Real talk: Vibrators are probably one of the greatest inventions of all time—one that can majorly enhance your sex life (both solo and partnered, BTW) and provide a pretty direct path to orgasm. Even better news? In this advanced era of sex tech, you have plenty of options when it comes to selecting your vibe of choice. So many options, in fact, that navigating the sex toy market can honestly be, like, a little overwhelming sometimes! From vibrators shaped like lipstick or roses to powerful wands and thrusting vibes to wearable ones you can use with a partner, finding the right vibrator for you (or the latest to introduce to your collection) can seem a tad stressful, especially if you’re buying your first sex toy.
But fear not! To help you on your journey into the wonderful world of vibrating pleasure, we spoke to several sex experts to break down the various types of vibrators out there and how to use ’em. And because we love you, we’ve obviously included multiple recommendations for each category to cover all needs and budgets that you can shop right now. (YW!)
Before we break down the 10 most common types of vibrators you’re likely to encounter, however, let’s first chat for a sec about all the wonderful reasons to introduce one to your sex life, as well as debunk some pesky misconceptions.
What Are the Benefits of Owning a Vibrator?
Well, to start, there’s the whole coming your face off thing (hence why vibrators made our list of ways to have a fast orgasm). But perhaps most importantly, sex toys can help you learn about your body.
“Most of us, especially female-bodied people, were taught to please our partners over pleasing ourselves, and therefore, never learned what feels good,” says certified sex therapist Holly Richmond, Ph.D., Associate Director of Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. “Vibrators give us a chance to explore what kind of stimulation we like (clitoral or penetrative, to name two) and even what positions work best.”
So, even if you have a partner who is a total sex god (or goddess), spending some quality time one-on-one with the buzzy company of your vibrator can help you learn what feels good and then communicate that to others. Oh, and it’s also super empowering to realize that you don’t need anyone else to have an orgasm of a lifetime, JFYI.
Not to mention, there are literal, physical benefits to all those orgasms, too. “Vibrators can contribute to stress relief, relaxation, and enhanced blood flow, potentially leading to better sexual health,” says clinical psychologist and certified sexologist Denise Renye. “For some folks, they may aid in pain relief, particularly for menstrual cramps or pelvic discomfort.”
So yeah, lots of good stuff there!
Can You Overuse a Vibrator?
One of the biggest vibrator fears (and myths!) out there is that you can “burn out” or desensitize your clit. Fear not, orgasm lovers—the short answer is: No! However, Richmond does caution against getting too used to the same exact vibrations and patterns. Basically, always getting off the same way with your trusty vibe can make it more difficult to cum with a partner or via other forms of stimulation—although Richmond notes that variety is key when it comes to pretty much everything about sex, not just vibrators.
“What we’re looking for is erotic flexibility, meaning we have a menu of items that turn us on or get us off, not just one or two things,” Richmond explains. She suggests switching up which kind of vibrator you use (all the more encouragement to expand your collection!), when you use it, and how you use it. Doing so can lead to discovering new avenues of pleasure, whether you’re enjoying the buzz solo or with a partner.
Now, let’s break down all the different types of vibrators out there that may soon find a home in your pleasure chest, shall we?
1. Bullet Vibrators
Bullet vibrators are super-cute and ideal for beginners. “Compact and versatile, bullet vibrators are typically small, discreet, and easy to handle. They are often used for targeted clitoral stimulation but can also be used on other erogenous zones,” Renye says. Another benefit of these small but mighty vibes? They’re super travel-friendly, so you can easily pack one in your luggage or slip it into your purse before date night.
PlusOne makes a cute (and affordable) vibrating bullet we love. If you’re down to spend a little more, check out Je Joue’s Classic Bullet Vibe.
And if you want something that feels a little more fun and flirty, opt for a lipstick vibrator like the Bad Bitch Lipstick Vibe, a slightly different shape that offers the same benefits of your standard bullet.
2. Wand Vibrators
Okay, so wand vibrators are kind of the OG...and they’re also kind of the antithesis of bullet vibes. They’re big and bulky—but have a reputation for giving some of the most powerful orgasms you’ll ever experience. Sex therapist Kelly Wise, Ph.D, LCSW-R, CST recommends the “old school” Magic Wand Rechargeable Personal Massager that “feels like a durable piece of machinery that will last.” Some other faves include the Lelo Smart Wand 2 and, if you’re looking for a smaller and/or more affordable option, the Tiny Wand Emojibator.
3. Wearable Vibrators
“Wearable” is a pretty broad category, but the name says it all. Sometimes, wearable vibrators refer to a toy you can wear all on your own while running errands (kinky), like the We-Vibe Bloom or panty vibrators like CalExotics Original Venus Butterfly Vibrator. “Panty vibes with remote controls can be fun for exploring public play, are great for accessibility, and are easy to hold,” says sex educator Carly S. This category also includes delicate jewelry that doubles as a (v discreet) vibrator, like the oh-so-gorgeous Crave Vesper Necklace Vibe.
But perhaps most often, and overlapping with the “couples vibrator” category (which, keep reading), wearable vibrators refer to a vibrator that tucks into your vagina and lies over your clit, which can be worn during penetrative sex. Richmond’s favorite is the Eva by Dame. “She is sleek and cute, and her ‘wings’ tuck comfortably under a vulva-haver’s labia so she rests on top of the clitoris and can buzz away,” Richmond says, adding that she’s heard rave reviews from her coupled clients.
4. Couples Vibrators
And speaking of couples vibrators (and because there are so many of them), we’re gonna go ahead and dedicate an entire section to these versatile little guys.
“Designed to be used during partnered activities, couples vibrators enhance the sexual experience for both individuals,“ says Renye. “They may provide stimulation to the clitoris, penis, or other erogenous zones during intercourse.” Some of these options include the, *ahem*, Cosmo-approved We-Vibe Chorus, which is app-controlled (putting your partner in charge of your pleasure in an ultra-kinky way that can bring elements of dominance and submission to the table), and wraps around the clit while also pleasuring the vaginal walls.
An option for people with penises (or those having sex with them) includes the Lelo Tor 3, a vibrating couples ring that snuggly wraps around the base of the penis and can stimulate a vagina-having partner’s clit during penetrative intercourse.
5. Suction Vibrators
As the name would suggest, suction vibrators create, well, a suction sensation around the clitoris. They use air rather than just vibration and can lead to some pretty unique and intense orgasms as a result. Some of our favorites? The Womanizer Premium, the Dame Aer, and, of course, the TikTok-favorite rose vibrator.
“These toys are great because they surround the clit or nipples with air and mimic the feeling of oral sex,” says Carly, adding that, while these vibes aren’t so intense that they’ll intimidate beginners, they offer enough sensation to be a great option for those who like strong stimulation and wands as well.
6. Rabbit Vibrators
Made famous by *that* Sex and the City episode, rabbit vibrators (like the this one) can look like actual bunny rabbits, but they refer more broadly to toys that provide both clitoral and internal stimulation at the same time. Another luxe option is the Soraya 2 from Lelo if you prefer a modern take on the classic rabbit design.
7. G-Spot Vibrators
Okay, so here’s the thing: The existence of the G-spot is highly contested. In fact, we have an entire article debunking it. But there’s no denying that some people with vaginas do experience intense pleasure and orgasms from internal penetration, and while the G-spot may not technically exist, so-called G-spot vibrators absolutely do.
“G-Spot vibrators often have a curved or bulbous design to facilitate precise stimulation of this erogenous zone,” says Carly. Two of our faves include the Cici Waterproof Silicone Vibrator and the G-Thriller from Lovehoney.
8. Waterproof Vibrators
Vibrators of all kinds can be waterproof (and many of them are!). But these splash-worthy delights warrant a category of their own, especially the ones that really lean into the whole underwater sex theme. (Like, ahem, this super adorable little starfish from Cute Little Fuckers).
Oh, and quick little PSA: Make sure you know the difference between waterproof vibes and water-resistant ones. Water-resistant toys can get wet, say, in the shower. But only waterproof ones can be safely submerged, so double check before you dunk your precious cargo.
9. Anal Vibrators
BTW, vibrators aren’t just for clits and vaginas! While you can press most vibes against your nipples or any other erogenous zones, there are some made specifically for anal play.
“Designed for anal stimulation, these toys come in various shapes and sizes, including beads, plugs, and prostate massagers,” says Renye. “They can enhance pleasure and provide a unique sensation due to the high concentration of nerve endings in the anal area.” These are awesome options if you’re into butt play, but they can also be worn during partnered vaginal sex or while stimulating the clit for next-level pleasure.
Some of our faves include these Vibrating Snug Plugs, the Petite Sensations Vibrating Anal Plug , and, of course, the B-Vibe Rimming Plug Petite. Oh, and obvs don’t forget to use lube. (Please.)
10. Oral Sex Simulators
Have you ever wanted head but, like, without another person present? Yeah, us, too. With the advent of oral sex simulators like the Ora 3 from Leo or the Aria Flutter Tongue you can actually have that! (Or add it to your partnered sex life, because sometimes two tongues are better than one).
