Buying the best vibrator for you can seem like a daunting experience. There are so many different types of vibrating sex toys out there — from butt plugs to wand vibrators and bullet vibrators.
“We’ve seen vibrators become a key player in many people’s sex lives and a valued toy in people’s repertoires over recent years,” says Annabelle Knight, sex and relationships expert at Lovehoney.
The term ‘vibrator’ has now come to signify an extremely wide range of sex toys, expanding beyond the simple bullet. But, Anabelle says the clue is in the name: “These toys provide pleasure through different intensities and patterns of vibration; they are most often used to stimulate the clitoris, but they can be used on many other erogenous zones of the body, which make them a great toy to explore with.”
Coming in so many shapes and sizes, and with a slew of different vibration patterns now available means that there’s something for everything. That’s whether you’re new to exploring sex toys, are thinking of having solo fun, or even using with a partner.
“Today, vibrators are for everyone and cater to a wide spectrum of preferences, which is so important since each of our bodies are different,” adds Knight.
Things to consider when choosing a vibrator
“Selecting the right vibrator is a totally personal decision and often depends on the sort of sensation and stimulation you are looking for,” explains Knight. Here are some important aspects to consider:
1. Purpose and preference: Get to know what type of stimulation you prefer — clitoral, G-spot, a combination of the two, or perhaps something completely different. This will guide you in choosing the right style.
2. Material and safety: Ensure the vibrator is made from body-safe materials such as medical-grade silicone. Avoid porous materials that can harbour bacteria.
3. Noise level: If you’re worried about your housemates knowing what you’re getting up to, maybe how loud the toy is will be top of your list. Some models are designed to be quieter than others, so it’s worth reading up on each toy to see how loud it is.
4. Power source: Decide between battery-operated or rechargeable vibrators. Rechargeable ones are more eco-friendly and often more powerful but battery-operated toys are great for moments when you don’t have time to wait for a full charge.
5. Ease of cleaning: Look for vibrators that are easy to clean, preferably waterproof models that can be washed with soap and water.
6. Budget: Vibrators come in a wide price range, which is what makes them such a great toy. While it’s possible to find quality products at various price points (check out our list of affordable sex toys here), investing in a reputable brand often ensures better safety and performance.
“Vibrators can be an amazing addition to your top drawer and can deliver some pretty mind-blowing orgasms. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, finding the right vibrator can be an empowering step towards better understanding your body and lead to a more fulfilling sex life,” notes Knight.
So now you’re all clued up on all things vibrators, here’s our list of the best vibrators for every occasion.
The best vibrators for every occasion in 2024
Best vibrator for: clitoral stimulation
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Range of speeds and pulses
- Waterproof
Cons
- Can be loud on higher settings
- Some reviewers say it’s not as powerful as they’d like
| In the box | USB charging cable, leather-look, zip-up storage case |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | Circumference: 5.4 inches Length: 4 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
Made of super-soft silicone and small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, this clit vibrator from Desire is one of Lovehoney’s most popular sex toys. Don’t believe us? Well, believe the hundreds of women who helped get it voted ‘The World’s Best Vibrator’ by Good Housekeeping (9 out of 10 testers loved it).
This pebble-shaped toy boasts 8 modes of vibration, each with 12 custom speeds of intensity to play with. For all this range of vibes and pulses, it’s also surprisingly quiet (though it can be louder on higher settings). Just be sure to use lots of lovely water-based lube with it.
Best vibrator for: G-spot orgasms
Pros
- Waterproof
- Magnetic charging
Cons
- On the spennier side
| In the box | USB charging cable, storage bag |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | 7.5 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Curved with a bulbed tip to put pressure on (and vibrate nicely against) your G-spot, this sex toy from Dame Products (a super cool, female-owned, and inclusive brand from New York) has 5 rumbly vibration patterns and 5 intensities. It’s made from luxury, medical-grace silicone — so remember to use water-based lube — and, it’s waterproof, extra quiet, and ergonomically designed so it’s really easy and comfortable to use.
This is also a great option for those who like to travel with their toys, as it comes with a storage bag and is magnetically rechargeable — so it’s ready to go whenever, wherever (and with whoever!).
Best vibrator for: clit sucking
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Small but mighty
- Ergonomic design
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
Cons
- Splashproof only (so not suitable for bath fun)
- Can be loud
| In the box | USB charging cable |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | Circumference: 4.5 inches Length: 3.5 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Splashproof |
Clit sucker sex toys are becoming more and more popular — and for good reason. Instead of vibrating against the clitoris, they are designed to mimic the feeling of oral sex. They send out pressure waves which lap against your clitoris for a totally different (and tantalising) sensation.
The Womanizer Starlet is a great first clit sucker for beginners. It’s small, powerful, and one of the more affordable versions of this type of toy. It’s also rechargeable, so you never need to worry about being stocked up on batteries. Fair warning though, it is only splashproof, rather than submersible, meaning you can’t take it into the bath or shower with you. Still, it makes for a compact addition to your bedside table (especially as you’ll be reaching for it all the time!).
Best vibrator for: powerful vibrations
Pros
- Extra powerful
- Multiple speeds and pulses
- Cushioned head for comfort
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Not suitable for internal use
- Mains powered
| In the box | UK plug with 2.8 metre cable |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | Circumference: 7.5 inches Length: 13 inches |
| Power | Mains powered |
| Waterproof | No |
If you like your sex toys strong and powerful, the Doxy is the only wand vibrator you could ever need. It’s known among vibrator-lovers as the creme de la creme; it’s durable, the most powerful vibrator on the market, and made right here in the UK — specifically, in sunny Cornwall. You simply plug it into the mains (so it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for on-the-go play) and use the soft, spongy head to target vibes — you can choose from multiple speeds and pulses — to your vulva for the most intense, all-encompassing orgasm.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Flexible neck
Cons
- Not rechargeable (you’ll need to buy 2 x AAA batteries, as they’re not included)
- Not as powerful as other wands
- External use only
| In the box | Just the toy! |
|---|---|
| Material | Hard plastic |
| Size | Circumference: 3.5 inches Length: 4.5 inches |
| Power | 2 x AAA batteries |
| Waterproof | No |
But, if you’re new to wand vibrators and looking for something a little smaller and more discreet, this mini version from Lovehoney is a great place to start and work your way up from. It has three speeds and a flexible neck for targeted pleasure. As expected, it’s not as powerful as the Doxy and doesn’t re-charge (you’ll need to use batteries), but that’s reflected in the super affordable price.
Neither wands are suitable for internal use and aren’t waterproof, so keep these ones for external stim and on dry land only — though don’t forget to use plenty of water-based lube.
Best vibrator for: anal beginners
Pros
- Ideal for beginners
- Removeable bullet
- Waterproof
Cons
- Battery-powered
| In the box | 1 x N battery |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | Circumference: 2.25 inches Length: 4 inches |
| Power | Battery-powered (1 x N battery) |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
If you want to dip into some light anal play for the first time, remember this: the anus doesn’t self-lubricate like the vagina, so use lots of water-based lube to be safe (and for it to be pleasurable).
This little guy from Rocks Off isn’t remotely intimidating, as it’s slim and petite. Slowly insert it at your own pace, and work your way through the vibration settings until you find one that feels right. Also: the bullet is removable, so you can enjoy anal play without vibrations or just use the bullet for alternative stim (hello, clit or nipples!). Although this toy isn’t rechargeable, it does come with a battery to get you started.
Best vibrator for: anal pros
Pros
- Waterproof
- Rechargeable
- Two motors to control each massage handle
Cons
- High price point
| In the box | USB charging cord, satin storage pouch, warranty registration card |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone and ABS plastic |
| Size | Length: 7.7 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
If you’re used to having something in your butt, and ready to graduate to something a little more substantial, this LELO prostate massager is well worth splashing out on. Using some super snazzy tech, it literally waves once it’s inside you, with each massage head controlled by a separate motor. Yep, this stimulates the P-spot (if you are a man or person with a penis) which makes a prostate orgasm highly likely.
That’s not all the bang you get for your buck — the LOKI Wave boasts 12 vibration settings, is made of extra-soft silicone that feels warm to the touch (!!), and is sculpted to comfortably fit all body shapes. Oh and did we mention that it’s waterproof? Who doesn’t love some wet play...
Best vibrator for: toning your kegel muscles
Pros
- Graduating sizes and weights
- Rechargeable
- Waterproof
- Can be app-controlled
Cons
- Higher price point
| In the box | 3 progressive weights (10g, 30g, 45g), USB charging cable, We-Vibe lube, silky storage pouch |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | 7 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
Your pelvic floor muscles can contribute to longer and stronger orgasms, according to some experts. Kegel balls, jiggle balls, Ben Wa balls, whatever you want to call them, are a great toy to use for toning — because they also feel great while in use.
These vibrating kegel balls from We-Vibe are the best in the biz. As well as gradually getting bigger so you can work your way up (the toy comes with three progressive weights — 10g, 30g, and 45g), they also boast 10 vibration patterns and are made of super soft silicone for extra comfort. Even better, these Bloom balls are fully waterproof, rechargeable, and can even be controlled via the We-Vibe app — so you can hand the controls over to a long-distance lover (or just make life easier for yourself during solo play!).
Best vibrator for: men and people with penises
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- It’s on the £££ side
- Splashproof only
| In the box | Charging base, USB cable, 2 x TENGA Hole Lotion lubricant samples |
|---|---|
| Material | Soft plastic |
| Size | Internal length: 6 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Splashproof |
If you have a penis or your partner does, TENGA’s range of sex toys is going to change your life. Seriously. The Japanese forward-thinking brand has so many incredible toys that feel great for penis-havers.
This vibrating masturbator — the Flip Zero — is filled with the softest textures of silicone, and has five vibration settings to choose from for a plethora of pleasure sensations. Simply lube up, then insert your penis and masturbate away (it’s even semi-transparent so you can watch yourself — you know, if that’s your thing). It’ll be the most intense and unusual orgasm of your life, promise. Plus, the toy opens in half, so you can easily add lube and thoroughly clean it after your sesh.
Best vibrator for: couples (when you both have vulvas)
Pros
- Not one, not two, but THREE motors
- Lockable storage case
- Rechargeable
- Waterproof
Cons
- You might need to strengthen your Kegel muscles before using
| In the box | USB charging cable, lockable storage case |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | Circumference: 4.25 inches Length: 8 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
If you’re into penetration, a vibrating strapless dildo can be a lot of fun to use in partnered sex. One partner pops the G-spot tickling dildo in and then uses the attached vibrating dildo to penetrate their partner. These toys can be tricky to position (you may need to do some kegel exercises beforehand), but who doesn’t love cracking up and having fun while having sex? So much fun.
This strapless strap-on from Lovehoney Desire is a great (and affordable!) choice for novices and experts alike. It has a whopping three motors — two buzzing shafts and a pair of rabbit ears, so you can stim your clit and G-spot(s) — each of which have multiple vibration modes to choose from. It’s also waterproof and comes with a lockable storage case, so it can go everywhere the two of you go...
Best vibrator for: couples (when there’s a vulva and a penis involved)
Pros
- Shaped for increased clit contact during sex
- Rechargeable
- Stretchy ring to fit most penis sizes
- Can also be used as a finger vibrator
Cons
- Some reviewers say it doesn’t always stay in place
- Buttons can be fiddly
| In the box | USB charging cable |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone |
| Size | Length: 3.5 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
If one of you has a penis, and the other has a vulva, a vibrating cock ring is a must-try couples sex toy. The penis-owning partner uses water-based lube to slip the ring down to the base of their penis. You then switch the attached vibrator on, and get into a position that not only targets vibes to the person with the penis, but also to vulva-having person’s clitoris. I recommend getting on top if you’re a woman or a person with a vulva. This means the vibrator will be perfectly positioned for blended orgasms (where clit stimulation and penetration contribute to one lovely orgasm).
This vibrating cock ring from TENGA is expertly shaped for increased clitoral contact during sex, and comes with an extra stretchy ring to fit most penis sizes. With just one button to control five vibration speeds and two patterns, it’s also super easy to use — and can be recharged for endless enjoyment.
Best vibrator for: small budgets
Pros
- Super affordable
- Cute design
- Handbag-sized, so you’ll never be without
- Waterproof
Cons
- For external use only
- Battery-powered
| In the box | 1 x N battery |
|---|---|
| Material | Hard plastic |
| Size | Length: 3.5 inches |
| Power | Battery-powered (1 x N battery included) |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
Not everyone has a huge budget to splash out on sex toys, which is fine because it turns out there are some affordable dream products. Rocks Off makes the best bullet vibrators, and this cheap one is great value for money. It’s powerful enough considering it’s super compact (a perfect travel companion!), battery-powered, and has 7 vibration modes. It’s also really cute and versatile, too — it can be used in the bath, shower, and for all kinds of external stim. At less than £15, you’d be crazy not to!
Best vibrator for: big budgets
Pros
- Lightly infused with fragrances
- Extra soft
- Super discreet, so great for travel
Cons
- Higher price point
| In the box | USB charging cable, satin storage pouch, warranty registration card |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone and ABS plastic |
| Size | Length: 2.9 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Submersible |
LELO sex toys are a little bit more spenny than most, but that’s because they’re made from luxury materials and are very powerful indeed (if you want them to be, of course — you can just use them on a lower setting if speed isn’t your thing). This LILY 2 pebble massager is a great toy to have in your bedside drawer for when you just want some clit fun without having to do much. It has eight vibration settings, is 100% waterproof, and is extra soft, as well as super discreet, making it a great choice for travel. Well worth the money, IMO.
Best vibrator for: the eco-conscious
Pros
- Made from sustainable, renewable materials
- 5-year warranty
- Rechargeable
- Comes with two sizes of stimulator heads
Cons
- On the spennier side
- Splashproof only
| In the box | 2 x stimulator heads (in different sizes), USB charging cable, organic cotton storage pouch |
|---|---|
| Material | Biolene and silicone |
| Size | Length: 6.5 inches |
| Power | Rechargeable |
| Waterproof | Splashproof |
Womanizer has really come through with this eco-friendly vibrator. It’s made from Biolene — a type of bioplastic that is both biodegradable and recyclable. Plus, its packaging is 100% plastic-free and made from recyclable FSC paper. How cool is that?
Aside from its eco-friendly materials, it’s basically the same as the brand’s original (and brilliant) PREMIUM clit vibrator. It has 12 intensity levels, is USB rechargeable, and splashproof (note: not submersible, so don’t take this one into the bath). It also comes with two stimulator heads to cater to different body types.
How to use a vibrator
“These days there are so many different types of vibrators that you can get your hands on, and they can be amazing at helping you figure out your own body and discovering what you like,” says Knight. Here are some of her general steps to get started:
1. Choose the right setting: Start with the lowest setting and gradually increase the intensity. This helps you test your comfort level and find what feels best.
2. Explore your body: Experiment with using these toys on different parts of your body. While the clitoris is a common focus, other areas like the nipples, inner thighs, and even the perineum can be pleasurable. You’ll be surprised!
3. Use lubricant: A good water-based lubricant can enhance the experience by helping to reduce any friction, and should always be used for all and any sexual activities!
4. Communicate with your partner: If you’re using a vibrator with a partner, communication is key. It’s always worth a quick chat to make sure everyone is on the same page and that they are as down as you are to give it a try. And if so, keep checking in with them as you play to see what feels best.
5. Hygiene: Always remember to give the vibrator a good clean before and after use, either with a dedicated sex toy cleaner or warm soapy water.
Types of vibrators
Annabelle adds that the main types of vibrators that are now available can be split into the below categories:
1. Bullet vibrators: Compact and discreet, these bullet-sized and shaped toys are perfect for beginners and can be used for targeted clitoral stimulation.
2. Classic vibrators: Arguably these have now been taken over by bullet vibrators, but still hold a share of the market. These are also used for clitoral stimulation, the only difference from bullets being their larger size.
3. Rabbit vibrators: These provide dual stimulation, designed to simultaneously stimulate the clitoris and G-spot. It might be a bit much if you’re a beginner, but these can deliver incredible orgasms.
4. Wand vibrators: Known for delivering some of the most powerful vibrations around, these are ideal for those seeking intense stimulation: mini versions are available for beginners, but the large ones are extremely powerful and not for the faint-hearted!
5. G-spot vibrators: Curved to target the G-spot, these are designed to hit this sweet spot and enhance internal pleasure through vibrations.
6. Clitoral Suction vibrators: Despite not technically ‘vibrating’ in a traditional sense, clitoral suction vibrators use air pressure to pulsate on the clitoris.
