Vibrators

Start with where you want to feel it. Most of the difference between vibrators is shape, not settings. External toys work on the clitoris and vulva. Insertable toys reach inside, usually toward the G-spot. Dual toys do both at once. If you already know which of these you enjoy, half the choice is made.

Air-pulse or vibration. Air-pulse stimulators surround the clitoris with pulses of air pressure instead of pressing a vibrating tip against it. Many people find the feeling more indirect; some find it more intense. Our air-pulse range includes the Womanizer Premium 2, Classic 2, Starlet 3 and Liberty 2, the We-Vibe Melt 2, the plusOne Air Pulsing Arouser, the Sugar Pop Jewel and the Lovense Tenera 2, which uses suction. If direct vibration has ever felt like too much, start here.

Wands for broad, deep power. A wand puts a big motor behind a large rounded head, so you get rumbly vibration spread across a wide area with no aiming needed. The Doxy wands are the powerful end. The Magic Wand Mini, the plusOne wand and the Lovense Domi 2 are lighter and easier to hold. Wands are external only.

Bullets for precision and travel. Bullets are small, quiet next to a wand, and easy to pack. Ours include the Doxy bullet, the Je Joue bullet, the Nu Sensuelle Joie, the We-Vibe Tango X and the Lovense Ambi. They are the easiest first vibrator, and they slip between partners during sex.

Rabbits and G-spot shapes. A rabbit has an insertable shaft plus an arm for the clitoris. Ours include the Lovense Nora, which rotates, the Lovense Velvo, the Lovense Osci 3, which oscillates, and the Je Joue Dua. If you're new to insertables, check the length and girth on each product page before you choose.

Wearables and couples toys. These stay in place so your hands are free. The We-Vibe Sync O, Sync Lite and Chorus are worn during sex. The Lovense Lush, Ferri and Flexer are worn under clothing. Most of them pair with a free app, so a partner can take control from across the room or across the country, and every one of them also works without a phone.

App or no app. An app adds custom patterns and long-distance control, and the toy still works with its own buttons. If you never want to open an app, choose a toy whose product page describes button controls you're happy with.

Water, charging and care. Waterproof means you can rinse it or use it in the bath; splash-resistant means a quick wipe only, so check each product page before the toy goes near water. Clean after every use with warm water and mild unscented soap, or a toy cleaner, then dry fully. Use water-based lubricant with silicone toys.