Buzz on Vibes

Available in various sizes and shapes, a vibrator’s design depends on its function.

Clitoral vibes tend to be compact in an egg, bullet, or palm shape. The primary purpose of these vibes is to stimulate the clitoris, so they are typically used externally.

• As their name would suggest, bullets are usually small (around 2-3 inches long) and cylindrical. Eggs are similar to bullets, only they’re usually a bit bigger and thicker in girth around the middle, giving them an egg shape. Usually made from hard plastic or silicone, eggs and bullets may be single or multiple speeds, and some even have pulse patterns and other fun vibration settings.

Several models even come with sleeves or covers for extra texture and friction. Their handy size and shape make these vibes ideal vibes for general use, either alone or during intercourse.I typically look for bullets that either have a push button control or a cordless remote, and I prefer ones that are rechargeable, or at the very least take standard size batteries.

• Pocket Rockets are close to the size and shape of a tube of lipstick. Just like eggs and bullets, these are discreet and can also be used alone or with a partner. They usually have a simple dial control, and some come with textured interchangeable tips or fun shapes for variety.

• Wand-style massagers are larger vibrators that could double as an all-over body massager. The Hitachi Magic Wand is probably the most renowned of this type of vibrator. These are often plug-in powerhouses, although now we’re seeing more rechargeable, USB powered, and battery-operated wands. Some of the more popular models even have insertable attachments available to purchase seperately, making these more than just a body massager or clit vibe.

In addition to those described above, there are also small, specialty shaped clitoral vibes. These come in a variety of designs and materials.

Intended for internal and/or external use, classic vibrators come in many different designs but are still a basic phallic shape, from long, smooth, oversized bullets to vibes that look and feel just like a penis and everything imaginable in between.

G-spot vibes may be curved or specially shaped to hit the Grafenberg Spot and are often made of firm material like silicone, plastic, or metal.

Dual-stimulation or “rabbit” style vibes are designed to give simultaneous internal and external stimulation. Rabbits have an insertable, moving shaft and a smaller, vibrating bunny (or butterfly, bird, dolphin, etc.) extending out near the base to stimulate the clitoris. Because of the way the various parts of the vibes move, they are typically made from pliable material such as silicone, TRP, or elastomer. These are available with many different combinations of speed and pulse settings as well as various control options.

Choosing a dual stimulation sex toy can be tricky. Everyone has different anatomical dimensions, so just because a certain style of rabbit vibe works well for some people, that certainly doesn’t mean it will work for everyone. There’s some trial and error involved, but luckily there are many styles and designs to chose from. Here are some things to keep in mind, and it helps to know your anatomy and preferences.

• Rabbits with the bunny (or butterfly, beaver, whatever) positioned high on the shaft are more likely to suit somebody with a pretty shallow G-spot. Conversely, those with the clitoral stimulator further down the shaft would be better for deeper stimulation.
• Some rabbit vibes have a pretty open angle where the bunny/clitoral stimulator attaches to the shaft, while others are more closed. Depending on the material, some may be flexible enough to reposition slightly, whereas others are fixed firmly in place.
• A common issue with dual motors is that the power is often compromised when both are going, especially at the higher speed settings. If you like a lot of power, pay attention to this detail when reading reviews.
• Some rabbits have a lot of loose beads or pearls that pop around as the shaft rotates. Others have larger beads on a track (like ball bearings), and still others have fixed beads on rotating arms. Still other rabbits don’t have any pearls or beads moving in the shaft, and there are a few that have a vibrating shaft that doesn’t rotate.
• Often the clitoral stimulator has some sort of soft and squishy part(s) that flap around, usually this would be the bunny’s ears. Here is where it helps to know your own anatomy, as longer ears are better able to reach a high clitoris. Shorter ears are more likely to work well on a lower clitoris.
• Then there are all the different textures and variations in the shaft designs. The curved ones are designed to better stimulate the G-spot, and they may or may not be firm enough to apply any real pressure there. Again, that depends on the material.

But not all sex toys vibrate. Dildos, dongs, plugs, and other non-motorized playthings also come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, designs, and materials depending on their intended function. It’s up to the user or a partner to probe, prod, fill up, apply pressure, and otherwise stimulate with these types of products. Many are realistic and harness compatible, and some feature a cavity in the base where a standard sized bullet fits, making it a vibrating toy.

Silicone dildos can vary in firmness, surface feel, and texture.

Glass sex toys are gorgeous, available in many different designs and textures, and great for temperature play.

Metal makes a great dildo. It’s hygienic, ideal for temperature play, and heavy. And it’s shiny.

You can even get hand-crafted wooden playthings now. They’re surface is smooth, so no worries about unfortunate splinters.