All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
If you find learning how to use sex toys to be a daunting task, you’re not alone. I’ve tested over 1,000 in the last decade and am well aware that it can feel extremely overwhelming to try a new toy, especially if you’re a beginner to vibrators. That’s why I’m here to help. Learning how to use a vibrator, especially a more basic one, isn’t as complicated as some instruction booklets make it seem. Here’s my advice on how to use sex toys based on the most common types on the market, as well as recommendations that I firmly believe belong in everyone’s nightstand. Remember: You’ll want to get comfortable, and be patient with yourself. It takes time to figure out what angle and pressure feels good for you—but your sexual pleasure is well worth the effort. (Pro tip: A water-based lubricant is great to have on hand as it reduces friction, relaxes you, and can be used with most silicone sex toys.)
How to use sex toys by type
- How to use a clitoral vibrator
- How to use a suction vibrator
- How to use a G-spot vibrator
- How to use a dual-stimulating vibrator
- How to use sex toys for penises
- How to use anal sex toys
How to use a clitoral vibrator
- What they are: Vibrators that primarily stimulate the clitoris externally; the most common types include bullet vibrators, palm vibrators, wand vibrators, and finger vibrators
- Who they’re best for: Anyone who likes direct clitoral stimulation
- How to use them: Grasp the clitoral vibrator’s body (or tether it to your fingers, in some cases), and trail it across the nipples, vulva, or head of the penis to get in the mood. You can do this solo or with a partner. Then, starting at the lowest intensity, press the vibrator’s tip lightly against the clit, going in small circles or strokes, before slowly increasing pressure, speed, and trying out new vibrational patterns. If you’re using a wand vibrator, you might want to dampen its intensity by using it through fabric like underwear or a bed sheet.
Dame Pom
Palm vibrators fit intuitively in the hand, allowing you to easily explore every possible erogenous zone during foreplay, masturbation, and sex. They provide gentle, allover vulva stimulation. Although you’ll only get about an hour of use out of Pom before it needs a recharge, with its 10 vibration modes, you can cover a lot of ground in that amount of time.
Magic Wand Micro
Of all the wand vibrators out there, the one that really stands out for me is the Magic Wand Micro. It’s the mini version of the much larger classic and has the signature bulbous head that delivers three shockingly powerful intensity levels. The head’s cushioned layers can feel nice for anyone with a sensitive clit.
How to use a suction vibrator
- What it is: A vibrator that creates the feeling of suction around the clit through puffs of pressurized air; also called air-pulse vibrators and clit suckers
- Who it’s best for: Anyone who prefers indirect clitoral stimulation and/or the feeling of oral sex
- How to use it: Suction vibrators are also technically clitoral vibrators—but without the direct contact with the clit. Slip the wide mouth of the vibe around the clit; it should hover, but not touch it. Once you turn it on, the head will stimulate with pressurized air over the clitoris that mimics the feeling of a mouth. Start on the lowest and most gentle setting, then adjust as you become more acquainted with the sensation. It’s worth noting that suction vibrators tend to have a slower build, as opposed to direct-contact clitoral vibrators.
.png)
Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 2
This is an extremely popular, reasonably priced clitoral suction vibrator. It has 11 intensities, is waterproof, and has a long battery life. The fact that you can score the Satisfyer Pro 2 for as little as $50 on Amazon is astounding.
- Andrew Gowen for Glamour
- Original video from Glamour UK
Lelo Sona 2 Cruise
In her review, Suzannah Weiss, MA, MPS, a certified sex educator and Glamour toy tester, says the Lelo Sona Cruise “might be the best vibrator” she’s ever tried. It’s powerful and has a unique cruise-control feature that varies the intensity of the toy’s sonic airwaves depending on how near it is to your body—no need to fumble with buttons.
How to use a G-spot vibrator
- What they are: Vibrators that can be used internally to target the G-spot
- Who they’re best for: Anyone who likes G-spot stimulation
- How to use them: After you’ve applied lube, gently insert it into your vagina. G-spot vibrators and sex toys are designed with a curve that easily locates the G-spot (a small bundle of nerves inside the vagina that can feel really good when pressed). Once you’ve reached the area—it will be sensitive to the touch—turn on the toy, starting at the lowest intensity, before experimenting with stronger vibrations. Stroke the G-spot in circular motions, up and down, side to side, or with slow thrusts—whatever feels best to you.
Lelo Gigi 3
Lelo Gigi 2 is at the top of my list of G-spot vibrators. Between the shape of the shaft and its wide, flat head, it’s impossible to miss the G-spot. Its four-hour charge is also seriously impressive.
Le Wand Bow
Le Wand Bow may not be a vibrator, but people love it. Its stainless steel body is weighted on both ends, lending a firmness that can feel nice against the G-spot (and the P-spot). Its stainless steel is easy to clean and it’ll never need charging. I like to use it while holding a bullet vibrator against my clit.
How to use a dual-stimulating vibrator
- What they are: Any toy that stimulates more than one erogenous zone at the same time (rabbit vibrators are a classic example, as they provide both G-spot and clitoral stimulation)
- Who they’re best for: Anyone who likes G-spot and clit stimulation at the same time
- How to use them: If you’re playing with a C-shaped dual-stimulating vibrator, first apply lube to the arm that will fit inside the vagina to hit the G-spot. To use a rabbit vibrator, that lube goes on the large shaft of the toy. Next, line up the external arm (or “ears” in the case of many rabbit toys), with the clitoris. Start out at the lowest intensity for both arms (many have motors you can separately control, but I recommend keeping them in sync at first), then work your way up in intensity before turning to cycling through different patterns. Stroking or thrusting movements tend to work best for dual stimulators. For some, dual stimulation is a one-way ticket to the elusive blended orgasm.
We-Vibe Sync 2
One arm of this toy is inserted to stimulate the G-spot, while the other remains outside to stimulate the clitoris. Sync 2 is one of the best couples’ toys you can buy. Its We-Connect app makes partnered play hands-free and possible even long-distance.
Lelo Soraya 2
Lelo Soraya 2 is the ideal dual-stimulating vibrator thanks to its ability to stimulate both the clitoris and G-spot at the same time. Its soft, grippy body is ergonomic for those extended sessions of play, which is important because you can get four hours of it. It’s 100% waterproof and has 12 settings with which you can tease your way (or your partner’s way) to climax.
How to use sex toys for penises
- What they are: Sex toys that stimulate the penis and/or prostate (common types include male masturbators, cock rings, and prostate massagers)
- Who they’re best for: Anyone who has a penis, although cock rings can also be used on strap-ons too
- How to use them: Each type of toy for the penis is used quite differently. Playing with a vibrating cock ring (a.k.a. a penis ring)? Apply lube, slide the toy around the penis until it sits at the shaft, and then turn it on to experiment with its intensities and patterns. It restricts blood flow to the penis, which can prolong orgasm. (It can also be used as a clitoral stimulator.) To use a masturbation sleeve (also known as a male masturbator or a stroker), insert the penis into the sleeve and test out its vibration modes; the inside of the toy mimics the feeling of a blowjob. Prostate massagers can be used to internally stimulate the prostate (a.k.a. the P-spot, a bundle of nerve endings in the rectum that can lead to orgasm when stimulated). No matter what type of penis toy you choose, lube should always be part of the equation.
Blowmotion Warming Masturbator
The six vibrations and three intensities make this Blowmotion masturbation sleeve a fantastic toy for those with penises. The best part? It heats up to 104°F to give it a more real-life feeling. When fully charged, you can enjoy this toy for up to a full hour—just don’t forget to use lube.
.png)
Lelo Hugo 2
Lelo Hugo 2 is a great option for people with prostates. It has 10 vibration patterns, is 100% waterproof, and can be easily controlled via the Lelo app (or its remote). Don’t let the size intimidate you! As long as you take it slow and always use water-based lube, Hugo 2 just might become your preferred prostate massager.
Maude Cone
The Maude Cone is made from the ideal silky-smooth silicone that you want in a butt plug, with a flared base to prevent it from getting stuck inside the anus. Although I’ve listed it under sex toys for penises, it’s important to realize that all butt-related toys can be used by anyone.
How to use anal sex toys
- What they are: Sex toys that can be used in the anus (typically butt plugs, dildos, and anal beads; many dildos can be secured to the body with a strap-on)
- Who they’re best for: Anyone who enjoys anal stimulation
- How to use them: Apply a generous amount of lube to the toy, then very slowly and gently insert it into your or your partner’s butt. Beginners to anal sex (and even those who are experienced) will want to start with a small butt plug or dildo and to take their time with insertion. If you feel pain at any point, stop. You might need to add more lube, to try a different angle, or opt for a more petite toy. If the toy vibrates, start it on the lowest vibration setting before gradually exploring stronger intensities and patterns. First-timers, however, might want to stick with a non-vibrating anal toy as they adjust to the sensation.
B-Vibe Vibrating Butt Plug
B-Vibe’s Rimming Butt Plug is the ideal size for first-timers and includes a feature that stimulates the anus with rotating beads, while the actual plug part stimulates anally with its 11 vibration modes. It also comes with an easy-to-use remote control, so you can have hands-free fun on your own or spice up play time with a partner.
Unbound Pogo
If you’re looking for a silicone dildo that can be used with or without a harness, then Pogo is the dildo for you. At 6.5 inches in length, it’s the ideal size for vaginal or anal play. When you’re done playing with Pogo and are ready to clean it, all you have to do is stick it in the dishwasher.