Best sex toys for women to try in 2023 for guaranteed satisfaction
Whether you’re looking for some quality ‘me time’ or want to make your sex life with your partner a bit more exciting, there’s something out there for you. Here's the best sex toys for women on the market, tried and tested by Mumsnetters.
By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Jan 10, 2023
From discreet sex toys for beginners just dipping their toes into the water, to the newest, whizziest (and buzziest) models for women wanting to experiment a bit more, we’ve rounded up the best sex toys for women, recommended by Mumsnetters who’ve been there, done that and got the orgasm.
The market is swamped with sex toys at the moment - maybe the dark evenings and cost of living crisis means we’re all just happier to stay at home! But a night in with one of these little beauties won’t disappoint.
Sex toys have come a long way since the days of pornographic-looking dildos with ‘realistic’ veins and lumps and bumps. (If that’s still your thing, we’re not judging though). These days there are toys that are discreet enough to keep in your handbag and stylish enough to sit proudly on your bedside table (unless your in-laws are staying perhaps). There are even toys that are waterproof enough to use in the shower, and others that offer remote control use for a surprise while you’re doing the weekly shop. In short, if you’re buying, they’re selling.
From tiny, discreet bullets to huge rabbits with all the bells and whistles, we’ve found a sex toy to suit everyone. Here’s our round-up of the best sex toys for women to try in 2023.
Female sex toys: Editor's pick
1. Best overall: Womanizer X Pro 40
Price on writing: £100 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: Clitoral suction stimulator | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Plastic and silicone | Vibration modes: Six intensity levels | Battery type: Rechargeable USB | Size: 6.5 inches
Reasons to buy
- Replacement heads available
- 5-year warranty
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- Has a ‘light’ touch that doesn’t appeal to everyone
- Not much flexibility of use
What Mumsnet users say
“Get a womanizer. You're welcome.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user FredElliotISayFredElliot)
Our verdict
A little bit of subtlety goes a long way, and the huge success of the Womanizer is largely down to its subtlety and the fact that it offers something just a little bit different. Rather than being designed to simulate intercourse with a man, which many sex toys are, the Womanizer’s focus is solely on bringing pleasure to women and their bodies.
Ergonomically designed, the silicone head of the Womanizer surrounds the clitoris and uses ‘Pleasure Air Technology’ to build sensations from a soft flutter through to a strong pulse with its six settings. It’s recommended to be used for ‘edging’, where you’re brought close to orgasm, before stopping or slowing down and then slowly building the intensity again. Reviews suggest that it does the job exceedingly well, with many very well satisfied customers, both on Mumsnet and across the internet. Like we say, something a little ‘different’ and sometimes, a change is just what you need.
2. Best value sex toy for women: My Viv Lipstick Vibrator
Price on writing: £13 | Buy now from Ann Summers
Key specs
Type: Vibrator | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Silicone | Vibration modes: 10 settings | Battery type: AAA (one included) | Size: 1.25 inches
Reasons to buy
- Small and discreet
- Great price
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn’t have the power of a larger toy
- Some reviews say it’s fiddly to get going
What Mumsnet users say
“A mini vibrator, use it on your clit during sex (let the tip touch his penis, he'll probably like it). If he's adventurous, you could always tickle his prostate with it (aka put it up his bum, but not until he's already hard, and very very gently and with lots of lube. And with prior consent of course!). If he likes it, that can be his, and get a new one for you (easier than having to stop and clean one before switching uses).” (Recommended by Mumsnet user AravisQueenofArchenland)
Our verdict
Keeping it simple, this great value vibrator is small enough to keep in your handbag or sponge bag when you go away. It has a tapered shape, which is designed to give focused stimulation to the clitoris and has 10 different vibrations which let you experiment at your own pace.
The vibrator is waterproof so it can be used in the bath and shower and its small size makes it really easy to use in even the tiniest of shower cubicles. There’s enough here to keep you busy for sure, but we just like the simplicity of this little chap and the fact that it’s discreet enough not to worry about storage.
3. Best sex toy for beginners: Lovehoney Excite Rabbit Ring
Price on writing: £15 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: Cock ring and bullet | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Stretchy silicone | Vibration modes: Three speeds; seven vibration patterns| Battery type: 3 x LR44 button batteries (included) | Size: Not listed
Reasons to buy
- Small and discreet
- Two toys in one
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- Some reviews say the vibrations could be stronger
What Mumsnet users say
“How about a vibrating cock ring. Lovehoney do one that has ears like the rabbit, but the vibrating part is a small bullet type one that comes out so you can use it just on you as well.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Thisismysexforumname)
Our verdict
A great toy for couples, but with a bullet inside the ring that you could use alone too, AND it’s got rabbit ears! If you’re making a first purchase and aren’t sure which way to jump, this well-priced toy lets you experiment with a few different types of sex play.
Made from velvety soft, brightly coloured silicone, it doesn’t feel or look too scary to use, and you can start wherever you like with it… Use it with a male partner to bring a bit of extra ‘buzz’ to your sex life and add clitoral stimulation during sex with those silicone rabbit ears, or slip out the the bullet to use alone. The ring has seven different vibration settings and three speeds, but is really easy to use. Just add a squirt of water-based lube and you’re ready to go.
4. Best sex toy for couples: Lovesense Lush 2 App Controlled Love Egg Vibrator
Price on writing: £150 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: App-controlled love egg | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Silicone | Vibration modes: multiple speeds and patterns | Battery type: USB chargeable | Size: 8 inches; insertable length: 3.5 inches; circumference: 4.5 inches
Reasons to buy
- Great couple’s toy
- Can be used remotely
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- Can lose signal when the app needs refreshing
What Mumsnet users say
“Would recommend the Lush 2. Controlled by an app (Lovesense app) from anywhere in the world! My partner and I live separately and he can wake me up in the night with it! Can also set it to vibrate to noise and music.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user PinotPony)
Our verdict
This remote control love egg style toy comes with an app that allows your partner to control it and keep you on the edge when you’re least expecting it. The u-shaped silicone body allows you to wear it inside, undetected by the outside world and experience simultaneous, hands-free g-spot and clitoral stimulation, wherever you are. This is the sort of multitasking we can really get on board with.
Reviews say that the smooth silicone makes it really comfy to wear and Mumsnetters were impressed with the multiple speed and vibration options which allow you to experiment as much as you want and can even be set to vibrate in time to music. A button on the egg lets you experiment with it yourself, too, if you’re using it ‘alone’. As you’d hope with a toy you might use ‘out and about’, it’s virtually silent, but the vibrations have a strong ‘rumbly’ feel that women went wild about in their reviews.
5. Best vibrator for women: Lovehoney Red Velvet Rabbit Vibrator
Price on writing: £40 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: Rabbit vibrator | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Silicone | Vibration modes: Three speeds and seven vibration patterns | Battery type: USB chargeable | Size: 7.5 inches; insertable length: 4 inches; circumference: 4.5 inches
Reasons to buy
- Offers clitoral and vaginal stimulation
- Powerful vibrations
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- Louder in use than other vibrators
- Some customers said the ears felt a little too hard
What Mumsnet users say
“I love my Jessica from Lovehoney.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user JumpKing)
Our verdict
Many a Mumsnetter swears by a rabbit vibrator and this one is a good size if you’re new to rabbits. It has little ‘ears’ on the top for clitoral stimulation and the velvety soft, deep red shaft is reportedly very comfy in use and delivers deep, rumbly vibrations. The only complaint we could see about it was that the vibrations were a little too strong for some so maybe go for something a bit more ‘buzzy’ than rumbly if that’s you.
It’s simple to use and has just one button to scroll through the three speeds and seven different vibration patterns. This rabbit is completely waterproof so is ideal for a long bath or shower alone or with your partner. Once dry and clean, it’s USB rechargeable which means it doesn’t tend to lose power so much over time, and it has a travel lock to keep it safely tucked away when not in use.
6. Best love egg for women: Lovehoney Power Play 7 Function Love Egg Vibrator
Price on writing: £20 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: Love egg vibrator | Waterproof? No (but is splashproof) | Material: Plastic | Vibration modes: Seven vibration patterns | Battery type: 2 x AA batteries | Size: 2.5 inches; insertable length: 2.5 inches; circumference: 3.5 inches
Reasons to buy
- Can be used internally or for clitoral stimulation
- Can be used with a wired remote
- Extra powerful vibrations
Reasons to avoid
- Quite loud
- Goes through batteries quickly
- The ‘remote’ bit is wired; you might prefer something with an app like the Lovesense App Love Egg
What Mumsnet users say
“I was a bit Vanilla but their love egg is brilliant.”(Recommended by Mumsnet user Pickandmix2)
Our verdict
This is a ‘traditional’ remote control egg, so it’s wired rather than for use with an app. While the ‘remote’ aspect is therefore limited, if you’re worried about having an app on your phone where it might be unearthed by nosy children trying to download Minecraft, this might be a good alternative.
Great for use with a partner or on your own, it has seven vibration patterns to play with and reviews say that the vibes are really strong (so be sure you’re ready for them!). Simply insert the vibrator wherever you please and control the vibes with the remote control or hand it over to your partner to be in charge of. You can also insert it into sleeves or hollow dildos to add a new dimension to other sex toys. Obviously, being wired, it isn’t waterproof but the 29-inch wire gives you plenty of room for lots of different positions.
7. Best wand sex toy for women: Lelo Smart Wand 2
Price on writing: £180 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: Wand vibrator | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Silicone | Vibration modes: 10 vibration patterns with variable intensity | Battery type: Rechargeable (cordless) | Size: 12 inches
Reasons to buy
- Curved shape makes it easy to use yourself
- Strong vibrations
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- Can take a while to recharge
- Some customers say the vibrations are too intense and can be hard on your wrist in use
- Quite expensive
What Mumsnet users say
“There's a Lelo one called a smart wand that is amazing. It's waterproof too so you'll not have the problem of dropping it in the bath again.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Bloomburger)
Our verdict
Wands are great for beginners as they can be used everywhere for a bit of a massage rather than going straight for the goal, so if you feel like you need a bit of warming up before the main event, this one might be for you. The Lelo Smart Wand was a multi-award-winner and got rave reviews. This is the upgraded version. It’s pricey so do read the reviews before you buy as you’ll want to know you’re investing in something that will suit. However, customers say theirs have last years so you’re getting the quality you pay for with this one. Best of all, it lasts up to four hours on one charge.
Because it’s cordless, you can enjoy using it in the bath and it has 10 different vibration settings to play with, each with variable intensity levels. Like the Womanizer, it’s great for ‘edging’, if you like a long, slow build up and a bit of teasing, which Lovehoney recommends for more intense orgasms. It’s also reportedly super-quiet so no need to drown out the noise with loud music or wait until the neighbours are out with this one.
8. Best bullet sex toy for women: Tracey Cox Supersex Bullet
Price on writing: £15 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Type: Bullet | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Plastic | Vibration modes: 1 | Battery type: 1 x AAA battery (not included) | Size: 3.5 inches; insertable length: 2.5 inches; diameter: 2 inches
Reasons to buy
- Small and discreet
- Strong vibrations
- Waterproof
- Quiet
Reasons to avoid
- No battery included
- Only one vibration setting
What Mumsnet users say
“I have a few, but the Tracey Cox SuperSex bullet vibrator is a good reliable one - small, powerful enough, hard-wearing, excellent battery life, discreet and doesn't look entirely horrific. And about £15, so you won't have lost much if you don't like it.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user LadyCarlotta)
Our verdict
Sleek, small and simple to use, this bullet vibrator by Tracey Cox may not have many bells and whistles but it really packs a punch and does exactly what it promises with strong but silent vibrations.
Winning rave reviews as well as accolades and awards, this neat little bullet is well priced and really easy to use. While it only has one setting, we heard no complaints about it, and women really liked it for its discreet looks that don’t scream “VIBRATOR” at you, and its diminutive size, which means it slips easily into our handbag and can go anywhere with you. The fact that it’s waterproof is an added bonus.
9. Best sex toy for hitting the G-spot: Moregasm Petite G Spot Vibrator
Price on writing: £48 | Buy now from Ann Summers
Key specs
Type: G-spot vibrator | Waterproof? Yes | Material: Silicone | Vibration modes: Three speeds and three vibration settings | Battery type: Rechargeable (USB cable included) | Size: insertable length: 4.5 inches; diameter: 1.5 inches
Reasons to buy
- Rechargeable
- Waterproof
- Targets the G-spot
Reasons to avoid
- Fewer settings than some
What Mumsnet users say
“Moregasm G-spot vibrator from Ann Summers - feels incredible . Think it’s the ‘climax technology’ they talk about that.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Sexforumname)
Our verdict
Promising to reach the parts other vibrators don’t is Ann Summers’ famous Moregasm+ G-Spot Vibrator. It’s been ergonomically designed to curve with your body and reach your G-spot, delivering three styles of vibration at three different speeds to where it matters most. Ann Summers’ Climax Technology claims to give deeper vibrations for stronger, longer orgasms and reviews seem to suggest it does live up to the hype. The silicone shaft is slightly bendy and the body-safe silicone is beautifully soft and smooth, making it a very comfy ride.
The Moregasm is very simple to use with one button to switch on and off and scroll through the six different settings. It can also be used in the bath or shower and is perfect for a nice long soak alone.
10. Best sex toy for clitoral stimulation: Satisfyer Pro 2
Price on writing: £37 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Type: Clitoris suction cup| Waterproof? Yes | Material: Silicone head and plastic body | Vibration modes: 11 | Battery type: rechargeable | Size: Not listed
Reasons to buy
- Rechargeable
- Waterproof
- Quick to charge
- Great price
Reasons to avoid
- Can only be used for clitoral stimulation
What Mumsnet users say
“I can highly recommend the Satisfyer pro 2, about £25 on Amazon. It’s a clitoral suction toy and amazing!” (Recommended by Mumsnet user ReginaTheEvilQueen)
Our verdict
The Satisfyer Pro has a similar style to the Womanizer listed above, only it’s about a third of the price. We don’t think we could honestly say it’s quite as good as the Womanizer but if you don’t want to blow the budget, or just want to see if you like the ‘feel’ of a clitoral stimulator before you splash out nearly £100 on one.
Having said it’s not quite as high-end as the Womanizer, the Satisfyer does still get rave reviews from Mumsnetters who rate its 11 different vibration settings and intense pulses. The silicone head, which encircles the clitoris, is made of soft, medical grade silicone for a gentle touch and the soft silicone responds well to the various changes in intensity from the different settings. It’s intuitive to use with a simple + / - button to increase or decrease the intensity, and the pretty rose gold body has a fuss free design that makes it easy to use and to clean between uses. Considering the very reasonable price, we think this simple sex toy is an excellent value-for-money purchase.
How to choose the best sex toy
Peruse the more interesting corners of the internet for just a few moments and you’ll see that when it comes to sex toys, there really is something for every occasion and proclivity.
From the very best vibrators to the most wonderful wands, and everything in between, here’s how to choose the right sex toy for you and what to consider before you buy.
How will you use it?
Alone? With a partner? Both? Is it for your pleasure or your partner’s? Consider what you typically enjoy in the bedroom and then go from there.
What is a sex toy for?
Well, yes, OBVIOUSLY that. But are you looking to spice up your sex life a bit, or something just for a bit of a stressbuster? The reviews and product information will give you ideas about how each toy is used.
What type of toy interests you?
Consider whether you want a bullet (mostly for clitoral stimulation), a dildo (used for actual penetration), something that vibrates like a wand or something more inanimate. Then there are jiggle balls that you wear inside, remote control couples toys that can be stopped and started by your partner from another room, smaller toys such as cock rings, bullets and eggs, toys for anal play, various lubes that have different effects and also toys designed for men.
Have a look at various products to see what’s out there and read reviews, which often tell you more about how they can be used, and see what floats your boat.
What does it for you?
Do you want something that is just for clitoral stimulation or a toy you put inside you like a dildo? And what are preferences in general during sex? Some toys get you there fast (and hard!) while others are a more slow-and-steady-wins-the-race type of thing.
Is volume a factor?
Nothing wrong with saying (or screaming) when you enjoy something, but if you have kids in the house or paper thin walls and less-than-understanding neighbours, it’s worth looking for toys that are advertised as ‘quiet’. Or start saving for a sound-proofed sex dungeon.
Does size matter?
Well, it might. Although some women, particularly if new to sex toys, actually prefer something manageable. An eight-inch flashing plastic penis might seem very erotic in the shop, but if you’re using it alone and you find you need two hands on the thing at all times, suddenly the whole event can feel like a chore.
Starting out with a smaller bullet or wand might be an idea. Once you’re feeling more confident, think about what sort of size might suit, or work your way up to the eight-inch flashing plastic penis slowly.
What about power and speed?
Try and put all thoughts of DIY tools out of your mind; that’s a totally different kind of speed and power required. Vibrating sex toys can have several speeds, which allows you to experiment with the effect you want and turn it up or down according to how you feel. Some also have different types of vibrate to switch between, such as a pulse and a faster buzz, which you might like, but some women can find distracting.
Think about what sort of effect you might like - some vibrators have a light buzz, while others have more of a 'rumble’ which isn’t necessarily more powerful but somehow has a lower, deeper effect. What you prefer is a matter of personal choice, but there’s something for everyone.
Finally, don’t forget to check the power source for your chosen toy and make sure you have the right batteries in if necessary. Many are also USB rechargeable. There’s nothing quite so irritating your rabbit being let down by the Duracell Bunny.
What do you want it to look like?
There are some fairly (how can we put this?) ‘lifelike’ sex toys on the market. Some people love them while others find them a massive turn-off. If you prefer something a little more discreet, there are plenty that could easily be mistaken for a massage tool or a lipstick… or at least don’t just look like a giant, veiny, purple penis. Though if that’s your thing, that’s fine too.
What’s your budget?
You don’t want to spend too much if it’s your first sex toy, but you definitely get what you pay for. If you’re happy to spend between £20 and £50, there’s plenty of choice and good products out there to choose from, but you can obviously spend a lot more if you want to.
What materials are best for sex toys?
It really depends on what the toy aims to do. As long as you’re buying from a reputable supplier, you should be fine. Most sex toys are made of various safe plastics but they vary in texture a lot. Some are a hard plastic, while others have a soft jelly feel or just a bit of squish. Don’t be put off by glass dildos - they’re not going to smash. They’re made of really tough, unbreakable glass and the bonus is they’re one of the easiest materials to clean.
Do vibrators need to be waterproof?
Most are, though it’s not essential. However, if you want to use one in the bath or shower, obviously it will have to be fully waterproof.
What is the best sex toy for beginners?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Probably steer clear of any of the more terrifying-looking vibrators but read some reviews and see if anything takes your fancy. Something that can be used solo or with a partner will give you a few different ways to experiment if you’re new to the scene. We think the Lovehoney Excite Rabbit Ring is good as it has a removable bullet that can be used alone and the whole thing is quite easy to get used to for a first-timer.
What is the best sex toy for women?
The Womanizer X Pro 40 gets rave reviews on Mumsnet and across the wider internet. If you’re only going to buy one thing ever, this won’t be a disappointment.
What is the best sex toy for couples?
You’re looking for something that’s a bit of fun for both of you - a vibrating cock ring is a good place to start but otherwise something with a remote control element always adds a bit of frisson to the bedroom (or the Tesco shop if that’s your thing). We like the LoveSense Lush 2 app controlled Egg Vibrator.
How to clean and store sex toys
There's certainly no shame in having sex toys, however, they're probably not something you want your children or even house guests stumbling over. While a bedside drawer might suffice as a temporary fix, storing toys effectively is also a matter of good hygiene.
If you're just starting out, a simple cosmetic bag designed to protect gadgets can do the trick. And before you put them away, don't forget to clean your toy after use. For peace of mind, there are specific sex toy cleaners, such as the Buzz Fresh Toy Cleaner from Ann Summers.
How often should you replace your sex toys
There's no real rule about this. Sex Toys don’t have a best before date and some can last forever. However, there are some clues to look out for that would suggest it’s time to say goodbye to your faithful friend and invest in something new. Chuck it out if:
- The colour is fading (that’s a sign things inside might be wearing out, too)
- It’s losing its shape. The jelly dildos in particular can start to look like they’re melting.
- The buzz isn’t as strong, even with new batteries or a recharge.
- You notice any cracks or damage - bacteria can work its way inside and that’s not nice.
- It’s just starting to look a bit worn out and dirty. No one needs that.
How we chose our recommendations
We know we always get honest reviews from the Mumsnet forums so we headed there first to see which sex toys Mumsnetters recommended most highly. From there, we checked out the products themselves, read customer reviews and also checked to see which sex toys had been recommended by experts (or sexperts) and won awards and accolades. We collated all this information in order to come up with our list of 10 best sex toys for women, with something for everyone.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.