Sex toys can take sexual satisfaction to new heights. A little buzz here, a little squeeze there, and you've discovered a totally new way to play. But if it’s your first time buying, how do you know which one to go for?
Trust us, you don’t need years of experience with toys to get it right. You only need to know what you like, or what you’re curious about, and what feels right for your body.
Completely new? Start with external toys
External toys are used outside the body and get your sensitive nerves going without penetration. They’re small but mighty, gentle and easy to control, which makes them great for beginners.
Vibrators
Vibrators are amazing for people with vulvas and penises who enjoy surface stimulation rather than putting anything inside. They can be held teasingly against the clitoris, traced along the shaft, or used for edging. Vibrators, especially bullet vibrators, are a great choice for beginners because they’re small, discreet, and easy to control with just one hand. Start with a soft silicone finish and a simple set of vibration speeds for a sensual first session.
If you’re curious about blended stimulation later on, trying something like a pink rabbit vibrator, which combines internal and external pleasure in one fun-to-use toy.
Clitoral suction toys
Our clitoral suction toys use flirtatious pulses of air to create a suction-style sensation around the clitoris rather than direct vibration. This gentle pressure makes them feel softer, lighter, and more teasing than other toys.
A lot of beginners head towards suction toys like a rose sex toy. They make a great option for people who are a little sensitive, struggle with overstimulation, or have found intense vibration a bit numbing in the past.
Want to try out penetration?
The internet can make it look like everyone jumps straight into fantasy shapes when it comes to dildos. We’re here to tell you that is NOT the case. You don’t need to start with anything extreme to have a toe-curling time.
If you know you want to try out toys that work their magic internally, starting with a regular-sized silicone dildo gives your body something to work with. They’re designed to be more flexible, and you can experiment with depth, angle, and rhythm at your own pace.
Once you know what kind of stretch or fullness you enjoy, you can decide whether you want to get into fantasy designs, wider girths, or textured toys. Remember, there’s no deadline and no expectation!
Try strokers if you have a penis
Strokers are a popular first pick for people with penises. They add different textures, sensations, and varieties to the intimate experience, and have basically no learning curve.
Soft handheld strokers
Handheld strokers are a delightfully stimulating beginner-friendly option. The silicone sleeve feels as natural to use as your hands but with a softer, more satisfying grip. They enhance what already feels intuitive, so they’re a great “in” to sex toys for penises.
If a manual stroker has already earned its place in your routine, vibrating strokers add an extra dimension with soft pulses and rhythmic buzzes that build as you go.
Cock rings
Cock rings are small but mighty, and they can be a surprise favourite for people who try them. They’re easy to slip into your regular routine and can make everything feel just that little bit more intense.
They work by gently restricting some of the blood flow, which helps to slows things down. Their job is to help sensations linger longer, which can be a game-changer whether you’re flying solo or playing with a partner.
Fun sex toys for couples
A common myth is that toys “replace” partners. In reality, couples' toys can help open conversations about what feels good. Our bodies all work differently, and if you find it hard to finish during classic 1:1 action, a toy could help lubricate the experience.
Couples’ vibrators
Couples’ vibrators are designed to deliver indulgent waves of pleasure between two people. They come in loads of different shapes and formats, so you can pick the best for your bodies.
For a lot of couples, they’re a fun way to introduce toys without getting in the way of intimacy, especially if one partner benefits from extra stimulation.
Remote-controlled toys
If the idea of your partner calling the shots excites you, remote-controlled toys add a delicious sense of anticipation to your play. They’re great to try if you already enjoy vibrators and fancy taking your sensual play beyond the bedroom.
They’re great, fun sex toys for couples who get off on anticipation and surprise, and they can help keep things light and fun instead of focused on performance.
Stay curious and enjoy the journey
Everyone experiences pleasure in their own way, and that’s what makes exploring it so exciting! There’s no right or wrong place to start. If you’re new to sex toys, taking your time and trying a few different sensations is all part of the journey.
It doesn’t matter how old you are, whether you’re single, partnered, casually dating, or happily doing your own thing. Think of exploring toys less like finding the one and more like dating. Stay curious, keep it light, and let yourself enjoy the journey.
Ready to start the search?
Feeling curious? Pleasure & Passion is packed with toys designed to make exploration fun, relaxed, and exciting. Have a browse and enjoy discovering what works for you.
