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Buying a Vibrator

Choosing a vibrator can be overwhelming and confusing, especially for first-time users. We offer this guide on choosing a vibrator to help you with your search. We’re committed to helping you find the vibrator that’s perfect for you.

Please note when going through our guide that some products may be out of stock temporarily so the links will link to a product unavailable page. The first step is to determine your preference. To do this, it is important that you are familiar with the different kinds of vibrators available. Educating yourself on the range of vibrators available will help in your search for the perfect vibrator. You should choose the vibrator that gives you the most pleasure. You should also choose the vibrator that best suits your lifestyle.

Battery Powered vs. Electric Vibrators

We’ve been asked so many times to explain the difference between battery powered and electric vibrators. The first and most basic issue to consider when choosing a vibrator is the power source. Are you looking for a fun, portable toy? Or, are you looking for a more powerful multi-purpose vibrator?

Battery Powered Vibrators

You’re probably most familiar with battery powered vibrators. Portability and price have combined to make battery power the most popular choice since the 1930's.

Battery powered vibrators are more popular because they are portable, convenient and less expensive. They come in all shapes, sizes and colors, and can be used externally and internally. Some are even waterproof and can be used in the bath, pool or hot tub. Most have a variable speed control so you can set it to your desired level of vibration.

If you are looking for a vibrator for external stimulation, we recommend plastic vibrators because their vibration is stronger. The softness of the rubber or jelly vibrators tend to absorb the vibrations making it more desirable for internal use.

The downside to battery operated vibrators is that they may not last as long as electric ones.

Electric Vibrators

Electric (or rechargeable) vibrators have a reputation for being powerful and reliable sex toys. They also tend to operate quieter than some vibrators, which makes them a good option for people who are concerned about noise level. Once fully charged, they can be used for hours which makes them very convenient.


While the benefits of electric vibrators include solid construction, quiet operation and reliability, the downside is that most electric vibrators aren't as portable as battery powered vibrators. You can use an electric vibrator in any location where you have access to an electrical outlet, though you are limited to the length of the cord. However, some electric vibrators can be detached from their power cord once fully charged and will be able to run for a much longer period than battery powered vibrators.


Look at All of Our Electric Vibrators



Vibrator Styles & Types

Vibrators come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes and colors, but not every vibrator is right for every person in every situation. Your preference is unique and you should choose your vibrator based on your own personal pleasure and preference. You will find several different kinds of vibrators listed in this section. Please use this information to choose the vibrator that best suits your needs.

Traditional Vibrators

When people think of vibrators, this is usually the style that comes to mind. Traditional vibrators are slim, straight, and usually four and eight inches in length. They are typically made of hard plastic and are available in many different finishes, including bright colors and metallic. Most traditional vibrators are adjustable, allowing the user full control over the vibration level. The hard plastic outer casing helps maintain the strength of the vibrations by transferring them directly from the motor making them a good choice for people who think they might like the feel of stronger vibrations, but who don't want to purchase an electric vibrator.

First Time Vibrators

Is this your first time choosing a vibrator? If so, you might consider choosing a vibrator best suited for first time users. You should select a basic model that is easy to operate, so you can better familiarize yourself with using a vibrator. We recommend a smooth plastic vibe or bullet.

Check Out Our Entire Selection of First Time Vibrators.


G-Spot Vibrators

G-Spot vibrators, especially ones made of jelly, are available in all sizes, shapes, and colors. G-Spot Vibrators are usually shaped like a traditional vibrator with a curved end to allow contact with the G-Spot. They typically include attachments or "sleeves" that fit over the traditional vibrator. G-Spot vibrators are typically between four and eight inches in length and have a base-mounted vibration controller. If you want to try a G-Spot vibrator, be sure to look for one made of plastic or a firm jelly material, so it doesn't bend when it's inserted.
The best G-Spot orgasms come when you apply firm pressure, so you want to be sure the vibrator can withstand that kind of stress without flexing too much. Each of our G-Spot vibrators have been hand-selected and have passed our "flex-test". G-Spot vibrators are ideal when you’re looking for G-spot stimulation.

Check Out Our Entire Selection of G-Spot Vibrators.

Clitoral Vibrators

Many women can only reach orgasm during direct clitoral stimulation. In some cases, women can achieve G-spot stimulation, but prefer the orgasm they have during direct clitoral stimulation. The orgasms achieved by stimulating the clitoris are intense and satisfying, as any orgasm should be. It seems natural, in light of this information, that women choose a vibrator that achieves this arousal. Clitoral vibrators offer direct and intense clitoral stimulation. They satisfy women in a way that cannot be achieved by manual stimulation alone.
Clitoral vibrators are designed with the clitoris in mind, offering powerful direct clitoral stimulation while the user is free to sit back and enjoy the sensations. Some clitoral vibrators are small and cannot be inserted - designed to stimulate only the clitoris. Some clitoral vibrators offer clitoral stimulation via a small "animal" or attachments on the shaft that reach the clitoris when the shaft is inserted into the vagina. Neither type is "better" than the other, and each has certain pleasures unique unto itself. Whichever type you prefer, clitoral vibrators offer powerful clitoral stimulation that is not possible with manual stimulation alone.

Check Out All of Our Clitoral Stimulators.

Clitoral Only Vibrators

Some clitoral vibrators are designed to stimulate the clitoris exclusively. These are not usually the best choice for vaginal insertion, and they don't have additional shafts adorned with gizmos or gadgets. What they do have are heads, balls or eggs that are designed to stimulate the clitoris.

These toys are usually small and compact, making them great for travel, and they don't usually look like the traditional vibrator.


Electric

Most electric powered vibrators are designed to stimulate the clitoris. Some larger personal massagers are not designed for insertion. These larger personal massagers typically have a large head and offer powerful vibrations that are best suited for direct clitoral stimulation. Electric powered vibrators can also be used as muscle massagers. Some electric vibrators come with attachments, so they can be used internally.

Butterfly

Also known as "venus vibrators" or "hands-free stimulators," these toys are designed to directly stimulate the clitoris. They are usually small devices about the circumference of a soda can. They nestle up to the vagina and clitoris and are held in place by waist or leg straps. Butterfly vibrators are usually designed to resemble an animal, such as a dolphin, hummingbird, rabbit, or of course a butterfly, and are quiet and small enough to be worn in public. The main feature of the butterfly vibrator is that they are virtually hands-free, which leaves the vagina exposed and ready for oral or manual stimulation. Most butterfly vibrators can be worn during intercourse. They are wonderful little vibrators that can be used and enjoyed many different ways.

Rabbit Vibrators

Rabbit Vibrators are the most requested vibrators. Why you ask? Because this vibrator does almost everything to give you pleasure, except your laundry! While the shaft twirls for G-spot stimulation, the rabbit ears flutter along the clitoris and the "pearls" roll and tumble at the sensitive opening of the vagina. Velvety in texture, this model is a favorite for first-time vibe owners.

Check Out All of Our Rabbit Vibrators.

Finger Vibrators

Finger vibrators are great for clitoral stimulation, and allow you to have more freedom for your other hand to roam. One of the benefits of the finger vibrator is that couples feel less intimidated when they are searching for a new toy that is small, discrete, and quiet. The finger vibrator is definitely couple oriented.

Bullets & Eggs

The bullet and/or egg vibrator is another advancement in vibrator technology. A small egg shaped capsule, usually two inches or so in length houses a powerful vibration motor. These eggs can be used internally or externally and usually come with a remote battery pack that lets you choose between several vibration options and multiple vibration intensity levels. These can be used vaginally or anally. Egg vibrators are easy to use, wonderfully satisfying and capable of powerful sensations.

See all of Our Minis, Bullets and eggs

Combination Vibrators


Combination vibrators are increasingly popular. They have the ability to stimulate the vagina like a traditional vibrator as well as stimulate the clitoris and/or the opening of the vagina at the same time.

Combination vibrators are usually high quality toys and come in many shapes and sizes. These vibrators are easy to use and are great for both experienced and novice users. These vibrators really do it all and are worth a try whether you enjoy clitoral stimulation, G-Spot or vaginal stimulation or both.

The Jack Rabbit is an amazing combination vibrator. As the most recognizable combination vibrator on the market because it was featured on HBO's "Sex and the City,” the Jack Rabbit consists of a small "rabbit" perched on top of a pink jelly vibrator shaft. The rabbit is designed to directly stimulate the clitoris and is controlled by a remote battery pack. The shaft, which is also controlled by the remote battery pack, is capable of twisting back and forth and "rotating" the pearls around in a circular motion, which stimulates the labia and the opening to the vagina. Many women find the combination of these features to be the perfect recipe for orgasm. They require less work than other toys and the stimulation levels of the clitoral stimulator and the shaft can be adjusted independently to fit your mood.

Check Out Our Entire Selection of Dual Stimulators.

Anal Vibrators

At first glance one might assume that a vibrators can be used for vaginal and anal pleasure. Not true! While it is true that most vibrators can be inserted into any orifice, it's not wise to use a regular vibrator anally. The issue, as unbelievable or as funny as it seems, is that vibrators tend to disappear into the anus. The opening is tight, the cavity is endless (unless you're using a 24 foot vibrator), hands get slippery with lubrication and the anal sphincter muscle contracts rather strongly during orgasm. Add these factors together and you've got a recipe for a disappearing vibrator.

We recommend an anal vibrator designed specially for the anus. It may look like an anal plug, a traditional vibrator, or a dildo. Whatever the shaft is designed to resemble, the important factor is that the base is flared or that it's attached to a retrieval cord. The flare or the cord will prevent your erotic evening from culminating in a trip to the local emergency room. Nothing life threatening, but they might have to work a bit to remove the vibrating apparatus from your rectum.

Hopefully you can see the wisdom in using an anal vibrator for anal play. They're usually inexpensive, designed for safe anal use, and are a lot of fun. We recommend the use of lubricant, especially for anal play.

Check Out Our Entire Selection of Anal Vibrators.

Dual Penetrator Vibrators

Dual Penetrator Vibrators are the perfect choice for women who like to have their anus and vagina penetrated at the same time. This adds for a whole new sensation and experience.

Vibrating Strap-Ons

Vibrating Strap-ons offer the ultimate in erotic excitement with a partner! Uniquely designed, the Jack Rabbit snaps into the comfortable harness for secure thrusting action. Removable dong with non jamming, syncronized metal beads may be used with or without the harness. New extension straps accommodate most shapes and sizes. This vibrator is powered by the independently operated power pack.


Remote Control Vibrators

Remotely controlled vibrators usually consist of a pair of wearable panties or a thong that contains a small egg-shaped or cylindrical vibrator. This vibrator functions like a remote control garage door. One person simply adjusts the vibrations up to 40 or 50 feet from the person wearing the unit and the vibration level increases or decreases according to your preference.

Remotely controlled vibrators are designed to operate quietly which makes these toys ideal for the bedroom as well as out in public. These toys can be a lot of fun and are primarily geared towards couples, although they can just as easily be worn and controlled by the same person.
See our Entire Selection of Remote Controlled Vibrators.

Balls & Beads

These small vibrators are designed to stimulate external areas such as the clitoris, vagina and anus. They are usually attached to a cord with a speed controller at the other end. They make a wonderful clitoral stimulator and as an added benefit can be adjusted to pulse, vibrate, surge and escalate. They are a good choice if you're looking for direct external stimulation, but are not intended for internal use.


Waterproof Vibrators


Waterproof vibrators are designed to be used in the bathtub, hot tub, pool, or any other body of water. The delicate internal electronic parts are sealed in to prevent moisture from entering, and the battery compartment is water tight.

Check Out All of Our Waterproof Vibrators.

Realistic Vibrators

Just as their name implies, these vibrators are designed to look and feel like the real thing. Whether large, small or somewhere in between, realistic vibrators will amaze you with their skin-like textured surface and their very realistic appearance.

Some realistic vibrators are made from lifelike materials such as Cyberskin, which looks and feels very much like human skin, while others are made from silicone or latex rubber, which can be painted or dyed in skin-toned hues. Some people find the look of a realistic vibrator erotic and appealing, while others find pleasure in the feel of advanced skin-like materials. Whatever your preference, there are several high quality models to look at in our online store.

See All of Our Realistic, CyberSkin & UR3 Vibrators.

Couple's Vibrators

A vibrating cock ring is a great toy for couples. While the male is wears the vibrating cock ring and feels the sensations vibrate his shaft, the female receives clitoral stimulation each time he penetrates and presses up against her! This is a great toy for couples to enjoy together.



Vibrator Kits

We have offered useful information on the various kinds of vibrators to help you choose a vibrator that best suits you. With so many options, it can be difficult to settle on one single style or type. If you simply cannot decide or you’re still feeling uneasy, we recommend a vibrator kit. Vibrator kits offer a variety of items, so you can find the vibrator and other aids that are perfect for you!
Basic kits usually include several types of vibrators, a few sleeves of various shapes and sizes, and lubricant. If you want to explore further, you can find kits with items like feathers, blindfolds, masks, beads, all of the items required to help you experiment with pleasure.

The vibrators sold in kits range from medium to high quality, so check out what you're buying. Inexpensive kits are a great way to sample several types of vibrators, say for example a bullet and an egg. So if you try an inexpensive kit and find a vibrator you really like, you can always consider upgrading in the future.

Popular Vibrator Kits:


Vibrator Materials

Vibrators are available in a wide variety of materials. Each material has unique characteristics that add functionality and a certain look and feel to the vibrator. Jelly, for example, is generally soft and flexible, while plastic is usually hard and inflexible. Each material has certain advantages and choosing the right one for you will help you enjoy your vibrator for years to come.
It is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of each vibrator before you start shopping.


Plastic

Plastic is the most traditional vibrator material. Available in a variety of colors, plastic vibrators offer the advantage of powerful vibrations because the hard plastic material transfers vibrations very effectively from the motor to the user. Traditional, slimline and bullet/egg vibrators are most commonly made out of plastic, which is a durable and relatively inexpensive material.

Jelly

Vibrators made from jelly are typically soft, flexible and colorful. Jelly has an advantage over other materials in that it is very easy to mold, color and shape into a variety designs. As a result, there is a wide variety of colorful, beautifully crafted jelly vibrators to choose from. Jelly is also a very pliable material, which contributes to a soft, smooth and supple feel that is unique to jelly vibrators, yet it retains some rigidity.



Rubber

Rubber is a popular choice for vibrators. The material is composed of different compounds that add softness to the material so that it is flexible and molds to your shape. Rubber vibrators come in different colours, shapes and sizes.

Cyberskin

Cyberskin falls within the realistic materials category. It imitates (as closely as possible) the look and feel of human skin. Cyberskin is soft like skin, warms up to body temperature quickly, and provides an experience that is quite different from materials like metal and plastic.

UR3

UR3 is a material similar to cyberskin in that it is realistic looking and feeling and has a remarkable flesh like texture. Of all of the realistic materials, UR3 is probably the easiest to clean and care for. It appears to be the most durable and therefore a bit easier to maintain. UR3 warms to the body’s touch and retains the heat and forms and contours to your body.

Latex

If you're looking for a vibrator that is a bit less lifelike than Cyberskin and a little firmer than jelly (or significantly softer than plastic), a latex vibrator may be a good choice for you. In some cases, latex vibrators even come with a latex sleeve that fits over a slimline vibrator. Latex is soft but still firm, so the feel is somewhere between a plastic vibrator and a jelly vibrator. Latex lends itself well to skin-tone colors, so many latex vibrators could also fall within our "realistic toy" category. If you have an allergic reaction after using latex products, you should consider a vibrator from one of the other material categories.

Silicone

Since silicone is a higher quality material than most, vibrators made from silicone tend to also be higher quality than vibrators made from other materials. Silicone retains its softness over time better than other materials and it can even be boiled, run through the dishwasher and cleaned with disinfectant soap without showing signs of wear. Silicone vibrators tend to be soft, although this is not necessarily the case. Silicone can be either very hard, very soft or anywhere in-between. The texture depends on the design and intended function of the vibrator.

See all Silicone Vibrators


Metal

Metal vibrators are similar to plastic ones in that they have a hard, generally smooth exterior and are easy to clean. Most metal vibrators are made with polished chrome alloy and stainless steel.


Cleaning & Care

Before choosing the vibrator that best suits you, you should first learn what is required when cleaning and caring for each type of vibrator.

You should always clean your vibrator after every use. It is best to clean your vibrator using a sex toy cleaner. We recommend Sex Clean Adult Toy Cleaner or Sex Safe & Protect Super Cleaner. Not only does toy cleaner sanitize the surface, but the chance of damaging the vibrator’s motor and other moving parts is reduced significantly because only a small amount of cleaner is required.


Cleaning Your Vibrator

The following is a list of solutions that are acceptable for each type of vibrator material.

Plastic - soap and water, rubbing alcohol, sex toy cleaner
Silicone - soap and water, boiling water, sex toy cleaner
Jelly - mild soap and water, sex toy cleaner
Rubber - mld soap and water, sex toy cleaner
Latex - mild soap and water, sex toy cleaner
Metal - soap and water, rubbing alcohol, sex toy cleaner
Cyberskin - mild soap and water, Cyberskin cleansing solution, sex toy cleaner.
UR3 - mild soap and water, Cyberskin cleansing solution, sex toy cleaner

Once you clean your vibrator, make sure to let it air dry.


How To Store Your Vibrator

It is best to remove batteries from your sex toys before storing them. This will extend the life of your batteries and will ensure they do not corode inside your toy and harm and/or destroy your battery pack. If you happen to see any corrosion, clean it with a small toothbrush or cotton swab and a little baking soda. A very small amount of vaseline applied to a slightly corroded part may prevent further damage.
Some vibrator materials could have a chemical reaction if placed together, which may create the materials to disinegrate. Make sure you properly store your vibrators by wrapping them, putting them back in original packaging, or storing them seperately.


Vibrator's Volume

There are some vibrators that are very quiet, and some that are loud. Most models are adjustable, which means that the more you turn it up the louder it gets, and most fall within a standard noise level range. Battery powered vibrators that are made of hard plastic tend to be a bit louder than ones made of silicone or jelly. This is not always the case - there is certainly no shortage of "very quiet" plastic vibrators. It all depends on the model and how it's constructed.


Lubricant Used With Vibrators

It may be good to know before you buy a vibrator, which types of lubrication will work best. Generally, water-based lubes are the preferred choice for vibrators and other adult toys. Water-based lubes won't damage any of the previously mentioned sex toy materials and they work extremely well. The following is a list of the different varieties of lubrication and which sex toys they are compatible with.

Water-Based Lubrication

This is the most common form of lubrication used today. Containing mostly water, water-based lubes should not stain your clothes or sheets, are safe with all sex toys, and are often pleasant tasting. Available in both flavored and non-flavored varieties, these lubes are long lasting and easy to clean.

Silicone-Based Lubrication

Silicone-based lubes are a high-tech version of water-based lube. All the ingredients are the same, except that silicone lubes do not contain any water and are completely waterproof. They also don't dry out like water-based lubes do so they tend to last longer. Silicone lubricant is safe to use with all sex toys except those made of silicone. If you have a silicone toy, you must use a different type of lubrication. System JO Silicone Lubricant is compatible with Tantus Silicone Toys however, because of the high quality of both products.

Oil-Based Lubrication

Oil-based lubes consist of common oils such as vegetable oil and is not recommended for use with sex toys. Oil-based lubes are OK for masturbation and generally considered safe for consumption, but they often leave an oily residue, can be difficult to wash off your body parts, may stain clothing and have been known to cause infection if allowed to stay in the vagina. Oil-based lubes are not compatible with latex based sex toys, condoms and some latex-based birth control devices.

Petroleum-Based Lubrication

Petroleum-based lubes are made with mineral oil or petroleum jelly. As their name implies, petroleum-based lubes contain primarily petroleum products. While they are commonly used for masturbation and anal play, petroleum-based lubes tend to stain sheets and clothing and are not easy to wash off hands and other body parts. Petroleum-based lubes include Vaseline and baby oil. It is important to know that Petroleum will dissolve latex, and should not be used with latex toys.
 
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