Vibrator Buying Guide
Vibrators tend to be expensive, much like any other kind of technology you use today. But unlike laptops, smartphones, and voice-activated speakers, you can’t go to a store and take a vibrator for a test drive. Likewise, you can’t order one online, have it shipped to the privacy of your home, and then return it when you find the product to be lacking in some way.
![]()
Needless to say, if you’re going to put money into one of these, you better make sure it’s the right one for you.
In the following guide to finding the best vibrator, we’ve included all the questions you might ask whether you’re a first-time buyer or you’re looking for ways to improve your sex toy play.
Where Can I Buy a Vibrator?
If this is your first time, we’d suggest you go to your local sex toy shop. Or you can always pop into your local mall’s Spencer’s and head to the back of the store where they store all their sex toys.
![]()
While this may seem intimidating, you’ll soon realize that the other people browsing the shelves are there for the same reason and that it’s a judgment-free zone. The same goes for the sales associates who are well-trained and knowledgeable in the ways of getting off. Trust us, they’ll be more than happy to guide you to a great vibrator.
But let’s say you’re not comfortable doing that. That’s totally fine. That’s why there are online sex toy stores like Babeland, Adam & Eve, and Good Vibrations. Amazon has some pretty awesome vibrators for sale as well (see our picks for the best vibrators above). Just make sure that you buy directly from the manufacturer and not a third-party reseller.
How Do I Choose a Vibrator?
Ugh. That’s a big question and there’s no one cut-and-dry answer. Instead, you’ll need to assess a number of variables in order to determine which one is right for you. While we can’t tell you what exactly to look for, the following questions will help you make that determination on your own:
- What is your budget?
- Will you use this just for yourself or will you integrate it into your sex life, too? And will you use it in private or bring it out in public (which you can do with remote vibrators)?
- Where do you plan on using this? Does it need to look discrete for that reason? Will it need to be waterproof?
- How loud is too loud? (Note: the bigger, more powerful vibrators tend to be the loudest.)
- Do you need any special features outside of adjusting speed?
What Kinds of Vibrators Are There?
Vibrators, like other sex toys, come in all different shapes, sizes, speeds, and colors. So, how do you know which one is the best vibrator for you? Well, start by familiarizing yourself with the different kinds available.
External Vibrators
Vibrators that are meant for external play typically aim to stimulate the woman’s clitoris; however, that’s not always the case.
External vibrators can be used to stimulate other parts of the body like the nipples, labia, perineum, and penis shaft. These kinds of vibrators are also great for foreplay and can be used to stimulate any part of your body really, like your neck, stomach, inner thighs, and anything else you might be stimulated by.
![]()
Vibrators that are strictly meant for external play tend to be on the smaller side (though not always) and can come in the form of wands, bullets, finger attachments, and rings.
Internal Vibrators
Vibrators that are meant for internal play typically aim to stimulate the woman’s G-spot or the man’s or woman’s P-spot.
Because they’re meant for insertion, they tend to be longer (like a dildo) and are less discrete than external vibrators. That said, some vibrator manufacturers have gotten creative in recent years and designed internal vibrators that can be placed and left inside of you. They are then controlled remotely.
External-Internal Vibrator Combo
There are also vibrators that work well for external and internal play.
Some allow you to switch between stimulating yourself (or your partner) externally and internally while others are meant for dual stimulation. You can tell which is which by how they look. A dual stimulation toy will have two distinctive looking pieces to it, one meant for insertion while the other stimulates the outside. The rabbit-style of vibrator is the one most commonly associated with this dual-action feature.
Is Internal or External Vibration Best?
If you’ve had enough experience with getting yourself or your partner off, you should have a good idea as to whether internal or external stimulation (or both) works best for you. So, whatever gets the job done manually is likely what will get the job done mechanically.
Now, if you’re brand new to this whole thing and are hoping that a vibrator will bring a sort of sexual awakening to your life (which many people find is the case), then we’d suggest you start with an internal vibrator. The reason for this is simple: even though you should always begin your explorations externally, an internal vibrator is more versatile than one that is strictly meant for external play.
![]()
So, let’s say you start using your external vibrator, but find that it doesn’t do much for yourself. You’re kind of stuck with it, aren’t you? But, let’s say you buy an internal vibrator. There’s nothing that says you can’t use that wand on yourself externally at first. You’re then free to experiment with internal stimulation once you’re comfortable with it.
As for the external-internal combo vibrators, never start with those as a beginner. You’ll want to test the waters and figure out how your body responds to stimulation before taking on an advanced toy like that.
What Should a Vibrator Be Made Of?
Ideally, you’ll want a vibrator that is made from silicone. If you can find a medical-grade silicone vibrator, that would be best. Silicone is the safest material, not just for your own protection (since it’s non-porous), but also in terms of being able to clean it.
Hard plastic vibrators are fine as well, though they don’t always feel as nice. Just be sure to stay away from vibrators made with rubber as the material is not conducive to clean or safe play.
How Do I Take Care of My Vibrator?
There are generally two types of vibrators: ones with batteries and rechargeable ones. Regardless of which kind you have, always check the cleaning instructions before you wash it for the first time (which you should do before the first use).
How to Clean:
Always clean your vibrator with warm water and soap. Check instructions to see if your vibrator is dishwasher-safe before placing it in there.
If you are unable to clean or sterilize your vibrator before the next session, make sure to place a condom on it.
When to Clean:
Clean your vibrator after every use and with each partner you have. You will also want to clean your vibrator between uses if you intend on inserting it into different parts of your body (i.e. the vagina and anus).
What to Do with Batteries:
If your vibrator has batteries, remember to take them out before you wash your vibrator. You should also get in the practice of removing batteries any time your vibrator is not in use. Batteries can corrode over time and may ruin the unit if left unchecked inside.
How Do I Use a Vibrator for the First Time?
You’ve purchased your vibrator and you’re ready to get down to it… but not so fast! Vibrators need to be eased into, so take your time.
Before you begin, first inspect the vibrator:
- Does it require batteries? If so, insert a fresh set.
- Does it have a charger? If so, take time to fully charge it before using.
- Look at the vibrator. Does it have any sharp edges? Does the unit appear to be fully intact? If you have any concerns with exposed seams or wires, contact the manufacturer immediately.
- Turn it on. Familiarize yourself with each of the settings and features before using.
Now, you’re ready to use it:
- Find yourself a private and relaxed setting. Don’t be ashamed to set the mood for yourself.
- Begin by stimulating yourself manually. The more turned on you can make yourself, the easier it will be to use the vibrator.
- Once you’re turned on, use the vibrator on your torso to get a feel for how intense the vibrations are. Experiment with pressure and speed there to find the perfect setting.
- Then you can move it to your clit.
- Play around with the settings and pressure there as well. Each body part may respond differently, so have fun with it and test your boundaries.
- Once you’re comfortable using it externally, you can then move to internal play. Start shallow and then go deeper when you’re ready.
- If you’re using internal vibrators, don’t forget the lube. Just be sure you use a water-based lubricant as silicone lubricant will destroy silicone vibrators.
- Feel free to simultaneously play with yourself. Vibrators aren’t just about letting the “machine” do the work. They’re about enhancing the experience and getting you to climax.
- Always learn the ins and outs of your vibrator and how it works for you by yourself before bringing a partner in for play.
How Do I Know Which Speed or Vibration Works Best?
Much like everything else related to using vibrators, this will be a personal choice. Just remember that this isn’t a race or a competition. The vibrator is meant to work for you however you want it to.
![]()
To find out what your “best” setting is, start on the lowest setting and with very light pressure. You can then play with speed, pressure, penetration, and even with the sides of the vibrator to find your Goldilocks sweet spot.
Can I Use a Vibrator for Anal Play?
While you can use a vibrator for anal play, we’d suggest you get one specifically made for that purpose. You can, of course, use the same one for vaginal and external play, but you’ll have to be very careful about cleaning it between uses, which is why we recommend either getting an anal attachment for your regular vibrator or buying a separate one altogether.
If you do buy a separate anal vibrator, be sure that it’s smooth and has a wide base so that it won’t accidentally slip all the way in.
How Do I Use a Vibrator with a Partner?
First, we want to mention that it’s perfectly normal and healthy if you want to use a vibrator or any other sex toy while you play with a partner. We’ve heard a lot of concerns about this from partners who worry that a wife/girlfriend/lover wanting to introduce a vibrator into the bedroom is a bad sign. Which it absolutely is not.
![]()
If your partner wants to use a vibrator, think about the “why” behind it. It’s not that they’re trying to replace you. A vibrator can help people get to orgasm—and often much faster—which is a great thing. It’s a sign that your partner has a healthy libido and wants to ensure that you both have a fun time while you work on satisfying that craving.
Also, a vibrator is a great tool for foreplay and can also take a lot of work out trying to get your partner off. You can use it:
- To tease your partner.
- To assist during oral sex.
- To assist during vaginal or anal sex.
- To experiment with new sensations on you or your partner: different angles, different body parts, different types of vibrations, and so on.
Vibrators are a great way to spice up your sex life, whether it’s for solo play or with a partner. If it makes your partner happier in the bedroom and increases pleasure on both your ends exponentially, then why not give it a whirl?
Join the conversation
8 Best Vibrators Guaranteed to Make You Say 'O'
Thanks for reading my article. I value your feedback and invite you to join the conversation:
- Share your opinion on the list
- Suggest an item for consideration
- Review items you've tried
— Kara