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11 long distance sex toys to level-up your LDR, according to our team of sex writers

Trust us, you need these toys for your next FaceTime sex sesh...

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best luxury sex toys uk 2024

Long distance relationships can be more than a little tricky. Whether it’s different time zones, awkward FaceTime dates (which trigger serious lockdown dating flashbacks) or the weight of perennially yearning for your SO, there are so many hurdles to navigating an LDR.

Not to freak you out buuuut (!) a survey of 1200 people in the US and Europe by Superdrug Online Doctor revealed that while 91% of respondents had attempted a long-distance relationship, around half of those ended in a breakup.

The good news? Turns out that a naughty FaceTime or two may well be the key to a successful LDR. The couples who enjoyed a touch of ~ phone sex ~ were more likely to stay together. But long-distance sex doesn’t begin and end with phone sex — far from it.

In fact, there are a whole load of tech-y sex toys, often controlled via apps, which mean that virtual sex sessions don't have to be restricted to sexting — they can even include remote-controlled orgasms, programmed by your partner even if they're not in the room!

And while app-controlled toys are a great way to make it feel like you and your partner are getting freaky in the sheets together once more, more regular toys can also be a lot of fun... Using a vibe while video calling your boyf/girlf/themf can be a great way to take things to the next level.

Must-have long-distance sex toys to shop now

How to choose the right long-distance sex toy for you

As Dr Melissa Cook, a sex therapist at FunWithFeet explains, finding the right toy is crucial. “There are many designed for long-distance play, including app-controlled devices,” she says.

The benefits of app-controlled toys

A range of toys can be used for long-distance play but — take our word for it — those controlled by an app should be high up on your list. “App-controlled toys are great for adding an element of surprise and variety to long-distance relationships,” Cook explains.

“With these toys, one partner controls the other’s toy remotely, resulting in a daring and playful experience packed with anticipation,” she adds.

Using other toys

There are loooots of benefits to app-controlled toys but often they do have one negative: they can be a biiiit spenny. So, if these tech-charged vibes are out of your price range, don't fret — you can enjoy simpler toys too, you just need to know how to use them. (The old adage 'it's not what you've got, it's how you use it' still rings true.)

“One of the biggest benefits of incorporating sex toys into long-distance relationships is that it helps to maintain intimacy, however far away you are from each other,” says Cook.

You might want to use your fave rabbit while on a FaceTime call with your partner, or let them know that you're playing with a G-spot toy while you're texting them. “When an experience with a sex toy is shared via video call, for example, it helps partners to feel more connected and closer while reducing feelings of loneliness,” Cook explains.

How we test the best long-distance sex toys

With a team of sex toy aficionados at our disposal, we tapped three testers — sex writers who all have vulvas but identify across a spectrum of sexuality, gender identity and age.

Being sure to start by reading the instructions in full, examining the toy, its box and any included extras (if they exist), we sent off our testers with some water-based lube and let them get down to business.

While climaxing isn't the be-all and end-all of sex, our volunteers aimed for an orgasm, testing every pattern and feature en route and roping in willing partners and FWBs in the process.

Best long-distance sex toys at a glance

The 11 best long-distance sex toys in 2024

1
Best luxury toy

LELO TOR 3 Vibrating Cock Ring

On Sale
TOR 3 Vibrating Cock Ring
Now 25% Off

Pros

  • Velvety soft silicone
  • A hefty eight settings

Cons

  • It might be a smidge too narrow for girthier penises

Swedish brand LELO make *incred* sex toys, using the best materials, aesthetic design and state-of-the-art tech. The TOR 3 is no exception.

This vibrating cock ring is made from stretchy silicone and can not only enhance erections but also offers eight vibration settings that send rumbly vibrations up and down his shaft and can be used to deliver some gorgeous clitoris stimulation during partnered sex.

In an LDR, we'd recommend making the most of the toy's app-control function.

“This toy not only provides longer-lasting and more intense erections but can also deliver vibrations for the clitoris during internal stimulation,” explains Dr Melissa Cook, a sex therapist at FunWithFeet.

“Remotely, it can heighten the sense of connection, by being used during a video call while your partner watches and enjoys your reactions.”

FeaturesEight settings, app-connected, made from fully flexible silicone and two hours run time
In the boxManual, charging cable, lube sachet, satin storage pouch and warranty card
MaterialBody-safe silicone, ABS plastic
WaterproofYou betcha!
PowerRechargeable
2
Best app-controlled toy

We-Vibe Jive 2 App Controlled Love Egg Vibrator

Jive 2 App Controlled Love Egg Vibrator

Pros

  • Hands-free
  • Blended orgasms galore!

Cons

  • You're gonna want to use this *allll* the time

We-Vibe are a sex toy brand renowned for making powerful, app-controlled toys, many of which are ideal for an LDR situ.

This love egg vibrator is ideal for hands-free pleasure. You don't need to hold it in place as it's fully wearable and is designed so that the bulbous, internal arm nestles against your G-spot and the flexible external arm targets your clitoris.

Oh, and did we mention that it's controllable via the We-Vibe app for long-distance intimacy?

“Designed to be worn internally, this sex toy is app-controlled and allows your partner to take control — wherever they are,” says Cook.

“Don’t be afraid to try different patterns and intensities. Using it during a video call can add a visual element to your solo sexual experience.”

FeaturesHands-free, quiet, 90 minutes run time,10 strong settings, G-spot stimulation, four inches insertable length and controlled via one button, the remote, or an app
In the boxRemote control, satin drawstring bag, USB cable and We-Vibe lubricant sample
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofSubmersible
PowerRechargeable
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3
Best wand vibrator

Lovehoney Dream Mini Massage Wand

Dream Mini Massage Wand

Pros

  • Ideal for shower play
  • Lots of powerrrrrr
  • Travel-friendly (which is rare for a wand, FYI)

Cons

  • For external use ONLY 🙅‍♂️
  • Not app-controlled

This flexible mini wand is made from silky soft silicone and has a super easy-to-use LED display that cycles through rainbow lights, meaning that you can find your fave setting at a glance.

Plus it's loaded with an ~impressive~ seven vibration settings, which come with four intensity settings each.

“Ideal for targeted pleasure, this wand comes with rechargeable features, so you’ll never run out of pleasure during those must-have moments,” Cook explains.

“Why not ask your partner to instruct you remotely about where to use the wand and how to create a shared experience, no matter the distance?”

FeaturesTravel-friendly, seven vibration patterns with four intensity levels each
In the boxUSB charging cable
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofSubmersible, for dreamy shower play
PowerRechargeable
4
Best rabbit vibrator

We-Vibe X Lovehoney Nova 2 App Controlled Rechargeable Rabbit Vibrator

On Sale
X Lovehoney Nova 2 App Controlled Rechargeable Rabbit Vibrator
Credit: Lovehoney

Pros

  • External arm stays in contact with the clit
  • Fully adjustable internal arm

Cons

  • Make sure you've got loooots of lube on hand!

Plenty of us out there love rabbit vibrators, AKA toys that come with both an internal and external arm in order to give us those sought-after blended orgasms.

This toy from We-Vibe takes the rabbit vibe to the next level. Fully app-controlled and with 10 vibration modes, it'll go a long way in making those lonely, frustrating nights a little more bearable.

It's got plenty of fancy tech-y qualities, such as an external arm which stays in constant contact with the clitoris and flexes with each movement.

In short, this toy is *chef's kiss*.

FeaturesFully flexible internal arm, dual stimulation, fits a range of body types, dual motor, 10 vibration modes and app-controlled
In the boxCharging cable and storage bag
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofYessir 💦
PowerRechargeable
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5
Best long-life vibrator

Lovense Lush 3 Love Egg Vibrator

On Sale
Lush 3 Love Egg Vibrator

Pros

  • Lasts for a whopping five hours from one charge!
  • Exreeeeemely powerful

Cons

  • Will any other toy match up?

We have spoken about the Lovense Lush 3 Love Egg Vibrator *at length* at Cosmo HQ. Touted as the most powerful bluetooth-operated sex toy in the world, this lil egg vibrator is designed to stimulate your G-spot and clitoris with extra quiet vibrations.

When you connect to a corresponding app, it can be controlled remotely, allowing you to explore an endless array of patterns. But the joys of the app certainly do NOT end there: you can also send voice notes, chat or video chat using the partner function.

Oh, and then there's the fact that you get up to five hours play off of one charge...

FeaturesThree speeds, four vibration patterns, app-controlled and sound-activated, with *wait for it* five hours of continuous use from one charge!!
In the boxCharging cord, storage pouch and detailed instruction manual
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofFully submersible, baby!
PowerRechargeable, with magnetic charging port
6
Best sex machine

The Cowgirl Cone App Controlled Ride On Sex Machine

Cone App Controlled Ride On Sex Machine

Pros

  • 20 vibration patterns and 10 intensities!
  • Two attachments

Cons

  • She's spenny (but worth it)

Okay, we admit, the world of sex machines can feel a little bit intimidating. These pieces of tech often have powerful thrusting mechanisms *buuuuut* the drawback is that they can be a lil bit unwieldy.

The Cowgirl Cone Sex Machine, however, is portable (v unusual for a sex machine) and made from high-quality silicone. It boasts a whole host of powerful vibrations and comes with two attachments: one dildo attachment for G-spot and internal stimulation and one textured saddle attachment for dreamy grinding.

The best bit? It's also app-controlled so that your partner can control your pleasure from a distance...

FeaturesApp controlled, 20 vibration patterns, 10 intensities, wide suction cup base and two interchangeable silicone attachments
In the boxTwo attachments, remote control, USB charging cable and user manual
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofShe's fully submersible!
PowerRechargeable
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7
Best cock ring

We-Vibe We-Vibe Vibrating Cock Ring

We-Vibe Vibrating Cock Ring

Pros

  • Makes erections last longer 🍆
  • 10 settings!

Cons

  • Works best for IRL partnered sex :(

Cock rings are seriously underrated — ICYMI: they can make erections better and even last longer. With some intense vibrations, this cock ring from We-Vibe helps men and people with penises build up a really strong orgasm and feels amazing in IRL partnered sex as it vibrates against the clit.

Thanks to the We-Connect app, it's also controllable remotely, no matter where you and your partner are. This app offers a whole range of tailored sensations and vibration patterns, making it easy to tease and pleasure a partner from a distance.

It's definitely one of the best vibrating cock rings we've come across, and a great tool for navigating the sexual droughts of an LDR...

FeaturesApp-controlled, 10 settings and stretchy silicone
In the boxUSB cable, user guide and lube
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofEnter the splash zone, this diva is fully submersible
PowerRechargeable
8
Best butt plug

Lovense Vibrating Butt Plug

On Sale
Vibrating Butt Plug
Now 53% Off
Credit: Lovense

Pros

  • Works for all genders
  • Loooong battery life
  • Can sync to music if you're feeling extra

Cons

  • Spennier than most butt plugs (but v worth it)

This app-controlled vibrating butt plug comes with a choice of sizes for either beginner or intermediate users.

This one (RRP £156, on sale for £74) is the extra small beginner size, at one inch diameter. All other sizes come in at the same price (RRP £179, on sale for £94) and cater for intermediate to advanced anal play. As the size increases, so does the battery life — with the smallest size lasting for two hours and the largest size lasting for a whopping 11 hours.

Not only does the corresponding app offer unlimited vibration patterns, it can also be synced to music, if you and your partner are feeling ~ creative ~.

FeaturesWearable, discreet, app-controlled, flared base for safety and two hours of run time
In the boxCharging cord, storage pouch and detailed instruction manual
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofUh-huh! Put it to the test in the bath or shower
PowerRechargeable, magnetic charging port
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9
Best male masturbator

LELO F1S V2 Male Masturbator

On Sale
F1S V2 Male Masturbator
Now 25% Off

Pros

  • Dual motor
  • Four pleasure programmes with seven vibrations *each*
  • App-controlled

Cons

  • Cleaning!!

This gorge masturbator is from premium brand LELO, which we're all a little bit obsessed with on the Cosmo team.

Designed for people with penises, this masturbator is designed so that you slip a dick inside its pliable sleeve (after pouring in pleeenty of lube) and let the intense vibrations carry you away into a world of pleasure.

As well as boasting dual motors, the toy creates deep sonic waves that reverberate through the shaft. It also makes use of LELO's unique Cruise Control feature, which prevents any dip in power throughout a session.

Controlled via an app, it's ideal for spicing up a sexting session...

FeaturesDual motor, four pleasure programmes with seven vibrations each, app-controlled, up to two hours of user time and soft and flexible sleeve
In the boxUSB-charging cord, warranty card and detailed instruction manual
MaterialBody-safe silicone, ABS, aluminium alloy
Waterproof100% waterproof
PowerRechargeable
10
Best customisable toy

We-Vibe App Controlled Rechargeable Cordless Wand Vibrator

On Sale
App Controlled Rechargeable Cordless Wand Vibrator

Pros

  • Comes with two extra attachments
  • Ergonomic handle
  • 10 vibration modes

Cons

  • For external use ONLY 🙅‍♂️

This cordless, rumbly and surprisingly quiet wand vibrator comes with two fun attachments that allow for a customisable experience.

You can play with the wand solo or add its included clitoral flutter attachment or a penis stroker attachment — whichever you fancy, really.

It boasts an ergonomic handle (to help you try and avoid tennis elbow... we've all been there) and a respectable 10 vibration modes, but the best bit is that it's controllable via an app, making long distance lovin' that much easier to attain.

Word to the wise, however, this toy is designed exclusively for external play — don't try to insert it anywhere!

Features10 vibration modes, clitoral flutter attachment, app-controlled, penis stroker attachment, ergonomic handle and two hours of run time
In the boxTwo attachments, remote control and charging cable
MaterialSilicone
Waterproof100%
PowerRechargeable via magnetic cable
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11
Best G-spot toy

We-Vibe Rave 2 App Controlled G-Spot Vibrator

Rave 2 App Controlled G-Spot Vibrator
Credit: Lovehoney

Pros

  • Travel lock
  • Dual motor
  • Adjustable fit for all bodies

Cons

  • It's hard to remember your name with orgasms this strong...

Another We-Vibe toy to the add to the list (what can we say, they're the GOAT of long distance toys) this G-spot vibrator boasts two motors: one that targets the G-spot and another aimed at the vaginal opening (where about 90% of the vaginal nerve endings are located).

It's an updated version of We-Vibe's beloved Rave toy — which is designed to be twisted not thrusted, so as to ensure prolonged contact with the G-spot. The Rave 2.0 comes with an adjustable hinge, meaning that you can bend and adjust its shape so that it perfectly fits with your body.

Of course, if you're not so into penetration, you can also use the vibe on your clit...

Aaaand it's app-controlled!

FeaturesApp-controlled, G-spot stimulation, travel lock, 10 vibration modes and 10 vibration intensities per motor, dual motor and adjustable fit
In the boxStorage bag, charging cable and user manual
MaterialSilicone
WaterproofSubmersible, hunny!
PowerRechargeable
line

How to use long-distance sex toys

So, now you know that sex toys can be seriiiiously useful for navigating an LDR! To help you on your way, here’s a little expert advice on how to use them, according to a sex therapist.

Set the mood

“My biggest tip when it comes to sex toys and long-distance relationships is to set the scene for your virtual date,” says Cook.

In order to do that, treat it like it’s an IRL romantic rendez-vous. “Play soft music, light some candles and make sure you’ve both got privacy,” she advises. “This can all help you to feel more relaxed and connected in the moment.”

Talk talk (as Charli XCX would say)

Don’t be shy when it comes to speaking up about your wants and desires — sometimes it can be easier to discuss these over text than in person. “Don’t be afraid to communicate. Tell your partner what you’d like to try, what you’d like them to try and what you need sexually.”

Honesty is the best policy

Chat up front about what you want — or don’t want — before you jump into a naughty session. “Be honest about your boundaries, concerns and preferences,” Cook recommends. “This will help both partners to feel more comfortable.”

Headshot of Megan Wallace
Megan Wallace
Former Sex and Relationships Editor

Megan Wallace (they/them) is Cosmopolitan UK’s Former Sex and Relationships Editor covering sexual pleasure, sex toys, LGBTQIA+ identity, dating and romance. They have covered sexuality and relationships for over five years and are the founder of the PULP zine, which publishes essays on culture and sex. In their spare time, they can be found exploring the London kink scene and planning dates on Feeld. 

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