Vibrator types explained: bullet, wand, rabbit, suction and more
What each kind of vibrator is, what it’s for and who it tends to suit, in plain English.
“Vibrator” covers a lot of very different shapes. Here is what each type is for, so you can choose the one that suits you rather than the one with the loudest advert.
The main types
- Bullet: small, simple and usually quiet. External use. A popular first toy and easy to travel with.
- Wand: a larger head on a handle, with broad, strong vibration. External use, and also used for massage.
- Rabbit: an internal shaft plus an external arm, for dual stimulation. Fit matters more than with other types.
- G-spot vibrator: an internal toy with a curved tip.
- Suction or air-pulse toy: uses pulses of air around the clitoris instead of direct vibration. It gives a different sensation from direct vibration.
- Couples vibrator and remote-control toys: designed to be worn or used during partnered sex.
- Finger vibrator: sits on a fingertip. Tiny, discreet and easy to share.
- Thrusting vibrator: moves in and out as well as vibrating.
How to choose
- Inside, outside or both? External-only people usually start with a bullet, wand or suction toy.
- Solo or shared? Shared play suits couples or remote toys.
- Noise and size. Check the listed noise level and dimensions if privacy or travel matters.
- Material. Look for body-safe silicone or ABS (see materials explained).
- Charging and waterproofing. USB-rechargeable and waterproof models are easier to live with.
If it’s your first one
Start small and simple: a bullet or a small suction toy, used on the lowest setting with water-based lube. Then compare picks side by side in our beginner vibrators guide and the every-type comparison table.
