Cock rings are great sex toys to experiment with if you have a penis, but they also have the power to elevate your experiences if you have a vulva, making them one of the best options for couples. As toys go, they’re easy to use and claim to make erections stronger and longer-lasting.
Some of the more complex styles offer vibrating bullets and bunny ears for clit action during penetrative sex, and some offer extra features for prostate massage and textural intensity. So, whatever’s in your pants, a cock ring can probably add an extra level of pleasure to your partnered sex experience.
There’s a cock ring for every budget, and so many to choose from, whether you want a basic one or fancy something a little more top of the range. Read on for how to use one and some of our tried-and-tested recommendations.
Best cock rings at a glance
What does a cock ring do?
Cock rings work by restricting blood from flowing back down the penis, which can make erections feel firmer. This means that some people use them to make penetrative sex last longer. “Using a cock ring can help maintain an erection for longer, delay ejaculation, and enhance sensation,” explains April Maria, sex and relationships coach and in-house therapist at Hot Octopuss. The pressure can provide a pleasant sensation and can make masturbation and partnered sex feel great.
Vibrating cock rings do all that but (no prizes for guessing this one) have the added bonus of vibrating against and stimulating the penis shaft for extra erogenous sensations. They’re also great option for partnered sex because many of them are designed to vibrate against your partner’s clit — i.e. double the orgasmic joy!
Some shapes of vibrating cock ring are better suited to different bodies, so it might take a bit of time to figure out what works best for you and your partner. Some rings offer firm bunny ears that vibrate; some more flexible jelly ears. Others are simpler in design with a broad top half that’s perfect for clit grinding; while some boast a removable bullet vibe for maximum power and vibrating surface area.
Benefits of using a cock ring
There are several benefits of using a cock ring. As we’ve already covered, they can help someone keep an erection longer and add a little something extra for the person being penetrated. But what about the person *wearing* the cock ring?
“Cock rings can help increase sensitivity,” says Maria. “In some cases, they can help delay orgasm, offering a sense of control and even help users explore edging during sex.”
Okay, and we knows that all sounds great in theory, but you don’t need to only take it from us. Cock ring users hugely hype up the tool tuggers, too. “The confidence boost is an incredible turn-on,” explains one Reddit user. “Even rocking a semi feels very pleasurable, as it looks like I’m hung like a porn star,”
Another adds that cock rings can make sex more pleasurable, even without an orgasm: “The type of ring that goes over both cock and balls can feel extremely pleasurable to the wearer. The ring presses against the underside of your balls and into your pelvic floor. For those not used to the sensation, waves of euphoria and pleasure are common, even without orgasm.”
“I love my cock ring, especially my stainless steel one,” explains a third. “My erections are harder and thicker. They won’t necessarily keep you hard after orgasm but they can certainly help.”
How to use a cock ring
If you’ve never used a cock ring before, you probably have some questions. You may be wondering what a cock ring is and how it works, or whether a plain one is better than a vibrating one. And, while it’s not the sexiest of things to talk about, there is a safety aspect of cock rings to keep in mind.
“While cock rings can be a great addition to your bedside table, there are a few things to keep in mind for safe use,” explains Maria. “It’s important not to wear a cock ring for more than 20 to 30 minutes at a time, and it should never cause pain, numbness, or discolouration to the penis. If any of these symptoms occur, remove it immediately.”
To avoid any ball busting incidents, we’ve rounded up the top tips for how to use a cock ring.
Get the fit of the cock ring right
Snag-free cock ring use starts with buying the right product — so always measure your schlong and compare this to the diameter of the cock ring you’re buying before adding to cart.
It’s worth keeping in mind that silicone cock rings will usually have some stretch, while those made from a rigid material, such as metal, won’t.
Once your new member mate has arrived, you can also tell if it’s the right fit by the sensations it delivers. “A cock ring should feel firm and secure, offering a sense of pressure that enhances arousal without leading to any discomfort,” explains Maria.
“Users often describe a heightened sensitivity and a more intense orgasm. It should never feel painful, cold, or tingly; these are signs that the ring may be too tight or worn for too long. Pleasure is the goal, so always listen to your body.”
Try the cock ring on for size first
It’s recommended that when you use a cock ring, you ‘try it for size’ before relying on it during sex. Cock rings are supposed to restrict blood flow and give the penis a slightly enlarged look, pronouncing veins and red blush to the shaft.
“The ideal cock ring should be snug enough to maintain blood flow but loose enough that it doesn’t dig in or feel restrictive or cause any pain,” Maria says. “You should be able to fit a finger underneath it comfortably.”
If the penis looks much darker than usual, or someone is experiencing discomfort, remove the ring. It’s generally advised that you should remove cock rings after half an hour anyway, and let the blood flow return to normal before giving it another go. Remember that everyone’s comfort and safety should be prioritised.
If you can see visible narrowing of the penis where the cock ring sits, or a very red or blueish colour to the penis, the ring’s too tight and you should remove it immediately. You may be better off trying a larger ring, or one made from softer, stretchier materials instead.
Putting the cock ring on
Begin by applying a small amount of lubricant to the inside of the cock ring — this will help it slide on smoothly, and is good for easier positioning.
When using lubes with sex toys, you always have to check that the product you choose is compatible with the material your sex toy is made from (and condoms, if you’re using them). Water-based lube is suitable to use with all penis rings and condoms, so it’s the safest bet out there — but if you’re using a metal cock ring, you can opt for a silicone lube for added slip.
You’ll also need to prepare your personal equipment. “Cock rings are easiest to put on when semi-erect,” says Maria. Take the time to warm yourself up beforehand, and when you start to notice some movement, it’s time to put it a ring on it.
“Depending on the type of ring, it can be placed around just the base of the penis or around both the penis and testicles, but always check the toy before placing it around the balls,” Maria adds. “Once in place, the ring should feel snug but never tight or painful.”
However, if your cock ring is made from a rigid material such as metal, make sure you slip it down to the base of the penis while it’s still flaccid.
Wearing a cock and ball ring
This can be a single or double ring that sits around both the testicles and the penis. The wearer will probably find this is easier to put on while flaccid, and will need to place the ring around the testicles first.
Place one testicle through the ring followed by the second, leaving the ring sitting around the scrotum, then fold the head of the penis up through the ring. If the wearer finds it difficult, use some lubricant on the cock ring, testicles, and penis to help guide them through.
How to choose the right cock ring for you
There are several different types of cock rings, each with their own appeal. What type to get depends on what sort of experience you’re looking for. If the person wearing it is being oh-so-generous and mainly wants one for their partner’s pleasure, go for a vibrating option for sure. If you’re looking to get a more intense experience for the wearer, try a cock and ball ring.
Feeling a bit confused? Don’t worry, we’ve rounded up all the different cock ring varieties and their benefits.
Types of cock rings
Cock ring for beginners
Basic cock rings and penis rings are cheap and pretty easy to wear and use, but there are so many types to try. The simplest, easiest-to-use, and best toy for beginners are stretchy cock rings.
“Beginners should start with a soft, stretchy material like silicone, rather than rigid metal or leather options,” explains Maria. “You don’t want to cause too much restriction; instead, you want complete control.”
These soft plastic cock rings from Tracey Cox at Lovehoney are available in three sizes, so you can choose one that fits best or use a few at a time if that tickles your fancy.
Vibrating cock rings
Rings with added rumble are, yes, pleasurable for the partner being penetrated (thanks to their motors rubbing against their C-spot or perineum), but they can also transform the penetrating experience for the wearer, too.
This one from Satisfyer has a raised nub to send its 10 vibration settings to your partner’s sweet spots, and can even be controlled by the Satisfyer app.
Cock and ball rings
If you want to try a cock ring that can be worn on the cock and balls, this Tracey Cox Double Stamina Ring is an affordable and good first option for beginners. Formed from super stretchy soft plastic, it’s flexy enough to get your testicles in on the fun.
The only drawback of a soft plastic cock ring is that it’s not the most durable material, so if you want one that will be able to help you get off for longer, go for a silicone option like this one.
Adjustable cock rings
Some people also like the feeling of an adjustable cock ring that goes around the penis and testicles, and that you can customise to your own body and preferences.
This Tracey Cox cock ring is adjustable, thanks to its toggle closure, and can accommodate most sizes.
Metal cock rings
While metal cock rings are for more experienced users, some prefer the firm grasp they provide. Plus, the coolness of the metal can incorporate a touch of temperature play into your soirée, for some added sensations.
Stainless steel is generally the best port of call for metal cock rings, as it’s easy to sterilise. Just make sure you measure up before buying a metal option, as unlike silicone numbers, they don’t stretch (duh...).
This set from Lovehoney comes with five different sized options, so you don’t have to worry about buying the wrong size — and you can even double up with one on the balls, shaft, or base of the penis if you’re feeling experimental.
How we test cock rings
Here at Cosmo, we’re essentially snowed under a sex toy mountain (sounds like a great fate, huh?), so our team is always hard at work testing out the latest and best sex tech.
To make sure we only recommend the highest quality sex toys that will truly spice up your sex life, our sex writer makes sure either she (a cis, queer woman) tests out the cock rings on this list, or she ropes in willing friends, colleagues, and family members that have a penis or a partner with one.
Each tester is asked to assess the products for fit, material, power, effectiveness, and how pleasurable added features like vibration patterns feel — as well as whether their toy is waterproof. The best can be found either on the below list or our round-ups of the best cock rings and vibrating cock rings.
Best cock rings to shop now
Pros
- Triple stimulation
- Waterproof
Cons
- Battery-powered (and not included — boo!)
Get ready for triple the fun! Not only does this Lovehoney cock ring come with two rings – a textured ring for the shaft and another for the balls – but it also boasts vibrating rabbit ears, so both of you can climax at once.
Not just that, but the versatile toy comes with two vibration speeds and three patterns. The bullet is removable, too, so you can have some added hand-held fun.
Pros
- Dual stimulation
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Can’t be used with silicone lube
Made of soft silicone, So Divine’s rechargeable cock ring is flexible and comfortable.
As it comes with a vibrating clit stimulator, it’s also perfect for couples. Choose from its 10 vibration patterns (controlled via its singular button, yipee!), then lie back and enjoy pure pleasure together.
Pros
- Snug fit so you don't have to worry about it sliding around
- Stretchy silicone to accommodate different girths
Cons
- App has some connectivity issues, according to some users
If you want a cock ring that’s powerful, discreet, and super sleek, now’s the time to invest in LELO’s TOR 3. If you're not familiar with LELO's work, its silky silicone is truly unmatched in the sex tech space (we don't know how they do it!), so without having to turn the toy on it provides sensory delight for the wearer.
But with eight powerful vibration settings, this is a toy that provides pleasure for two. You can even sync it with the LELO app so you don't ever have to stop thrusting.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Affordable
Cons
- You'll have to remember which ring is which intensity as they're all the same size
For those wanting to work their way up to better and more prolonged orgasms, then you should give Je Joue’s simple but luxurious cock ring trio a go.
Made from super-soft silicone, each ring gets progressively tighter, so you can experiment with heightened intensities. Plus, they’re really stretchy, so can work with almost any size dick — but don't hold back!
You can also play around with using a ring on your balls and willy at the same time, or if you're playing with another penis-possessor, you could each wear one at the same time.
Pros
- Removable bullet
- Suitable for any shape and size
- Waterproof
Cons
- Battery-powered
- Doesn't go as tight as other rings
This vibrating cock ring from Ann Summers is adjustable, making it suitable to any shapes and sizes – though some reviewers report that it doesn’t go quite as tight as other toys. But that might be a bonus for beginners.
When it comes to vibrations, it boasts 3 speeds and 4 patterns, and the bullet is even removable for precise clitoral stimulation. It’s also waterproof, so you can bring it with you for some shower fun. It is battery-powered, though – but your first three are included.
Pros
- Shape means it won't slide around
- Both of you get in on the fun!
Cons
- Battery only lasts 40 minutes
There's no reason your perineum should miss out while your partner enjoys all the fun. Obviously, Hot Octopuss is clued up on this, as it's created a dual motor vibrating cock ring.
Its wide shape means the five speeds and five patterns are sent forwards to your lover's C-spot or perineum (depending what position you're in) and backwards towards your own perineum.
Plus, the vibes are deep and rumbly, so you don't have to worry about your underside going numb with buzzy vibrations, if that's not your thang.
Pros
- Two motors for shared vibrations
- Rechargeable
- Sleek, modern design
Cons
- Some reviewers say the ring is a little tight
This cock ring by Fun Factory is designed for shared pleasure. Shaped with couples in mind, the NŌS has two flexible rabbit ears, each with its own motor for strong, rumbly vibrations that’ll be felt by both of you.
Not just that, but the actual ring is shaped for maximum pleasure, swapping the traditional circle shape for a circle with textures – to squeeze the shaft in just the right places. There’s one downside of this for some, as a couple of reviewers say that the ring can be a little on the tight side. Something to consider if you’re on the larger side.
This rechargeable cock ring also has 4 vibration settings, a ‘flirt’ setting, and comes with its own biodegradable storage bag. Oh, and it’s waterproof.
Pros
- App-controlled
- Waterproof
Cons
- High-priced
If you’re looking for a premium cock ring, We-Vibe has you covered.
With the Verge, you can choose whether you want your vibrations to pulse, tease, go into ultra, and more, with eight unique modes that’ll hit the spot for both of you.
As an added bonus, you can control it all from the palm of your hand with the We-Vibe app. And, as it’s waterproof, you experiment with wet play, too – maybe leave the app out of that though!
Pros
- Two rings for enhanced pleasure
- Travel lock
- Strong vibrations
Cons
- The ring might be tight for those on the bigger side
- Can be tricky to turn on at times
Not only does Lovehoney’s Bed Ringer cock ring boast a double ring – one goes over the cock and balls, while the other wraps around the shaft – but it also has 12 vibration settings (which reviewers say are impressively powerful) and a rechargeable battery.
Even better, it comes with a travel lock and it’s waterproof – the perfect holiday BFF.
Pros
- Remote-controlled
- Great for long distance lovers
- Removable bullet
- Affordable
Cons
- Can't be used with silicone lube
If you’re interested in a remote-controlled cock ring, but want something on the cheaper side, look no further than this Fusion ring from Ann Summers.
The remote controls the removable bullet, so can be used during partnered or solo play – and for all of your erogenous zones. It’s also rechargeable, so you’ll never be without juice when you need it – something battery-operated toys can’t offer.
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Double ring for extra pleasure
- Waterproof
Cons
- Only compatible with water-based lube
This bright blue cock ring from Bondara comes with not one but two rings – one to loop behind the cock and balls and another to wrap around the shaft. All topped off with 10 rumbly vibration modes, boosting pleasure for you and your partner (or, if you’re solo, just you).
The rings are snug-fitting, too, making this a great choice for anyone who struggles with erectile issues, or who’s just looking for firmer, fuller erections. It’s also rechargeable!
Pros
- Dual stimulation
- Waterproof
Cons
- High price point
This cock ring won’t just get one of you off. As well as boasting an extra-stretchy ring – making it a great fit for most men – iroha’s SVR+ comes with an upright stimulator to expertly target the clit, leaving no surface unpleasured.
Because of its single button operation, it's also super easy to operate, meaning its five vibration intensities and three patterns can even be altered during sex.
Best positions for using a cock ring
So, now that you know how to use a cock ring and you’ve (hopefully) found one that works for you – it’s time to test it out!
If you’re using a cock ring in a couple where one partner has a vulva, that person being on top can be a really great way for them to benefit from the vibrations. There’s easy access to the clitoris in this position, so the built-on vibrator can stimulate the clit much easier.
Straddle Their Saddle
Slip the cock ring on using lots of water-based lube. Have the receiving partner climb on top while the person wearing the cock ring sits on the floor or bed (preferably under a rug or something soft to spare their ankles). The partner on top can then grind away to their heart’s content. The cock ring will vibrate against the penis-having person’s shaft and the partner-on-top’s clitoris.
Row Their Boat
Like Straddle Their Saddle, this is a great one for both partners and their clits and penises. This time, the receiving partner straddles the other on a chair. This means the penetrating partner can sit up, and it also gives the partner-on-top easy leverage as they can put their feet on the chair or sofa and use that to push themselves up and down. Much less tiring; much less hard work; just as pleasurable.
Get Down On It
Another wonderfully easy and intimate cock ring sex position is Get Down On It. The partner on top crosses their legs and sits atop the other. Press yourselves super close so you can kiss and be very cute. This isn’t the best position for when you want hard and fast penetration as it’s difficult to build up speed. So use this one for when you want something slower and more eye-gazey.
Missionary
Missionary is also a good’un, as the vibrating part of the cock ring can come into contact with the clitoris, too. And once you’re in position and got the cock ring on? Grinding is usually more enjoyable than thrusting — this allows the vagina-having partner to maintain maximum contact with the vibrator.
Paisley is the former Sex and Relationships editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She covers everything from sex toys, how to masturbate and sex positions, to all things LGBTQ. She definitely reveals too much about her personal life on the Internet.
Honey is the Senior Sex and Relationships E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health and Men’s Health. She covers shopping guides and reviews of the best sex toys; deals events — including Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday; and sex, dating, and LGBTQ+ trends.
Her journalism career started in 2020 when she started Sextras, a podcast and digital magazine about sex and relationships. Find Sextras on Spotify or Substack, where she writes and chats about everything from positive masculinity and how to practise sex magic, to why the latest kink or porn category is blowing up.
She has an MA in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and previously reported for HR magazine. Her features also appear in Glamour, Refinery29, The Independent, and more.
When she's not asking everyone she meets invasive questions about their sex and dating lives, you'll find Honey singing around her flat, teaching herself a new craft, or working her way through a new '90s/'00s box set with her flatmate.
Emilie Lavinia is Cosmopolitan UK's Former Sex and Relationships Editor. An accredited Sex Educator and Sexologist, Emilie explores identity, equity and innovations in sex, love, wellness and identity with her writing, broadcasting, coaching and commercial work. Emilie has written for the likes of The Guardian, Stylist, Grazia, Woman & Home, Red and Women's Health. She has appeared in documentaries exploring sex and wellbeing by ITV, Channel 5 and the BBC. Emilie has represented the UK as a United Nations Delegate and is a passionate advocate for women's health, LGBTQ+ rights and sex education and public health policy. She is a representative for Young Women's Trust, United Nations Women and The Porn Conversation and works with a number of charities. She loves big books, Bell Hooks, her infrared sauna and her Pomeranian, Ivy Valentine. She lives in London and can give you a rating out of 10 for every sex toy ever invented. Sign up to Emilie's Substack newsletter The Cuff for spice and advice or follow her on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, or her website: emilielavinia.com
