I’m a full-time writer and sex educator who has tested more than 500 different sex toys in the past 25 years. I began blogging about sex toys in 2011, and I worked as a toy tester and copywriter for the retailer The Stockroom before I began reviewing sex toys for Wirecutter more than a decade ago.

I received my master of public health degree in 2014 from Indiana University, where I assisted research scientist Debra Herbenick with academic and consumer research related to sex-toy use. While at Indiana University, I worked as a blogger and sex educator at the Kinsey Institute.

As part of my research for this guide:

• I consulted sex educators and owners of sex-toy shops. I’ve also consulted all manner of sex-toy users, from first-timers to people who use vibrators daily, including people across gender identities and sexualities.
• I attended several trade shows to better understand the growing and changing sex-toy market.
• In addition to testing vibrators myself, I recruited additional people to use the top contenders and share their feedback.
• Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards.

Vibrators are for everyone. And they can be a godsend in particular for people who are unable to reach clitoral orgasm easily from manual masturbation, oral sex, or penetrative intercourse alone. Many are also suitable for penile and nipple stimulation.

But buying sex toys can be an intimidating experience for newbies and experienced users alike, and not just due to the buyer’s shyness. High-quality sex toys are often expensive and nonreturnable, you have hundreds (if not thousands) of sex-toy models to choose from, and the criteria for what makes a good sex toy can be highly subjective. Determining what toy will work best for you based on reviews can be difficult because every person’s sexual response is different. Nobody wants to spend $100-plus on a toy that turns out to be a dud.

We’ve focused on toys that will work well for most people, including beginners. We’ve also included a budget option for anyone who is looking to test the waters before diving in.

We identified several vibrator features that were most important to our experts, our testers, and a general sample of sex-toy owners:

• sufficiently powerful stimulation to induce an orgasm (one tester listed her top three criteria as “strong vibrations, strong vibrations, strong vibrations!”)
• multiple or variable speeds
  
• made of high-quality, easy-to-clean, nonporous body-safe material, such as silicone or ABS plastic
• long battery life, with a priority on rechargeable devices
• easy to hold and easy to operate, with intuitive functions

We also considered warranty coverage.

Across 11 years of testing, we’ve relied on 12 people — ranging in age from early 20s to late 70s — to compare vibrators. Prior to participating in our tests, all of our panelists had used vibrators and were reliably able to achieve orgasm through vibrator use, though some were more experienced than others. We instructed our testers to use each toy themselves and to incorporate these toys into partner play when possible. We’ve also solicited long-term testing feedback, including from folks who bought their first vibrators based on the advice in this guide.

We’ve evaluated battery life by cycling the devices on and off for 20 minutes until they died, assessed overheating by letting them run for extended periods, and tested the water-submersible function of waterproof vibrators. We’ve also tested interactions with lubricants.

Top pick

The best vibrator

Magic Wand Rechargeable

No toy matches the power and intensity of the widely beloved Magic Wand. The intense stimulation it provides can be particularly helpful for people experiencing diminished libido or sensitivity.

$130 from Amazon

$131 from Adam & Eve

$135 from Lovehoney

We recommend the Magic Wand Rechargeable, an improved version of the ultra-powerful Magic Wand Original. The cordless Rechargeable model offers twice as many levels of stimulation as the Original version — including gentler options — plus an assortment of vibration patterns, an easy-to-clean silicone head, and a rechargeable battery that works with or without the power cord, with no significant decrease in power in the latter case.

It works. Virtually all of our testers reported that the Magic Wand was the only toy in our test group that could consistently bring them to an intense climax quickly, intuitively, effectively, and predictably. In an essay published in the book Mothers Who Think, sex expert Susie Bright calls the Magic Wand a “miracle” because its power enables many users to have an orgasm within 60 seconds. Multiple academic research studies have found that prescribing the Magic Wand is one of the most effective therapies for women who struggle with chronic anorgasmia, or the inability to reach orgasm.

“The best penis toy, in my opinion, is the Magic Wand,” a tester who helped us review penis strokers told us. Using it on the frenulum (the underside of the penis head) or perineum (the flesh between the genitals and anus), they said, is “pure bliss.”

Several trans-feminine people we interviewed also expressed that the Magic Wand was integral to their gender-affirming masturbation experiences.

The rechargeable battery is sufficiently long-lasting. It lasted three and a half hours, spread out over a series of 20-minute intervals, at maximum speed; it may last longer at lower speeds. If it runs out of power, you can connect it to the removable AC cord and continue using it.

It offers a variety of speeds and vibrations. The Rechargeable version has four intensity settings, two more than the Original model. You control it with three buttons: The first turns the vibrator on, the second cycles through four speeds ranging from relatively gentle to face-meltingly intense, and the third cycles through four vibration patterns (alternating long and short pulses, a slow long pulse, a fast short pulse, and a low-to-high “wave”). The console lights up with blue bars to indicate the strength of the vibration. People who might have previously needed to use the Original version through a blanket or pants may find the lower, gentler settings of the Rechargeable model to be more comfortable.

It’s relatively easy to grip. Testers reported that the Magic Wand’s long handle made it comfortable to hold for long periods of time without hand cramping or numbness. The switch sat high enough on the handle that testers were unlikely to turn the toy off accidentally during use (which was an issue with some of the smaller rechargeable models).

It has a softer, smoother silicone head. Some testers disliked the texture of the Original’s white vinyl head. The silicone Rechargeable head may feel more comfortable against the body. Nonporous and less prone to discoloration, the silicone head eliminates any previous concerns about phthalates, a plasticizer in the Original version’s vinyl head.

It runs quieter than the Original. The Rechargeable version still emits a loud hum, but in our tests it was quiet enough that when we put it on a bed and closed the door, it wasn’t audible through the door in the same way the Original model was.

You can use it elsewhere on the body, too. Another great aspect of this toy is its versatility: It can stimulate nipples and penises as well as vulvas, and it can convert into a vibrating, insertable G-spot or P-spot stimulator or a penile-masturbation sleeve when you purchase and add one of many attachments designed to fit over the head. It also works well as a whole-body massager, and some owners report that it can help soothe menstrual cramps. In the unlikely event that you buy this toy and hate it as a clitoral vibrator, you can always use it on your back.

Distributor Vibratex offers a one-year warranty for the Magic Wand Rechargeable. Many of our testers have reported that the Original version has stood up to daily use over the course of many years.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It’s large. The primary complaints we’ve received from our testers about the Magic Wand Rechargeable are related to its heft (it’s 13 inches long with a nearly 2.5-inch-wide head, and it weighs more than a pound), which can make it difficult to use in certain positions during partnered intercourse.

It can’t be used in a tub or run under water. Unlike many of the other toys we’ve tested, the Magic Wand Rechargeable is not waterproof. This makes it a bit harder to clean, as you cannot submerge it, though you can easily wash the silicone cap.

It automatically powers down. The Magic Wand Rechargeable has an automatic shutoff function at the 20-minute mark, which can be disruptive if you don’t expect it (one of our testers thought the toy had run out of battery life when this happened). The manufacturer recommends letting the toy cool off after 20 minutes to prolong the motor’s life, but it is operational as soon as it’s powered back on — no waiting required.

It’s easy to push the wrong button during use. The Magic Wand Rechargeable’s three-button control panel is slightly less intuitive than the dual switch of the Original model, but it’s still fairly straightforward. You could accidentally hit the wrong button during play, but switching back to the correct mode is simple enough.

Runner-up

Similar features, but corded

Magic Wand Plus

This corded toy is almost identical in shape, size, and power to the Magic Wand Rechargeable, but it’s available at a lower price.

$75 from Amazon

$74 from Walmart

$100 from Adam & Eve

If you want a plug-in vibrator, we recommend the Magic Wand Plus, which is basically identical to our top pick in function and appearance, with the same vibration power, four intensity levels, and easy-to-clean silicone head.

The Plus lacks the Rechargable’s vibration patterns and cordless functionality. Considering that the majority of our testers have reported that they don’t use the different vibration patterns, the absence of that feature in particular may be no great loss.

The Plus is a touch lighter than the Rechargeable. The toys without their cords weigh about 17 and 21 ounces, respectively; the Plus is slightly easier to maneuver and hold.

It’s an upgrade over the original Magic Wand. This toy is an excellent option for anyone who likes the Magic Wand Original and wishes to upgrade to a silicone head and more vibration settings but doesn’t mind keeping the cord. The Plus version typically costs only $10 more than the Original model.

Like the Magic Wand Original, the Magic Wand Plus has a 6-foot-long AC cord. But unlike on the Original version, it is removable, so you can store it separately and replace it if necessary. (Again, the toy doesn’t work without being plugged in.) You can purchase replacement chargers separately, so you are no longer forced to toss the entire toy if the cord wears out, as is the case with the Original model.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The cord can wear out. Within two years of daily use, the cord on two of our Magic Wand Plus test units became somewhat unreliable, causing intermittent power disruptions. A replacement cord (usually around $25) is available.

Budget pick

A great beginner toy

FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet

This small, waterproof toy, coated in a supersoft silicone, is especially powerful for its size. There’s no “back” button, though.

$50 from Amazon

$55 from Adam & Eve

The small but mighty FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet is a great value, standing apart from other rechargeable, waterproof vibrators under $100. It has 20 vibration modes, including levels ranging from subtle to strong to stronger, so you can toy with the settings to find your favorites.

Its vibrations are impressively powerful for its small size. Measuring 4.3 inches long by 1 inch wide at the tip, the Ultra Bullet is only slighter larger than a standard tube of lipstick, and it can discreetly tuck into a makeup bag, hide in a bedside drawer, or slip into a bag for travel. It may seem less intimidating to a beginner than the comparatively enormous Magic Wand models we recommend, and it fits between bodies easily for clitoral stimulation during partnered intercourse.

It’s smooth, somewhat pliable, and waterproof. The all-over silicone covering is super soft, and the tip of the toy is flexible, which helps you to more easily position this vibrator how you like. It can be safely used in the bath or shower.

It’s easy to operate. A single button sits at the bottom of the toy. Press the button once to turn it on, and repeatedly press the button to cycle through three vibration strengths and 17 vibration patterns (20 modes in total). The three vibration levels feel distinct.

Charging is fast and easy. A magnetic USB cable attaches at the base of the toy, next to the power button. The toy fully charges in two hours for up to 90 minutes of play, depending on the settings you use.

FemmeFunn offers a limited one-year warranty for its toys, provided that you purchase from an authorized retailer. The company says it will replace a defective toy within a year of purchase, but return shipping is the customer’s responsibility.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

There’s no “back” button. You have to cycle through all 20 patterns to return to a previous selection, with no way to reverse. However, if you have a preferred strength or pattern, the memory function will save your most recently used setting for the next time you power the toy on.

It’s a bit rumbly in the hand. One tester reported that the vibration could be felt strongly in the handle of the toy, which makes this model less than ideal for people with sensitive hands. Another said the flexibility seemed to dull the toy’s power. “The bendy silicone is nice, but sometimes the vibrations feel dampened,” she noted.

Best for...

The best Magic Wand for use in the bath or shower

Magic Wand Waterproof

This is a waterproof version of our top pick. It’s rechargeable and can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes, which also means it is easier to clean than other Magic Wand models.

$180 from Lovehoney

$180 from SheVibe

Take our top pick, add a more-powerful motor, and make it waterproof — abracadabra, it’s the Magic Wand Waterproof.

It’s a worthwhile upgrade for Magic Wand lovers. If you know that you like the sensations any other Magic Wand can provide and wish to be able to use your toy in a tub or under running water, we’ve found the Waterproof version to be worth the additional investment.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It can’t work while charging. Unlike with the Magic Wand Rechargeable, you can’t run the Waterproof model while charging it. Although that limitation is for obvious safety reasons, it is definitely a drawback if you run out of juice in the middle of a session. The Waterproof model also has a longer charging time (four and a half hours versus three) for a shorter run time (two and a half hours versus three).

The cap is easily lost. The small blue cap — meant to be inserted into the toy’s charging port when you’re using it in water, in order to keep it dry — is easy to drop or misplace.

Best for...

The best vibrator for suction and vibration

Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3

This suction vibrator has a combination of suction and vibration settings and an innovative “liquid air” feature.

$60 from Satisfyer

(with 15-year warranty)

Over the past decade, our suction vibrator recommendation is the one that has changed the most often. New and better models have come out over the past several years, but none — at least so far — has been better than the Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3, especially for the price.

This model’s “liquid air” technology sets it apart. With the included membrane cap over the head of this toy, the vibrator provides a distinct sensation: “an indescribably euphoric” one, said one tester.

Its size and shape make it a great fit. The head, in particular, fits snugly against the clitoris. We found that the handle’s bulbous base fits nicely in the hand and allows for a secure grip. Overall the Pro 2 Generation 3 measures 6.5 inches long by 2.5 inches wide; it’s 1.8 inches tall and weighs just over 7 ounces.

You can dial in your favorite settings. The vibrator offers a suction mode, for use with one of two included caps: the standard open suction cap, and the membrane cap that covers the opening of the toy. You can cycle through 12 vibration-only modes — five levels of buzz, seven buzz patterns.

Charging is fast and easy. This toy charges via a simple magnetic USB charger and is fully charged with one hour of run time at medium speed after three hours of charging. We found that it was able to run for over two hours when used at the lower settings, though the sensations did grow a bit weaker after the one-hour mark.

It has a superior warranty — if you buy direct. Satisfyer offers the same 15-year warranty on all toys purchased through the company’s website.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Finding your favorite settings takes some trial and error. The console is not the most intuitive at first, but it’s easy enough once you get the hang of it.

The suction head is firmer than some others. The opening of the air-suction head of the Pro 2 Generation 3 has a thicker, more rigid rim than that on the Dame Aer, our previous suction vibrator pick. The suction head on the Aer is also softer and more pliable, which some people may prefer.

Some buyers have reported the battery dying after a year or two of use. Buying directly from Satisfyer lets you make use of the company’s 15-year warranty.

Best for...

The best vibrator for precise stimulation

Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii

Marketed as a G-spot toy, this powerful, rumbly, waterproof vibrator is also useful for external stimulation.

$59 from SheVibe

If you prefer gentle — yet powerful — pinpointed stimulation, the Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii delivers. Nu Sensuelle markets it as an internal, G-spot vibrator, but we found that it works just as well for external stimulation.

For pinpoint clitoral stimulation, no vibrator has performed as effectively for the price. The XLR8 Vibe Baelii is a great value, costing less than half the next-best option, the Lelo Dot vibrator, a previous pick in this guide. Unlike other pinpoint vibrators we’ve tested, many of which have uncomfortably hard plastic tips, the XLR8 Vibe Baelii has a broad, flexible silicone tip that delivers intense sensations yet is more comfortable against the skin. Even the lowest setting of this toy feels quite strong, with the greatest amount of sensation concentrated at the pointed tip and extending along the handle.

It’s easy to hold and use. You operate the XLR8 Vibe Baelii with a pair of buttons on a console at the base of the toy. You can turn the toy on or off by pressing the upper button with the wave symbol for two seconds. This cycles you through seven vibration power levels ranging from strong to face melting, followed by 13 vibration patterns.

The lower button has a lightning symbol and serves two functions. A short press activates the XLR8 Turbo Boost mode, which takes the vibrator up to maximum intensity for 12 seconds. A long press activates heating mode; after two minutes, the toy will start to feel pleasantly warm for those who enjoy temperature play.

Charging is fast and easy. The toy charges through a USB magnetic charger that clicks onto the base. The manufacturer recommends charging it for 60 minutes prior to first use, with a complete charge time of three hours for one to two hours of play.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It has no back button. If you skip past the setting you like, you must either click through 20 settings or turn the toy off and on and start over.

It may feel too strong for anyone with an especially sensitive clitoris, because it doesn’t really have a low setting. In addition, the vibrations can be felt along the full length of its handle, so you may want to wrap the handle in a washcloth (once you have found your preferred setting, as the buttons are at the base of the toy) if you have sensitive hands.

Wand-style vibrators

If you want a Magic Wand but prefer to spend less: The Magic Wand Original remains an excellent budget alternative to our top pick, the Magic Wand Rechargeable, though most people who want a corded toy are likely to prefer the upgrades that our runner-up pick, the Magic Wand Plus, offers.

If you think a smaller Magic Wand would suit you better: The rechargeable Magic Wand Mini, which measures 9.6 inches and weighs 9.7 ounces, is over 3 inches shorter and 11 ounces lighter than the Magic Wand Rechargeable. Unlike the full-size version, it cannot function while plugged in and charging, and it has only three settings, in contrast to the Rechargeable model’s four. Though the Mini’s smaller size makes it more travel-friendly, less cumbersome, and somewhat easier to use in partner play, our testers said it felt significantly less powerful.

If you’re looking for even more vibrations than the Magic Wand offers: The Doxy Original is an upgraded alternative to the corded Magic Wand models, offering comparably powerful — if not more powerful — vibrations with approximately twice as many intensity levels (ranging from mild to extreme), an aesthetically pleasing design, and an extra-long, 9-foot-10 cord. However, this model is typically around $30 more expensive than our runner-up pick, the Magic Wand Plus, which is a better value overall. Like the Magic Wand models, the Doxy Original has one year of warranty coverage.

If you’re looking for a less powerful, more ergonomically friendly toy: The Wellness by Blush Eternal Wand is not as powerful as the Magic Wand, but it is one of the most accessible wand-type vibrators for people with limited reach or grip strength. The extra-long, 14.5-inch handle is lightweight and curves toward the body, and the smaller head is easy to position against the vulva. You can operate the toy using either the console on the underside of the handle or a separate remote control. But to use the remote to adjust the strength of vibrations or cycle through the various patterns, you have to manually power the vibrator on.

If you’re looking for a budget option that packs a lot of power for less than $100: The FemmeFunn Ultra Wand seamless-silicone waterproof mini wand is not as powerful as the Magic Wand, but it does offer strong vibrations in a cute, colorful package with ultra-fast charging and very little vibration felt in the handle, all for a great price. Its waterproof design makes it easy to clean or to take with you to the shower. Our chief complaint is that the textured surface makes finding the control buttons in the dark difficult.

Palm-size options

If you want a palm-size vibrator, with a flat shape: The Satisfyer Purple Pleasure was for years the budget pick in this guide, and it remains a beloved toy. But a number of buyer reviews allege that their Purple Pleasure arrived broken or bricked soon after they began using it. In our years of testing this toy, we’ve successfully replaced two malfunctioning units covered by the company’s 15-year guarantee. The prospect of needing to replace this vibrator is, understandably, a dealbreaker for some people.

Precision vibrators

If you want gentler precision vibrations: Consider the Lelo Dot, a previous pick in this guide and an ideal toy for pinpoint clitoral stimulation. Note, however, that it costs $100-plus more than the Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii, the precision model we now recommend. The Dot’s curved loop handle is easy to grip, and its soft, flexible silicone tip is especially gentle and precise. It easily slides between the labia and is unobtrusive when used during intercourse. The Lelo Dot Travel is a smaller and shorter version with the same motor as the full-size toy.

Suction vibrators

If you want an ultra-quiet suction vibrator: The Womanizer Classic is an excellent toy, though we prefer the price and features of the Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3. Womanizer pioneered this air-suction technology, and the Classic model offers the perfect blend of elegant form and function, with intuitive controls and eight levels of stimulation intensity. The Classic toy has a five-year warranty.

If you prefer a softer suction head: We previously recommended the Dame Aer, and it remains an excellent choice. Its small, slim shape fits easily between the labia and is ideal for use during intercourse. The thin, flexible lip of the head is easy to position and feels comfortable against the body, and its button console is intuitive and easy to use. Its primary drawback is that it is one of the loudest vibrators we’ve tested, emitting a rattling groan at even the lowest setting.

If you want a high-performance model that costs less than our pick: The Unbound Puff, which is about the size of an asthma inhaler, is quiet, powerful, and priced under $50. Although this model is less expensive and quieter than the Dame Aer, we ultimately preferred the Aer’s soft and flexible opening for gentler, more versatile stimulation, and neither toy is as versatile or has as strong a warranty as the Pro 2 Generation 3, our current suction recommendation.

If you want a “rose toy”: We like Inya The Rose from NS Novelties, which, like the Unbound Puff, regularly costs less than $50. The “rose toy” became a viral sensation for its affordable price and powerful air-suction technology. At least three manufacturers make a seemingly identical version of this toy, and you can find countless look-alikes; we tested Inya The Rose, one of two models sold by a reputable sex-toy retailer, and we liked it, quite a lot. Nevertheless, we’ve concluded that the Pro 2 Generation 3 is the better choice overall.

A vibrating anal toy

If you want a vibrating butt plug: We recommend the Romp Bass, a pick in our guide to anal toys. It's small enough to be beginner-friendly and worn for extended periods of time, yet it stays in place well. Our testers found that it offered “wonderful sensations of fullness and P-spot (prostate) stimulation.” Power the toy on to choose from six levels of vibration and four vibration patterns.

A vibrator that’s also a necklace

That’s right, it’s both. The Crave Vesper 2 is my favorite necklace. It’s also a plenty-powerful rechargeable vibrator (for external use only). Unlike our picks, the Vesper 2 doesn’t scream “sex toy.” And it’s quieter than our other recommendations. It has a shorter run time than most of our picks, and more small pieces to possibly lose, but for people who plan to wear it with pride, it may be a worthwhile investment.

Body-safe toys are:

• Nonporous: Such devices are less likely to trap bacteria, viruses, or fungi after proper cleaning.
• Nontoxic: High-quality toys do not off-gas or leach chemicals that the body’s mucous membranes can absorb.

Materials considered to be body-safe include 100% silicone (some toys that manufacturers bill as silicone are made from a blend of silicone and other materials, so you should confirm that the toy is actually 100% silicone), borosilicate glass, metals such as stainless steel, and hard, nonporous plastics such as ABS and lucite.

The presence of possibly toxic chemicals in sex toys has been a source of significant concern in the sex-toy-aficionado community. Sex toys are not well researched — beyond this study by the Swedish Chemicals Agency — or regulated by any consumer-safety agencies. The researchers behind a 2006 report name five hazardous substances that they found in the studied sex toys, and they conclude that “normal” usage of the tested toys (which they define as 15 minutes once a week) is safe for most people. However, the anus and rectum are delicate mucous membranes that are highly absorptive and prone to irritation, and many people use their toys more frequently than 15 minutes per week. For this reason, we decided to err on the side of caution and choose toys made from high-quality, nonporous materials for this guide.

Keeping sex toys clean helps to prevent sexually transmitted infections, especially if you share your toys with partners. Experts recommend that you cover your toys with a condom when sharing them with partners, especially if it’s someone with whom you are not fluid-bonded (that is, you typically use barriers for other types of sexual activity).

Personal lubricant eases penetration of all types, increases comfort and sexual pleasure, and reduces friction and genital irritation. Using lubricant with toys is an especially important consideration for people experiencing hormonal shifts due to aging, menopause, or other life changes, as well as for those taking estrogen or testosterone as gender-affirming therapy, which can lead to genital dryness or increased fragility of genital tissues. Even people who produce abundant natural lubrication may benefit from using lube for additional comfort.

If you wish to use a lubricant with your toy, keep in mind that only water-based lube is safe to use with all types of toys. Oil-based lubricants, which are unsafe for use with condoms, can also interact badly with toys made of soft plastic or rubber. Silicone lubricants are great for anal play but unfortunately can interact negatively with silicone toys.

Most quality sex-toy manufacturers offer limited warranties or guarantees in the event that your vibrator breaks within a certain amount of time, typically one to three years. To make a claim on your warranty, you need to purchase the toy from a licensed retailer (due to problems with counterfeit toys being sold on Amazon and elsewhere) and save the receipt.

Wand-style vibrators

The Dame Com wand vibrator has an appealing ergonomic shape (it curves toward the body), as well as an easy-to-clean all-silicone body. However, we did not find its vibrations to be as powerful as those of the Magic Wand Rechargeable, and the vibrations were strong all through the handle, which made this toy unpleasant for testers to hold for an extended period of time.

The corded Doxy Number 3 is a smaller, quieter version of the Doxy Original. Although this sleek wand is both aesthetically pleasing and powerful, it costs more than our Magic Wand picks and the original Doxy.

Pleasing’s The Pleasing Double Sided Vibrator is one of the few rechargeable vibrators we’ve considered that does not have vibration patterns. While its vibrations (in seven intensities) are strong, they’re somewhat dampened by the thick silicone. Helpfully, you need to press two buttons in order to power this toy down — reducing the likelihood of accidentally shutting it off during use.

The We-Vibe Wand 2 is waterproof and easy to clean, has a nice ergonomic shape that is comfortable to hold, and offers a “smart silence” feature that indeed makes it run more quietly than the competition. However, we found the head to be large and awkwardly shaped, plus the buttons were confusing and overly sensitive (it’s easy to activate them accidentally). The vibrations, while rumbly, weren’t as powerful as the Magic Wands’ and could be felt strongly in the handle.

Like our pick for precise stimulation, the Nu Sensuelle Alluvion XLR8 Wand can work as either an external wand vibrator or a flexible insertable G-spot toy. Although the two sides feature separately controlled motors, we found that too much vibration could be felt in the handle to make this toy comfortable to use for longer sessions.

The Goop Wellness Double-Sided Wand Vibrator offers two distinct types of stimulation: The round, Magic Wand–like head offers broad, diffuse vibrations, while the pointed end provides more targeted stimulation. Our testers found that the sensations from the round end, while powerful, were not as intense as those of the Magic Wand’s and may feel too diffuse for some people. Although the pointed end can work as an insertable toy, for our testers it was not an ideal shape for G-spot stimulation; still, the pointed end is an excellent vibrator. One drawback is that strong vibrations are felt through the entire toy when either motor is switched on.

The Le Wand Original is almost virtually identical to the Magic Wand Rechargeable in both function and appearance, though it offers 10 levels of vibration instead of four, a flexible neck, and three color options (white, silver/gray, and pink). The trade-off is that it’s typically $50 more expensive, and it lacks the quick on/off switch of the Magic Wand Rechargeable. To our testers, level 10 on the Le Wand Original did not offer significantly more intensity than level 4 on our top pick, and this toy’s vibrations felt somewhat less rumbly. The smaller Le Wand Dive is waterproof but suffers from the same drawbacks we observed in the original Le Wand model.

The Unbound Ollie is more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than our Magic Wand picks, as it’s completely coated in soft silicone in an appealing shade of pastel turquoise. However, our testers said the vibrations were less powerful than those of both the Magic Wands and the Doxy Original; they also discovered that the Ollie’s flexible head, which initially seemed like an improvement on those of the other wands we tested, had some serious flaws. One tester, who has used the Magic Wand as her go-to toy for five years, reported that after a few uses of the Ollie, she “had it pressed up against [her] clit, hard but not like ... Hulk hard,” and “the ‘stem’ between the head and the wand seemed to have snapped.” The tester continued, “It still vibrates, but it’s not connecting enough to make it functional.”

The Wahl All Body Powerful Therapeutic Massager is a popular budget alternative to the Magic Wand that features intense power concentrated in a smaller head, but owners report that it breaks more easily.

Suction vibrators

The Womanizer Next is an excellent, quieter-than-most suction vibrator with a few key flaws. First, it typically costs twice as much as our suction vibrator pick. Second, as with many Womanizer toys, the Next’s width makes it more difficult to position than slimmer toys like the Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3 or Dame Aer.

The Womanizer Enhance has a relatively flat, concave opening, which we found difficult to position to get a good seal. Like other Womanizer models, this toy is wider than much of the competition. It’s also more difficult to clean than other air-suction toys with removable nozzles.

The Beso Plus is our least favorite of the clitoral-suction/G-spot dual-stimulator vibrators we’ve tried. Our tester found the “mouth” of the toy to be uncomfortably firm and irritating.

The Lelo Sila is an easy-to-grip, puck-shaped suction vibrator with a wider-than-most mouth. However, like other suction vibrators we’ve tested from this company, the Sila feels extremely strong even at the lowest setting. It’s also pricier compared than our picks.

The Lovehoney Mon Ami Silicone Pleasure Air Suction Stimulator contains Womanizer tech, but like several Womanizer toys, it’s notably broad at the top. If you like how Womanizer vibrators fit and feel, this may well be your best budget option for suction and vibration.

The Nancy Lem Clitoral Massager is a small, citrus fruit-shaped suction vibrator with eight levels of suction intensity and four wave patterns. It has a smaller mouth than most suction toys we’ve considered, which could impact fit and function for some. Overall, the Lem’s small, smooth shape can make it slippery and difficult to hold.

The Romp Switch X requires two AAA batteries. It’s great as an inexpensive introduction to suction vibrators, but be prepared to replace the batteries after every five or so hours of run time.

The Womanizer OG has a larger suction mouth designed for G-spot stimulation, though it can also be used externally. Unfortunately, the suction felt somewhat weak to our testers. However, in customer reviews some buyers who say they have a large clitoris, prefer more gentle stimulation, or like toys with longer handles note that they’ve found this toy to be good for external stimulation.

The Womanizer Premium is significantly more expensive than the Classic; we’re not convinced that its added “autopilot” and “smart silence” features are worth an additional $60 or so.

The We-Vibe Melt 2 is similar in ways to the Dame Aer. The Melt 2’s head, like that of the Aer, has more of a slim, tapered shape in comparison with the Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3 or the Womanizer Classic. Overall, our testers preferred the less expensive Aer, which they found easier to operate. One found the Melt 2’s “smart silence” feature — the toy powers down whenever it’s not in direct contact with skin — more disruptive than convenient. We did not test this toy’s optional app connectivity.

Precision vibrators

The Cal Exotics Chic Jasmine has a small, flexible, vibrating “tongue” set in a loop that is supposed to encircle the clitoris. Though this toy provided powerful, focused stimulation, we found such pinpoint stimulation to be more intense and easier to position with the Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii.

JimmyJane’s Focus vibrator, which has the appearance of a small enema bulb, emitted a loud, high-pitched buzzing noise and an equally buzzy and too-intense sensation from the hard plastic tip, even when we covered it with one of the three included silicone sleeves.

The Romp Pop’s charging port and power button (on the toy’s flat base) are difficult to locate without a flashlight.

The Satisfyer Twirling Fun is relatively quiet, but the silicone-coated tip felt hard to our testers, and the vibrations were too buzzy for it to be satisfying as a pinpoint vibrator.

Before the Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii and Lelo Dot, we recommended the Zumio S for precise stimulation. We still love this toy, but we have encountered some issues with battery longevity during long-term testing. Although Zumio covers the toy with a two-year warranty, all three units we’ve long-term tested have exhibited a decline in battery life toward the end of their warranty periods. Additionally, the Zumio S — which is designed to be stored in its charger — has a longer-than-usual charging period of 16 hours. After two years of occasional use, one Zumio S we tested barely retained a lasting charge if we charged it for less than the full 16 hours, and even on a full charge, it stopped running after 1 hour 45 minutes, well under the promised two-hour run time.

Like the Zumio S, the Zalo Bess has a narrow tip for precise stimulation. It comes with three attachment tips, which in our tests failed to produce significant functional differences. The Bess’s handle can technically serve as an insertable vibrator, as well, but we found that feature impractical. This toy’s primary drawback is its control panel. Whereas most vibrators offer multiple vibration levels that you can cycle through before the pattern settings begin, or a separate button for the pattern settings altogether, the Bess has three levels of continuous vibration strengths mixed in between five vibration patterns at random. If you are not interested in the patterns, cycling through this hodgepodge of settings to find your desired level of vibration can be confusing.

Vibrators under $75

The CalExotics Silver Bullet is a fine toy, but the FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet offers stronger vibrations, is made of superior materials, and is more aesthetically pleasing.

The Romp Wave, a leaf-shaped rechargeable silicone vibrator, is cute, but its quiet, buzzy vibrations were fairly weak in our tests.

While we appreciated the addition of a finger grip on the Wellness by Blush Palm Sense vibrator, it still transmitted a lot of vibration into the hand. Overall, this toy felt wide and bulky, and it was difficult to position comfortably. Additionally, the thick silicone tip seemed to dampen the vibrations.

Two long-term testers encountered issues with the Maude Vibe’s lithium-ion battery bricking within or just after the one-year warranty period, particularly if they didn’t keep the toy consistently charged.

The firm, lipstick-shaped Nu Sensuelle Point Bullet is impressively powerful. But a lot of the vibration transmits to the hand holding it. One tester, who preferred the FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet, disliked the Point Bullet’s hardness, volume level, and feel, describing them as “too rigid, loud, rattly.”

The Satisfyer Dark Desire is quite similar in size and power to the same company's Purple Pleasure, but we found its wider tip to be less convenient for positioning and its textured silicone to be more irritating than pleasurable. We loved the strong vibrations and easy-to-hold loop handle on the company’s White Temptation but found its loaf-like shape awkward to use, preferring the tapered silhouette of the Purple Pleasure.

Satisfyer’s Ultra Power Bullet 6 is similar in shape and size to a fountain pen. Unfortunately, we found the toy’s vibrations to be a bit buzzy in comparison with those of the rumbly and similarly shaped We-Vibe Tango. And this model’s handle vibrated to an unpleasant degree.

The Unbound Pep is a cute and affordable palm-sized vibrator, but unfortunately its thick silicone seemed to dampen the vibrations, causing them to feel less focused and powerful than those from similar models, including the Satisfyer Purple Pleasure and the Dame Pom.

The tiny but super-powerful We-Vibe Tango is a good value for a rechargeable, bullet-style toy that is small enough to fit in a pocket but capable of delivering the rumbly intensity of a much larger vibrator. Although we recommend this model as a starter vibrator, for some of our testers the hard plastic became slippery and difficult to hold when it came in contact with lubricant. This was not the case with the less expensive FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet.

The rest

The palm-size Dame Pom’s flexible form should work well for a variety of anatomies. It’s made of squishy, soft, pliable silicone, with a tapered shape featuring a nub that sits on the clitoris. The toy’s vibrations, while not as strong as those of most wand toys, are sufficiently powerful and rumbly. One minor drawback is that two of the control buttons are on the underside of the toy rather than on the top.

The Womanizer Vibe is one of the quietest vibrators we’ve tried, but we found its vibrations weak and underwhelming. Compared with the Satisfyer Purple Pleasure, this Womanizer model was somewhat more difficult to position.

The Mantric Rechargeable Clitoral Vibrator looks like a sex toy issued by Starfleet: Its dark red asymmetrical oblong shape and flashing multicolor lights give it a retro, sci-fi aesthetic. It’s an attractive and decent vibrator but not as powerful as other small vibrators that usually cost about as much, such as the FemmeFunn Ultra Bullet, and its vibrations could be felt strongly in the handle.

The tiny, egg-shaped Blush Novelties Aria Flutter Tongue is adorable, but we found the Evolved Tongue Tied to be a better overall choice among tongue-style vibrators. The small, flickering “tongue” on the Aria Flutter Tongue is inset in a mouth similar to that of a suction vibrator such that the tongue’s motion isn’t hindered by excess pressure, but overall we found this toy’s size and speed more irritating than pleasurable.

Dame’s original Eva vibrator was appealing in concept as a “hands-free, strap-free, non-intrusive couples’ vibrator.” Unfortunately, our testers found that it failed to stay in place well: “The only issue with the thing is its strapless design, which means that during PIV [penis-in-vagina intercourse] the thing just falls right off unless you’re flat on your back and trying your best not to move too much. Too much focusing on keeping the toy in place takes attention away from the act itself.” Others found it too weak to be satisfying.

We found the second-generation Dame Eva an improvement on the original, as it was smaller, easier to position, and more powerful. But it still had the same issues with being “buzzy” and slipping around during partner play.

The Evolved Tongue Tied is the best of the “tongue” vibrators we’ve tested. Although the results were not as pinpointed as those from the Lelo Dot, we did find that this vibrator’s flickering tongue (measuring about 1 inch long and 0.25 inch wide at the tip) offered powerful, focused sensations. There can be a bit of a learning curve with optimal positioning for using this toy, as applying too much pressure may cause the tongue’s motion to stall.

The vibrations of the Je Joue Mimi felt jerky and choppy at the lower speeds and caused the motor to make wheezing noises. This toy works best if you use it at its maximum setting, provided that the maximum setting is not too strong or weak for your personal tastes.

Lelo’s Siri 2 is a fine toy, but it’s costlier than the similarly shaped Satisfyer Purple Pleasure. We haven’t tested the Siri 3. The hard-plastic Lelo Nea 2 was plenty powerful for its tiny size but couldn’t compete with our picks. Lelo’s Nea 3 has superseded the Nea 2; we haven’t tested it.

The bejeweled pastel Pillow Talk Sassy is affordably priced and offers powerful vibrations that can work for either clitoral or G-spot stimulation. Although our testers liked the sleek shape and size of this model, in our tests it generally worked better as a G-spot toy than as an external vibrator. The Sassy’s sibling, the Pillow Talk Flirty bullet, is designed specifically for clitoral stimulation, but we found that its vibrations were weaker than those of our budget pick.

The Tenga Iroha Temari is an exceptionally cool-looking vibrator inspired by traditional Japanese textile designs, with a unique swiveling head, a base designed to reduce the transmission of vibrations to the hand, and a convenient fitted cover that keeps the vibrator discreet and dust-free when not in use. Although this vibrator offers powerful vibrations for its small size, our testers found it to be a bit noisy compared with other models and tricky to clean around the edges of the swiveling head.

This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson.