A vibrator is a vibrating tool used for external and internal sexual stimulation, whether by penetration or application to various erogenous zones. You can use a vibrator for personal use, mutual masturbation, or stimulation of your partner’s body during foreplay or intercourse. There are many different kinds of vibrators in various shapes and sizes for clitoral and anal stimulation, and vaginal or anal penetration. Vibrators can be rechargeable or battery-operated and are sometimes water-resistant for use in baths or showers.

Vibrators fall under five broad categories based on the type of stimulation they deliver:

1. Anal vibrators: Anal vibrators are designed for anal play and come in various shapes, sizes, and functionality. Tear-drop shaped anal plugs emit a range of vibrations for anal stimulation and work best when used with lube to avoid friction. Some anal vibrators stimulate the perineum (the area between the testicles and the anus), while others use vibrational waves for prostate stimulation.
2. Artificial vaginas: Artificial vaginas resemble the female sex organ and feature an inner sleeve with a firm grip that penis owners can use for stroking. These toys are made from soft material and sometimes have heating capabilities.
3. Clitoral stimulators: Bullet vibrators, wand vibrators, and air-pulse clitoral stimulators are designed for clitoral stimulation. Bullet vibrators have a bullet shape and emit waves of vibrations that you can also use for nipple and anal stimulation. Wand vibrators are typically phallic-shaped with a large motor on one end that emits powerful vibrations that can be intense for beginners. Air-pulse clitoral stimulators are available in various sizes and feature a suction effect that emits air pulses that mimic oral sex when applied to the clitoris.
   
4. G-spot vibrators: There are levels to internal stimulation: If your preferences lean more towards the G-area, or G-spot—an area two to three inches inside the vaginal canal that, when stimulated, can lead to pleasure and sometimes orgasm—then a G-spot vibrator might be for you. These longer vibrators work best for those who enjoy deep penetration, targeting either the harder-to-reach C-spot (cervix) or A-spot (anterior fornix).
5. Penis stimulators: Vibrators aren’t just for vulva owners: Cock rings are available in vibrating and non-vibrating options and work by constricting blood flow at the base of the penis during penetrations, with or without other buzzy sensations. Stretchy, silicone-based cock rings are designed for easy removal.
6. Rabbit vibrators: For those who enjoy simultaneous penetration and external stimulation, the rabbit vibrator is the most versatile of the vibrator offerings. This popular vibrator features a vibrating dildo and a clitoral stimulator for simultaneous internal and external stimulation. You can also use one function at a time for a targeted sexual experience.

Whether choosing your first vibrator or looking for a new toy to shake up your sex life, here are a few factors to keep in mind:

1. Consider the type of stimulation. Learning what brings you sexual pleasure isn’t just good for your overall sexual health; it can also help inform the kind of vibrator you might enjoy. Pinpoint the precise sensations you want to amplify and research which vibrators fit the bill. If you prefer clitoral stimulation, consider a toy that focuses on this area, like a bullet or wand. For g-spot pleasure, try a g-spot vibrator specifically designed to stimulate the area.
2. Look for non-porous materials. Avoid porous materials like jelly-based latex or rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), which can trap and harbor bacteria, even after cleaning. Look for silicone, stainless steel, or ABS plastic-based vibrators: They’re safe, easy-to-clean, and come in hybrid options, like silicone-stainless models that offer a different sensation than soft, malleable silicone ones.
3. Think about setting and style. Look for a vibrator that complements your sex life, not complicates it. If you typically masturbate in the shower, look for water-proof vibrators. If you’re new to sex toys and want to start slow, try a palm-sized vibrator and work your way up to the more complex toys like rabbits.