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Different Types of Sex Toys Explained: Find Your Match
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Time to read 8 min
Grinders, strokers and vibrators… oh, my! Getting familiar with different types of sex toys is a huge turn on in the world of sexual wellness. As the stigma behind sex toys and pleasure rewrites itself, people are recognizing that with toys comes orgasms, which means better sleep, less stress and more endorphin boosts. Adding sex toys to your wellness regime boasts many benefits to both your mind and body.
If you’re looking for a specific type of sensation, odds are you’re going to be able to find it with the wide variety of sex toys on the market. From internal to external stimulation, there’s something for everyone’s sexual pleasure and experience level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the amount of options available can be overwhelming. Before you find yourself needing a cold shower, we’re breaking down all the fun functions of our best-selling toys, so you can find your match. We also recommend you do some IRL research and try a few out for yourself.
What are sex toys and how do they help with wellness?
Sex toys are devices that stimulate erogenous zones like the clitoris, G-spot, anus, or prostate. They increase arousal, help you orgasm, reduce performance anxiety, and promote sexual exploration.
According to the Journal of Sexual Medicine, orgasms release oxytocin, reduce cortisol and improve sleep. Toys can increase sexual confidence, deepen partner intimacy, and relieve pelvic floor tension. They're also used in clinical sexual therapy for pleasure mapping, erectile support, or postnatal recovery.
Table of Contents
Why Is Cleaning Sex Toys Necessary? Sex Toy Cleaning & Cleaning Related Bestsellers How to Clean Sex Toys by Material Type Deep Cleaning: Boiling, Dishwashers & More What to Know About Porous Toys Non-Porous Toys (Silicone, Glass, Metal, Hard Plastic) Caring for Vibrators and Rechargeable Toys Best Cleaning Products & Methods When You Need a Deep Clean Sharing Toys and Preventing Infections What If I Have Allergies or Sensitivities? How to Store Sex Toys After Cleaning Common Sex Toy Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid Key Takeaways: Cleaning Adult Toys Products Mentioned in this Article FAQ: Cleaning Adult Toys Products Featured In This Blog Related Readings
What are the different types of external sex toys?
External sex toys stimulate the surface of the body, especially the clitoris, nipples, vulva and perineum. These toys are great for solo play and partnered play.
Common external toys and what they do
Bullet vibrator - Pin-point clitoral stimulation, perfect for beginners
Wand vibrator - Broad surface vibration, great for vulva and sore muscles
Oral sex simulator - Mimics fluttering sensations on the clitoris
External prostate massager - Stimulates perineum to activate prostate nerves
Vibes for external stimulation
While external stimulators come in many shapes and sizes, a bedside favorite is the classic vibrating bullet. This small, but powerful toy provides targeted clitoral stimulation, however, it can also be used on other erogenous zones to spice up your foreplay. Many people with vulvas require a little bit more support to reach a climax during intercourse. A bullet can be used to keep the clitoris stimulated, while not taking up much space between you and your partner. Easy to use and clean, it’s the ideal toy for beginners or taking on the go. Plus, its lipstick shaped design is an added bonus for those who are looking for a bit of discretion.
If discretion isn’t number one in your playbook, another go-to is a vibrating wand. Wands are known to deliver unparalleled strength and powerful vibrations that supercharge your sexual pleasure. The large rounded head is intended to provide a well-rounded experience (yes, pun very much intended). Its smooth head provides a lot of surface coverage, giving your vulva the full spectrum of vibrations. Like the bullet, this massager is a favorite among sex toy newcomers. Even better, “massager” isn’t just a euphemism — the vibrations feel fantastic on sore muscles and stubborn knots. If you're having trouble shaking off the stress of a long day, the wand can be exactly the foreplay you need to let go of your stress and get into the mood.
Want to go beyond the basics? Try a toy that simulates oral sex. The plusOne® fluttering arouser mimics the sensation of getting head from a partner by gently stimulating the clitoris. Sit back and let the ten unique fluttering vibrations do all the talking.
External massagers aren’t strictly confined to the clitoris, there are also adult toys made for people with prostates. Massaging the prostate can not only lead to an all-over body orgasm, but it also has numerous health benefits like strengthening your pelvic floor. The plusOne® external prostate massager is designed to hold against the perineum to externally stimulate the prostate. Its smooth tapered tip provides spot-on targeted pleasure. Don’t forget to add a touch of lube to enhance your experience!
Best Sellers
How do internal sex toys stimulate pleasure?
Next up, sex toys for internal stimulation.
Internal sex toys are designed for insertion and target deep erogenous zones, like the G-spot, A-spot or prostate. The benefit of internal toys is most of these devices can also be used as external stimulators. We’d call that a win-win, however, targeted external pleasure isn’t their main function. Their strength lies in being able to reach nerve-dense areas.
Internal stimulation zones
G-spot - 2-3 inches inside the front vaginal wall
A-spot - Deeper inside, near the cervix
Anal canal - Lined with pressure-sensitive nerve endings
Prostate - 2 inches inside the anus, forward-facing
For people with vulvas, the winning aspect of internal massagers is hitting the G-spot, which is a cluster of nerve endings located 2–3 inches inside the vaginal canal on the front wall. In case you ever happen to go to a sex toy trivia night, the “G” stands for Gräfenberg. If that’s what you’re looking for, say hello to the plusOne® g-spot massager. Sleek and ultra-versatile, the G-spot massager takes sexual pleasure to a new level. It’s perfectly curved to help you easily and comfortably reach all the right spots.
What are the best anal toys for beginners?
There are also internal options for anal play - like gender-inclusive vibrating plugs. The key to these toys is lube! While anal toys are sleek and specifically designed for comfortable backside use, a water-based lube helps create a more enjoyable experience. It’s also important to train, strengthen and expand your anal muscles, so we recommend starting with plusOne®’s 3-piece plug training set. Anal toys should always have a flared base and be used with a water-based lubricant. They’re designed to stimulate the anal canal, sphincter and prostate in a comfortable, body-safe way.
Beginner friendly anal toys:
Small butt plugs (less than 1" diameter)
Tapered silicone plugs with flexible necks
Safety Tip: Never insert objects without a flared base. Always clean anal toys thoroughly and go slow.
Which sex toys stimulate multiple erogenous zones at once?
Looking for a combo? Some toys are designed to give you the best of both worlds. Up the ante of your sexy time with sex toys that provide both internal and external stimulation. At! The! Same! Time!
Popular dual-stim toys
Rabbit vibrators - G-spot + clitoral stimulation
Dual prostate massagers - Prostate + perineum pressure
The toy most well-known for doing both - the rabbit. This type of toy features an insertable shaft combined with a smaller arm for clitoral stimulation. PlusOne®’s dual vibrating massager is a best-seller for those two reasons. Its two arms work in harmony to give you a full-body orgasm that’ll make this toy a favorite in your sex toy rotation.
For a backside option for people with prostates, there’s the plusOne® prostate massager. Like the rabbit, it has an arm combo that takes orgasms to the next level. The bulk of the toy is a smooth, tapered head that’s designed for comfortable insertion into the anus. While the head is inserted, the two external arms are used to stimulate the perineum.
What are the best sex toys for couples?
Add a plusOne® to partnered play. Most sex toys can be used in tandem with a partner, but there are fun options designed specifically for this purpose.
Top partner-play toys:
Vibrating cock rings - Erections and clitoral stimulation
Grinders - Flat toys for vulva-to-vulva or vulva-to-body grinding
Strokers - Textured sleeves for penis stimulation
Remote-control toys - Partner-led control from a distance
You know what they say… if you like it then you should… put a cock ring on it. Cock rings should be stretchy, yet snug-fitting on the shaft. The snug fit increases blood flow to the penis to enhance the size, while vibrations provide pleasure for both parties.
Another option for couples is a grinder. The plusOne® 2-in-1 vibrating grinder is double-sided, so you and your partner get an incredible sensation. Like the name suggests, this device is intended for grinding, but the flexible silicone can be rolled into a stroker for people with penises. Want to get to know grinders a little more? We will get into the nitty gritty here.
FAQ: Different Types of Sex Toys
What are the best sex toys for beginners with vulvas?
Bullet vibrators, slim G-spot massagers and small rabbit vibrators are best for beginners with vulvas. They offer gentle stimulation and simple controls and are made with body-safe silicone so you can explore clitoral and internal pleasure safely.
Do sex toys improve sexual wellness or reduce stress?
Yes. Regular orgasm with sex toys increases oxytocin and endorphins, reduces cortisol and improves sleep quality. This helps mental health, lowers anxiety and builds sexual confidence through pleasure exploration.
Are vibrating prostate massagers safe for first time anal play?
Yes, beginner prostate massagers have a tapered tip and a flared base for safety. Use water-based lube, start slow and choose models with low vibration settings for comfort and reduced risk during anal and prostate stimulation.
How do dual-stimulation vibrators trigger blended orgasms?
Dual vibrators stimulate the clitoris and G-spot at the same time with two arms or motors. This simultaneous pressure hits both internal and external erogenous zones at once, and increases the chance of intense full-body blended orgasms.
What matters most in a travel-friendly sex toy?
Look for compact size, USB charging, quiet operation and travel lock. Body-safe bullet vibrators or mini wands are perfect for travel and discretion. Most pleasure devices will get by TSA if stored correctly.
Why do anal toys need to have a flared base?
A flared base prevents the toy from going inside the rectum. Without a base, retrieval can be dangerous. A wide, soft base keeps the toy in place and ensures safe removal after play.
Can sex toys be used with a partner during sex?
Yes. Many toys, like cock rings and bullets, are designed to be used during penetration. These add clitoral or perineal stimulation while keeping your hands free. Communication and lube make partner play better.
What kind of lube to use with sex toys?
Use water-based lube with silicone sex toys. It’s safe, easy to clean and most compatible with most materials. Don’t use silicone lube on silicone toys as it can degrade the surface and damage.
Are sex toys safe for daily use?
Yes, if cleaned properly and used with lube, sex toys are safe for regular use. Choose body-safe materials like silicone. Rotate toys to avoid overstimulation or irritation.
Do sex toys help with orgasm difficulty?
Yes. Vibrators and insertables can help with anorgasmia or low arousal. Targeted stimulation increases blood flow, supports arousal build up and provides consistent pressure making climax easier and more reliable.
The Author: Dr. Betsy Greenleaf
Dr. Betsy Greenleaf, a leader in women's health with over 20 years of experience in pelvic medicine, is the first U.S. female board-certified Urogynecologist.
