Beginner's Guide to Vibrators

The bedside companions of legions of women, vibrators are well-loved because they can help you learn to orgasm, get you off more quickly, or help you climax during partner sex. Enjoy this beginner's guide to the world of vibes!

Beginner’s Guide to Vibrators

By Alicia Guinn

Slimlines

Grapevine Vibe

Laya Spot

Isis

Mini Heartbreaker

Wahl 7-in-1

Orchid G

Rabbit Habit

Babeland
Gift Card

Basic Vibrators

In general, vibrators are different from dildos. Vibrators vibrate of course, while most dildos don’t. And while it isn't always apparent from the look of them, most vibrators are built for external use as clitoral stimulators, while dildos are penetrative toys. If you're new to vibrators, experiment first using them on your clit, to see how they feel. Once you've orgasmed through clit stimulation, or you want to mix up the sensations, consider diving deeper!

A first-time vibe should be simple to use and within your budget. Additionally, it’s a good idea to try out a variable speed toy. Toys with multiple speeds allow you to sample a variety of sensations, which can help you determine whether you like subtle vibrations or something with a hardy rumble.

Clit Vibes

If you like the feel of your hand, but want to add an extra oomph, try a fingertip vibrator like the Isis or the Finger Fun.

If you want a clit vibrator that doesn't look like a vibrator, the Laya Spot is a great beginner vibe with lots of exciting features. It’s ergonomic, waterproof, made of easy-to-clean silicone, and features variable speeds as well as three pulsating functions.

If you want a classic inexpensive vibe that can be used either clitorally or vaginally, try the Slimlines. They come in so many different styles and colors you can find one to match your purse or your eye color. Try a waterproof version like the Water Shimmer or Blueberry Buzz.

For a smaller, on-the-go clit vibe, try bullet- or egg-shaped vibrators. A smaller vibrator connected to a battery pack by a cord. The Babeland Silver Bullet and the Grapevine Vibe are popular choices.

For a vibe that will rock your clit till it comes, the Hitachi boasts the most power and is beloved by women around the globe. Close on its heels is the Wahl, smaller than the Hitachi, but delivering intense, focused vibrations to your clit. Both these toys are electric vibes.

G-Spot Vibes

If you’re looking for a vibrator that you can use either on your clit or your G-spot, consider the well-built Orchid G. While it’s made specifically for G-Spot stimulation (see How to Find Your G-Spot for more information), it also has a variable speed vibrator in the tip that’s great for clitoral stimulation.

If you want a toy that you will vibrate your clit and vagina at the same time, consider the ever-popular Rabbit Habit, or one of its cousins. With a rotating shaft for penetration and a vibrating clit attachment, many consider this the best of all possible worlds.

Exploration

Sometimes a little trial and error is required before you find your ideal vibe. Don’t lose hope if you tried one vibrator that didn’t “work” for you. Everyone has different preferences in terms of sex toy style as well as stimulation, which means your best friend’s favorite vibrator might not be the perfect fit for you.

From the subtle vibrations of the Fukuoku 9000 to the deep rumble of the Hitachi Magic Wand, there’s a huge variety of sensations to explore. Some folks react strongly to different qualities of vibration.

You can make an educated guess about the type of vibration you might enjoy by thinking about the way you masturbate. If you prefer a gentle touch, try the Mini Heartbreaker. If you like a lot of direct clitoral stimulation, try one of the electric vibrators like the Wahl 7-in-1.

No matter which vibrator you try first, your experience will help you collect information about the kind of toys you might like in the future.

Toys for Partners

It can be confusing trying to pick out a first-time toy for yourself, much less someone else! If your partner has never used a vibrator, consider the ones recommended in the “Basic Vibrators” section above. A Babeland Gift Card is another hassle-free option that allows you to share the shopping experience with your sweetie.

If you’re looking for a toy that you can enjoy together, first consider that toys for partner sex are only limited by your comfort level and imagination. Any toy that’s great for masturbation can also be a success in partner sex.

That said, some vibrators are especially fun to combine with partner sex. Vibrating cock rings slip over a penis or dildo, and if aligned properly, can provide gentle clitoral stimulation to one partner during intercourse. Take a look at the Sonic Ring or Orbit Ring.

Wearable vibrators, like the Remote Butterfly, are strapped on directly over the clit. The remote feature allows for extra surprises if the partner not wearing the toy is in charge of the remote control.

Check out our Shopping Advice for more information on beginner toys in those categories. Have fun and be safe!