Vibrators - The Basics

Read about the author Samantha Evans

Vibrators have been around for centuries, and although Dr Joseph Mortimer Granville patented an “electromechanical vibrator” in the Victorian era, there are versions of the vibrator that date back to 1734. So why are we shy about talking about them?

Vibrators come in all different shapes and sizes to suit everyone’s needs. Some are big, some are small, some textured, some smooth. There are even vibrators for men to introduce new sensations to solo fun and foreplay.

Vibrators

Vibrators can be used both internally and externally, using the tip of the shaft for clitoral stimulation. Some vibrators are specifically designed for G-Spot stimulation, ideal for those wishing to enjoy a G-Spot orgasm. Manual G-Spot stimulation can be difficult for some women as they may find that it’s relatively high, and certain sexual positions may reduce the ability for their partner’s penis to reach it during intercourse.

“Classic” vibrators are also suitable for both internal and external stimulation. The Rocks-Off Slinky Pinky is petite and discreet, while the PicoBong Zizo is longer and is roughly the same size as the average penis, but both products offer satisfying vibrations that stimulate both the clitoris and G-Spot independently.

Some vibrators have added features, such as the Mystim range. These Estim products have electro-stimulation capabilities, which can be used separately or combined with “traditional” vibrations, allowing for a truly satisfying sexual experience.

Rabbit Vibrators

Rabbit vibrators combine G-Spot and clitoral stimulation, as they have the same features as a vibrator with the added bonus of clitoris stimulating arm. This arm is often referred to as the “ears” of the rabbit, hence the name. Some rabbit vibrators, such as theJe Joue Fifi have kept this design, whereas other rabbit vibrators, such as the LELO Ina v2 and JIL Ava have a smooth stimulating arm, the Rocks-Off EveryGirl is textured both on the shaft and clitoral arm.

The first dual external and internal sex toys were known as animal vibrators, and were made by a company called Vibratex in 1983. Although the company was American, the products were made in Japan, where at the time it wasn’t acceptable to manufacture vibrators. To get around this, the bright colours and animal shapes were introduced.

In 1984, Vibratex settled on the rabbit as their favoured choice, but there had been the Beaver, Kangaroo and Turtle before the Rampant Rabbit we have today! In 1999, after that famous episode of Sex and the City, rabbit vibrators became more mainstream. However, the sex toy boom can also be put down to the introduction of online shopping due to how discreet a transaction became.

Rabbit vibrators have become more innovative in recent years to offer new sensations and to diversify the market. For instance, Fun Factory spent a lot of time on the design of their Miss Bi vibrator, which is curved to fit the female anatomy more comfortably.

Other rabbit vibrators move in different ways too; the LELO Ina Wave rises and falls with come-hither motions, while the Fun Factory Bi Stronic Fusion thrusts backwards and forwards with the vibrations emanating from the uniquely shaped clitoral stimulator.

The Satisfyer Pro G Spot Rabbit uniquely combines their unique pressure wave clitoral stimulation with a traditional G-spot vibrator.

Clitoral Stimulators

As mentioned above, internal toys can be used externally, using the tip of the shaft to stimulate the clitoris and the vulva. However, there are also sex toys that are designed specifically for external use. These smaller vibrators are great for women who still enjoy stimulation and wish to reach orgasm, but are unable to experience penetration due to illness or medical disability.

Like internal vibrators, external vibrators come in a range of shapes and sizes too. The RO-90mmBullet, for example, looks like a small vibrator, while the RO Bamboo looks like lipstick! These bullet vibrators allow for precise stimulation, while some clitoral stimulators are wider. The Mimi Soft by Je Joue is a clitoral stimulator with a squidgy silicone head and breathtakingly rumbling vibrations which sits neatly in the palm of your hand.

Marvelous Lover is a dual ended sex toy, which can be used for both clitoral and vaginal stimulation and even worn as it has a flexible handle that bends.

Air Pulse and Sonic Wave Technology – not a vibrator

The Satisfyer Pro 2 is a true innovation in clitoral stimulation using sound wave technology. The Pro 2 engulfs the clitoris and creates gentle pressure waves that gently suck and tease the clitoris with a choice of an eleven amazing intensities.

The Satisfyer Pro Plus Vibration combines Air Pulse Wave technology with vibrations to offer a unique sexual sensation.

LELO SONA 2 is a sonic wave stimulator powered by SenSonic technology.

The silicone absorbs sonic waves and pulses and transmits them back to the clitoris. These waves stimulate the internal and external parts of the clitoris, gently teasing and caressing you to an all consuming climax, the like of which you have never experienced before.

The sensation is totally different to vibration and it is ideal for those who struggle to orgasm. For more experienced users, it offers an intriguing variation

Vibrations and E-Stim

They may look like normal vibrators, but they are a two-in-one revolution in sex toys! Say hello to the exclusive Mystim range, combining classic vibrations with electrical stimulation for double the fun!

Tickling Truman, Electric Eric, Sizzling Simon, and Daring Danny are 100% waterproof and coated in soft silicone, and every use can be a unique experience. The vibrations and electro-stimulation can be used simultaneously or individually, and better still, they have training programmes for you to exercise your pelvic floor!

Daring Danny even stimulates your clitoris with virbations too.

With eight vibration programmes and five intensity levels, and five e-stim settings with ten intensity levels, this range of products offers mind-blowing orgasms every time.

Anal Vibrators

Many people enjoy anal play, but when using a vibrator, it is highly important that you only use a vibrator that has specifically been designed for anal use. This is because anal vibrators, such as the Rocks Off Butt Quiver, are designed with a protective ridge near the base of the toy to ensure full insertion of the product doesn’t happen. Basically, it prevents anything from getting lost!

The Rocks-Off Torex and the “Rocks-Off Butt Boy: product/rocks-off-butt-boy are big butt plugs, with the power to satisfy whilst the Rocks-Off Varex and “Rocks-Off Index”: product/rocks-off-index are both powered by wired hand held controllers.

Vibrators for Penile Pleasure

Male vibrators go over the penis, adding new sensations to foreplay and solo fun. Sex toys such as the Fleshlight Vibro Touch Unit combine realistic vaginal sensations with vibrations, ensuring the ultimate sexual experience.

The Rocks Off Hand Solo 7 Speed vibrator has an opening, and provides vibrations to the shaft of the penis. The Cobra Libre v2, on the other hand, rests on top of the penis, which is then massaged by the powerful motors within.

There are also vibrators that can help to alleviate symptoms of ED. The Pulse Solo Essential can be used when the penis is flaccid or erect, making it an incredibly versatile toy that introduces new sensations to masturbation. the Pulse III Solo has an oscillating plate that stimulates the frenulum when erect or the tip of the penis when flaccid.

Fun Factory MANTA is designed to be the perfect fit for partner sex as well as solo play, sliding between your bodies and turning your penis into a vibrator.With six speeds and six vibration patterns the flexible wings and ergonomic shape also let you stroke comfortably, the divided shape making the vibrations feel stronger whilst the Manta ridges hold lube for a better stroking sensation so perfect for solo pleasure too.

The manta ray shape isn’t just for better coverage. The “wings” and the cleft in the center also enhance the power of the motor, adding movement to the vibration, allowing you to enjoy precision stimulation over and under the head, along the shaft, and against the base.

Vibrators for Couples

Sex toys are great to share and use together, whatever your sexual oreintation. A vibrating cock ring, such as the Mio from Je Joue, sits at the base of the penis, restricting blood flow and in turn engorging the penis, making the erection bigger and harder, whilst sending waves of pleasurable vibration through the penis and the clitoris so fun for everyone!

There are also remote controlled sex toys available, which are great fun whoever you are and for people with limited manual dexterity. The Doppio 2 is an vibrating toy that can be used by yourself or with a partner in a number of innovative ways and has the benefit of remote control.

Pulse III Duo uses oscillating plates to stimulate the flaccid or erect penis and is remote controlled with a vibrating underplate to stimulate the clitoris. This is great for couples who are no longer able to enjoy “penetrative sex”: but are looking to maintain their sex life.

Body Massagers

Some sex toys have multiple uses. Body massagers, such as the Doxy massager and Rocks-Off Purple Heart can be used to relieve general aches and pains you may be experiencing. Also known as wand massagers, body massagers are large enough to use on your own to reach niggling shoulders. Alternatively, mix up your foreplay or alone time together and get buzzing!

Sasha by Jil is cleverly designed double ended massagers, ideal for couples play, solo pleasure and to banish aches and pains, whilst Rocks-Off Oriel is a powerful rechargeable body massager, lightweight in design, so ideal for those with limited manual dexterity or just looking for a lifghter wex toy.

Using a Vibrator

It may sound silly, but some people genuinely don’t know how to use a vibrating product. The key is going slow- don’t try and insert the vibrator straight away. If it’s your first time with a vibrating sex toy, go through the various settings first and feel the different vibration patterns on your hand or thigh to see what you like and to really get a feel of the product.

If you have an internal, or “innie” toy as they are commonly referred to, use the tip of the shaft on and around your clitoris first. Think of it as foreplay! Once you’re really in the mood, lubricate the vibrator up and experiment- leave the vibrator to do it’s job, or manoeuvre it in and out of you. It’s your play time, do what feels good for you!