The pleasure products industry is booming, and it’s no wonder. We recently spoke to a group of sexual wellness experts who all agree that bringing reinforcements into the bedroom – whether you’re alone or with a partner – can result in a more fulfilling and exciting sex life.
But with so many options available, how do you know what types of products are right for you?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We went back to our experts and asked them which pleasure products they would recommend to couples – for partner play as well as for solo use – based on a couple’s given level of experience/comfort with sex toys.
We sifted through their responses and compiled the below guide to help you choose a product that’s right for you.
But first, let’s meet our experts*:
- Searah Deysach, longtime sex educator and owner of sex toy shop Early to Bed
- Gigi Engle, Certified Sex Educator, Certified Sex Coach, and SKYN sex & intimacy expert
- Jill McDevitt, PhD in Human Sexuality and Resident Sexologist for sex toy emporium CalExotics
- Jess O’Reilly, PhD in Human Sexuality and Resident Sexologist at ASTROGLIDE
- Caitlin V., MPH., Clinical Sexologist for vegan-friendly condom and lubrication company Royal
- Megwyn White, Certified Clinical Sexologist and Director of Education for sexual wellness company Satisfyer
*Some experts have partnerships/affiliations with the brand of products they recommend.
You’re New To Pleasure Products or Have Some Apprehension
Solo Play:
Deysach: “I always recommend our First Timers Kit ($28) to folks who have never had a sex toy before. After years of recommending toys to people, we put together a kit that gives you an affordable way to try a few different sensations in one cute, non-intimidating package. It has two vibes, a bunny sleeve, batteries, and lube to get you going.”
Similar products include: Lovehoney First Time Fun Vibrator Starter Kit ($40), CalExotics His Masturbation Kit ($30)
Dr. Jill: “Mini Marvels Marvelous Massager ($60) by CalExotics. This vibe is intuitive and fits between two fingers with the flat surface as a clitoral rubbing area. A first-time user can continue with the hand/finger stroking masturbation techniques they are already familiar with, now with added vibration.”
Similar products include: Dame Pom Flexible Vibrator ($90), Bean by Unbound ($26)
Dr. Jess: “Lubricant is my go-to recommendation for all newbies. Try lube on your fingers, with a toy, or apply it to your genitals before you get started. I typically recommend a water-based lube like ASTROGLIDE Liquid ($9) because they work, clean up easily, and, very importantly, are compatible with condoms and toys. However, if you are trying water play, go for ASTROGLIDE X Silicone Lubricant ($12). It’s formulated to stay put even in water, so you don’t need to worry about it washing away and can enjoy the experience and experimentation.”
Similar products include: JO Premium Original Silicone Based Lubricant ($21), K-Y Jelly Premium Water Based Lubricant ($7)
Engle: “Some people get scared of sex toys because they think they need to be these huge, phallic dildos, but sex toys come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re new to sex toys, I highly recommend the SKYN Thrill ($16). It’s a bullet vibrator that is super small. At under $20, you can’t really do better than the Thrill. It’s powerful, rechargeable, and splash-proof.”
Similar products include: SEXY SLAVE Wireless Remote Bullet Vibrator ($17), Touch by We-Vibe ($99)
Caitlin: “For vulva-owners – The Zumio S ($98) uses rotation instead of vibration and has an easy-to-hold handle that doesn’t buzz, which prevents discomfort with more prolonged use. It’s also small, doesn’t look like a sex toy, and packs a pretty serious punch. The makers describe it like a paintbrush because its small tip can pinpoint stimulation exactly where it feels best.
The LELO Sona 2 ($84) uses sound waves to stimulate the whole clitoris. Since most of the clitoris is located under the surface of the skin, this toy does a great job of creating deep sensations without being overwhelming.”
Similar products to Zumio S include: Orlupo Personal Massager ($20), zengyi Mini Wand Massager ($20)
Similar products to LELO Sona 2 include: Satisfyer Pro 2-Next Generation ($50), Melt by We-Vibe ($149), Le Wand Deux ($125)
“For penis-havers – I recommend using a flexible cock ring (from $4). These come in a zillion varieties: some include vibrators, some include extra slings for your testicles, and some are even adjustable. They can help you get an even harder erection, help you keep your erection for longer, and create more sensitivity in the shaft and head of your penis (a by-product of the extra blood). The most important thing to keep in mind is to use a cock ring (or c-ring) made out of a flexible, cuttable material like silicone. Only graduate to harder materials (like steel) once you’re familiar with them.
I also recommend investing in a high-quality masturbation sleeve like the TENGA Flip (from $72). These toys are engineered for your pleasure, and they deliver an amazing orgasmic experience.”
Similar products include: JimmyJane Silicone Cock Teaser ($90), CalExotics Optimum Power Ultimate Power Stroker ($63)
White: “Men may find the Satisfyer Men Wand ($50) as a great option. It features a silicone wing, which will vibrate and stimulate various erogenous zones. The focus of this device is not on constricting blood flow, but instead on exploring masturbation with added vibration.”
Similar products include: FeelinGirl Male Vibrator 10 ($20), Man.Wand ($90)
Partner Play:
Deysach: “Lots of couples start with a vibrating ring. It is an excellent and easy way to bring some vibration and fun into intercourse. The ring goes around the base of a penis or dildo and provides hands-free stimulation to the partner. Traditionally, this is for clitoral stimulation, but vibrating rings like my personal favorite, the Max Link Cockring ($49), can be used in many different ways.”
Similar products include: We-Vibe Pivot ($104), JimmyJane ICONIC RING ($40)
Dr. Jill: “Spicy Dice ($6) by CalExotics. With a body part on one die and an action on the other (lick, kiss, suck, etc.), this is a pleasure product that turns the couple into the sex toy and facilitates healthy conversation.”
Similar products include: Lovelife SEXY TRUTH OR DARE ($16), Sex Fortunes – Tarot Cards for Lovers ($16)
Caitlin: “If you are new to pleasure products, the best place to start is with a high-quality, water-based lubricant like Royal Premium Lubricant ($14). It’s pH balanced, which means it won’t disrupt the natural balance of vulvas and vaginas, and it’s formulated with aloe, so it is smoothing to your delicate skin. I especially like it because it’s made without preservatives or glycerin, which have been linked to problems like yeast infections. It won’t cause irritation, is vegan and gluten-free, and is safe for ingestion.”
Similar products include: Wicked Aqua Water Based Lubricant ($10), Earthly Body Water Slide Lubricant ($17)
White: “The Satisfyer Wand-er Woman ($50) is a fantastic product for any couple looking to introduce devices into their play, as it helps to target all erogenous zones easily. It’s an incredibly versatile tool for exploring foreplay for the entire body and can be easily used to target more sensitive spots like the clitoris or the perineum in men. I love this product because it’s therapeutic and can decrease tension in all areas of the body. The strong vibrations and pivoting head support targeted stimulation that can easily rival a deep tissue massage.”
Similar products include: Le Wand Petite Rechargeable Massager ($135), Olli by Unbound ($74)
You’ve Dabbled in Pleasure Products And Are Ready To Up Your Game
Solo Play:
Deysach: “Wand style vibrators are some of the most versatile and beloved sex toys out there. In particular, I love and recommend the Magic Wand Plus ($65), a super high quality and reliable toy with a lot of versatility. With attachments, you can create a whole bunch of toys with just this one. With a g-spot loving attachment ($40), you can turn this into the power dildo of your dreams. The Flutter attachment ($22) makes it a tickling, teasing toy.”
“With the Hummingbird attachment ($22), it becomes a powerful penis toy. This one toy can become pretty much anything you want it to be.”
Similar products include: N-ing Handheld Magic Wand Attachments ($47), UNISIN Accessories for Handheld Massager ($19)
Dr. Jill: “Tremble Kiss ($74) by CalExotics. It has a one-of-a-kind seismic motor that resonates deep into the clitoral tissue instead of just the skin’s surface. And the material is a plushy dual-density silicone that feels soft but firm, like real skin. Experienced vibe users will love to try this resonating technology.”
Similar products include: LoveLife SMILE ($59), MIMIC by Clandestine Devices ($135)
Dr. Jess: “If you have a penis, consider a stroking sleeve like the Tenga eggs ($7). Adjust the angle, position, grip, and stroke speed to find new pathways to pleasure. This is a simple addition that fits well with how most penises masturbate, and it can heighten sensitivity and create the feeling that you’re playing with a partner.”
Similar products include: HOT Male Electric Sucker by SEXY-ICON ($80), Chambers of Pleasure by Satisfyer ($13)
“If you have a vulva, you might try a bathtub toy like the Waterslyde ($35). I love this toy, as running water is a great way to experience new sensations all across the vulva (the external parts). You can use it to warm up and get aroused, or you can increase the water pressure to get yourself off.”
Engle: “The next step is definitely SKYN Vibes ($27). It’s a great toy because it involves internal and external stimulation simultaneously. If you’ve mastered your clitoral orgasms and are looking for something more adventurous, this is right up your ally. It’s hypoallergenic, reasonably priced, and has 20 different speeds to find what works for you.”
Similar products include: Soraya 2 by LELO ($186), Ruby Rabbit by JimmyJane ($140)
Caitlin : “For penis-havers, I recommend a prostate toy such as the LELO Hugo ($186). I like this one because it comes with an intuitive and interactive remote that you (or your partner) can use to change the intensity of the toy. It also includes two motors: one in the insertable part and the other rests against your perineum on the base of the toy. This means you can stimulate your prostate from inside and outside of your body.”
Similar products include: Eclipse Thrusting Rotator Probe by CalExotics ($69), PALOQUETH Male Vibe Prostate Massager ($27)
White:“For women more versed in pleasure products, I would recommend adding a weighted Satisfyer Kegel Ball, like the Power Balls ($30), to the vaginal canal while exploring any of our air-pulse devices (from $10). Using the ball inside can strengthen vaginal muscles, while also targeting the famed G-spot (the area where the internal clitoris flanks the vaginal canal).”
Similar products to the Power Balls include: Adam & Eve Vibrating Pleasure Kegel Balls ($50), Impulse™ Intimate E-Stimulator Dual Kegel by CalExotics ($100)
Similar products to the air-pulse devices include: Puff by UNBOUND ($46), Plusone Air Pulsing Arouser ($35)
“For more advanced male users, I would recommend the Satisfyer Power Ring ($30) because of the increased sensations to the penis, and the added benefit of longer, more sustained erections. This can be incredibly helpful for those men struggling with erectile dysfunction, which affects about 18 % of the population for men aged 20 years or older. Most men rave about the added sensations and love the bonus of stronger erections. However, we recommend that those who have cardiovascular problems or take blood-thinning medication consult with their doctor before using one.”
Similar products include: TENGA SVR Carmine ($80), ATOM by Hot Octopuss ($85)
Partner Play:
Caitlin: “For couples who are well-versed in pleasure products but are looking to expand, I recommend furniture that’s specifically designed for sex, especially the Liberator brand wedge/ramp combo ($200). These two wedge-shaped items come together to make different shapes that ergonomically enhance lovemaking. They allow you to achieve more positions than with just a flat surface alone. More importantly, they can increase stamina by making those positions easier to achieve, thus taking the stress and strain off wrists, knees, and backs. They also come with removable, washable covers that are made of soft microfiber and are slip-resistant. They will literally take your sex like to all new heights.”
Similar products include: Dame Pillo ($95), Dulexo Wedge Pillow ($14)
Deysach: “For those looking to up their game, I think Double Dildos are a real treat for couples. The Tango Double Dildo ($95) is one of my top choices as it is easy to use, comes in multiple colors, and is handmade by a small company. With strap-on sex, some newcomers worry that the “driver” will not get much out of the action. With a double dildo, you can rest assured that both parties will have fun and increased sensations. Plus, the size of the Tango is great for folks who want a narrower toy.”
Similar products include: Feeldoe Strapless Double Dildo ($99), Vixen Creations Peacemaker Double Dildo ($129)
Dr. Jill :“Link Up Verge ($60) by CalExotics. For a long time, I’ve been recommending vibrating rings that stimulate both penises and clitorises during intercourse. Until Link Up by CalExotics, I’ve never seen one that provides a thumping sensation. Truly unique design for seasoned sex toy users.”
Similar products include: We-Vibe Verge ($113), VeDO Over Drive Plus Rechargeable C-Ring (35)
Dr. Jess: “If you want to give a gift to your lover, consider the Crave Vesper ($69). This beautiful vibrator doubles as jewelry, and its design is subtle and tasteful. Only those in the know will recognize that the art piece hanging from your neck is also a high-end vibrator.”
Similar products include: Hide & Play Rechargeable Lipstick by CalExotics ($27), Satisfyer Secret Affair ($30)
Megwyn: “For heterosexual couples looking for something to enhance penetrative sex, they can explore the Satisfyer Double Plus Remote ($50). This u-shaped product features two strong motors to stimulate the vagina internally and clitoris externally. With penetration, it can add to his pleasure and will angle formidably towards the G-spot for intense sensations for her.”
Similar products include: We-Vibe Sync ($149), Better Love Fiji Couples Vibe ($84)
“For LGBTQ couples, a great mid-level product is the Satisfyer Endless Love ($50). This product features up to 13 different uses between partners. Its gender-neutral u-like shape with slightly curved legs at the end can be worn around areas like the scrotum or used to target the G-spot with upward strokes vaginally. This is a wonderful product for all couples to use and can add a spark of variety to expand the imagination of intimate play effortlessly.”
Similar products include: Adorime Cock Ring Couple Vibrator ($26), Vibrating Cock Ring by Lnabni ($28)
You’re Well Versed In Pleasure Products And Now Want To Take It To The Limit
Solo Play:
Dr. Jess: “For penises: the Hot Octopuss Pulse III Solo ($150) uses oscillations to do the work for you. You do not even have to stroke (but you can if you want to), as the oscillations can produce overpowering sensations and orgasmic contractions.”
Similar products include: Vibrating Male Masturbator by Allover ($24), Treediride Handheld Liquid Silicone Masturbator ($27)
“For vulvas: The Womanizer Duo ($208) offers both an internal and external stimulation. The outer arm stimulates the head of the clitoris with pleasure-air technology that uses tiny bursts of air to create a suction-like sensation over the external clitoris’s head and shaft. The inner arm curves upward against the G-Spot to provide vibrations internally, and each function can be controlled individually, so you can customize with gentle suction on the outside with powerful vibrations internally or any combination of your choosing.”
Similar products include: Double Ecstasy by JimmyJane ($180), BOMBEX Gil Wearable G Spot Clit Stimulator ($28)
Engle: “If you’re trying to get really intense with it, I’d try a stainless-steel dildo like the njoy ($120). These toys are very intense looking and offer super unique sensations. The weight of the stainless steel can pull on the entire clitoral complex when inserted, making for a delicious experience. You can also stick your toy in the freezer and try some experimentation with sensory play. These toys are definitely next level, but worth a go.”
Similar products include: Le Wand Arch ($140), Romi Massage G-spot Stimulate Fetish Plug ($27)
Dr. Jill: “Optimum Power Masturball ($80) by CalExotics. This is a penis stroking device unlike any other. It is fully contained and has pads that compress, tickle, and vibrate. It does all the work for you, so you don’t have to stroke.”
Similar products include: TENGA SPINNER ($27), Vacuum Male Masturbator Cup by CHEVEN ($20)
Caitlin: “Electric stimulation! While many people are familiar with electric stimulation (e-stim) for muscle building and pain management, few people know about its erotic applications. This is a shame because using electrical currents to stimulate and arouse the body is a super fun and friendly form of kink play. The most commonly available e-stim device is a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit. But there are other options aside from the TENS unit, including high-frequency wands which look beautiful as they give off a violet glow, and gloves and wand vibrators with electrodes in them as well. Beware that TENS units and other e-stim devices are safe for most people, but if you have underlying health conditions, you should first speak with your doctor. People with piercings, pacemakers, and pregnancies should especially be careful.”
Partner Play:
Deysach: “For couples familiar with sex toys who really want to take their play to the next level, the We-Vibe Chorus ($189) is a great choice. This wearable vibe can be worn during intercourse or other vaginal play, and it can be controlled via remote. Even better, you can control this toy from anywhere in the world via an app, making long-distance sex so much better.”
Similar products include: Adorime Wireless G-spot Anal Vibrator ($23), Fanfan Couples Massager by Zalo ($145)
Dr. Jill: “Eclipse Wristband Remote Pulsing Probe ($84) by CalExotics. This is an anal toy with two pulsating pleasure points – on the probe for internal stimulation and the outside for perineum stimulation. It comes with a remote-control wristband, so this is a fantastic toy for any couple that trusts each other enough to give one another the power to control their anal probe vibrating inside their body from up to 32 feet away.”
Similar products include: Silicone Prostate Vibrator by b-Vibe ($30), LoveLife DARE ($29)
Caitlin:“For couples who want to take things to the next level, I recommend this awesome door jam sex sling by Sportsheets that easily installs on a door. Many people would like to experiment with sex swings but can’t install them at their homes. This easy-to-use sex swing can be installed over just about any closed door. The mechanics of its installation does not limit the number and variety of positions you can get into. Sex swings are fun because they allow you to get into different positions and hit different angles than you can achieve with your bodies and a bed alone.”
Similar products include: Cozyall Sex Swing ($52), BELSIANG Adult Sex Swing ($58)
White: “The Satisfyer MultiFun 3, multi-use vibe for singles and couples ($50) is a wonderful gender-neutral product perfect for LGBTQ couples but can ultimately be enjoyed by everyone. The head features a unique u-like shape that can be used in up to 30 different ways, making it the perfect sensual activator for couples wanting to expand their repertoire of pleasure. The head can be turned by 365 degrees to allow users to explore every position possible with ease. For those with penises, the u-shape end offers incredible stroking potential with its flexible silicon shape and added vibrations and can also be great for those with vulvas.”
Similar products include: LoveLife ESCA 2 ($119), Queen Set G-spot PulseWave Vibrator with Suction Sleeve ($155)