Vibe Guide

Why Buy a Vibrator?

Many women discover that including vibrating toys in their sexual repertoires greatly increases orgasmic potential and response, and this can give a woman a feeling of control over her own level of sexual fulfillment. Whether you are purchasing a toy for yourself or for a female partner, and whether it is intended for individual or partnered use, the reality is the same: vibrators can make orgasms happen more reliably and, if desired, quickly. (And we wouldn’t be alone in thinking this is a very good thing.)

The vast array of toy choices can be intimidating, so we have created this guide to the most popular kinds of vibrators with a few words about what makes each of them unique. When selecting a toy—whether you’re a novice or a vibrator veteran—it is helpful to keep in mind that, while most vibrators are designed for a particular function, there are very few wrong ways to use one.

The Rabbit

Rabbit-style toys offer the best of both vibrator worlds—an insertable shaft (which usually rotates and/or vibrates) and a flexible tickler for the clitoris, often designed to look like a rabbit’s ears or other friendly shape. Rabbits are ideal for female masturbation and are a beloved part of sex toy collections all over the world.

The Pocket Rocket

Small, powerful, and extremely portable, the Pocket Rocket is what many women think of when they hear the word “vibrator.” These discreet spark plug-shaped toys are made of hard plastic and topped with distinctive nubs, and, while they are designed for external vibration only, can easily be used during both solo and partnered sex. Many of these toys come with one or more textured caps for variety of sensation, and we also offer a bunny-ears attachment that will transform your Rocket into a Rabbit-like clitoral tickler.

The Hitachi Magic Wand

The Magic Wand is truly in a league of its own. It is neither quiet nor petite, but its large size and electric (not battery) power translate into nearly seismic vibration. The Magic Wand is built more like a household appliance than your typical adult store novelty, so expect a significantly longer lifespan in exchange for the extra bulk and having to stay close to an electrical outlet. This, too, is an external toy, but be sure to check out the attachments for insertion—particularly the Gee Whiz, a fantastic silicone G-spotter.

Eggs and Bullets

These versatile toy box staples are characterized by a smooth, oblong-shaped vibrator that is attached to a small controller by a cord. Their size and shape makes them useful for a variety of playful purposes, and they can be inserted as long as they are covered with a condom first. (Pulling on the cord to remove an egg or bullet will damage the toy; this way, you can pull on the condom instead.)

Wearables

The most popular style of wearable vibrator is commonly known as a “butterfly”—a mini-vibe encased in a soft jelly rubber tickler and attached to an elastic harness that can be worn by itself or under clothing. (The original version of this toy had a butterfly-shaped tickler, but they now come in many different varieties including bears and bumblebees.) The main advantage of this arrangement is that it’s entirely hands-free and convenient for use during intercourse or, say, lunch.

Insertables

Into this category go all of the vibrating toys intended for vaginal penetration. These vary widely in shape, texture, and power, but they tend to be longer than the external vibes. Curved or U-shaped toys provide G-spot stimulation, and some insertables even rotate or twist around like the shafts of Rabbit toys. Pick a size and shape that appeals, and remember that there is no rule that says you can only own one.