It's easy to understand why you'd want a vibrator: all that sizzling vibration feels really good against just about any body part. So why would you want something as static and dull as a dildo? While it's true many people enjoy the the tingly feelings vibrators produce, others find the sensation too intense and would prefer an altogether different kind of stimulation. Some women claim they are "vaginal" as opposed to "clitoral," which means they enjoy the stimuli produced by static penetrating toys more than that of buzzing clitoral toys. Also, some people would rather experience the sensations of thrusting and "fullness" produced by a dildo. Finally, dildos are popular with people who enjoy penetrating others, but who may not have the equipment to do so. While lesbian women obviously fall into this last category, so do men with erectile dysfunction and women who enjoy anally penetrating their male partners.

Dildos are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes textures and colors, making the selection a little confusing. Do you know the difference between silicone, rubber and cyberskin dildos? What about the different shapes—do you know why some are curved and others are straight? Why do some look like real penises and others like freakish magic wands? Relax! Our dildo guide will answer all these questions ... and more!

You Should Know
Most dildos are designed to be "novelties," which means they can have a very unpredictable life span—anywhere from months to years. But good care and careful use will definitely prolong the life of your toy, so don't give up altogether. Besides, most of the "novelty" dildos are relatively inexpensive, so replacing a well-worn dildo shouldn't be too costly.
• Materials
• Care & Maintenance

Traditional Dildos
By far the most versatile category of sex toys, traditional dildos are usually shaped like a phallus, which means they all vaguely resemble a penis. Dildos come in all sizes, shapes, textures and colors; when considering a traditional dildo, think about what works best for you. If you don't find your dildo potentially erotic, it's a colossal waste of time.
• Top Picks: Realistic Dildos
• Top Picks: Smooth Dildos

Insertable Spheres
For a different kind of sensual play, try insertable balls or beads. While some women don't find this subtle form of stimulation exciting, others swear there's no comparison. As with all sex toys, it's a matter of personal preference, so try beads or balls at least once, decide if you like them and go from there.
• Top Picks: Insertable Spheres

Double-Ended Dildos
These party toys are meant for two; a double dildo is nothing more than two realistic dildos joined at the base with a little extra wiggle room. Any hetero- or homosexual combination can make good use of a double dildo (or "double dong," as they're sometimes called): man and man, man and woman, and woman and woman.
• Top Picks: Double-Ended Dildos

Strap-On Dildos & Harnesses
Used by one partner to penetrate another, these toys aren't just for lesbian couples; all kinds of twosomes can enjoy the power-shifting and role-playing that accompany harness play. Women often get a thrill from penetrating their male partners, and men who have trouble achieving or maintaining an erection find strap-ons useful for pleasing their partners. Some men enjoy masturbating while penetrating their partners, some women use strap-ons to anally or vaginally penetrate their female lovers.
• Top Picks: Strap-On Dildos & Harnesses