Choosing A Vibrator: Making Your Decision Easier

It is no overstatement to say the market for vibrators is overwhelmingly huge; new toys are entering the market on a daily basis, and choosing the correct model can be an understandably daunting prospect for some.

Nowadays size and shape is only one aspect of vibrator design; it’s not simply a case of selecting the one which appears to offer the best fit.Shopping for a vibrator is like shopping for a car or a cell phone; the first one you see may have the right appearance , but what about all of those other important considerations—performance; longevity; durability; maintenance and noise-level to name but a few?

Below, we have provided a simple guide to ensure that choosing the right vibrator is as stress-free as can be, whether you are shopping for yourself or another.

Experience Level

There is no right or wrong way of choosing your first vibrator and sometimes it can simply be a process of trial and error. Getting it wrong the first time (for example, choosing a vibrator which is too large or too powerful for your personal comfort) should not put you off. Just like penises, vibrators are a very subjective thing; there is no one-size-fits-all. Sexual experimentation is an ongoing aspect of life and as you gain experience in using toys, your awareness of what you like and dislike will broaden and your sexual confidence will grow. The best advice is, if at first you don’t succeed, try again!It may be trite, but simplicity is best when trying something for the first time, for example, a traditional vibrator in a size and shape which most resembles a typical human penis. Vibrators come in a  enormous range of girths, lengths and colours, and if in doubt, select a smaller proportioned model to begin with, familiarise yourself with the sensation, and if desired, introduce larger or more powerful toys at a later stage.

A good vibrator for the beginner is the 5 Function Compact Vibe Mini , a ‘smoothie’ model, which has a adjustable speed/intensity control at the base, giving you greater versatility and opportunity to experiment with the level of stimulation. The other main benefit of a traditional vibrator is the fact that it can be used internally or externally, as the model is shaped specifically for comfortable penetration of the vagina, with a rounded tip which also allows direct contact with the clitoris. Aesthetics can be important, especially if you are new to the world of vibrators and indeed, selecting a toy which you find pleasing to the eye will minimise the intimidation of using it for the first time. If you are introducing a vibrator into your sexual play with a partner, it may be a good idea to begin with one which has a simple, clean design, as if your partner is hesitant or anxious, a more sophisticated model may be off-putting or threatening at first.

A cock vibrator may be a suitable choice for the buyer who wishes to experience the closest thing to actual intercourse with a man, as the contouring, detail and feel are highly realistic and it may be an option for the sexually inexperienced user wanting to become accustomed to handling and pleasuring themselves with a lifelike imitation before embarking upon a sexual relationship.

If you are moving on to a more sophisticated model, you may wish to consider experimenting with different functions (for example, a rabbit vibrator); sizing; power or texture (see the Climax Brush).

You may wish to spend a little more when upgrading and it is essential to always buy good quality products which come with a warranty. Also look out for products which operate using rechargeable batteries/motors as this can assist in extending the life of your toy. Certainly not all vibrators have a long shelf-life and product packaging may state the expected lifespan of your toy so you are able to make an informed choice. Traditional vibrators, vibrating cock-rings and many of the mini or pocket sized models do not tend to last as long as some of the more advanced vibrators and this is usually reflected in pricing.

Sensation
Another fundamental question to ask yourself is exactly what type of sensation you are hoping to achieve from using a vibrator? Not everyone uses sex toys in the same way or have the same expectations or experiences. If you are unsure of what you are hoping to experience, remember that most women require clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm, and therefore it is sensible to purchase a vibrator which has this function. Most vibrators can be placed directly on, or against the clitoris, but consider the practicalities of the product you are buying. Whilst many models, such as the bullet or egg can be held against the clitoris, it may not be comfortable for everyone. Some external clitoral stimulators are specifically curved to fit around the pubic area, making positioning much easier.
Remote-controlled vibrators such as the Play Stik are ideal if you find it difficult to use a traditional base-controlled model and may be accessible for persons suffering from disability or dexterity problems.

If you are intending to use a vibrator to stimulate the clitoris during intercourse, a cock-ring is a good choice, as it sits directly on the clitoris and is controlled by the thrusting of the male, with the added bonus of prolonging a strong erection. A traditional ‘smoothie’ is another good vibrator for this purpose, as the elongated, slender shape means it can reach between bodies. Whilst bullets and eggs can employed in a similar way, the size and shape may make these slightly inconvenient and these tend to be better for foreplay, games or solo use.

Some vibrators stimulate more than one area of the body at once or are designed to specifically target a certain erogenous zone, such as the a G-spot vibrator which is used internally, although dual-function models such as the rabbit varieties provide simultaneous internal and external stimulation, offering a well-rounded, complete experience.

For anal stimulation, a vibrator with a widened base or cord attached for safe removal. Whilst the neck of the cervix prevents objects from becoming lodged too far up the vaginal cavity, extra precaution is required when inserting items into the anus. Our favourite vibrators ideal for anal use include the 8 Ball Anal Probe or the Anal Rotator, a dual-function device, which is inserted into both the vagina and anus for a mind-blowing double-penetrative experience.

Materials
The material from which your vibrator is made makes a huge difference to the experience you will receive and therefore this is an essential consideration prior to purchase. Typically, vibrators tend to either be made from metal (often medical-grade stainless steel; anodized aluminium or even plated with a precious metal such as gold or platinum); silicone or plastic. Hard-cased vibrators provide stronger, direct pulsation and the appearance is often artful and contemporary, although users may feel the need to ‘warm’ the metal exterior with their hands for comfortable use. Softer, more flexible materials, such as silicone offer a more realistic, flesh-like experience and are more malleable, although the level of pulsation is not quite as robust as when using a metal toy. Silicone models are heat-resistant and usually more durable than plastic ones, but all products are designed in materials entirely suitable for their stated use.

Situation
Not all vibrators are used in the privacy of one’s bedroom and therefore the market is rich with countless varieties of toy to suit all user-situations. One common concern for users, especially those in shared accommodation, is noise level involved as this can cause a degree of self-consciousness. Recognising the need for discreetness, some vibrators such as the Little Chroma, are designed to be barely audible. This is a compact and stylish model which is waterproof and has a rechargeable motor, rendering it one of the most desirable products of its kind. In fact many modern vibrators are water-durable, although you should always ascertain this from the packaging before taking your vibrator into the bath or pool. Small, waterproof types such as the White Nights Pocket Rocket are ideal for travelling, and are able to fit nicely in a cosmetics bag or hand-luggage once batteries have been removed and stored separately. If the motor of your vibrator can also be removed from the casing, this is another handy tip for the traveller who wishes to disguise their toy, and models such as the Little Chroma are particularly innocuous to the untrained eye!

The bottom line is there a massive assortment of different vibrators out there, why not explore all the fantastic different options available for you and experience a world of unbelievable pleasure.

Use the guide above and see our section on Different Types of Vibrators: A Users Guide if you are still unsure where to begin your amazing journey into the world of pleasure.