The last thing you want to bring home to a nervous partner is

The 20 Best Cheap Vibrators Under $20

The basic dildo is a penis-shaped toy that can be inserted into the vagina or anus. Some have suction bases that provide stability, some are double-ended, and some are designed to pair with strap-on harnesses for hands-free vaginal and anal penetration with a partner. Many strap-on sets are sold with dildos included, which is a cost-effective option for beginners looking to try both. Double-check that a dildo is anal-safe before you sit on it, as not all of them are. Anal toys include butt plugs, anal beads, prostate massagers, and some dildos.

The starfish-style shape and texture of this toy give you a lot of different angles and textures to experiment with. Queer- and trans-owned company Cute Little Fuckers makes a wide range of gender-inclusive products, all of which are adorable-looking, but this frilly little starfish might just be the standout. You want the toy to be a part of the experience, not the entire focus of the experience. Be sure to remind your partner how sexy they are and how much you love their penis/vulva/body. The last thing you want to bring home to a nervous partner is some scary, veiny, Rabbit vibrator with a million spinning beads and a realistic penis-head.

We also asked about different ways to use the various styles of vibrators, and what to look for when shopping for one. Then we scoured the massive pool of vibrator options (and read tons of reviews) to find the ones that hit a variety of pleasure points, and that can be used alone or as a couple. This vibrator is a good option for anal exploration because of its unique, slim shape, which allows it to be used as a vibrator for vulvas as well as anal play. Users also love that it’s smooth, silky to the touch, and very easy to clean. Don’t let the size of this vibrator fool you — it packs a punch, with six different vibration patterns. And it’s just about silent, making it as discreet as can be in every way.

Opt for a location where both you and your partner feel comfortable and at ease. For beginners, starting with familiar surroundings can alleviate nervousness and facilitate quick adjustments if needed. Restaurants, with their intimate seating arrangements and discreet restrooms, offer an ideal setting for discreet yet exhilarating encounters. Firstly, before making a purchase vibrator, it’s wise to read reviews or real-life comments to gain honest insights into the performance of the vibrator.

I also asked some experts about their favorite grinders and how they like to use them. “[Grinding toys are] perfect if you’re playing solo and want to keep things hands-free,” Madison says. Strap-on sex often benefits from the addition of a grinder, too, especially the kind that fits behind the dildo base in a harness to provide some extra stimulation and cushioning. Anyone of any gender or sexuality can use suction toys , but this one is a standout for LGBTQ+ couples in particular—or cis-het couples interested in anal play and pegging.

Since the sex toy industry is unregulated, unsafe and irritating materials unfortunately run rampant. You’ll want to look for materials that are non-porous and free of phthalates (a toxic plasticizer found in some sex toys). For vibrators, usually this means silicone and ABS plastic, although some other body-safe sex toy materials include glass, stainless steel, ceramic, and properly sealed wood.

It’s worth noting that there’s also internal trimpots for gain and offset (which, together, effect the overall “throbbiness” of the unit). The pedal doesn’t feel cramped or cluttered, and getting around is a breeze, once you get a feel for what’s what. The only design decision that may prompt debate is whether the Viberator would be better off with a bigger enclosure and the very useful output volume and brightness controls on the topside where they can be adjusted on the fly.

We’ve compiled the very best vibrators on the market today that are loved by sex experts, educators and editors alike. Coming in at the top of our list is the Magic Wand Rechargeable Cordless Vibrator, a tried-and-true classic with an impressive motor and battery life. For something a little more budget-friendly, we recommend the under-$50 Maude Vibe, which packs a punch despite its small size. The size of a vibrator can also determine the different or limited ways you can use it. The Magic Wand comes with no attachments and isn’t designed to be put inside of you. A bullet vibrator, however, probably can (though we recommend following a brand’s instructions about the safe ways to use its sex toys).