Dildo vs. Vibrator: Key Differences & Tips to Choose the Best One for You

What Is a Dildo?

A dildo is a sex toy that primarily looks like an erect penis, but can have any other elongated shape and is used for vaginal and/or anal penetration. The dildo can be made from glass, stone, wood, plastic, silicone, and even jelly. Most dildos have a realistic shape and size, and look like an actual penis; others may have an abstract, smooth shape, or can be shaped like monster or alien fantasy dildos and come in a broad range of colors. Most dildos don’t have any extra features apart from suction cup dildos that allow you to use them stuck to a wall, floor, or window.

What Is a Vibrator?

A vibrator is any sex toy that has an internal mechanism that vibrates and provides stimulation. The vibrations can be light and fluttering, and too deep and rumbly. The vibrators come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can provide external or internal stimulation. For example, the bullet vibrator, the vibrating anal plug, and the vibrating cock rings are all vibrating toys. Still, here we’ll keep our attention on the female-friendly vibrators, like the clitoral vibes, rabbit vibes, G-spot vibes, wand vibes, and similar models, and we’ll leave the male-friendly and anal toys for another post.

Main Differences between Dildos & Vibes

From our definitions above, it is clear that there are several key differences between dildos and vibrators. The vibrators vibrate (obviously) and come in a very, very wide range of shapes, each with different intended use. There are rabbit vibes, bullet vibes, vibrating panties, and even vibrating dildos.

On the other hand, the dildo does not vibrate and is intended to be used for penetration. We have to mention that there are vibrating dildo models, but not all dildos vibrate. Overall, the primary difference is that vibrators vibrate, whereas dildos do not.

However, there are other considerations to take into account when thinking between a dildo and a vibrator. There are differences in the penetrative feel these two toys provide. The dildo models made from silicone or other softer materials can feel like an actual penis, while the dildos made from glass or metal tend to be rigid and unyielding. The vibrators are not as rigid as metal/glass dildos, but are not as flexible as the realistic or silicone dildos.

How to Choose between a Dildo and a Vibrator?

The choice between a dildo and vibrator is solely a personal choice. However, you need to know what types of sensation you are after and have a good grasp on your sexual fantasies. For people who want to be engaged in the overall experience and want to play with their hands, then a dildo is a better choice. Individuals seeking targeted sensations and vibrations may be better suited to a vibrator. Still, here are some key factors to think about if you are considering getting a dildo or a vibrator:

• The type of penetration – the dildo usually provides a sense of fullness and allows for a deeper penetration. It is because most dildos are longer, thicker, and can reach deeper, as opposed to vibrators. Most vibrators are designed for external stimulation, and models intended for internal stimulation tend to be thinner and may not provide as full a sensation as expected. However, the internal penetrating vibrators compensate with their other features, namely the vibrations that give a more intense feeling.
• Type of enjoyment – we are talking about sex toys, so the enjoyment is guaranteed, but the dildo and the vibrator provide different sensations and different kinds of enjoyment. Using a dildo offers a more lifelike experience, while the vibrator allows vibration-stimulated pleasure.
• Price – many times, the cost of a product is the deciding factor. Lucky for you, our sex toy store is full of dildo selections and vibrator options that fit most budgets. But we have to mention that stainless steel dildos tend to be more expensive, but you can find plenty of pretty affordable dildo models. The same applies to the vibrator offer; we have a range of affordable models as well as more expensive interactive vibes and luxury models.

The Bottom Line

Here is our explanation of the differences between dildos and vibrators. If you can afford them, our advice is to get both. Owning both models is a great way to take charge of your pleasure and experience a diverse range of sexual experiences. We invite you to read through our blog where we have plenty of guides on choosing and using different sex toys, and check out our sex toy store for more sex toy options, including male toys, anal toys, strap-on toys, BDSM toys and tools, sexy lingerie, lubes and all else you may need for more enjoyable sexy time.