There are so many types of vibrator out there – especially for people with vulvas. And unless you can afford to buy them all, you’re going to find yourself spoilt for choice! If you find yourself unsure of which one is right for you, here’s five simple questions you can ask yourself to narrow down your options and choose the best vibrator for you.

Vibrators are a diverse category that can be used on many bodily areas and are designed accordingly. What’s suitable for one area might not be for another. Start by thinking about the erogenous zones you want your vibrator to target.

Do you want external stimulation?

If you’re seeking precise external stimulation, bullet vibrators are ideally shaped to target the clitoris and rest of the vulva, as well as the nipples. Bullet vibrators have a classic cylindrical shape and are less than four inches in length.

For clitoral stimulation that simulates oral sex, try sex toys that use air pressure technology instead of or in addition to vibration. These clitoral stimulators deliver a suction sensation, like oral sex, leading to faster, more intense and repeated orgasms.

If broader stimulation is what you’re after, massagers are perfect. Some massagers allow for hands-free or ‘lay-on’ use, while others resemble a wand with a round, vibrating head on a long handle. Highly versatile, wand vibrators can be to stimulate the clitoris and vulva as well as deliver soothing all-over body massage.

Do you want internal stimulation?

Vibrators designed for vaginal penetration come in many shapes and sizes, but there are three basic categories: classic, realistic and g-spot.

Classic vibrators with a cylindrical shaft and rounded tip are perfect for beginners due to their simplicity.

For those wanting a lifelike look and feel, realistic vibrators are designed to resemble an actual penis with the bonus of vibration stimulation. These are often labelled as vibrating dildos by manufacturers.

G-spot vibrators are designed to stimulate that hard-to-reach sensitive area thanks to their curved shaft and bulbous tip. These vibrators can have additional features such as ‘come hither’ motion, thrusting or rotation for maximum g-spot stimulation.

While some vibrators are suitable for either vaginal and anal penetration, others are intended for only one purpose or the other.

Anal Stimulators or vibrating butt plugs must have a flared base, secure handle or retrieval ring to prevent them from getting sucked inside the user. Beginners should start with anal vibrators that are small and flexible with a tapered tip for easier insertion, and plenty of toy-compatible lubricant.

Do you want internal and external stimulation?

Have the best of both worlds with rabbit vibrators designed to encourage blended (internal and external) vaginal orgasms. Rabbit vibrators have a clitoral stimulator, which traditionally resembles ‘bunny ears’ attached to the shaft. 

Some vibrators designed for internal massage are also usable for external massage. Classic vibrators and G-spot vibrators in particular are often great for both, as their simpler, cylindrical shapes lend themselves well to broader, external body stimulation. 

Once you’ve decided the type of stimulation you want from your vibrator, think about its size.

If you’ll use your vibrator for external stimulation only, is it sized and shaped to stimulate the desired area/s, whether a specific zone like the clitoris, the vulva more broadly, or in the case of massagers, larger muscle groups? Will you be able to hold, position and use it easily?

If your vibrator is for internal vaginal or anal stimulation, what depth of penetration do you want? Remember that vibrator width often increases with length so always check both measurements before purchasing. There is such a thing as too big, especially when you’re just starting out!

Get a ruler or tape measure and either visualise the size of the vibrator, or compare it to a common object, like a soft drink can, to ensure it’s what you have in mind. You may also want to check out our Guide to Sex Toy Measurements.

Vibrators can be made from a range of different materials, each one creating different sensations.

The texture of vibrators can vary from soft and squishy to firm and rigid, and this is important to consider in relation to the size of the sex toy.

ABS (hard) plastic feels smooth and rigid and transfers vibration effectively. Be aware that insertable vibrators made from hard plastic will not move with your body, which is important to consider if the sex toy is particularly long. Or thick.

By contrast, body-safe rubber or jelly rubber flexes easily but is porous, so it’s more difficult to clean. Rubber is often used for vibrators that have nodules or bunny ears to deliver a tickling sensation.

Silicone can range from flexible to firm depending on its formulation and the design of the vibrator. Silicone vibrators feels silky smooth and are easy to clean but should not be used with silicone-based lubricant – go for water-based lubricant instead.

Metal vibrators are less common, but popular as external bullet vibes, and as internal vibes at the luxury end of the market. Metal bullet vibes are strictly for external use only, and some use dyes for pigmentation that can be dangerous when exposed to acidic environments – such as the vagina. Metal vibrators for internal use are often made of aluminium or other inert metals and are much heavier than other sex toys. They’re great when you want a feeling of heavy fullness, and, if waterproof, are also great for temperature play as they can be warmed or cooled in water before insertion. They’re also perfect for use with silicone lubes if that’s something you prefer.

Once you’ve settled on the type of stimulation you want from your vibrator, its size and texture, think about any other features important to you.

Additional features may include vibration patterns, speed and intensity levels, multiple motors, whether they can be individual controlled, a remote control, and smartphone app-compatibility.

Also consider if you want your vibrator to be waterproof. This makes your sex toy easier to clean and means you can enjoy it in the shower or bath too.

You may also have preferences about the colour of your vibrator. Purple or pink vibrators are perennial best-sellers, but myriad colour options are available.

If the vibrator is a gift, does packaging matter? Some vibrators, particularly, deluxe vibrators, come in beautiful packaging that can double as a storage box, or include a special pouch.

Finally, price is still important. Make sure the vibrator you’re after falls in the price range you are comfortable with. It is true that you get what you pay for, and if you know what you like, going for a luxury brand with the best functions you want is worth it. If you’re looking to try out a toy to see if you like it, make sure you’re getting one with enough functions that you can test it properly, but don’t worry too much looking for the luxury materials.

And that’s it – 5 quick tips for selecting a vibrator! We hope that was helpful and enjoy finding your first - or one hundredth - toy...