Before we share exactly how to choose the right vibrator, you deserve a little context. So let's throw it back to Sex and the City, where two key moments live rent-free in my mind. First: Charlotte’s iconic ‘sick day’ saga, where she ditched her diary for a rabbit vibrator — and honestly, who can’t relate? Then there’s Samantha’s beloved wand vibrator giving up the ghost, only for her to discover it was, in fact, a massager, rather than a sexual-pleasure server. Despite that, she bought it again and raved about it to half the shop.
Now, we wouldn’t exactly recommend repurposing your shoulder massager for solo play, but we do applaud the commitment to finding what works, and sticking with it. Charlotte found her perfect match, and it changed everything — and you can too. Yep, the best vibrators will make you cancel plans, silence your group chat, and prioritise a night in with yourself — all forms of self care we support alongside regular masturbation.
So, here’s how to find The One that fits your body, your vibe, and your very personal definition of pleasure, as well as answers to common sex toy FAQs.
Shop to it.
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What are the different types of vibrators?
Cinderella had her glass slipper, Taylor Swift found her tight end (pun intended), and now it’s your turn to find the vibrator that fits you. What most people don’t realise? There are far more options than you’d think. Here’s your whistle-stop tour of the main players in the self-pleasure space:
| Bullet Vibrators | Discreet, powerful, and handbag-friendly — your go-to for quick, intense thrills. |
| Clit Vibrators | Perfect for external stimulation that zeroes in on your most sensitive spot with precision pulses. |
| Clit Suckers | Use suction or air pressure to mimic oral sex sensations. |
| G-Spot Vibrators | Curved just right to tease and please that elusive internal hot zone. |
| Wand Vibrators | Larger, powerful massagers for all-over or pinpoint stimulation. |
| P-spot Vibrators | Designed to target the prostate for deep, mind-blowing pleasure. |
| Love egg Vibrators | Wireless and wearable, these deliver secret vibes wherever you fancy. |
| Rabbit Vibrators | Dual-action magic that stimulates both inside and out at once. |
| Anal Vibrators | Made for backdoor bliss with tapered tips and rumbly vibrations. |
| Finger Vibrators | Slip one on for fingertip control and effortless exploration. |
| Remote-Controlled Vibrators | For long-distance or partner play — great for teasing anywhere. |
| Couples Vibrators | Designed to be worn during penetrative sex to stimulate both partners. |
How to choose the right vibrator for you:
1. Start with what you know.
Never used a sex toy before? No problem. Think about how you already enjoy pleasure — whether solo or with a partner. Do you like broad, all-over pressure or pinpoint precision? Slow and teasing, or deep and intense? Let that guide your choice.
Denise Kratzenberg, co-founder of CHEEX, a platform for female-focused sexual entertainment and education, suggests tuning into your erogenous zones: “Do you enjoy external or internal stimulation, or a mix of both? Are you into light teasing, or do you crave deep, intense pressure? Maybe you’re curious about anal play? Just as important as knowing what excites you is knowing what doesn’t. For instance, if penetration isn’t your thing, a dildo probably isn’t the best match.”
LELO sexpert and certified sex therapist, Casey Tanner, adds: “If you know you’re easily overstimulated, choose a toy with a wide surface area to diffuse sensation. If you love intense focus, a smaller, more concentrated vibe — like a bullet vibrator — might be your sweet spot.”
2. Don’t get ahead of yourself.
Keep it simple for your first toy. “Your first vibrator doesn’t need to be feature-heavy to be effective,” says Tanner. “If you’re overwhelmed by the options, look for something intuitive and straightforward — like the LELO GIGI 3 App-Controlled G-Spot Vibrator, which offers a classic shape and dual functionality for clitoral and G-spot play.”
Simple doesn’t have to mean basic — it can still have multiple settings or dual features. Just don’t let yourself get intimidated by all the bells and whistles.
3. Quality matters
Always prioritise toys made from body-safe, non-porous materials like medical-grade silicone, and pair them with a compatible lube. After use, clean with pH-neutral soap and water, and store it somewhere hygienic — bonus points for a dedicated bag like this Pleasure Case from the Smile Makers Collection.
4. Understand what a vibrator is designed to do.
Kratzenberg recommends beginners start with a clitoral vibrator or bullet vibrator: “They’re compact, easy to use, and great for getting familiar with vibration intensity and patterns.”
Want more power and control? Try a wand vibrator like the Pulse Queen. Prefer gentle, rhythmic stimulation? A clit sucker like the Venus Glow could be your new BFF — especially if oral tends to get you there fastest.
5. Toys that multitask.
They’re pricier, yes, but often worth it, especially if you’re unsure what you like. Dual-function toys can cover more bases and save you from buyer’s remorse. A great example is LELO's newest launch, known as the SWITCH Double-Sided Wand Vibrator. While one side gently massages the clitoris with its ribbed textures, the other side targets the G-spot with deep vibrations.
6. Get some inspiration.
No one’s born knowing how to masturbate, and we really don’t talk about it enough. If you feel comfortable, chat with a trusted friend. If not, the internet is brimming with safe, shame-free resources: CHEEX offers educational content, while FrolicMe focuses on ethical porn filmed for the female gaze.
7. When in doubt, lube it up.
Lube isn’t just for penetrative sex. It can make exploring a new vibrator feel smoother, sexier, and less intimidating. “Whether you’re playing with a vibrator externally or internally, lube is your best friend,” says Tanner. “It enhances sensation, protects sensitive tissue, and reduces friction. Try warming it in your hand before applying it directly to your toy or body.” Just make sure to consider whether you need a water-based lube — best when using vibrators — or a longer-lasting silicone alternative.
8. Don’t be afraid to travel.
Vibrators aren’t just for genitals: “Many vibrators can also be used on your nipples, perineum, or any erogenous zone,” adds Tanner. Longer massage wand vibrators, like the SMART WAND, can double as full-body massagers and even help regulate your nervous system.
From your armpit to your toes.
9. Take your time.
Five minutes in and not feeling fireworks? Totally normal. “It can take time to adjust to a new sensation and find the right angle or intensity,” says Tanner. “Focus on awakening the senses, bringing awareness to your erogenous zones, and staying curious about what feels good.”
10. Aftercare.
Solo or partnered, aftercare counts. In this case? Cleaning your toys. Use a toy cleaner designed for your vibrator's material, store it dry and away from sunlight (as much as you want to display that baby on your bookshelf), and avoid sharing unless you’ve sterilised it properly or used protection like condoms.
Meet the experts:
| Denise Kratzenberg | Co-founder of CHEEX, a platform for female-focused sexual entertainment and education. |
| Casey Tanner | LELO sexpert and certified sex therapist. |
