How to Choose a Vibrator
There are more vibrators out there in the world than there are cars on the road. So how do you decide what to get? The following considerations can help you to select the right vibrator for yourself or another. Also, learn the basics with Vibrator 101, some Tips for Guys and How to Introduce a Vibrator into a relationship.
- Types of Stimulation
- Circumstances & Opportunities
- Vibration Intensity & Sound Level
- Power Source
- Materials
- Price, Longevity, Warranty & Customer Service
Experience & Comfort Level If you are (or a gift recipient is) new to vibrators, you might want to consider a few options for familiarizing yourself with their sensations and functionality.
- Start simple. If vibration is a new sensation to you, you'll likely find that there's quite a bit of adventure available in that alone. Consider simple, understandable products focused on clitoral stimulation such as a Bullet, Smoothie, or External Vibrator.
- Start approachable. Trying a vibrator for the first time (particularly with another person present) is an exciting but potentially daunting prospect. Consider designs that are unintimidating smaller sizes, cleaner design and good packaging and presentation can all help.
- Start beautiful. Whether you're introducing a vibrator into partner sex, or are intending to use it on your own, choosing a product that is aesthetically pleasing can help make this go smoothly. If anything should be beautiful, it's the objects involved in our sexuality. Consider upgrading to LITTLE CHROMA, LITTLE SOMETHING, FORM 6 or another vibrator that has received a similar level of design consideration.
If you already know your way around vibrators, you might be looking to upgrade in a variety of ways
- Go powerful. If you've learned that you like strong vibrations, consider upgrading to a rechargeable vibrator and/or one with dual motors. They rate high on the Richter Scale.
- Go versatile. If you've started with a basic model, consider trying a product with additional functionalities that are of interest to you. Designs with a variety of diameters and contours, G Spot curvature, waterproof capability, digital vibration modes, etc. can offer new realms of sensation.
- Go durable. It makes sense to have products that are built to last - it will save you money, and it will save on landfill. Buy from a brand that you trust, and one that offers a clear warranty and customer service policy.
Types of Stimulation
The type of stimulation you're seeking will help determine the shape of vibrator that's best suited to your needs.
| Bullet |
Pocket Vibrator |
Vibrating Ring |
External Vibrator |
Smoothie |
G Spot |
Twice as Nice |
Anal Vibrator |
|
| External/Clitoral |
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| Clitoral (during
Intercourse) |
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| Internal/Vaginal |
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| Simultaneous
Internal/External |
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| G Spot |
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| Anal |
What are you looking for?
- I don't know. If you're uncertain, bear in mind that the majority of women require clitoral stimulation to have an orgasm so a design that's good for external (clitoral) stimulation is a good place to start.
- Clitoral Stimulation. While almost any vibrator can be used to stimulate the clitoris, certain shapes offer advantages. Smaller shapes like Bullets can easily be cupped in the hand and easily held to the clitoris. External Vibrators are typically designed to conform to the curves of the body and make contact with the clitoris and vulva. They generally offer stronger vibrations than Bullets. Some Smoothies can also perform well, as their elongated forms are easy to position
- Clitoral Stimulation During Intercourse. For hands-free use, Vibrating Rings are a great option. If you're looking for more independent control, smaller Smoothies offer stronger vibrations and can reach between two bodies during intercourse. Bullets and Pocket Vibrators are small enough to be held in place, but depending on the position, can be less convenient.
- Internal Stimulation. Vibrators intended for internal stimulation have elongated forms so that they're easy to hold onto during insertion. Some women enjoy a sensation of fullness, while others are interested in stimulating specific sensitive areas, such as the G Spot. If you're interested in a narrower shape, consider a small Smoothie such as LITTLE CHROMA or LITTLE SOMETHING. They are long enough for insertion, and are slim and approachable. If you're looking to reach specific areas, a G Spot Vibrator's curved shape will make this possible.
- Simultaneous Internal & Clitoral Stimulation. For clitoral contact during insertion, a Twice As Nice type vibrator such as the ICONIC RABBIT is the answer. Note also that if a man wears a Vibrating Ring such as the ICONIC RING, he can become Twice As Nice as well.
- Anal Stimulation. If you plan to use a vibrator anally, be sure that it either has a flange, a waist, or a cord so that it can be retrieved safely. Unlike the vagina, in which penetration is limited by the cervix, foreign objects can become "lost" in the rectum. The small end of FORM 6 is suitable for anal use and prostate stimulation, as the narrow neck limits the likelihood of it slipping, and the large end of the vibrator can be held firmly.
- I want it all. To explore a range of sensations, both internal and external, FORM 6 is one of the most versatile vibrators available - every surface is designed for contact with the body.
Circumstances & Opportunities
Vibrators are great beyond the bedroom, and you may find that you're interested in a product that's suited to other adventures.
- On the road. Many find travel to be sexy it takes us out of our normal patterns, and opens us to new possibilities. Like vibrators, for instance. LITTLE CHROMA and LITTLE SOMETHING are great travel companions simply remove the battery and the replaceable motor, and place them elsewhere in your luggage. The empty housing can pass as a makeup case or cigar humidor, and no one will be the wiser.
- In the water. A vibrator can add a twist to yourme-time in the bath or we-time in the hot tub. ICONIC POCKET, LITTLE CHROMA, LITTLE SOMETHING and FORM 6 are all waterproof, and ready to make a splash.
- Somewhere not-so-private. Roommates, house guests, kids, neighbors - there are a lot of reasons to look for a discreet vibrator. LITTLE CHROMA and LITTLE SOMETHING vibrators are exceptionally quiet though we can't be responsible for the racket that you'll make. FORM 6 comes with a convenient charging case that's excellent for incognito storage. The housekeeper will be none the wiser.
Vibration Intensity & Sound Level
- Vibration is sound, so if you want the most powerful vibration, you should expect to hear your vibrator. Of course a well made vibrator will be quieter at any given vibration intensity than a poorly manufactured one. This is an important consideration for many buyers, as a rattling vibrator can be very distracting.
- LITTLE SOMETHING is the quietest vibrator that we've seen on the market it is virtually silent. LITTLE CHROMA is also very quiet. If sound level is important to you, these are two great options.
- When running at top speed on both motors, FORM 6 is the most powerful battery powered vibrator that we've tested. It is quieter at any given vibration level than other vibrators available on the market.
Power Source Rechargeable or Battery Powered
- Vibrators consume a lot of power, particularly if they generate powerful vibrations. Rechargeable vibrators such as FORM 6 will cost more as an initial purchase, but can save you considerable money over the lifespan of the product, as you'll have no need to buy batteries. They also have environmental benefits, keeping batteries out of the landfill.
- Battery powered vibrators generally cost less to purchase, and can be very convenient for travel as no charger is needed. If the vibrator is efficient, this can be a great option. LITTLE SOMETHING and LITTLE CHROMA can run for over 16 hours on a single AA battery - that's a lot of vibration.
Materials
Vibrators are made from a variety of materials, some better suited to the use than others. Hard materials will transfer vibration more efficiently, while soft materials can be gentler and tend to feel more like skin. All vibrators available from Jimmyjane are made of body-safe materials that are free of phthalates and other toxins. The materials used in vibrators on our site include -
- Metals. LITTLE SOMETHING is made from medical-grade stainless steel, and certain models also include a thick plating of a precious metal such as 24K gold or platinum. LITTLE CHROMA is made of anodized aluminum. The materials for these designs were selected not only for their beautiful appearance, but also because of their durability, safety and hygienic properties. Because of their metal construction, these vibrators can also be warmed up or cooled down for different sensations.
- Silicone. The external surface of FORM 6 is made of pure, medical-grade silicone. Silicone is an extremely durable, non-porous and heat-resistant rubber-like compound that is body-safe and often used in medical applications and cookware. Silicone comes in a variety of durometers (hardnesses) and can have a soft, silky feel that is reminiscent of skin. In its pure form, as used by Jimmyjane, silicone is free of phthalates and other toxins.
- TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer). The ICONIC RING and ICONIC RABBIT are made with TPE, a soft, stretchy compound that is body-safe and used in a wide range of products including medical devices. TPE is not as durable as silicone, so will typically not have as long of a lifespan.
- ABS Plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). ICONIC POCKET and the base of the ICONIC RABBIT are made of ABS, a common thermoplastic that is used in a multitude of consumer products. It is body-safe, and is even used in some tattoo inks to provide vivid and lasting color. ABS is non-porous and durable, making it an excellent material for sex accessories that do not require the softness of silicone or TPE.
Price, Longevity, Warranty & Customer Service
- Weigh the above considerations, and find the product that will bring you satisfaction and make you feel good about using it. As with other purchases, spending a little bit more on the right product can give you a better experience, and can save you money in the long term.
- A well made vibrator should last a minimum of a year under heavy use. Jimmyjane products are engineered, manufactured and tested to last more than three years.
- Unfortunately, in the vibrator market you don't necessarily "get what you pay for"- is it's quite possible to spend a lot and receive a product that is poorly made. To buy confidently, buy from a brand that you trust, and one that offers a clear Warranty and Customer Service Policy.
- If you are in any way unsatisfied with your product, contact customer service where you made your purchase. Jimmyjane encourages feedback through our Customer Service and Ask Jimmyjane pages.
A Note on Phthalates:
Phthalates (pronounced "tha-lates") are chemical plasticizers that are added to materials to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability and longevity. They are suspected of having carcinogenic and mutagenic effects on the skin and mucous membranes, and are being phased out of many products in the United States and European Union over health concerns. It is advisable to avoid products made of materials that incorporate them. Phthalates are often associated with sex accessories made of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and Jelly materials, but it should be noted that not all PVCs contain phthalates, and some silicone blends can contain them so look for brands and products that are specifically state that they are free of these chemicals.