What's the difference between Vibrators and Dildos

There are many types of vibrators out there in the world, and we can generally classify most as “external” vibrators (like wands and most bullets) or “internal” vibrators (like a g-spot vibrator). External vibes are designed for external massage of the clitoris, penis, nipples, external butthole, wherever! Sometimes the best vibrator for beginners is one that is versatile, and if compactness isn’t what you’re going for, an insertable vibe is generally also a toy that can be used externally. Finally, there are rabbit vibes designed for both internal and external stimulation.

There are many categories of dildos out there, but most fall under one or more of these functional categories: vibrating dildos, non-vibrating dildos, double-ended dildos, or harnessable dildos. Selecting a dildo largely depends on personal preference for size, shape, and material, but also the purpose you wish to use it for!

Here’s where the center of the dildo/vibrator Venn diagram lays! When an insertable toy has a built-in motor, a feature typically associated with a dildo (such as a harnessable base), or looks particularly phallic, it is truly a hybrid of these two categories. These toys will have much more intense vibration than a dildo that just has a removable vibrating bullet, but have a more diffused vibration across the surface area, making it preferable as an internal toy instead of an external massager.

Many “vibrating” dildos are simply solid silicone dildos with a hole in the base intended for a vibrating bullet. Most dildos like this come with their own battery-operated bullet, but upgrading to a rechargeable one or buying a dildo that comes with a rechargeable battery bullet will offer a more powerful experience. The vibration feels more diffused in a toy like this versus one with a built-in motor.

Regardless of whether you’re looking for a vibrator, dildo, or something that’s got features of both, it is only anal-safe if there is a flared base or definite stopping point on the toy. For instance, all rabbit vibrators are anal-friendly due to the external arm acting as a stopping point. Typically the base of the dildo is the feature to look for, just make sure the base is wide and firm enough that the pressure of the rectum won’t be able to suck it in! Anything anal-safe can also be used vaginally, just make sure the toy is properly cleaned before switching holes.

Vibration can help relax the muscles of the body to make penetration more comfortable and can stimulate more intensely internally. Besides that, consider whether the firmness of a toy matters to you – built-in motor toys could be significantly firmer than non-motorized toys made from silicone or silicone toys that have the removable bullet feature. Another consideration is whether you want to toy to be silent – all motorized toys make some noise, but you always have the option to not turn it on.

If going for a vibrating dildo or vibrator, consider what kind of batteries you want to deal with. Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable, but also can cost a bit more. Battery-operated toys can run on anything from AA batteries to watch batteries. Many bullet-compatible dildos come with a bullet and run on watch batteries, so if you aren’t in the mood to deal with tiny batteries, a vibrator or dildo with a built-in motor might suit you better!

At the end of the day, vibrators and dildos can be used in similar ways, but consider how you want to interact with it. If you want to strap it on, you’re probably looking for a dildo! If you want to be able to use it to externally massage, yet also be inserted, you’re probably looking for a dildo! If you want to manually penetrate yourself or someone else with it, pay attention to the handle or base of the toy and what will feel the most comfortable in your hand. Or, buy a handle that works in place of a vibrating bullet!