All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Looking for the best vibrators for beginners is like shopping for a car: The style, size, and horsepower will have a huge impact on your experience. But across the board, the right vibe can totally revamp your self-care routine and change how you connect with a partner.
“Vibrators are designed to deliver stimulation, support sexual arousal, and even enhance orgasm,” says sex and relationship expert Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, PhD, an associate professor of sexual and relational communication at California State University, Fullerton, and host of the Luvbites by Dr. Tara podcast. But how do you figure out if you want the Cadillac of vibes or one that’s as tried-and-true as a Subaru? We’ve got you covered. Below, we rounded up the best vibrators for beginners, divided by type, plus some expert-backed shopping tips to help you get started.
Our top picks
- Best Bullet Vibrator: We-Vibe Tango X
- Best Wand Vibrator: FemmeFunn Ultra Wand
- Best Clitoral Vibrator: Jimmyjane Form 2 Pro
- Best Clit Sucker: Womanizer Liberty 2
- Best G-Spot Vibrator: Biird Gii
- Best Rabbit Vibrator: Adam & Eve G-gasm Rabbit Dildo
- Best Palm Vibrator: Dame Pom
- Best Grinding Vibrator: Rocks Off Ruby Glow Dusk
How do I choose the right vibrator?
Shopping for a vibe is easy, when you know what to look for. Here’s how experts recommend starting your search:
Internal vs. external
“When choosing your first ever vibrator, a good place to start is to consider what kind of stimulation you already know you enjoy,” Rachel Wright, MA, LMFT, New York-based licensed psychotherapist and host of The Wright Conversations podcast, tells SELF. If you’re into clitoral stimulation, try an external vibrator like a bullet or wand vibe. More into G-spot stimulation? Go with an internal option. And if you like both, a rabbit or dual-stimulation vibe could be your perfect match.
If you’re not quite sure what feels good, don’t be afraid to get hands on: “Experimenting with different types of touch with your hands and fingers on your vulva and vagina can give you a lot of information about what you like,” Holly Richmond, PhD, a somatic psychotherapist, AASECT-certified sex therapist, and the associate director at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes, tells SELF.
Pinpointed vs. broad
Consider whether you’re into broad stimulation or more pinpointed sensations, Wright says—some vibes have tiny tips, while others have flat heads that can be more versatile. Ask yourself: When I receive oral sex, what feels better? A wide, flat tongue against my whole vulva, or a tongue tracing my clitoris or labia? When getting fingered, do I prefer shallow or deep penetration? The answers can help you decide whether to go for a larger vibrator, like a wand, or something slimmer, like a bullet, Wright says.
Vibration quality is usually classified as rumbly or buzzy: “Rumbly vibrations travel deeper into the body, while buzzy ones offer surface area stimulation,” Wright says. Usually, larger vibes have larger motors that feel more rumbly, she adds. If you’re totally new to sex toys, she recommends opting for one with a few different vibration modes so you can figure out what feels best.
Most vibrators are as versatile as your imagination allows. For example, “G-spot vibrators can also be used externally, and clitoral vibrators can be used on penises or nipples too,” says Wright. (The one caveat: A vibe can only be used anally if it has a flared base.)
That said, it’s wise to think about how you want to use your new toy. If you plan on using your vibrator during partnered sex, you may want to opt for one that’s slimmer and less intrusive. If you’re using the toy solo, you might not care if it has a cord or has a larger, clunkier design.
FYI: Even if you plan to use the toy with a partner eventually, Dr. Richmond suggests using your first vibrator on your own a few times. “This offers a degree of agency and efficacy (confidence!), which helps the entire mood of the sexual experience,” she says. “This also allows you to tell your partner how you like to use it, which creates a scenario where they don’t have to guess.”
If you have noise constraints to contend with—like a roommate with hypersensitive ears or in-laws occasionally staying in your guest room—you may prefer a quiet vibe. While it can be tough to assess a toy’s noise level online, we recommend skimming reviews to see what shoppers have to say.
What you need to know about vibrator safety and hygiene
Sex toys can be made from lots of different materials—some are porous, while others are non-porous. Porous materials, like PVC and elastomer, hold onto bacteria and can never be fully cleaned. Instead, look for vibes made from nonporous materials like ABS plastic and medical-grade silicone—these won’t irritate or damage genital and anal tissues, Dr. Suwinyattichaiporn says.
Provided your toy is nonporous, you should clean it often with water and mild, fragrance-free soap, Dr. Suwinyattichaiporn says: “This will help prevent infections and prolong the life of your toy.” You’ll need to sanitize your vibe after each time you use it—this means between sessions or, if you’re having group sex, between partners. Also, if you’ve used a toy vaginally, make sure to give it a quick scrub before using it anally (and vice versa).
Shop the best vibrators for beginners
-
Best bullet vibrators
Designed for external use, these small (but mighty) vibes come highly recommended by Dr. Suwinyattichaiporn for first-timers.
Read more: Best Bullet Vibrators
-
We-Vibe Tango X
Pros
- Angled tip for pinpointed stimulation
- Silicone base feels grippy
- Range of rumbly vibration patterns and intensities
- Travel lock
Cons
- Not the quietest, according to We-Vibe reviewers
The We-Vibe Tango X is a clear gold medalist when it comes to bullet vibrators, according to Lisa Finn, a sex educator with sex toy store Babeland. It has seven vibration patterns, eight powerful intensities, and a simple, waterproof design. “The angled tip is perfect for pinpoint stimulation against the head of the clit, nipples, or the frenulum (a hot spot beneath the head of the penis),” they say. Whether you’re using it solo or with a partner, it’s sure to be a hit.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet
Pros
- 20 vibration settings
- Bendy
- Only one button
Cons
- You have to continually press the button to cycle through each setting
Unlike most other bullets, this one has 20(!) different settings and some flexibility to it, which you may find more comfortable. It’s fully waterproof, so you can take it into the shower or tub next time you need some me-time.
Product specs
Battery life: 72 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Dame
Dip 2.0 Vibrator
Pros
- Tip can be used for broad or pinpointed stimulation
- Handy low-battery indicator
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- It’s a little short for some people to hold comfortably, according to Dame shoppers
The Dip 2.0 has a uniquely shaped tip that can deliver precise or broad sensations, depending on how you hold it. Pleasure-seekers with roommates will also be pleased to learn that the motor is whisper-quiet—and it’s pretty budget-friendly, with an under-$50 price tag.
Product specs
Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Lelo
Mia 3
Pros
- Discrete size and shape
- Sculpted tip for pinpointed stimulation
- 8 vibration settings
- Quiet
Cons
- Designed for external use only
- Lelo reviewers say the buttons can be a little finicky
This ultra-discreet vibrator is designed to look like a tube of lipstick. The sculpted tip can be angled to target smaller areas (like your nipples or clit), while the motor packs a surprising punch for such a tiny toy.
Product specs
Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
CalExotics
Glam Vibe
Pros
- Has one large button
- Waterproof
Cons
- ABS plastic isn’t as soft as silicone
This vibe’s colorful metallic finish gives it a fun ’80s aesthetic. A surprisingly rumbly motor, waterproof design, and 10 quiet vibration settings also make it a top contender for your new nightstand hero.
Product specs
Battery life: 50 to 90 minutes (depending on the setting you use) | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best Wand Vibrators
“Wand vibrators are an excellent choice for vibrator enthusiasts and first-time sex toy buyers alike because of how versatile they are,” says Finn. These microphone-shaped toys have bulbous heads that deliver intense sensations to larger areas, plus longer handles that make them easy to use in lots of positions.
Read more: Best Wand Vibrators
-
FemmeFunn
Ultra Wand
Pros
- Covered in soft, textured silicone
- Flexible neck for easy angling
- Handle doesn’t vibrate
Cons
- Only comes in neon colors
If you’re intrigued by wand vibrators but don’t want to commit to a huge one, the mid-size FemmeFunn Ultra Wand is a good compromise. Measuring 8 inches long, it has great reach, but is still petite enough to be used during partnered sex. When we tested it, we found that it delivers some seriously impressive results: “I ended up enjoying three orgasms in just under 17 minutes with the Ultra Wand,” one SELF writer explained in her review. “I usually can’t use wand vibrators for more than a few minutes before their weight fatigues my arm.”
Product specs
Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Magic Wand
Mini
Pros
- Travel-friendly size
- Very powerful
- Weighs less than other wands
Cons
- Not waterproof
- For external use only
While the Original Magic Wand is a beloved classic, this mini version is better for beginners, according to Finn. “The Magic Wand Mini offers the style, shape, and power of other massagers, but in a travel-friendly size that offers easier handling and a less intimidating size and stature,” they say. Plus, it’s rechargeable, so there’s no need to stay close to an outlet while you play.
Product specs
Battery life: 150 minutes | Waterproof: No
-
BMS
Palm Power Pocket Massager
Pros
- Comes with a removable grip
- Budget-friendly
- Only one button
- Flexible neck
Cons
- Smaller size may be trickier to hold
“Wands can feel intimidating to someone who has never used a sex toy before, so I like to recommend this one as something that is a bit more approachable and discreet,” sex therapist Madeline Cooper, LCSW, previously told SELF. This compact wand massager fits in the palm of your hand and has a flexible neck.
Product specs
Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Water-resistant
-
Doxy Extra Powerful Massage Wand Vibrator
Pros
- Very powerful
- User-friendly design
- Multiple plug adaptors included
Cons
- Not waterproof
Said to have 30% more power than other popular wand vibrators, this British-made massager is ideal for people who need a lot of stimulation. But its intensity is adjustable, so you can start on low(-ish) and work your way up.
Product specs
Battery life: Plug-in | Waterproof: No
-
Playboy Pleasure Vibrato Vibrator
Pros
- Handle doubles as a dildo
- Both ends are textured
- Angled neck
Cons
- Vibration isn’t very intense
- Button labels can be confusing
This three-in-one toy functions as a wind vibrator, a vibrating dildo, and a G-spot stimulator. It has a rounded, textured head and a long, ribbed end for pleasuring yourself (or a partner) inside and out. “While I don’t think this toy will do it for power hunters or size queens, it’s an incredible investment for people who are in the market for their first-ever pleasure product, as well as those looking for a truly versatile vibe,” our tester wrote in her review.
Product specs
Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
BMS
Enterprises PalmPower Recharge
Pros
- Compact design
- Flexible neck
- Only one button
Cons
- Not designed for internal use
- Thin handle may not be comfortable to hold
This waterproof, rechargeable wand massager is compact, lightweight, and controlled with just one button. So, unlike many other wands, it’s easy to use one-handed while your other hand is busy, say, touching your partner, or penetrating yourself with another toy.
Product specs
Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best clitoral vibrators
Almost every vibe—including all of the ones on this list—can be used on your clitoris. But some are designed with a few extra features that make them our very favorites.
Read more: Best Clitoral Vibrators
-
Jimmyjane
Form 2 Pro
Pros
- Rumbly vibrations
- Works well for solo and partnered play
Cons
- Only has a few vibration and intensity settings
For introducing sex toys into partnered play, experts like this rabbit-esque vibrator from JimmyJane. Though it has an overall petite, uncomplicated design, it contains two motors for more powerful vibrations and will work swimmingly if you use it in the shower or bath.
Product specs
Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Tenga
Iroha Midori
Pros
- Made from soft, squishy silicone
- Versatile shape
- Tip can provide pinpointed sensation
Cons
- Pricey
Tenga Iroha toys are soft and squishy like little vibrating marshmallows, making them a good option for people with delicate, sensitive genitals. This one has a broad, rounded side and a more pinpointed side, so you can start with an all-over vulva massage before zeroing in on your hot spots.
Product specs
Battery life: 90 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Maude
Vibe
Pros
- Minimalist, discreet shape
- Only has one button
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Water-resistant, not waterproof
SELF’s former commerce editor found a lot to love about this cone-shaped vibrator from Maude, including how user-friendly it is. “A long press of its single button turns the vibrator on and off, and a quick press cycles it between three intensities. That’s it!” she wrote in her review. For added fun, she recommends using some of the brand’s aloe- and water-based lube with it.
Product specs
Battery life: 45 minutes | Waterproof: Water-resistant
-
We-Vibe
Touch X
Pros
- Impressive battery life
- Travel lock
Cons
- Buttons are small and close together, according to We-Vibe shoppers
“This is, hands-down, my top recommendation for first-time and experienced users,” says Dr. O’Reilly. “You can press it along the length of your entire vulva and slowly increase the intensity as arousal builds, or you can use its gently rounded tip on your hottest spots to heighten sensations or edge your way to orgasm.” The silky silicone coating feels luxurious, especially when paired with a water-based lube.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Crave
Vesper 2 Necklace Vibe
Pros
- Discreet shape
- 4 vibration settings
- Chain is included
- Waterproof
Cons
- Short battery life
Possibly the most glamorous vibe on the market, this gleaming bullet hangs on a chain like a pendant, so you can always have it at the ready. “It’s the perfect blend of a gorgeous statement piece and an incredible external vibrator,” says Finn. If anyone asks you where you found your gorgeous necklace, you can choose whether to reveal its alternative purpose.
Product specs
Battery life: 40 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best clit suckers
If you love receiving oral sex, this is the category for you. These vibrators replicate the feeling of a partner going down on you, sometimes using air suction, rotating nubs, or little “tongues.”
And they don’t have to be used solo: “While the benefits of using an oral sex toy alone may be obvious because you don’t have a partner to do it for you, using it with a partner can enhance and prolong stimulation alongside what your partner is doing,” Jenn Mason, the owner of WinkWink Boutique, previously told SELF. “Our bodies have limitations on how long they can provide oral sex (and even on the kinds of sensations we can offer).”
While they have “clit” in the name, these toys can be used almost anywhere, including on nipples and the heads of penises. (Get creative!)
-
Womanizer
Liberty 2
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Small and lightweight
- Comes with a five-year warranty
Cons
- Womanizer shoppers say it could be quieter
Only a little room left in your suitcase? Grab the Liberty 2—its small size, hygienic cover, and travel lock were made for providing pleasure while you’re on the go. Womanizer reviewers love that it feels powerful, but not too intense: “If I could only have one toy for the rest of my life, it would be this one,” one wrote.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Lelo
Ora 3
Pros
- 12 intensity settings
- Handle is easy to hold
Cons
- Lelo shoppers say it’s loud
The Ora 3’s firm, tongue-like attachment rotates around or swishes back and forth across your clit for a realistic feel. To get started, loop your fingers through the handle and cycle through 12 settings with the push of a button.
Product specs
Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Satisfyer
Pro 2 Air-Pulse Clitoris Stimulator
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Wider nozzle fits clitorises of many sizes
- Handle extends reach
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not as aesthetically pleasing as other clit suckers
“For beginners looking to explore what the hype is with suction toys, the Satisfyer Pro 2 is an excellent place to start,” says Finn. It uses contact-free, pressure-wave suction and pulsation to recreate the sensations of oral sex. For how intense and well-made it is, it’s relatively easy on the wallet—plus, Babeland reviewers say the handle is super easy to hold (even when it’s hard to focus).
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best G-spot vibrators
“Stimulating the G-spot can feel fantastic and can even be felt in the clitoris, since the internal clitoris and G-spot are so physically close,” Finn previously told SELF. “G-spot play is also one of the top ways that folks experience squirting.” This zone can be tough to reach with your fingers (especially on yourself), which is where these longer vibes come in.
Read more: Best G-Spot Vibrators
-
Biird Gii G-Spot Vibrator
Pros
- 17 vibration settings
- Very quiet
- Ergonomic shape
Cons
- Not textured
“This vibe’s thoughtful, easy-to-use design makes it such an excellent choice for first-timers,” our tester wrote in her review of the Biird Gii. “It’s a sound investment for people with sensitive bits like me, as well as the power-hungry.” Another bonus: It comes with super clear instructions to help you get going.
Product specs
Battery life: 80 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
We-Vibe
Rave 2
Pros
- Handle is easy to hold
- App-compatible
- Has a firm ridge that’s ideal for targeting the G-spot
Cons
- Bluetooth connection with the app isn’t always seamless, according to We-Vibe reviewers
“The Rave 2 is an excellent choice for beginners,” according to Jessica O’Reilly, PhD, a sex educator, host of the Sex With Dr. Jess podcast, and co-author of The Ultimate Guide to Seduction and Foreplay. While it’s marketed as a G-spot vibrator, it can be used externally too. “It also has an ergonomic handle for easy control, is app-compatible, and sports soft ‘pleasure edges’ that provide extra sensation against your most sensitive areas,” she says.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Lelo
Gigi 3
Pros
- App-compatible
- Soft and smooth to the touch
- Travel lock
Cons
- Controls may take some time to figure out, according to Lelo shoppers
The Gigi 3’s flat head is designed to help you locate and apply pressure to your G-spot (hence its cute name), but it can also be flipped over and used to massage your clitoris. The toy is rechargeable, waterproof, and has a travel lock—so it might become your new favorite vacation masturbation companion.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Lovehoney
Mantric Rechargeable G-Spot Vibrator
Pros
- Curved shaft is designed for G-spot stimulation
- Easy to use, single-button design
- Anal-safe
- Surprisingly powerful vibration
Cons
- Lovehoney shoppers say it’s a little noisy
“If you know you like internal stimulation, this is the perfect option,” Dr. O’Reilly says. “Its gentle curve and bulbous head can provide vibrations against the shallow part of the vaginal canal, which tends to be more sensitive to vibes and pressure.” Since it has a flared base, the Mantric can also be inserted anally for prostate play (and we love a versatile investment).
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Fun Factory
Patchy Paul G5 Vibrator
Pros
- Angled tip for targeted G-spot stimulation
- Raised ridges for extra pleasure
- Looped handle provides comfortable grip
- Travel lock
Cons
- Only has a few vibration intensities and patterns
“This G-spot vibe may look silly, but it’s just as serious about pleasure as it is about being playful,” says Finn. “Each ridge on the shaft adds sensation against the nerve-rich vaginal opening as you move it in the body, and the bulbous head makes it super easy to target the G-spot as you play.” The strong motor makes it great for external stimulation too.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Lovehoney
Deluxe Wand Silicone G-Spot Head Attachment
Pros
- Transforms any external wand vibrator into an internal toy
- Offers 5 insertable inches
- Ridged edges can stimulate your clit
Cons
- Wand vibrator sold separately
- Won’t fit all massager heads
If you think you need wand-level vibrations but you’re not necessarily thrilled about holding a big, bulky wand head against your bits, consider throwing an attachment like this one into your cart. It focuses those thrumming vibrations into a smaller shape, which can be used to stimulate your G-spot, clit, or both at once.
Product specs
Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best rabbit vibrators
Rabbit vibrators offer the best of both worlds, for people who like clitoral and G-spot stimulation at the same time. They usually have one longer, curved arm that slips inside your vagina, plus a shorter external one that targets your clit.
Read more: Best Rabbit Vibrators
-
Adam & Eve
G-gasm Rabbit Dildo
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Smaller girth is easier to insert
- Waterproof
Cons
- AAA batteries not included
Experts previously told SELF that this top-recommended rabbit vibrator is “one of the best sex toys on the market today,” even for newbies. It’s super smooth and easy to insert.
Product specs
Battery life: N/A | Waterproof: Yes
-
Snail Vibe Curve
Pros
- Unique design
- Made from soft, textured silicone
Cons
- There’s a slight learning curve
When our tester tried the Snail Vibe Curve, she noticed something special about its funky shape: “Since the entire silicone snail is flexible, you can slide the longer end in just a little, or all the way—the ‘shell’ part of the toy unfurls as you insert the toy deeper. In my opinion, this is an improvement over other rabbit vibes that have shorter arms that can’t reach your clit unless the other end is fully inside your vagina,” she wrote in her review. “Each time I use the Snail Vibe, I have fun.”
Product specs
Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best palm vibrators
Palm vibrators are great for people with super sensitive clitorises, since their smaller, flatter design spreads vibrations out across a wider surface area, Dr. Richmond says. As their name implies, they can fit right in your hand (or seamlessly slip between you and a partner).
-
Dame
Pom
Pros
- Quiet
- Bendy
- Made from medical-grade silicone
Cons
- May not be intense enough for some, according to Dame reviewers
“My favorite in the palm vibrator category is the Pom from Dame,” says Dr. Richmond. This pebble-shaped option is wide enough to cover the entire vulva, but small enough to feel non-intrusive during partnered play. One side has a slight ridge, to give your clit a little extra love.
Product specs
Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Je Joue MiMi Soft
Pros
- Surprisingly rumbly vibrations
- Thin edges can provide pinpointed sensation
Cons
- Vibrations aren’t very intense, according to Babeland shoppers
Finn recommends the Mimi for getting down and dirty: “It’s covered in squishy silicone, which makes it great for folks who like the sensation of pressure, either by pressing the toy down on their body or by grinding against the vibrator,” they say. It also has a solid range of settings and vibration patterns.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Best grinding vibrators
If you like to masturbate by riding or grinding against a toy or pillow, one of these hands-free vibes might be right up your alley. Designed to be straddled or humped, they’ll hit all your (external) hot spots at once.
Read more: Best Grinding Sex Toys
-
Rocks Off Ruby Glow Dusk
Pros
- Portable
- Cordless design
- Has two motors that move independently
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Not waterproof
The Ruby Glow stimulates your clit, vaginal opening, and perineum (the sensitive area between your vagina and your anus) while you rock against it. “You can sit on it like a saddle and let the vibrations do the work, or hold it in your palm against the body to enjoy the sensations,” says Finn.
Product specs
Battery life: 2 AA batteries | Waterproof: Splash-proof
-
Cute Little Fuckers
Starsi
Pros
- Unique, highly textured shape
- Easy to use
Cons
- Only has a few vibration and intensity settings
Cute Little Fuckers is a queer- and trans-owned company that designs toys that can be used regardless of gender or anatomy. Their take on the grinding vibrator, the Starsi, is a cute little vibe you can use on any external pleasure spots you want.
Product specs
Battery life: 110 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Other great vibrators
There are plenty of other body parts that can be stimulated with specialty vibrators. If you’re interested in exploring back door or penis play, then the beginner-friendly vibes below also deserve a spot in your budding sex toy collection.
-
Unbound
Shimmy
Pros
- Easy-to-grip ring
- Very tapered tip
- Waterproof
- Quiet
Cons
- Not app-compatible or remote controlled
No larger than a baby carrot, the Unbound Shimmy is our top pick for butt stuff beginners. It has a super tapered tip for easy entry (when paired with the right anal lube). Plus, it has 5 vibration speeds and 5 patterns to explore when you’re ready to level up your back door fun.
Product specs
Battery life: 120 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
-
Tenga
SVR Smart Vibe Ring
Pros
- Doubles as finger vibrator and a cock ring
- Only has one button
- Stretchy ring fits a variety of girths
Cons
- Vibrations can be very intense, some Tenga reviewers say
Vibrating cock rings are designed to make sex more fun for both partners by stimulating the wearer and the receiver at the same time. This one from Tenga can also be used freehand as a clitoral vibe, in which case the loop goes around your fingers to make it easier to hold.
Product specs
Battery life: 60 minutes | Waterproof: Yes
