The Vibrator Episode (Encore)

Buying a vibrator can be tricky without a great recommendation. This week, we’re reairing our episode on why vibrators are still so taboo—and how to pick one you’ll love.

Bianca Alba, Wirecutter’s longtime sex toy writer, talks us through the societal double standards around sexuality and how vibrators can help with sexual health. We cover the different types of vibrators you can choose from, how to decide between the options, and why you shouldn’t give up on one if you don’t love it at first.

We also get to the bottom of whether size really matters, the best lube to use, and whether it’s ever a good idea to buy a vibe for your partner.

This episode covers:

• Vibrators as essential tools for inclusive pleasure: Vibrators are highly effective at closing the "orgasm gap," as roughly 75% of people with vulvas require clitoral stimulation—which vibrators provide efficiently—to reach orgasm.

• Why investing in quality materials matters: Look for toys made of medical-grade silicone from reputable brands. Cheap "knock-offs" from mass-market retailers often use porous materials that can harbor bacteria or off-gas harmful chemicals.

• How the Hitachi Magic Wand became the “Gold Standard”: This vibrator comes highly recommended for its power and versatility, despite originally being marketed as a back massager.

• Practicing patience and exploration: Don’t dismiss a new device after one try; the body often needs time to acclimate to different sensations. Factors like stress and hormonal cycles can also impact how effective a toy feels on a given day.

• How Wirecutter tests sex toys: Our recommendations are based on diverse testing groups—spanning different ages (20s to 70s) and physical abilities—to ensure the toys work for various sensitivities and life stages.

Products we recommend:

• The Classic Wand styleMagic Wand Rechargeable ()

• The Classic Wand style, but cordedMagic Wand Plus ()

• Affordable and VersatileSatisfyer Purple Pleasure ()

• For suction and vibrationAs of recording, it was the Dame Aer () . But we’ve since decided the Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3 () is a better pick in the same category.

• For precise stimulationAs of recording, it was the Lelo Dot () . But we’ve since decided the Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii () is a better pick in the same category.

• Bianca loves the Beast Blender () for single serve smoothies

Additional reading:

• The Best Vibrators ()

• The 6 Best Personal Lubricants of 2024  ()

• How to Clean Sex Toys ()

• The Lube Episode  ()

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