A guide to the different sensations a vibrator can offer and how to work out which is best for you.
Choosing your first vibrator can feel overwhelming. To help make it easier and less time-consuming, read on for our advice on vibrator sensations.
There are many different vibrators, but essentially, there are four different types of sensations on offer.
Vibration-only sex toys
Vibration is the most straightforward form of pleasure a vibe can give.
For most women & vulva-owners, the clitoris is the #1 respondent to this delicious orgasm-inducing pleasure. But other nerve-rich areas that might also enjoy vibration are nipples, perineum, anus, and penis & balls.
As the battery power is used solely for vibration, a vibration-only sex toy can offer the highest intensity with less drain on the batteries. A vibration-only toy is also the simplest in design and function, which not only means it’s easy to use but also that there’s a lot less likely to go wrong with it.
Vibration-only vibes are the cheapest, which makes it a great choice if you've never tried vibration before. This way, you can figure out if you like the sensation before investing in a more fancy version.
Many vibrators featured in My First Sex Toy are simple and vibration-only.
Vibrators offering dual stimulation
Dual-stimulation vibrators are designed to simultaneously stimulate the clitoris & the vagina. The most famous incarnation of the dual stimulation vibrator is the Rabbit vibrator. This is sometimes called Jessica Rabbit (Sh!), Jack Rabbit, or Rampant Rabbit.
The offshoot to the main body of the vibe is designed to tease the clitoris, while the shaft pleasures internally. The shaft might rotate, have beads or pearls, or be fixed and doesn't move at all.
This style of vibrator is fantastic for exploring 'blended orgasm' - a dual climax from both clit and G-spot.
Escalating & pulsing vibrations
Some folks need steady vibration in order to orgasm. Others find that their clits or G-spots don't enjoy a constant buzz and prefer fast pulses or slow waves. If you fall into the latter category, look for vibrators that offer escalating and pulsating sensations.
Luxury vibrators offer pre-programmed series of sexy pleasure modes. This often means a variety of speeds as well as a range of different functions that will keep your clit happy. Many modern vibes will even remember your favourite setting or let you curate your own pattern. Now that's what we call personalised pleasure!
Vibrators that 'thrust' or wiggle!
There have always been 'thrusting' vibrators on the market. We have rejected most of these as they work on a piston action without longevity. But - a new breed of vibrators has hit the block, created by some of the most respected sex toy manufacturers in the world, and we've given our seal of approval!
Fun Factory thrusting vibrators pulse and judder in a subtle driving-forward motion, whereas Lelo wave-action vibrators sensually wiggle in a come-hither motion designed to massage the G-Spot.