My quest to find the best sex toy on the market has made one thing very clear. There is, actually, no such thing as the single best sex toy. Not really. We all have different preferences. Different kinks. Different budgets, even. And with so many sexual wellness retailers bringing something ~different~ to the game, it's rather recommended we move away from the idea of having one do-it-all vibrator. Today, an eclectic mix of sex toys is the ideal.
In 2024, sexual wellness products are mainstays in our self-care routines. Need proof? The global sex toy industry is worth more than $15 billion a year, and research suggests that almost half the British population admit to own at least one product. As they should.
“Our sexual health is inseparable from our mental health and overall wellbeing”, said Sarah Mulindwa, Lovehoney Group Sex and Sexual Health Expert. “We often talk about sex as being functional, or purely about fun or pleasure – which it absolutely should be, but this almost does it a disservice."
Regular orgasms – which we’ve actually been prescribed a daily dose of by New York’s Department of Health – can boost your mood, improve cognitive function, better your sleep, better your heart health, reduce period cramps and stimulate your body's production of oxygen. They're so good for you. And while your hands (or theirs) can do the job, harnessing the latest in sex technology is guaranteed to take things to the next level. So, if your sex toy collection is currently population: one, fret not. We've spent the past half-decade reviewing the best sex toy releases to bring you a guide to the crème de la crème.
SKIP TO: What are the benefits of using a sex toy? | What are the different types of sex toys for women? | How we tested the sex toys in this edit. | Our full reviews.
Meet The Experts:
- Sarah Mulindwa: Lovehoney Group Sex and Sexual Health Expert.
- Cameron Long-Tel: LELO Sex-Educator and Sexpert.
- Cecile Gasnault: Smile Makers Brand Director and Founder of Vulva Talks.
In a hurry? The best sex toys 2024, at a glance:
- Best Sex Toy for Women: LELO Sona 2 Sonic Massager, £129
- Best Sex Toy for Men: Mantric Rechargeable Remote Control Prostate Vibrator, £39.99
- Best For Couples: We-Vibe X Lovehoney Jive App Controlled Love Egg, £99.99
- Best Clit Vibrator: Womanizer Premium 2 Smart Silence Clitoral Suction Stimulator, £179.99
- Best Budget: Lovehoney X ROMP Switch Clitoral Suction Stimulator, £34.99
They keep selling out.
How we tested the best sex toys:
Aren't you dying to know? The GLAMOUR Commerce Team, made up of women of all preferences and ages, have been testing the best sex toys for the past five years. And after half-a-decade's worth of thorough reviewing, we know what it takes to make a great vibrator.
The sex toys in our edit have been testing during sex and masturbation, on holiday, in the next room to their housemate and on Valentine's Day, to ensure they live up to claims. We've scored on criteria including noise level, dimensions, settings, speeds and power. Transparency is important to us, so we've been brutally honest, unveiling the negative features as well as the game-changing ones, which we hope will prove we have your best interests at heart.
Ahead, GLAMOUR's edit of the best sex toys of 2024 that'll make your toes curl.
1. Best sex toy for women overall
Pros: “Take it from me: the LELO Sona is really, *really* good – and my go-to clitoral vibrator for masturbation. I literally recommend it to all of my friends. It uses new-generation sonic waves (and Cruise Control technology) to serve up fast; intense clitoral stimulation. It arrives packaged in a silky carry case (v. luxe) and is made from super-soft silicone that feels soft against your skin. It’s waterproof, the battery life is long, and when you’re mid-play, it’s really easy to switch between the various modes and patterns. That’s where the aforementioned Cruise Control technology comes in. When the Sona 2 is pressed hard against the body and the monitor begins to drop power, an extra 20% is unleashed (a 20% that had - until this point - been saved and stored for when you need it) so that there’s no reduction in intensity. Game-changing, right? Honestly: this thing is so good.”
Cons: "Some of my friends who are a little sensitive tried it and reported it a little too intense.”
Type: Clitoral stimulator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: 100% rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Shop our full edit of the best clit vibrators to add to your cart, and save when you shop with these Selfridges discount codes.
2. Best clit vibrator:
Pros: “This sex toy is so damn good: a velvety-soft, premium silicone clitoral stimulator with Pleasure Air Technology which provides contactless stimulation to send you into orbit. There's an autopilot mode which causes the toy to switch between randomly changing stimulation modes for extra realism and excitement, or, you can set it to one of the 14 other intensity settings dependent on your preference. The level of power is on-par with that offered by the LELO Sona, something I never thought possible, and it's easy to switch through the settings when you're mid-play. It comes in a chic carry case, is completely waterproof and USB rechargeable. I couldn't recommend enough.”
Cons: It's pretty expensive (though we're convinced it's worth it).
Type: Clit sucker.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable, magnetic charging.
Made from: Velvety-soft silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
3. Best sex toy for pin-pointed stimulation:
Pros: “This sex toy is unlike any other on the market, with a rigid and angular head to provide very intense, very targeted stimulation to your clit if you hold it at a right-angle to your body. For something less intense, you can hold it flat against your clitoris and labia and expect a gentler (yet still orgasm-inducing) massage. It boasts two pulsation modes and four speeds which you can switch between easily by clicking the button at the end of the toy, and it's completely waterproof for use in the bath or the shower.”
Cons: “My only tripe was that it's battery-powered, so you always need to have some AA's in your stash incase it runs out.”
Type: Bullet vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: 2x AA batteries.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
4. Best hands-free sex toy:
Pros: “Guaranteed to elevate your sex life, this wearable sex toy is hands-free and wearable. I loved using it during sex with my partner and found it made us feel closer together - particularly since I don't usually orgasm from penetration alone. It vibrated against my clitoris for a truly life-changing experience, staying in place with fiddle-free wings that nestle under the labia. There's a trio of vibration modes so you can set the intensity before you begin, and between sessions, you can recharge the toy through a USB port. What's more, this sex toy is waterproof which makes it perfect for play in the shower or bath.”
Con: “It did take me a couple of minutes to get it in the right position.”
Type: Hands-free couple's vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
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5. Best vaginal beads:
Pros: “LELO's vaginal beads are one of their most popular sex toys on site right now, designed to extend your pleasure and train your body to experience multiple orgasms. Consider them the centre of your pleasure workout. When worn inside the vagina, LELO Beads emit tingly sensations that prompt pelvic floor muscle reaction, strengthening the vaginal wall and pelvic floor muscles through effective Kegel exercising. The result? Enhanced sensations during intimacy: your muscles will be tightened and toned giving way to more intense sensations to both partners during foreplay and sex.”
Cons: “They're not so much sex toys, inducing orgasms on the spot – more toys that'll elevate the quality of your sex life in the long run.”
Type: Kegle weights.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: N/A.
Made from: Premium silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
6. Best sex toy for men:
Pros: “This remote-control prostate vibrator is designed for powerful P-spot stimulation and an elevation to your foreplay – as well as stronger erections. The body-safe silicone shaft is curved to deliver intense P-spot orgasms while the flared, cushioned and textured base massages the perineum for added external stimulation. It's USB rechargeable, has a travel lock function and has a colour-changing panel on the base to help you remember your favourite mode.”
Cons: “Nothing to note.”
Type: P-spot vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable via USB.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
7. Best sex toy for anal play:
Pros: “According to research done by SmileMakers themselves, one third of vulva owners engage in anal sex – and at least half of the SmileMakers' community enjoy this type of stimulation. But for many, the first experience of anal stimulation may be negative, due to poor technique or a lack of sex education. The Neighbor, the wellness brand's latest new sex toy launch, helps to encourage a positive experience instead. They've combined extensive research with anatomical data and consumer perceptions to create an approachable, velvety-soft anal sex toy for beginners. Start with a little clit stimulation, as having a clitoral orgasm first can help you relax and get the body ready, before applying water-based lube. Then, take your time, breath deeply and insert gently. You can explore The Neighbor’s different modes, and pair with penetrative sex or foreplay.”
Cons: “Nothing to note.”
Type: Anal vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
8. Best sex toy for new mums:
Pros: “According to a report from Smile Makers and Mumsnet entitled ‘Finding pleasure after childbirth’, 75% of mothers worry about reconnecting with their sexuality after giving birth – and while 84% are proud of their body, more than 60% struggle with body image and feel like “a vessel for their child’s needs”. So, the two brands teamed up to create the world's first vibrator targeted at new mothers – and we obviously had to get our hands on it.
The Whisperer – named to reflect its discreet volume levels as well as the notion of gentle, personal pleasure – has been designed to cater for scar tissue and heightened sensitivity. It's made from flexible silicone for a soft sensation, and is designed to be used for clitoral stimulation, based on the feedback that mothers can feel anxious about penetration. The curved tip nicely hugs the clitoris and stimulates the vulva with discreet vibrations.”
Cons: “Nothing to note – for its purpose, I was very impressed.”
Type: Bullet.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
9. Best vibrator:
Pros: “Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, the best-selling LELO Lily was the OG sex toy which started it all over 20 years ago. Despite its petite size, it boasts a plethora of vibration settings inside its ergonomically shaped body, and it has been upgraded to ensure only the most intense of pleasure. It's super discrete, rechargeable and waterproof certified to IPX7 standard – so it'll never let you down. Hold it flat against your body or point the tip towards your clitoris for a range of different sensations.”
Cons: “Nothing to note, truly.”
Type: Pebble vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable via USB.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
10. Best budget sex toy:
Pros: "A Lovehoney bestseller - and rated by their staff - the Romp Switch Clitoral Suction Stimulator is available in purple and orange, and designed to serve up intense clitoral orgasms using Pleasure Air Technology. It has six intensity levels to let you personalise your experience, and has been crafted with a soft silicone head which feels great against your skin.
Cons: “You'll want to dab a small amount of water-based lubricant around the rim before resting it gently against your clit to get the best results.”
Type: Clit vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: USB rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone and plastic.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
11. Best sex toy for couples:
Pros: “The reason we loved this We-Vibe vibrator, particularly for couples, is because you can hand over the controls to your partner and let them deliver thigh-quivering vibrations to your G-spot. Ergonomic and designed to stay in place once inserted – however much you wriggle – it leaves your hands free to pleasure your partner, and is controlled via an app. Said app is new-and-improved, built entirely from scratch with tutorials, controls and inspiration.”
Cons: “It doesn't provide so much clitoral stimulation – this is one for lovers of G-spot vibes.”
Type: Remote-controlled G-spot vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
12. Best nipple stimulators:
Pros: “Already dipped your toes in with a nipple stroker? Does having the tips of your breasts caressed sends a spark to your groin? Go with these. How? Moisten first (a drop of water-based lube is ideal), squeeze out the air and release over your areola. The more air you squeeze out, the stronger the suction – leaving your nipples bigger and much more sensitive. They were a great addition to foreplay.”
Con: “Be warned: they pop off during rough play.”
Type: Nipple stimulators.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: N/A.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys with these Lovehoney discount codes.
13. Best wand vibrator:
Pros: “Lovehoney's bestselling massage wand is this mains powered wand vibrator, so I was rather excited – as a wand vibrator newbie - to give it a try. It's perfect for solo use, shared intimate play and intimate massage. And while it might not be portable, boy is it powerful. I rated that the cable is 1.8 meters long, so you don't need to worry about it not stretching to your bed.”
Con: “It can be a little noisy, so make sure your housemates aren't in. I, sadly, made that mistake.”
Type: Wand.
Waterproof? No.
Battery: Mains.
Made from: Hard plastic.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Shop our full edit of the best wand vibrators here. And save when you shop for the best sex toys with these Lovehoney discount codes.
14. Best bullet vibrator:
Pros: “This g-spot vibrator uses Smile Makers' innovative technology which allows for more powerful vibrations, not to mention it has a slightly increased weight compared to other models, which encourages an even more intense orgasm.”
Cons: “It will only penetrate a couple of inches, but did you know that 81.6% of women don’t orgasm from penetrative intercourse alone? So, if you prefer sex positions where your partner is coming into contact with the clitoris and surrounding areas, The Tennis Pro will be a top pick for joint to solo play to show those external zones some love.”
Type: Bullet vibrator with a wand vibrator-style head.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Single AA battery for up to four hours of play.
Made from: Phthalate free cryogenically polished silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys for women with these LookFantastic discount codes.
15. Best rabbit vibrator:
Pros: “This powerful rechargeable silicone rabbit vibrator has two motors for combined G-spot and clitoral stimulation. It's an exclusive shape for Lovehoney, designed and developed using expert knowledge the famed Rabbit Vibrator, and it has an incredible total of 36 possible vibration combinations gives you complete control. That's the highest number of settings of any sex toy in this edit. It's also whisper-quiet."
Cons: “Not all tested rated the sensation of dual stimulation – due to a preference for clitoral stimulation alone – so due to the price, we'd only recommend picking it up if g-spot stimulation is something you like.”
Type: Rabbit vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: USB rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
16. Best g-spot vibrator:
Pros: “Please don't be put off by the length of this g-spot vibrator. With its curved tip, it has been perfectly designed with the female form in mind to reach your G-spot in one fell swoop. It's smooth and slim and rechargeable via USB, and it boasts three speeds and seven passion patterns for a wonderful and empowering masturbation experience.”
Con: “It's not made in the UK, so in terms of carbon emissions and the number of miles from the manufacturer to your door, it doesn't deliver.”
Type: G-spot vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Physical battery.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys for women with these LookFantastic discount codes.
17. Best remote control vibrator:
Pros: “Myself and my partner are in a LDR (that is: a long distance relationship), and we both find it difficult to stay connected. It goes without saying that this device was (and is) a wishlist item. Read: I was very keen to give the highly-rated Lovense Lush 3 sex toy a go. First thoughts: you can get five hours' worth of continuous use per charge with this sex toy for women, and it’s comfy enough that you can make full use of that time. It works well across the globe together with the We-Vibe app acting as the remote control (I'm in the UK; my partner is in the States). What’s more, this toy specifically gives off intense and rumbly vibrations as far as internal stimulation is concerned and, as one buyer put it, they’ll make you squirm (in the best way).”
Cons: “The app can be a little tricky as it has lots of settings. I found it took me a while to get used to. That said, I might argue that a surplus of settings could be seen as a pro for some buyers, and once I knew what I was doing (and what I liked), I felt it did a stellar job of bringing myself and my partner closer together."
Type: Remote controlled vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable via a magnetic charge point.
Made from: Latex-free, phthalate-free silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys for women with these Lovehoney discount codes.
18. Best dildo:
Pros: “Dildos are meant for insertion and normally don’t vibrate - unless you get the right attachment for it. This one, however, does – with a curved shaft and clit vibrator for dual pleasure. For that reason alone, it's worth adding to your collection. I liked that the head is realistic and shaped perfectly for g-spot massages – and that it boasts multiple speed vibrations for varying intensity and sensations.”
A dildo is, essentially, a G-spot vibrator but, as Cameron from LELO adds, “the difference between a vibrator and a dildo is that generally, a dildo does not vibrate unless it comes with an extension, like a bullet vibrator for example.” She continued, “It’s important to realise that there is a great misconception and expectation for women to easily climax from penetrative sex or dildos. This is not the case, it’s different for everyone, and using a dildo as an explorative tool on your erogenous zones is a great way to find out what feels good, and if you can orgasm from penetration."
Cons: “The texture of the shaft is a bit like marmite - you'll either love it or hate it.”
Type: Dildo.
Waterproof? No, but water-resistant.
Battery: Physical batteries.
Made from: Soft plastic.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys for women with these Lovehoney discount codes.
19. Best sex toy starter kit:
Pro: “Splash-proof, up to six inches in insertable length and enough of a variety of products for both solo and couples play, this sex toy selection is a reputable choice for beginners and buyers just dipping their toes in the sexual wellness waters for the first time. You/your partner can work through the toys, starting small and increasing as you feel comfortable, not to mention discovering new pleasures and preferences that you didn’t even know existed. I might start with either the wand or bullet, but take things at your own pace regardless.”
Con: “Lots of batteries required for this one. Then again, you needn’t buy them all at once.”
Type: Bullet vibe, wand vibe, clit suction toy, anal dildo, dildo and vibrating love egg.
Waterproof? No, splash-proof.
Battery: You will need 4 x LR44 batteries, 2 x AAA + 1 x AA.
Made from: N/A - not disclosed.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys with these Lovehoney discount codes.
20. Best egg vibrator:
Pros: “It's sleek and silicone, rechargeable, and thanks to its pebble shape, sits snug in one hand. It was voted the 'World's Best Vibrator,' has a range of pulses and speeds and is surprisingly and pleasantly quiet for the intensity of the sensations it achieves. In addition to this, it’s the sort of toy that’s versatile enough to be used on penises, perineums and anuses, just as it is on clitorises and vulvas. It also comes with free delivery, so that’s another financial weight off your mind when ordering.”
Cons: “The controls can be a bit tricky, in the sense that you’re navigating eight different vibration patterns and 12 speed settings all at the touch of three buttons.”
Type: Mini clitoral vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: USB rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys with these Lovehoney discount codes.
21. Best discreet vibrator:
Pros: “This is, hands down, one of the most discrete bullet vibrators on the market, designed to be super-quiet and look just like a lipgloss. Small enough to fit in a purse or makeup bag and go wherever you do, it has 10 vibration settings (impressive, considering how tiny it is) which are controlled by a single button. You get 60 minutes' worth of play on a single charge.”
Cons: “The round tip makes intense, targeted stimulation difficult to achieve. We'd recommend this as a good sex toy for beginners, but recommend something a little more expensive if you want more power.”
Type: Bullet vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable via USB.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
22. Best new sex toy launch:
Pros: “If you like both internal and external simulation, this new addition from the world of Womanizer will likely send your orgasms skyrocketing (something it certainly did to mine). I'm talking direct clitoral sensations paired with a deep undercurrent of penetrative vibrations and, what's more, Womanizer even include two sizes of stimulator head. Yep, that's right, so whether you like your pleasure tight and direct or more spread out and well-rounded - so to speak… - the brand have put everybody first. Myself included.”
Cons: “The internal wand is perhaps to big to enjoy during penetrative sex with a penis, but I'm taking that as a sign for the universe that it's self-love season.”
Type: Clitoral suction toy-come-rabbit vibrator-come dildo
Waterproof? Yes
Battery: USB rechargeable with 120 minutes of power
Made from: ABS, body-safe silicone, made without phthalates, BPA or latex
Discrete packaging? Yes
Save when you shop for new sex toys with these Lovehoney discounts.
23. Best sex toy for women for dual stimulation
Pros: “If you’re the kind of person that thinks two orgasms are better than one, you’re in for a real treat. Soraya™ 2 is the world’s most luxurious rabbit vibrator that offers optimised dual-stimulation for both clitoral and G-spot orgasm, on a whole new level. Packaged in a silky carry bag, large in size, quiet when in use and with a 10-year warranty (and four hours' worth of play when fully charged), I'd declare it worth every penny of its £199.99 price tag.”
Con: “The length of the clitoral stimulator isn't a failsafe for sexual pleasure with all users, depending on the shape of your body. I found it a little difficult to find the correct position for me.”
Anonymous GLAMOUR tested review: Personally, the little rabbit ears on some of the so called ‘best rabbit vibrators’ are perhaps a tad too innocent looking for my moment of self care. That's one of the main reasons why the Soraya 2 jumped out to me, not to mention the all-round five star ratings. I was admittedly apprehensive of the gold plating, thinking at first that it would be stainless steel and icy to the touch but, on the contrary, the luxe-look front is made from a less chilling ABS plastic and felt comfortable alongside the smooth silicone when in use. For me, the Soraya brings a little bit of opulent wellness to my personal moments, and the price tag is well worth it.
Type: Rabbit vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: Rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys for women with these Lovehoney discount codes.
24. Best sex toy for women on Amazon
Pros: “A real trending product in the world of sex toys, the Pro 2 massages the clitoris using pressure waves and tingling pulsations and has a new silicone head for a soft and comfortable feel. It’s also best-selling, to the point that one buyer described it as, ‘100 angels going down on you.’ If that doesn’t sway you in its favour, I don’t know what will. On a more practical note, this is one of the most reasonably priced suction toys I’ve come across and the fact that it includes a 15-year guarantee for its sub-£35 price point is a godsend.”
Cons: “Takes a little while to charge, yet still multiple buyers in the review section are remarking that they’d choose the Satisfyer over Womanizer’s higher price point devices.”
Anonymous GLAMOUR tested review: As someone who had read about the Satisfyer clit stimulator on TikTok - wherein you'll find a jillion rave reviews - I was hesitant to believe the hype. I needn't have been. You can adjust the intensity of clit stimulation both via the device's settings and by playing with its physical closeness to your clitoris. It really does mimic the feeling of my partner being down there and, for the price, I'm overjoyed.
Type: Clitoral suction toy.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: USB rechargeable lithium ion battery.
Made from: The suction ring is manufactured from silky smooth, medical-grade silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Shop our full edit of the best clitoral vibrators and clit sex toys you absolutely need in your life to help you reach orgasm and save money on your order with these Amazon coupon codes.
25. Best strap on sex toy
Pros: “Suitable for either two partners with vaginas or mixed vagina-penile sex, this dildo is one of the best sex toys for couples and can be held in place - without leg braces - by placing the shorter shaft within the vagina while the bunny ears tantalise your clitoris. Meanwhile, the longer shaft can then be used to experiment with pegging and/or lesbian penetrative sex. It’s quiet, perfect for if you live in a shared rental property or student accommodation – and a top choice for pleasuring both parties simultaneously. I found it comfortable to wear for up to an hour, and felt hugely empowered by the whole experience."
Con: “The party using the shorter shaft may need to practise kegel strength exercises to ensure it stays in place for extended periods. Once I got to around the 45-minute mark, I started to struggle. Then again, who said improving our pelvic floor muscles was a bad thing?”
Type: Strap-on dildo vibrator.
Waterproof? Yes.
Battery: USB rechargeable.
Made from: Silicone.
Discrete packaging? Yes.
Save when you shop for the best sex toys with these Lovehoney discount codes.
What are the benefits of using sex toys?
On your own, sex toys are a fail-safe way to drastically improve masturbation, and with a partner, the best sex toys can heighten and intensify intimacy, elevate foreplay and stimulate every erogenous zone (whatever your kink). This can result in increased likelihood of orgasms which, for women, is needed.
According to the Lovehoney Group 2024 Sex Trends Report, despite the progress we’ve seen in the sexual wellness industry, the orgasm gap between men and women still remains. The global masturbation gap has widened from 47% in 2022 to 57.7% in 2023. In Lovehoney’s UK survey, we found out that the orgasm gap between men and women is still significant and shocking, largely due to the lack of outercourse and clitoral stimulation; 41% of men were found to orgasm every time during sex as opposed to just 14% of women.
Outside of the orgasm gap, there are lots of health benefits of using sex toys, too. They can improve your mood, increase libido, help with vaginal pain and tightness due to vaginismus, vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus or lack of arousal, and they can reduce the intensity of period cramps. Another unexpected benefit of sex toy use, seen in a study of menopausal women? An improvement in sleep and overnight menopausal sweating. In short, get on it.
What are the different types of sex toys for women?
According to expert Cecile Gasnault, brand director of Smile Makers and founder of Vulva Talks, there are five main sex toy camps worth knowing.
- BULLET VIBRATORS are the smallest vibrator type on the market. But they still pack a punch. They're bullet-shaped, about the size of your index finger, and as Cecile explains, can be used "to stimulate the glans of the clitoris on the vulva and to roll on the labia or orbit around the vaginal entrance." A bullet vibrator can still be used for partner sex, says Cecile. “Given the central role of the clitoris for female pleasure, it is is a great toy to enhance partner sex,” she elaborates, “be it for sex between vulva owners or sex between vulva owners and penis havers.” Bullet vibrators often come with finger sleeves, so that you can turn them into finger vibrators.
- G SPOT VIBRATORS: Compared to bullet vibrators, G-spot vibrators can vary hugely in their shape and size ) and, while one may appear somewhat like a dildo, another may possess a shorter shaft which is curved, with a central goal of reaching your internal G-spot rather. Cecile delves deeper, telling GLAMOUR that “a g-spot vibrator has been ergonomically crafted to reach the erogenous zone inside the vagina where the vagina wall comes in contact with the internal structure of the clitoris called the G-spot.” In a nutshell, G-spot vibrators have a more targeted goal, while dildos might provide a more well-rounded pleasure experience.
- CLIT VIBRATORS: This category of sex toy which, coincidentally, can actually include G-spot vibrators and wand vibrators, focuses heavily on clitoral suction toys. Clitoral suction toys - or clit suckers, as they're more often referred - involve the use of air to massage and suck the clitoris and its surrounding area, creating a sensation which aims to mimic that of oral sex with a partner.
- WAND VIBRATORS: Much like clit vibrators, wand vibrators also shine a spotlight on the clitoris, using a bulbous vibrating head to stimulate the area. That said, while a clit sucker might not provide much pleasure around the outer vaginal entrance (that's not to say you shouldn't try it…), a wand vibrator can be used for all-over sensation. From your nipples to your inner thigh, even your partner's penis and perineum.
- RABBIT VIBRATORS: Named as such because of their signature ‘rabbit ears', rabbit vibrators feature two prongs. The first is designed to be inserted into the vagina and reach the G-spot therein, while the second, shorter prong, hovers over the top of the clitoris using those aforementioned ears to tickle and titillate the area, building towards a dual orgasm.
Elsewhere, vibrating cock rings are designed with heterosexual partnered sex in mind to engulf the penis and creating external stimulation for both parties, while dildos and butt plugs are other popular choices. The latter perhaps offer a more guaranteed benefit for penis-having buyers, given the further rear location of their G-spots. But, women can and have found enjoyment from the use of anal plugs and beads, so their use isn't limited to our Y chromosome-having counterparts.
Plugs, like dildos, can vary in shape, with some being beaded while others are tapered. To this, Cameron adds, "when considering size, think about how tight you are and if you’re struggling to visualise the size you’re after, look at household items around you and get the tape measure out." Often, when it comes to anal plugs, buyers need to work their way up from a smaller size, increasing in length and width as they feel comfortable.
After more sexual wellness content, fresh and new-in from team GLAMOUR? Shop sex games for couples, the best lubricant, massage candles, sexy lingerie and tips on mindful masturbation. For more from GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.
