It's safe to say that vibrators are the most popular kind of sex toy. For good reason—vibrators are cheap and versatile, and provide a wide range of vibrational intensity. But picking out a vibrator can be more difficult than you might think. Did you know there were hundreds of different kinds, including internal, external, battery-operated, AC-operated, hands-free, black, white, purple, animal-shaped ... Wait a minute! Sex toys are supposed to be recreational, not analytical. No worries—we'll break it down for you.

You Should Know
Most vibrators are designed to be "novelties," which means they can have a very unpredictable lifespan—anywhere from days to months. A few (usually the more expensive "personal massager" types) have warranties, but for the most part, don't expect miracles from your vibrating pal. 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" vibrators are relatively inexpensive, so replacing a well-worn vibrator shouldn't be too costly.
• Intensity & Power
• Care & Maintenance

Traditional Vibrators
By far the most versatile category of sex toys, traditional vibrators are usually shaped like a phallus, which means they all vaguely resemble a penis. Vibrators come in all sizes, shapes, textures and colors-—from the tiny pocket vibe to the ridiculously huge twelve-inch dildo vibe. However, vibrators all have two things in common: they were made to pulsate and penetrate. When considering an insertable vibrator, think about what works best for you. If you don't find your vibrator potentially erotic, it's a colossal waste of time.
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Clitoral Vibrators
While any kind of vibrator can be used on the clitoris, certain vibrators were specifically designed to tease your "man in the boat." Basic operation is the same: you enjoy focused vibrations at varying speeds and intensities. Clitoral vibes are for external use only—while some units claim they can be inserted vaginally and you can certainly experiment with shallow penetration, it's best to keep them on the outside—it's entirely possible for the vibrating unit to become detached from the cord and lodge itself somewhere you can't quite reach.
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Electric Vibrators
Electric vibrators provide an incredibly powerful genital buzz. In fact, the vibration is to strong for many women. However, don't let that fact deter you—just wrap the head of the vibrator with a towel for a reduced vibe. These units are much hardier than their "novelty" cousins. Be aware though: you pay for what you get. Electric vibrators are definitely more expensive than most vibrators. But look on the bright side—they usually have warranties and often last for years.
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Hands-Free Vibrators
Hands-free vibrators are small units held fast by straps to a woman's clitoris for an intense, localized vibration. The miniature motor is housed in a plastic casing resembling a butterfly, dragonfly or some other kind of cute forest creature. The sensations produced by these happy little critters can be incredibly strong-—too strong for some women's tastes. If you enjoy a deep, intense vibration, the hands-free vibe might be a great option for you.
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G-Spot Vibrators
Usually long and slim with a tilted end, G-Spot vibrators are designed to stimulate the G-Spot, a region inside the vagina that responds well to focused pressure. By applying vibrational pressure to this area, located on the anterior side of the vagina, about two inches up the vaginal wall, some women experience powerful orgasms. Men can benefit from using a G-Spot vibrator, too—many men love what these vibrators do for their prostates.
• Top Picks: G-Spot Vibrators