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Nov 03, 2024

The Best Vibrators 2024 | The Strategist

The Strategist’s carefully chosen and rigorously vetted flagship shopping guides. Learn about our methodology here, and find all our Best in Class guides here. The Strategist’s carefully chosen and

The Strategist’s carefully chosen and rigorously vetted flagship shopping guides. Learn about our methodology here, and find all our Best in Class guides here.

The Strategist’s carefully chosen and rigorously vetted flagship shopping guides. Learn about our methodology here, and find all our Best in Class guides here.

The search for the right vibrator can be daunting (and expensive). It’s also highly individual since no two bodies are the same. I’ve been on the sex-toy beat for several years now and have extensively researched just about every category of toy out there and have also talked with dozens of experts. Among the thousands of vibrators available to choose from, there are subcategories, including very large and very small vibrators with multiple vibration patterns, those that attach to the tip of your finger, others that simulate tongues, even more that approximate penises, wearable vibrators with remote controls, and a growing category of vibrators that use suction to specifically stimulate the clitoris. I talked to 28 sex experts, sex educators, sexologists, shop owners, and professional reviewers about the 34 best vibrators. (If you’re searching for the best lube to go with it, the best sex toys for couples, or the best sex toys for men, I have you covered there, too.)

Update on October 31, 2024: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

Experts say you’ll want a different type of toy depending on the type of pleasure and play you seek, so we’ve noted the types, from wands to rabbits to bullets.

You want to make sure you’re investing in toys that are made of high-quality, body-safe materials. Body-safe materials — which include silicone, glass, metals such as stainless steel, and ABS plastic — are nonporous, so they are less likely to harbor harmful bacteria or viruses and are therefore more hygienic.

The more levels of speed a vibrator has, the more opportunity there is to experiment to find what works best for your body. Keep in mind that if you are more sensitive, you may only need to play around with the lower levels, while those who need stronger vibrations will need a toy with higher settings.

Like intensity, vibrators often have different patterns that will impact the types of sensations you can experiment with to find what works best for your body.

Type: Wand | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 4 speeds | Patterns: 4 patterns

Originally marketed as a muscle massager, the Magic Wand (formerly the Hitachi Magic Wand) was released in 1968 and quickly took off as a vibrator. It’s been a categorical favorite ever since. I’ve had mine for about a year and I very quickly understood why. While I have plenty of other toys in my nightstand that may be more aesthetically pleasing or boast some new tech, I find myself reaching for the Magic Wand over them time and time again. It’s just that good. Today’s rechargeable version is cordless, plus it’s lighter and quieter than the original. Carol Queen, Ph.D., staff sexologist at Good Vibrations in San Francisco and curator of the store’s Antique Vibrator Museum, who I trust due to her decades of work in her field, says it has a well-deserved reputation for being strong and consistent, with many users having had their first orgasms with this power player vibe. Writer Beca Grimm, whose opinion I value as a long-time actual Magic Wand owner, agrees: “It’s the Maybelline Great Lash of vibrators — the same no-frills shit your mom used (maybe still uses?) that gets the job done.” Archie Bongiovanni, who has years of experience as a sexual-health educator and events coordinator at the Minneapolis store Smitten Kitten, calls it “the Cadillac of vibrators” and points out that it can feel good on a penis, too, along with the clitoris and vulva. While it got the most recommendations of any toy on this list, a few of our experts did note that it can sometimes be too intense when used directly on more sensitive areas of the body. If you do tend toward the sensitive side, you can apply the head of the wand over your underwear or experiment with placing it indirectly. You can also buy Hitachi wand attachments to explore different sensations with the wand on different body parts.

Type: Wand | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

If you want the power of the Magic Wand at a more affordable price point, Hitachi released a mini version earlier this year. In addition to being cheaper, the mini is also much lighter and smaller than the original, which makes it easier to travel with, handle, and store. I love my original Hitachi, but it does take up a lot of real estate in my bedside drawer. Unlike the original, the mini only features three speeds and no patterns and does not come with any additional attachments. While the head features the same flexible neck, it is also much smaller which allows for more targeted stimulation and makes it a lot easier to use with a partner.

Type: Wand | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 6 speeds | Patterns: 4 patterns

While the Magic Wand is the gold standard, if you prefer something a little more aesthetically pleasing, there are plenty of other wands to consider. If you want something thats a bit more designed and less utilitarian in design, the Le Wand Petite shares the shape and intensity of the Magic Wand but in a toy that’s a bit easier on the eyes. The smooth silicone head is perfect for broader external stimulation on any type of body, regardless of gender, and because it has a slimmer design it can fit between bodies without getting in the way, so it’s great for people looking for a vibrator they want to use during penetrative sex. Shan Boodram, who I’ve interviewed many times and is the author of The Game of Desire, says it delivers on both aesthetics and power. “It’s a toy that I use solo, with my partner, on my partner, and casually on other parts of my body,” she says. Plus, “if it’s left laying around and company comes over (because, seriously, I do use it casually), I’m never embarrassed if it’s spotted.”

Type: Cone-shaped | Material: Body-safe silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

If you want a nonintimidating, starter vibrator (that also looks good), this design-y silicone vibrator from Brooklyn-based company Maude might work for you. The Vibe, which has a slim teardrop shape that tapers into a round point, is made with 100 percent platinum-grade silicone, has three speeds controlled via one button, comes in a small canvas zip pouch, and charges with a USB. After trying out the Maude Vibe, one of our testers said, “The best way to describe this was that an orgasm just zipped out of me.”

Type: Palm | Material: Silicone | Speed: 5 speeds | Patterns: 7 patterns

Discreet, waterproof, and rechargeable, the Je Joue Mimi works for both solo and couple play, without a lot of noise. With adjustable vibration patterns and speeds, the Mimi is ideal if you’re into a more mellow toy or are looking for a more quiet toy. Andrea Barrica, CEO and founder of O.school (so she’s extremely knowledgeable on the subject of, well, big O’s), says it’s her go-to because she finds most wands and suction toys to be too intense. When we tested this as part of a review of high-design vibrators, one of our testers simply said, “The Mimi, so soft.”

Type: Palm | Material: Silicone | Speed: 8 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Like the Mimi, the Touch is made of supersoft, medical-grade silicone that’s totally waterproof. It’s also extremely quiet so it’s great for people with roommates, or if loud buzzing takes you out of the moment. One of our testers said that compared to other We-Vibe vibrators she’s tried, the Touch is more ergonomic and has deeper vibrations. The contoured, handheld form is perfectly sized for stimulation across the labia and clitoris.

Type: Multipurpose | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 3 patterns

If you’re looking for a versatile vibrator that can do many different things for many different types of bodies, the Enby from Wild Flower is extremely multipurpose. One side of this silicone toy is smooth, and the other is ribbed. The whole thing is very flexible so you can wrap it around a penis, using the textured side as a stroker. Alternatively, the toy can be laid flat and grinded against, used in between bodies, or slipped inside a harness.

Editor’s Note: The Enby 2 is currently out of stock, but you can sign up for a restock notification on Wild Flower’s site.

Type: Wearable | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Another popular toy that can be worn during intercourse is the Eva II from Dame Products. The small vibrator has two flexible arms allows for hands-free play that is designed to rest between the labia, using its arms to secure it comfortably in place. This means it can deliver direct clitoral stimulation, no matter what position you’re in or how often you move. It’s great for use while having sex with a partner because you don’t have to focus on holding something in place.

Type: C-shaped | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 7 patterns

The Sync from We-Vibe is a wearable, C-shaped vibe that has held the top spot in my “Best Sex Toys for Couples” story three years running (and for good reason). I’m always impressed by We-Vibe: the strength of the vibrations, the very smooth feel of its silicone, and its products’ overall design are all top-notch. The way the Sync works is fairly straightforward: One end is worn internally while the external part lies on the clit. When used with a partner, that means you’re experiencing G-spot stimulation from both the toy and penetration. What makes the Sync especially user-friendly is that the angle of the toy is adjustable, so it bends to more comfortably fit the wearer’s shape. Plus it can be controlled with an accompanying remote (or an app if your partner isn’t in the same room or even country), so you or your partner can adjust the settings without having to fuss around with the buttons once the toy is in place.

Type: Necklace | Material: Stainless steel | Speed: 4 speeds | Patterns: 1 pattern

When it’s not in use, the Crave Vesper doubles as a minimalist piece of jewelry in silver, gold, or rose gold. In our guide to the new design-y vibrators, a Strategist tester said, “It’s a sexy object. I love wearing it. Sometimes my partner will pull it out of the bedside table by the chain, and it’s just sexy.” The Vesper is compatible with any USB charger, so there’s no need to carry around a separate cord if you’re traveling.

Type: Air suction | Material: Silicone | Speed: 14 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Unlike a traditional vibrator, the Womanizer uses pulses of air and pressure waves — similar to the sensation of oral sex — on the clitoris. While many sex toy companies have since released similar toys, Womanizer was the first to create the technology and, in my opinion after having tested several on the market, has best perfected it. It comes with two easy-to-swap stimulator heads of different sizes. The Womanizer has 14 different intensity levels that you can manually switch between, or you can set it on autopilot mode and let it alternate in surprising patterns.

Type: Air suction | Material: Silicone | Speed: 11 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Another suction-style is the Satisfyer, which clocks it at almost a quarter of the price of the Womanizer above. While I find the overall design of the toy to be rather clunky — you have to hold it in place, whereas the Womanizer lies comfortably against the vulva and its made of very hard plastic as opposed to silicone — the price makes it a good starter option if you are just dipping your toe into air suction toys.

Type: Air suction and vibrator| Material: Silicone| Speed: 14 intensity levels | Patterns: 10 patterns

Womanizer’s Duo 2 not only delivers the external air-pulse stimulation the brand has perfected but has a vibrator you can use internally to stimulate the G-spot and help you achieve blended orgasms. The Duo 2 has very powerful motors and, especially at the higher settings, can be very intense, so it’s great for those who prefer toys that pack a lot of punch. If you find that you’re on the more sensitive side of the spectrum, I’d recommend starting slow and keeping it to the lowest settings at first. The toy also features an Afterglow setting: After climax, one short press of the minus button will set the toy back to its lowest setting to ride out the end of your orgasm without getting oversensitized.

Type: Air-suction and vibrator | Material: Silicone | Speed: 8 intensities levels | Patterns: 6 patterns

For a cheaper combination toy, I suggest the newest Womanizer release, the Blend. It’s $100 less than the Womanizer Duo but combines the same G-spot vibration with the brand’s signature air-pulse technology on your clit to create powerful blended orgasms. The toy also features two motors, and each can be controlled separately so you can completely customize your experience. And while it has fewer intensity levels and vibration patterns than the Duo above, there is still plenty of power to play with, which makes it a good bang for your buck.

Type: Tongue style | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 6 speeds | Patterns: 8 patterns

Another vibrator that feels similar to receiving oral sex, the ergonomic Mimic can be used externally on the clitoris and labia, or even on testicles. The flat surfaces and edges of the Mimic provide different levels of pressure and vibration so you can customize your experience. It’s waterproof and the thin, flexible shapes makes it easy to incorporate into play with partners.

Type: Flutter style | Material: Silicone | Speed: 6 speeds | Patterns: 6 patterns

While the Fun Factory Volta has an admittedly weird shape, it actually offers a lot of versatility. For people with vulvas, there are plenty of options: The two tips can fit around the clitoris, you can use just one of the tips for more pinpoint stimulation, you can use the tips to stimulate the clitoris and vaginal opening at the same time, or you can use it on the labia. The flexible tips can also be used to fit around the head of a penis. Plus, it’s also waterproof.

Type: Finger style | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Shaped a bit like a smooth rock, with grooves on both sides so you can hold it between your fingers , the Fin from Dame — a newer brand founded and designed by women — has two vibrating patterns and three speeds. Our testers agreed that Dame’s vibrators were the softest of the bunch, with silicone that “feels like expensive silk.”

Type: Rabbit-style | Material: Silicone | Speed: 8 speeds | Patterns: 10 patterns

If you want to try a rabbit-style vibe, which will stimulate both your G-spot and your clitoris at the same time, We-Vibe’s Nova 2 is my top recommendation. I often find that rabbits aren’t very adjustable and can easily slip out of place while in use. We-Vibe’s Nova, on the other hand, is extremely flexible, which makes it accessible for lots of different bodies. Plus, it makes it easier to keep the clitoral arm in place while thrusting the main body of the toy. Like all of We-Vibe’s toys, you can also connect the toy to the accompanying app, which is great for couples.

Type: G-spot pulsator | Material: Silicone | Speed: 7 speeds | Patterns: 3 patterns

If you’re seeking a toy for internal use with a thrusting feel, Fun Factory’s line of waterproof silicone toys is an expert favorite because of the toys’ smooth, comfortable insertion and powerful motion. The shape of this slim model is geared toward G-spot stimulation and offers a choice of seven speeds and three rhythm settings.

Type: Rabbit pulsator | Material: Silicone | Speed: 8 speeds | Patterns: 8 patterns

The Bi Stronic combines the thrusting power of the Stronic G with a “rabbit style” vibrator for an external clitoral buzz. The movement of the shaft, which mimics a natural thrusting motion, stimulates the G-spot, while the other arm vibrates for clitoral stimulation to help achieve a blended orgasm. The clitoral section of the vibrator can also be controlled separately, if you prefer just G-spot stimulation.

Type: Oscillator | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 8 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

While the Zumio X most resembles a rechargeable toothbrush, the pinpoint tip provides intense clitoral stimulation, and it also moves in a unique, oscillating pattern that some may prefer to a traditional buzzing toy. Since the tip actually moves instead of just vibrating, it makes for a really distinct sensation distinct from traditional vibrators.

Editor’s Note: The Zumio X is currently out of stock, but we will update this story when the product is back in stock.

Type: G-spot | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 10 patterns

The Lelo Gigi 3 is the latest updated version of the brand’s best seller and features a soft silicone tip, waterproof construction, and lasts for up to four hours once fully charged. When connected to the accompanying Lelo app, the Gigi 3 has two additional patterns, compared to the Gigi 2, which only has eight. The latest model The feature that makes it really stand out is the flat tip and curved shaft that are designed to maximize contact with the G-spot. All three of our testers loved it with one of them calling it “the yacht rock of vibrators” for its widespread appeal. Meanwhile, Tester D actually held up a notebook with a list of the vibrators she tried with “YES” written next to the Gigi. Because it has a longer, slimmer design, it can fit easily between partners, making the Gigi a great toy for couples. And if you flip the toy upside down, the flat tip can also be used externally for clitoral stimulation.

Type: Bullet | Material: ABS plastic | Speed: 8 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Bullet vibrators are ideal for beginners because of their easy-to-use, straightforward design. The We-Vibe Tango X is an upgrade on the brand’s classic bullet-style vibrator, known for its strong vibrations and slim size. Sex writer and sex-toy reviewer Betty Butch, who has tested even more toys than I have, calls the Tango “the gold standard” of bullet vibrators that “sex-toy reviewers compare all other bullet vibrators to.” Sex educator and blogger Kelvin Sparks, who I can always rely on to give excellent toy recommendations, says, “The Tango has the most rumbly vibrations I’ve seen a bullet vibrator have.” But despite the strength of its vibrations, it’s actually quite quiet while in use.

Type: Wearable | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 7 patterns

The Moxie is a “panty vibe” that can be worn under clothing and controlled with a remote control, making it a really great choice for couples. The Moxie attaches to your underwear with a strong magnet, so you can wear it with whatever you want, including a strap-on harness or more stimulation for the wearer.

Type: Saddle style | Material: Silicone | Speed: 10 speeds | Patterns: 0 patterns

Saddle-style vibrators are designed to stimulate the entire vulva from the clitoris all the way to the perineum. If you’re someone who likes to masturbate while reading erotica or prefers to be on top during partnered sex, this is the toy for you because you’re in a seated position and completely hands free.

Type: Egg-shaped | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 1 pattern

While Tenga is perhaps best known for its strokers, the Japanese brand makes some of the most beautifully designed vibrators for beginners on the market. The toys are downright adorable and tend to evoke shapes that don’t make you think of a vibrator at all, like the Irohi, which looks a bit like mochi ice cream. The silicone is buttery soft and squishy, the toys come in a range of pastel colors, and they are charged in little plexiglass display cases that make them almost look like small pets. Lola Jean, a sex educator who offers advise to the 50,000 followers on her educational Instagram, calls the Iroha by Tenga one of her favorites, adding that the line uses a spongy material that allows you to play with levels of pressure. “They look like little works of art, so you can proudly display them.”

Type: Palm | Material: Silicone | Speed: 5 speeds | Patterns: 5 patterns

For a non-intimidating option, the Dame Pom is super squishy and palm-size. It features five speeds, five patterns, and because it doesn’t have an internal body, it’s flexible enough to easily conform to different areas of the body.

Type: Ring | Material: Silicone | Speed: 5 speeds | Patterns: 7 patterns

Along with new designs for clitoral and G-spot vibes, there’s a growing market of vibrating rings for penises that can be used either alone or with a partner. It’s on the more expensive side, but if you know you enjoy rings, this one from Je Joue is worth the investment. It’s a longtime favorite in the category for both comfort and the rumbly, deep, vibrations it creates (which should provide plenty of stimulation without over sensitizing more delicate areas). The ring is also made of a durable silicone and is still quite stretchy so it can fit on a variety of sizes.

Type: Ring | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 1 pattern

If you’re looking to experiment with a vibrating ring for the first time and don’t want to spend a ton of money, this one from Screaming O is a perfect starter option. While it doesn’t have the same number of speed or pattern settings as the Mio, it is still super stretchy for a comfortable fit. And, if you’re just trying a ring out, taking it slow with the intensity of the vibrations is probably a good idea anyway.

Type: Ring | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 7 patterns

And if you’re looking for a ring to use with a partner, the We-Vibe Pivot is the only one on this list which is app-compatible. This allows partners to control it from anywhere in the world — or across the room — and create custom vibration patterns.

Type: Anal plug | Material: Silicone | Speed: 5 speeds | Pattern: 6 patterns

This is a higher-tech anal toy from b-Vibe that offers something unique to the anal-play market. It simulates the sensation of rimming with its vibrating head and rotating beads in the neck and base. We’re showing the petite version here, which is best for beginners, but the toy also available in a larger standard size, if you’re looking for something with a bit more girth.

Type: Beads | Material: Silicone | Speed: 3 speeds | Pattern: 8 patterns

If you already have a set of non-vibrating beads, Lelo’s recently launched vibrating beads would be a fun new category to explore. It has eight different modes, supersoft silicone for added comfort, and is completely waterproof. And what makes this toy special is something called “bow-motion” technology. Basically, the vibrations begin at the base of the toy and cascade up through each bead, to keep the sensations consistent throughout the toy and simulate a thrusting sensation without the toy actually thrusting in and out. And because the toy features four beads that gradually increase in size, it’s also a good option for beginners.

Type: Prostate | Material: Silicone, ABS plastic | Speed: 3 speeds | Patterns: 5 patterns

Lelo’s vibrating prostate massagers are definitely a favorite among sexperts and consumers alike due to their strong, rumbly vibrations and pleasing design. The Hugo has a double motor — one in the prostate part, and one underneath for the perineum. (The perineum, for those who might not know, is the area between the testicles and butt.) The perineum massager, in addition to providing lots of fun sensation, also helps to keep the toy in place, if you want to keep it in during sex with a partner. It also has an accompanying app that allows you to customize the motors and hand over the controls to your partner anywhere in the world, so it’s great for long-distance couples, as well as single people. Lateef Taylor, whose opinion I trust as a pleasure-based sex educator and kink trainer, says, “It’s accessible to people who are exploring for the first time as well as those who are more experienced and desire more stimulation.”

Type: Stroker | Material: Silicone | Speed: Six speeds | Patterns: Six patterns

In our roundup of best sex toys for men, the Manta was named one of the best strokers. “It’s unlike any other sex toy on the market,” says Lisa Finn, marketing director and sex educator at Babeland with years of experience. “The soft, velvety silicone head is contoured to flex around the penis and is designed with ridges along the inside of the wings that hold lubricant in place for added sensation.” Its very slim profile makes it ideal to use with a partner, and Kit Richardson, buyer for the Museum of Sex and the MoSex Shop so they know the toy market inside and out, adds that it’s perfect if you’re looking to “intensify a BJ.”

• Sid Azmi, owner of Please• Samantha Bard, co-owner of Shag• Andrea Barrica, CEO and founder of O.school• Archie Bongiovanni, sexual-health educator and events coordinator at Smitten Kitten• Shan Boodram, author of The Game of Desire• Betty Butch, sex-toy reviewer• Madeline Cooper, licensed clinical social worker and therapist who specializes in sexuality and relationships• Lisa Finn, marketing director at Babeland• Megan Fleming, sex therapist• Beca Grimm, writer and editor• Lola Jean, sex educator• Jacq Jones, sex educator and owner of Sugar• Zoë Ligon, founder of Spectrum Boutique• Ava Mir-Ausziehen, performer, writer, and sex-toy reviewer for Sssh.com• Nefertiti Mitchell, founder and owner of Ghettoff• Olive Moore, Narcisse NYC staffer• Carol Queen, Ph.D., staff sexologist at Good Vibrations and curator of the store’s Antique Vibrator Museum• Quinn Rhodes, sex blogger • Sinclair Sexsmith, erotica writer• Kelvin Sparks, sex educator and blogger• Anne Stagg, erotica writer and podcast host• Marla Renee Stewart, sexologist and co-author of The Ultimate Guide to Seduction & Foreplay• Lateef Taylor, pleasure-based sex educator and kink trainer• Angela Wells, founder, president, and CEO of Vibrant, Planned Parenthood’s sex-toy e-tailer• Lorraine White, Unbound co-founder• Emmy Williams, manager of Narcisse NYC

Additional reporting by Liza Corsillo and Karen Iorio Adelson

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