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It’s no surprise that the best vibrators are some of the most popular sex toys around. They’re often more “efficient” than relying on manual labor. (Sort of like strokers for men). And the power that a great vibrator brings to the table can turn a standard sex or masturbation session into a mind-blowing one. An orgasm-by-vibrator feels stronger, and deeper. And that's because, in some ways, it is.
“Vibrators are great tools because they encourage blood flow and engage our nerve endings,” explains Lisa Finn, a sex educator and marketing director for Babeland. “The stimulation that vibes provide can be targeted and direct, or broad and diffused, and those vibrations will travel deeper than the surface of the skin to stimulate hot spots like the internal clitoris, G-spot, or P-spot.”
Oh yeah, which reminds us: while vibrators have historically been—and remain—one of the best sex toys for women, men can also benefit—whether by taking the controls, or getting some prostate or perineum stimulation. Vibrators are also helpful when dealing with sensitivity issues that make it hard for you to feel pleasure or reach orgasm, such as being on antidepressants, which can tamp down sensation. An orgasm isn't a cure, but a vibrator might be just the thing to push you over the edge and at least put a smile on your face.
The Best Vibrators, at a Glance
Shaking in your boots (or wish you were shaking)? Get all the vibrators you want for every single one of your needs.
- The Best Beginner's Vibrator: First Time G-Spot Tulip, $17
- The Best Bullet Vibrator: We-Vibe Tango X, $79
- The Best G-Spot Vibrator: Lelo Mona 2, $139
- The Best Wand Vibrator: Magic Wand Rechargeable, $114
- The Best Rabbit Vibrator: We-Vibe Nova 2, $149
- The Best Couples' Vibrator: Lovense Dolce, $129
- The Best Vibrator for Penises: Fun Factory Manta, $129
- The Best Vibrating Butt Plug: Lovense Hush 2, $119
- The Best Panty Vibrator: Lovense Ferri, $119
- The Best Finger Vibrator: Dame Fin, $90
- The Best Discreet Vibrator: Lovense Exomoon, $79
- The Best Rideable Vibrator: Rocks-Off Ruby Glow Dust, $69
- The Best Mini Wand Vibrator: Bodywand Midnight, $53
What to look for in a vibrator
With all the thousands of vibrators on the market, it can be tough to know what to look for, so here’s a handy breakdown of three qualities any vibrator worth its salt should have.
Good-quality materials: Since the sex toy industry is unregulated, unsafe and irritating materials unfortunately run rampant. You’ll want to look for materials that are non-porous and free of phthalates (a toxic plasticizer found in some sex toys). For vibrators, usually this means silicone and ABS plastic, although some other body-safe sex toy materials include glass, stainless steel, ceramic, and properly sealed wood.
Suitable shape: Think about how you plan on using your vibrator—which body part(s) you want it to work for, which sex position(s) or sex act(s) you want it to fit into, and so on—and then choose a vibrator shape that works for those purposes. For example, you may want a small vibrator if you plan on using it during penetrative sex, and any vibe you’ll be using anally should have a flared base so it doesn’t get lost inside you.
Multiple intensities: Few things are more disappointing than receiving a new sex toy only to discover that it doesn’t work for you. One way to reduce the odds of this happening is to buy a vibe that has at least 5 different intensity settings, so that (hopefully) even if some of them don’t work for you, others will. Some vibrators also have patterns, such as pulsing or wave-like vibrations, which can make the toy even more versatile.
Types of vibrators
While companies seem to invent interesting new vibrator shapes every year, there are a few key vibrator categories that are classics for a reason—why reinvent the wheel (or the wand)? Here are some of them.
Wand vibrator: Originally used as muscle massagers, wand-style vibrators can certainly help you, uh, relieve some tension. These toys tend to be big and heavy, so they may not be right for all positions and sex acts, but they usually make up for their bulkiness with sheer power. If you need (or want) a lot of stimulation to get off, a great wand is your best bet, whether it’s rechargeable or plugs into the wall.
Bullet vibrator: This petite style of vibe, as its name suggests, is small and shaped like a bullet. These are useful for stimulating any external spot that likes vibration, and can fit into small spaces between bodies, making them ideal for pairing with penetrative sex or using with a dildo or strap-on. Usually these vibes are on the weaker side, because their limited size makes it hard to cram a high-powered motor inside, but there are some exceptions.
Finger vibrator: Like bullet vibes, these are usually designed for external use, but finger vibes are different because they have some kind of strap or other feature that attaches them to your finger(s). These are some of the least obtrusive vibrators on the market, because they can make it feel like you’re just touching your partner with your fingers, which happen to be vibrating. They’re typically not the most powerful, but their versatility and ease of use make up for that.
Insertable vibrator: The G-spot, the P-spot, the A-spot—no matter which internal spot you’re looking to stimulate, there’s probably an insertable vibrator that’s up to the task. These are usually longer than vibes meant for external use, so they can hit those erogenous zones. Often, they’ll have a curve that helps them target sensitive areas more effectively. And as mentioned above, vibrators intended for anal insertion should always have a flared base, for safety reasons.
Rabbit (or dual-stimulation) vibrator: As seen in a memorable episode of Sex and the City, these vibrators have two “arms”: one for insertion, typically designed to hit the G-spot, and one that sits outside the body on the clitoris. This combo of sensations can be almost overwhelmingly pleasurable, and can lead to some great blended orgasms. Other types of dual-stimulation vibrators are increasingly available too, including some meant for anal use which pleasure both the prostate and the perineum at the same time.
The Best Bullet Vibrator: We-Vibe Tango X
Material: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: "This is my desert island vibrator," Finn says. "The angled tip is great for really getting pin-point precision and focusing vibration right where you want it – and despite the size, this thing can pack a serious punch." It's also waterproof, so you can take it in the bath or shower for some relaxing “self-care” time. The whisper-quiet vibrations make it perfect for some discreet play, and its ergonomic design makes it just an overall pleasure to use.
Pros: Strong and rumbly vibrations; eight different intensity levels; waterproof; quiet; silicone grip for comfort and ease of use; travel lock function stops it from accidentally turning on in transit
Cons: May rattle against genital piercings if you have them
The Best G-Spot Vibrator: Lelo Mona 2
Material: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: Lelo’s Mona 2 is like a dildo on steroids. The contoured shape and upward curve of this vibrator help it make a beeline for your G-spot once it’s inserted. Naturally, its deep vibrations feel fantastic on that spot, but you can also mix things up and use this toy for clit stimulation when you want to. The Mona 2 has six vibration modes, and its length makes for some pleasurable internal stimulation.
Pros: Fantastic shape for G-spot stimulation; can also be used clitorally; strong and rumbly vibrations; six vibration settings; waterproof; quiet; travel lock function
Cons: Not anal-safe; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Wand Vibrator: Magic Wand Rechargeable
Material: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery life: About 3 hours
Why you'll like it: There’s a reason the Magic Wand is one of the world’s most famous vibrators—it really is that good. This newer rechargeable version, a best-seller for Hitachi, has all the “oomph” of the original, plus two lower settings that’ll make it more agreeable for users who prefer gentler sensations. Try it alone or with a partner—just be prepared to get creative with positioning, ‘cause this thing is big. You can use the Magic Wand while it’s plugged into the charger, but it’s still good to use for some cordless action. "The long handle helps with reach from a variety of positions, and the broad head provides a powerful rumbly vibration that penetrates deep into the body," Finn says.
Pros: Incredibly strong vibrations; four speeds and four patterns; works for all genders and anatomies; long battery life; can be used while charging; doubles as a muscle massager
Cons: Loud on the higher settings; big and heavy
The Best Rabbit Vibrator: We-Vibe Nova 2
Material: Silicone
Battery life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: This is more than just a clitoral vibrator: With one external arm that hits the clit and one internal arm that targets G-spot stimulation, this innovative vibrator serves up a double whammy of sensation. The soft silicone arms have some flexibility to them, so you can even thrust the toy in and out and it won’t lose contact with your clit. The high-quality vibrator uses a USB-rechargeable battery, and it even comes with a sample of We-Vibe’s water-based lube for immediate fun straight out of the box.
Pros: Strong and rumbly vibrations; stimulates G-spot and clitoris simultaneously; flexible clitoral arm helps maintain contact with your clit when thrusting the toy; both components can be controlled separately; Bluetooth-controllable (including long-distance) via the We-Vibe app; quiet; waterproof; travel lock function
Cons: Not especially versatile (it’s hard to use either arm of the toy on its own); can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Couples' Vibrator: Lovense Dolce
Material: Silicone
Battery life: Up to 2 hours
Why you'll like it: This type of vibrator is designed to be “worn” during penetrative sex, so you can have some hands-free fun. The wearable Dolce has one arm that slips inside against the G-spot and one that sits outside on the clit. There’s remote app control thanks to the Bluetooth connectivity, which lets you cycle through an endless number of different vibrations and intensity levels. It stimulates both partners and may even facilitate the fabled simultaneous orgasm if you sync things up just right, or you can also use it during solo play.
Pros: Two powerful motors stimulate the clitoris and G-spot simultaneously; Bluetooth-controllable (including long-distance) via the Lovense app; adjustable neck for a comfortable fit; waterproof
Cons: Can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Beginner's Vibrator: First Time G-Spot Tulip
Material: ABS plastic
Battery life: Runs on AA batteries
Why you'll like it: If you’re looking to get your first vibrator and are not even sure if you’ll like vibration, an inexpensive and versatile toy like the First Time G-Spot Tulip is a great way to find out. This toy is surprisingly strong for its price point, and has a dial instead of buttons, so you get more precise control over the vibration strength. Its shape makes it well-suited for rumbling against either the clit or the G-spot, among other pleasurable zones. This vibrator is not rechargeable and requires a pair of AA batteries for operation.
Pros: Affordable; versatile shape for clitoral or G-spot stimulation; easy-to-use dial for changing intensity; waterproof (when battery chamber is closed tightly)
Cons: Uses AA batteries (not included); won’t last as long as higher-quality toys; not anal-safe
The Best Vibrator for Penises: Fun Factory Manta
Material: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: This best-selling toy’s silicone “wings” wrap around your shaft, encircling it in sensation. You can hold it in one place (like on the super-sensitive frenulum) or move it around in whatever ways you want. Its powerful vibrations also feel phenomenal when paired with oral sex, and the pulsations will feel phenomenal.
Pros: Strong vibrations; penis-specific shape; flexible “wings” to fit a variety of penis girths; can be paired with oral sex and various other sex acts; six speeds and six patterns; ergonomic looped handle; travel lock function
Cons: May not fit very thick or very thin penises; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes; only stimulates part of the shaft at a time
The Best Vibrating Butt Plug: Lovense Hush 2
Material: Silicone
Battery life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: The app connectivity of this butt plug makes it ideal for long-distance pleasure. It also adds another dimension of intensity to sex or masturbation with its satisfyingly strong vibrations. The silicone head slides in easily, and an endless number of vibration patterns will make your body tingle.
Pros: Powerful and rumbly vibrations; multiple size options available; Bluetooth-controllable (including long-distance) via the Lovense app; quiet; waterproof
Cons: No curve to hit prostate; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Panty Vibrator: Lovense Ferri
Material: Silicone
Battery life: Up to 3.5 hours
Why you'll like it: This petite vibrator clips onto your underwear using an included magnetic clip, so it'll stay put while you're controlling it from your phone (or your partner is controlling it from their phone).
Pros: Powerful and rumbly vibrations; useful magnet-clip design for wearing in underwear; Bluetooth-controllable (including long-distance) via the Lovense app; waterproof; long battery life
Cons: Magnetic clip is easy to lose
The Best Finger Vibrator: Dame Fin
Material: Silicone
Battery life: About 90 minutes
Why you'll like it: Finger vibrators are ideal for when you want it to feel more like you're touching your partner (or yourself) than that a toy is doing it, because they incorporate vibration into every touch. (They're also easier to hold onto for people who have grip strength issues.) This one has pleasantly rumbly vibrations and its finger strap is removable, so you can use it when you want it and stash it away when you don't.
Pros: Optional finger strap for easier holding; decently strong vibrations; versatile shape works on any external spot; quiet; long battery life; water-resistant; travel lock function
Cons: Only three speeds
The Best Discreet Vibrator: Lovense Exomoon
Material: Silicone
Battery life: 3 hours
Why you'll like it: If you're concerned about discretion for any reason—whether because you've got kids around, are traveling, or for any other reason—this vibrator can help keep your secrets safe. It's styled to look exactly like a tube of lipstick, so it can keep other people's suspicion to a minimum while boosting your satisfaction to the maximum!
Pros: Discreet lipstick-like appearance; strong and rumbly vibrations; Bluetooth-controllable (including long-distance) via the Lovense app; waterproof; long battery life
Cons: One-button control can be annoying if you like to change settings frequently
The Best Rideable Vibrator: Rocks-Off Ruby Glow Dust
Material: Silicone
Battery life: Unknown
Why you'll like it: While you can always lie back and hold a vibrator on your sensitive spots, some people like to take a more active approach and actually get on top of their vibe to grind against it. This toy is ideal for that, with its sturdy flat bottom and exciting textures.
Pros: Fun rideable shape for hands-free use; two independent motors; two different texture options to grind against (ridged and smooth)
Cons: Requires AAA batteries; not especially versatile; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Mini Wand Vibrator: Bodywand Midnight
Material: Silicone and ABS plastic
Battery life: Plug in
Why you'll like it: Full-size wand vibrators can be tough to fit between bodies during sex, so if that's what you're after—but you still want a lot of power—consider a mini wand vibe. They can scoot into smaller spaces and help you feel closer together when using a vibe, plus they're easier to hold. This one plugs into the wall, so it might not be convenient for everyone, but the amount of power it offers is worth it, especially since it's controlled with a dial, not buttons, so you can fine-tune the vibration intensity however you want at any given moment.
Pros: Dial allows for more granular control over vibration intensity; decently powerful and rumbly
Cons: Requires a nearby power outlet; not especially quiet
The Best Vibrating Dildo: PlusOne Luxe Ripple Multi-Vibe
Material: Silicone
Battery Life: Not listed
Why you'll like it: Dildos and vibrators go together like peanut butter and jelly—but with this toy, you get both in one. There are multiple motors inside its shaft, so it serves up a decent amount of power. And the Luxe Ripple's flared base makes it anal-safe and harness-compatible, for even more versatility. (There's even a suction cup on the base so you can use it hands-free.) Owners liked how simple it was to use, particularly since it can do so much. "This product from plusOne really surprised me in a positive way," one Walmart reviewer wrote. "It's intuitively crafted and the multiple vibration patterns it offers [are] sure to suit just about anyone's preferences!"
Pros: 10 vibration settings; multiple independent motors; suction-cup base allows for hands-free use; harness-compatible; anal-safe; waterproof
Cons: No curve for G-spot/P-spot stimulation; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Best Bendable Vibrator: Unbound Bender
Material: Silicone
Battery Life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: Sometimes an otherwise-great vibrator is juuuuust a little off when it comes to hitting the exact spot that'll send you to the moon, which is where the Unbound Bender steps in. As the name suggests, you flex it to get that just-right angle or straighten it out completely, depending on what you're in the mood for. Beyond that, it's a solid and simple vibe. "It’s the first internal vibrator I’ve ever used and I could not have asked for a better first experience," one reviewer on the Unbound website said.
Pros: Adjustable/bendable; four steady vibration speeds and six patterns; waterproof; comes with a storage bag
Cons: Not anal-safe; a lot of vibration transmits to your fingers while you’re holding it; can’t be used with silicone-based lubes
The Most Versatile External Vibrator: Dame Pom
Material: Silicone
Battery Life: 60 to 90 minutes
Why you'll like it: Many vibrators are made with a specific body part in mind, but the Pom is down to work anywhere you want it to: clit, nipples, frenulum, perineum, balls, and anywhere else you can think of. The almost kidney-like shape feels really natural when cupped in the palm of your hand in a way that the vibrations start to feel like an extension of your touch. Users love that flexibility. "This is a powerhouse," one reviewer on the Dame website wrote. “Great to use alone and great to use with a partner. I couldn't be happier.”
Pros: Versatile shape; rumbly vibrations; five intensity levels and five patterns; comfortably flexible and squishy; quiet; waterproof
Cons: May not be powerful enough for some users
The Best Vibrating Cock Ring: We-Vibe Pivot
Material: Silicone
Battery Life: 2 hours
Why you'll like it: Cock rings squeeze around the base of the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain a strong erection. And that's just before the party starts. The addition of vibration makes everything more pleasurable for the wearer and a partner, since those vibrations can also rub up against a partner's clit or perineum during penetrative sex. We-Vibe's PIvot is a top-of-the-line vibrating cock ring, with super-smooth silicone and easy-to-control vibrations that you can ramp up to some serious strength. "The motor on this thing is incredible," one Babeland reviewer wrote. "Easily surpassed every other motor on a cock ring available."
Pros: Strong, rumbly vibrations; three vibration speeds and eight patterns; Bluetooth-controllable via the We-Vibe app; quiet; waterproof
Cons: May be too tight for girthier penises
