulate the prostate (AKA the male G-Spot!). Look into vibrating cock rings, masturbation cups and prostate massagers!
Can you be too sensitive for a vibrator?
Vibrators vary in intensity and people’s genitals vary in sensitivity, so yeah, you can totally find that you’re too sensitive for a vibrator. Sometimes the vibrations might just be too strong for you, and other times, they might just take a little time to get used to! If the vibrations feel too strong, experimenting with using the toy over your underwear usually works great if you’re looking for a gentler sensation!
Can you use vibrators in water?
Lots more toys are waterproof these days, but always check the description and manufacturers instructions to check whether or not they can be used in water. This is especially important with vibrating toys because there’s electronics involved!
What’s the best vibrator for beginners?
Everybody likes different things, so it’s important to go with what looks appealing to you! We’d recommend starting with something small and simple. For those with a vulva, something like a bullet (Elemi) or a small wand vibe (Cassia) would be great options. And for those with a penis, we’d choose either a masturbation cup (Bergamot) for external play, or a small vibrating butt plug (Quince) to introduce you to the world of prostate stimulation.
Are vibrators loud?
Some vibrators are a little noisy and some are super quiet! Generally, smaller vibrators with less powerful motors tend to be quieter, while larger, more powerful ones are more likely produce more noise. If this is a concern for you, it’s worth looking closely at the description and any reviews of the toys you like the look of so you can gauge the noise level. There are also toys on the market specifically designed to be discreet with quiet motors and sound dampening materials! All of the toys in our Ocean Plastic range have a “whisper quiet” mode for those who want to keep the noise down. Top tip if you’re worried about sound: Using vibrators under the covers or in the shower is a great trick to keep any buzzing to a minimum!
Is it normal to use a vibrator?
Yesssssssssss! Yes, yes, yes! It’s normal to desire sexual pleasure, and vibrators are a normal and healthy way to achieve that pleasure.
Can I use a vibrator with a partner?
Vibrators are encouraged for use with any consenting partner(s)! They’re perfect for spicing things up, and prioritising your pleasure! There are even vibrators specifically designed for couples, like remote-controlled toys such as Cistus or Nepeta (so your partner can control your pleasure or the other way around), and vibrating cock rings like Cilantro designed to pleasure both parties in a P in the V sex sesh!
How do I introduce vibrators into my relationship?
Communication!!!!!!! It’s the key to most things and it’s definitely the key when introducing vibrators into a relationship. Talk about your desires and boundaries together, listen to each other and make sure both (or all) of you are comfortable with the idea before whipping one out during sex. If your partner is unsure, remind them that it can be used to pleasure them too (or not, if they prefer), and that it can only enhance your sexual experiences to experiment together.
Can vibrators be used during intercourse?
Totally! They’re not just for masturbation! Vibrators can be used during intercourse to enhance pleasure for all partners. You can really get in there and use toys on each other during intercourse, you could involve a vibrating cock ring like Cilantro to pleasure both of you at once, or even something as simple as wearing a vibrating butt plug like Quince during sex can skyrocket the experience.
Can I use a vibrator if I have a medical condition or disability? In lots of cases, yes! And people with health conditions and disabilities deserve pleasure just as much as anyone else! However, of course, it’s important to check with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns relating to your specific situation, so that you can ensure you’re being safe!
