Guest written by Rain Andersen (@wearenotfriends_) a veteran sworker with eight years in adult entertainment and three years working for Lovers.

sex toy (noun):
an object or device used for sexual stimulation or to enhance sexual pleasure

If you've made it this far, you're probably curious about how Sex Toys can help to take your pleasure to the next level. In this guide, we're breaking down the who, what, and why behind these illusive pleasure objects.

QUICK LINKS:

Vibrators
Dildos
Strap-On Harnesses
Cock Rings
Butt Plugs
Pumps
Strokers
Extensions
Kegels & Dilators
Extreme Toys

Vibrators

Also Known As: Sex Toys
Recommended Reading:

A Vibrator is a style of Sex Toy that is equipped with one or more motors. These motors use a unique combination of mechanisms (like vibration, motion, and suction) to stimulate the body.

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Bullets (Lipstick Vibrator, Mini Vibe, Travel Vibe): A Bullet is a small Vibrator with a slim, torpedo-shaped silhouette. Bullets can be used to stimulate the outside of the body and are a popular beginner Sex Toy because of their compact size, simple button interface, and nondescript design. Sometimes referred to as a Mini Vibe or a Lipstick Vibrator, Bullets are perfect for holding between bodies and stimulating hard to reach erogenous zones.

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Pebble Vibrators (Hand Held Vibe): A Pebble Vibrator is designed to fit snuggly in the palm of your hand. While Bullets can provide more targeted stimulation, their size and shape can make them uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time. A Pebble-Shaped Vibrator prevents strain on the fingertips by following the natural contours of your hand. These toys act as a natural extension of the fingertips making them both comfortable and easy to control.

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Wands (Massagers): A Wand is a Vibrating Massager that is used on the outside of the body. They are characterized by their iconic microphone-shaped silhouette, their powerful vibrations, and their versatility. Perfect for full body massages and Forced Orgasm Scenes, Wands can be paired with a number of different accessories including Toy Mounts, Orgasm Belts, Thigh Harnesses, Wand Attachments, and Bed Restraints.

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Thrusters (Pulsators, Sex Machines): A Thruster is a type of toy designed to mimic the sensations of penetrative sex. Thrusters can be used for Vaginal or Anal stimulation and are ideal for realistic, hands-free exploration. These visually compelling toys are an excellent option for couples and voyeurs.

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Rabbits (Dual-Stimulator, Dual-Action Vibrator, Bunny): A Rabbit is a Sex Toy designed to simultaneously stimulate two different erogenous zones. Rabbits typically feature an internal component (the piece going inside the body) and an external component (the piece that rests outside the body), that can produce powerful Blended Orgasms.

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Pulsators (Suction Toy, Air Tech Toy, Sonic Vibrator): A Pulsator uses air pressure to stimulate the Clitoris, Nipples, and Penis. They provide 360 degrees of coverage, all while providing indirect and gentle stimulation to your erogenous zones. Air pulsators come in three styles: Pleasure Air Toys, Sen-Sonic Toys, and Suction Toys. Learn more about how these styles of Pulsators differ in our blog on Sex Toy trends.

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Finger Vibes: A Finger Vibrator is a Sex Toy designed to fit over or between your fingertips. They make every caress more electric by provided targeted and precise stimulation where you want it most. Use a Finger Vibrator to spice up your foreplay, enhance a full body massage, or stimulate yourself (& a partner) during sex.

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Hands Free Vibrators (Couples Vibrator, C-Shaped Vibrator, Wearable Vibrator, Panty Vibe, Remote Control Vibrator, App Enabled Vibrator): Hands-Free Vibrators are designed to stay in place during sex, so the wearer can focus on their partner and the sensations they’re feeling without disruption. There are several styles of Hands-Free Sex Toys, but some of the most popular styles include Dildos, Thrusting Vibrators, Wearable Vibrators, and Strapless Strap-On's.

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Dildos

Recommended Reading:

Sex Toy DIY: How to Make a Dildo

Dildos are a type of Sex Toy that can be used to stimulate the Vagina or the Anus.
Dongs are a variation of this toy that includes a set of Testicles attached to the base. Dildos can be both representational and innocuous in design, but do not feature a set of testicles. Dildos will typically include a suction cup base, which allows these toys to be affixed to any smooth, flat surface for hands-free stimulation. Dildos with a suction cup base are considered to be harness compatible. They can be secured to the body with a Strap-On Harness in lieu of a Penis.

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Static Dildos: Static Dildos and Dongs are designed purely for insertion. They are sold in a variety of textures, shapes, and densities, which can contribute to its size and feel. Larger Dildos are typically made from a softer density of silicone, which allows the material to bend and flex to your bodies natural curves. Small to mid-sized Dildos often use firmer density silicones, or dual density blends that feature a firm core and a squishy outer shell. Opting for firmer density Dildos can be useful for Pegging because it helps the Dildo to maintain its structure.

Vibrating Dildos: Vibrating Dildos and Dongs are similar to Traditional Dildos, but with the mechanics of a Vibrator. This style of toy introduces a second layer of stimulation for the user.

Poseable Dildos: A Poseable Dildo contains a flexible wire core that allows the toy to be bent into unique shapes. Poseable Sex Toys are great for accommodating different preferences and Sex Positions, making them ideal for Pegging, G-Spot Stimulation, Partnered Sex, and Beginner Toy Exploration.

Ejaculating Dildos: Ejaculating Dildos contain a set of plastic tubes (or a hollow core) that fluid can be filtered through to mimic the explosive effect of Ejaculation. Ideal for Roleplay, Faux Facials, Breeding Kinks, Bukkake, Golden Showers, and more- these realistic Sex Toys can be filled with your favorite body safe fluids for wet and messy fun. Prior to play, we recommend warming up your favorite Water-Based or Flavored Lubricants for around 15-20 seconds.

Hollow Dildos & Extenders: Hollow Dildos and Penis Extenders are designed to slide over a Sex Toy or a Penis to add texture, length, and support during sex. People with Erectile Dysfunction (E.D.) might consider using Hollow Dildos and Extenders to enhance and prolong partnered sex.

Strap-On Harnesses

Also Known As: Harness, Strap-On, Pegging Harness
Recommended Reading:

A Strap-On Harness is designed to hold and support a Dildo. Most Strap On Harnesses come equipped with an O-ring, designed to support the weight of the Dildo. These Rings can be changed out to accommodate Dildos with a wider base. You can accessorize your Strap-On Harness with a flat disc designed to keep your Dildo from hanging or shifting inside the Harness.

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Traditional Harness: A Traditional Strap-On Harness features three, adjustable straps and a front facing panel. The front facing panel is equipped with an O-ring, designed to support the weight of your Dildo. These panels can be made from leather, fabric, or PVC materials, designed to wick away or absorb moisture during use. They can also allow the wearer to showcase their personal style through an assortment of colors, prints, and textures. Pay careful attention to the material of your straps, to prevent chaffing and discomfort against the skin.

Thong Style Harness: A Thong Style Harness uses the same basic components of a Traditional Harness, without the support of a front facing panel. Some people prefer to use a Thong Harness because of its minimalistic look and feel. Thong Harnesses expose more of the wearers body, but may diminish the level of support the Harness provides. We recommend lighter density silicones or smaller sized Dildos with these Harnesses to help evenly distribute weight.

Underwear Style Harnesses: Underwear Harnesses are designed to look and feel like a pair of sexy Underwear. These comfortable and stylish Harnesses feature a built-in O-ring and an easy access panel- just like a traditional set of Boxer Briefs! Underwear Harnesses come in a variety of cuts and colors, and fit closer to the body for additional control and support. We love the sexy and secure feeling of an Underwear Harness, which can be styled alongside with other pieces of Lingerie.

Harness Free Strap-Ons: Harness Free Strap-On’s are a style of Sex Toy designed to stimulate the wearer and the receiver, simultaneously. Harness Free Strap-On’s are intended to be worn by a person with a Vulva and are held in place by their pelvic floor muscles. They are often equipped with an internal motor, allowing users to spread out stimulation between two bodies.

Cock Rings

Also Known As: Penis Rings, C-Rings
Recommended Reading:

The Perfect Fit: A Beginners Guide to Cock Rings

A Cock Ring is a circular band designed to fit snuggly around the base of the Penis to restrict blood flow. People who use Cock Rings will notice an increase in size, sensation, and endurance. We do not recommend using Cock Rings any longer than 30 minutes. This is the safest recommended time frame when experimenting with products that impact blood circulation. The thicker the band, the firmer the grip will be.

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Stacker Rings: Stacker Rings can be placed at the base of the Penis to control the depth of each stroke. They provide all of the same benefits of a Traditional Cock Ring, and are often sold as a set.

Vibrating Cock Rings: Vibrating Rings contain a small motor that is designed to stimulate the Clitoris. Many people enjoy using Cock Rings as an alternative to hand held Vibrators during partnered sex.

Combination Cock Rings: Combination Cock Rings utilize a variety of different motors and functions. They can provide additional stimulation to the wearer and be used for double penetration.

Butt Plugs
Also Known As: Anal Plugs
Recommended Reading:

Butt Plugs are designed to fill and stretch the Anus, and are often used as a precursor to Anal Play. Butt Plugs can be used to enhance your comfort with backdoor stimulation, gauge up to a larger sized Sex Toys, and stimulate the Prostate.

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Static Butt Plugs: Traditional Butt Plugs are sold in a variety of textures, shapes, and sizes. They provide stimulation to the wearer by stretching and filling the Anus.

Long Wear Butt Plugs: Long Wear Plugs are equipped with thin, curved base designed to sit snuggly between the butt cheeks. They are intended to be worn for extended periods of time and can be used while you sit, walk, run, or dance! Moving around while your Butt Plug is inserted can heighten your sensation during use.

Vibrating Butt Plugs: Vibrating Butt Plugs contain one or more vibrating motors. They can be used to stimulate the nerve endings in the rectum and massage the Prostate.

Thrusting Butt Plugs: Thrusting Butt Plugs are designed to mimic the sensations of penetrative sex. They are an excellent way to prepare for Anal Penetration, because they allow people to familiarize with the sensation of motion.

Rotating Butt Plugs: Rotating Butt Plugs are designed massage and roll over the tissues located in the Anus. They are an excellent way to prepare for Anal Penetration, because they allow people to familiarize with the sensation of motion.

Inflatable Butt Plugs: Inflatable Butt Plugs are designed to expand inside the body, making them ideal for stretching and training the Anus. All Inflatable Butt Plugs are equipped with a quick release button that allows the Butt Plug to return to its original form.

Combination Butt Plugs: Combination Butt Plugs fill and stretch the anal canal, while incorporating other sensory elements and shapes.

Anal Training Kits: Anal Training Kits contain a set of Anal Plugs that gradually increase in size. They can be used to scale up to larger sized toys, dilate the Vaginal canal, or add variety to your toy collection.

Pumps

Recommended Reading:

What Is a Penis Pump?

A Penis Pump is designed to draw blood into a particular region of the body, making it firmer and more sensitive to the touch. We recommend using Pumps in five-minute intervals for no longer than 30 minutes per day. This is the safest recommended time frame when experimenting with products that impact blood circulation.

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Penis Pumps: A Penis Pump is designed to draw blood into the Penis, temporarily increasing it's size and sensation. Individuals diagnosed with E.D. may find a Penis Pump useful for getting or maintaining an erection, and can prolong the effects of Pump by wearing a Cock Ring.

Vaginal Pumps: Vaginal Pumps can be placed over the Mons Pubis to stimulate the Labia Majora, Labia Minora, and Clitoris. Using a Vaginal Pump can enhance sensations, while giving the Vulva a soft, pink, and plump appearance.

Breast Pumps & Nipple Suckers: Breast & Nipple Pumps are designed to increase sensation in the chest. Like other styles of Pumps, they can give the Breasts and Areolas a plump and puffy appearance.

Strokers

Also Known As: Masturbation Sleeve, Pocket Pussy, FleshLight, or Masturbator
Recommended Reading:

A Stroker is designed to be moved up and down the Shaft to activate the nerve endings in the Penis. They come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, and may even contain motors for added sensation.

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Molded Strokers: Molded Strokers are a hyper-realistic style of Sex Toy designed to look and feel like the real thing! Created from the castings of adult film performers, these futuristic toys are made with realistic colors, textures, and materials.

Vibrating Strokers: Vibrating Strokers heighten your sensation and elevate your solo experiences. A recent study from the University of Guelph found that more men are using Vibrators to enhance sexual pleasure, especially in the company of an enthusiastic partner.

Thrusting Strokers: Thrusting Strokers are designed to move up and down the shaft for realistic, hands-free stimulation. They allow the user to control the speed and intensity of each stroke. These cutting-edge sex toys are the latest innovation in Stroker technology, sold with higher quality materials and motors.

Pulsating Strokers: The Arcwave Pulsating Stroker is a one-of-a-kind Masturbation device. Using cutting-edge, air pressure technology to stimulate over 4,000 nerve endings in the Penis, this toy is perfect for Stamina Training and Edging.

Extensions

Also Known As: Penis Sleeves, Extenders

A Penis Extension is a designed to add length and girth to an already erect Penis or Sex Toy. Penis Extenders offer subtle changes in size and texture that can make sex more interesting, and less predictable.

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Kegels

Also Known As: Ben Wa Balls, Yoni Eggs, Vaginal Trainers, “Those things from 50 Shades…”
Recommended Reading:

Why You Should Do Kegels

Kegel Balls are designed to tone and strengthen the pelvic floor. Using them can contribute to stronger orgasms, better urinary and fecal continence, and an increase in natural lubrication. Larger sized Kegel Balls are typically recommended to beginners, because they are lighter in weight and easier for the body to grip on to. Smaller Kegel Balls or untethered Kegel Weights are more challenging, and are great for people who have experience exercising their Kegels.

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Kegel Massagers: Kegel Massagers are an exercise device used for strengthening the pelvic floor. They consist of a set of weighted balls, that stimulate and tone the PC Muscles.

Vibrating Kegels: Vibrating Kegel Massagers provide all the benefits of a traditional Kegel Toy, but with the added benefit of vibration. Vibration can not only make Kegel Exercises more enjoyable, they can also activate the PC Muscles, causing them to retract and tighten.

Dilators: Vaginal Dilators gently stretch the vaginal opening to relieve vaginal tightness, discomfort, and penetrative pain. They can be used to prepare the body for child birth, or to tone the pelvic floor muscles after a child has been delivered. They have been used in clinical settings for over 75 years.

Extreme Toys

Also Known As: BDSM Sex Toys, Kinky Sex Toys
Recommended Reading:

Extreme Toys are designed to be used for specific Kinks and Fetishes, and may require some research before being put into use.

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Cages: Penis Cages or Chastity Cages prevent the Penis from becoming fully erect, allowing a partner to control when and how you Orgasm. They come in a variety of different sizes and materials, and can be worn for extended periods of time. If you do not have experience with this style of toy, we recommend starting with a Soft Cage.

Clamps: A Clamp is a sensation toy that adds pressure to sensitive areas like the Clitoris and Nipples. Check out our blog on Nipple Orgasms to get a run down of the various styles of clamps sold at Lovers.

Sounding Rods: A Sounding Rod is a thin and narrow tube designed to be interested into the Urethra. The rod can be left in place, moved up and down, and can even be used to stimulate the Prostate.