8 Questions to Help You Pick Out the Perfect Sex Toy

So, you're on the hunt for a new sex toy. Whether you're a total newbie, a curious explorer, or a seasoned collector, shopping for the perfect pleasure product can feel like a whirlwind. With all the options out there—vibes, plugs, dildos, kink gear—it's easy to get overwhelmed. But don't sweat it! I've got you covered with this simple, straight-to-the-point checklist to help you figure out exactly what you're looking for and make the process a lot less daunting.

#1: What's Your Budget?

Let's start with the real talk: your budget. Are you looking to splurge on a high-end product, or are you looking for something more affordable? You can find quality toys across all price ranges, but knowing what you're comfortable spending is key. Just remember— if you're splurging on a high-quality toy, make sure it's the right toy for YOU. No one wants to end up with a $200 paperweight. Trying out products of similar type and shape at a lower price point and upgrading once you know you love it is worth it in the long run. Think of it as an investment in your pleasure.

#2: Which Kind of Shopper Are You?

Ask yourself, are you a Newbie, Explorer, or Collector? Knowing where you are on this spectrum can help shop folks guide you to the products you need and cut out some of the noise.

• Newbie: This is your first toy, or maybe your second. You're figuring out what you like and want something simple to start with.

• Explorer: You've been around the block a bit and are looking to expand your collection, try new sensations, or experiment with different categories (butt stuff, anyone?).

• Collector: You have a drawer full of toys and are always on the lookout for the next big thing or something super specific for your needs.

#3: What Category of Toy Are You Looking For?

Now, let's get down to specifics. What are you looking for? Are you on the hunt for kink gear like floggers, paddles, and cuffs, or perhaps you're searching for wellness products like pelvic floor trainers and dilator sets? Have you had your heart set on the holy grail of pleasure products, a massage wand, or are you looking to add a little spice to your relationship with a remote control vibe? Curious about butt stuff? You'll want to look into plugs, beads, or butt vibes. Zeroing in on a category helps narrow your search and gets you closer to the toy that's right for you.

#4: External, Internal, or Both?

What areas are you looking to stimulate? Do you want something that stimulates you externally, like a vibe or stroker, or are you more into internal toys like dildos or G-spot stimulators? Or you may want a toy that can do both. Remember that many toys are multifunctional, while others have specific uses.

#5: How Do You Plan to Use the Toy?

Are you flying solo, using it with a partner, or planning to explore some multi-partner play? Solo play is all about what gets you off, while partner or group play might mean you want something versatile, remote-controlled, or designed for shared pleasure. Knowing how you plan to use the toy will help guide your choice.

#6: How Do You Usually Orgasm?

Let's get personal for a second. Think about how you usually get off—are you someone who orgasms from external stimulation, internal stimulation, or a combo of both? This info is crucial when picking out a suitable toy. If you're all about that external pleasure, a powerful clit vibe might be your go-to, whereas those who love internal stimulation might want something that curves just right to hit the G-spot or the P-Spot.

#7: What Kind of Sensations Do You Enjoy?

This is where things get exciting and maybe a little harder to answer if you've never paid close attention to it. Do you prefer buzzy, light vibrations, deep and rumbly sensations, or a blend of both? Buzzy vibes are faster and more surface-level, great for teasing, while rumbly ones tend to feel more intense. If you've never tried a rumbly vibe, do yourself a favor and give one a go—you might be surprised at how much you love it.

#8: Do You Need Power or a Lighter Touch?

Last but not least, think about power. Do you need a toy that'll knock your socks off with intense vibrations, or do you prefer something gentler and more subtle? If you're all about strong, fast sensations, opt for a toy with some serious horsepower. But if a lighter touch is your jam, plenty of lower-intensity options still get the job done without being too intense.

Ready to Shop?

Now that you've got your checklist, you're armed and ready to find the perfect sex toy. The last step is finding a shop that fits your needs. For Newbies and Explorers with lots of questions, I suggest you find a brick-and-mortar sex shop with knowledgeable staff and quality products for your shopping experience. A quality sex shop will have an educated staff who will be able to walk you through the products they carry and help you narrow down your options based on your answers to this checklist. For my Collectors, you may have better luck finding new, weird, and intriguing toys online. Just make sure you choose a reputable online shop that offers live support in case you have questions that aren't answered by the product descriptions. The key is knowing what you like (or what you want to explore) and picking a toy that lines up with those desires. Trust your gut, and don't be afraid to try something new. The world of sex toys is full of possibilities—you just have to find the one that's right for you! Happy shopping!

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