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What is the Difference between a Dildo and a Vibrator?

Editorial Team |

I was looking at sex toys, and I noted many mentions of dildos and vibrators, and some dildos also vibrate. What is the difference between a dildo and a vibrator?

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Answer

There are essential differences between a dildo and a vibrator. Let’s cover the basic definitions of these objects, so you get an idea of what is what and decide which you prefer.

A dildo is an object used for penetration with an elongated, penis-like shape made from various materials ranging from glass, wood, and silicone to plastic and jelly. These are intended for internal stimulation and penetrative sex in the vagina and the anus. While most dildos look like an actual penis, some dildos have an abstract shape, are more cylindrical or tube-like shapes, and come in a wide variety of colors.

A vibrator is any sex toy with an internal motor that produces vibrating sensations, from light and fluttering to deep and rumbly feelings. This is a broad definition, as a vibrator includes the most common bullet vibrator to a vibrating cock ring. A vibrator comes in many shapes and sizes and can have different applications, like clitoral vibrators,rabbit vibrators, wand vibrators, and more. Some vibrator models also have sensations like pulsation, thrusting, or gyration.

Based on the definitions, we can now talk about the differences between a dildo and a vibrator. A dildo is a toy used for penetration, while a vibrator is a toy that vibrates – some dildos are just dildos, and some are vibrators, likethrusting vibrators, which vibrate and move at the same time. Some vibrators can be used for penetration, which you can determine from the shape of the toy but also the manufacturer’s description. Here are the top differences between a dildo and a vibrator:

Intended use:

  • Dildos usually mimic a penis in shape and are used instead of a penis.
  • Vibrators produce a stimulating vibration sensation, and they can be used for penetrative sex but are primarily used for the vibrating sensation, as they provide more possibilities.

The shape:

  • Dildos are designed to look like or closely resemble a penis; some even have veins, balls, skin-like tone, and finish.
  • Vibrators usually come in many shapes, from phallic-like, to futuristic; some look like butterflies, flowers, and rabbits.

Materials:

  • Dildos can be made from various materials; for example, glass, metal, and wood dildos are ultra-firm and rigid, TPE and silicone dildos are more flexible, while jelly dildos are super pliable.
  • Vibrators are usually made from pliable and flexible materials, like some dildo models. Most vibrators are made from jelly, silicone, and soft plastics, allowing vibrations to flow through and providing enhanced sensations.

Sensations:

  • Dildos don’t necessarily vibrate, but some dildos have additional features. Some have a suction-cup baseallowing hands-free use; some dildos vibrate, but these are not defined as vibrators but vibrating dildos.
  • Vibrators come with plenty of possibilities; the most common bullet vibrator usually comes with simple settings from low to high vibrations, but there are advanced vibrator models that have several features and dual-action uses.

Price:

  • Dildos are usually less expensive than a vibrator, as they don’t have internal parts, motors, or batteries, and their production is more straightforward. High-quality dildos can be more expensive, but these are usually made from high-quality materials that can last you for several years.
  • Vibrators are usually costlier because of the internal mechanisms providing coveted vibrations. Many advanced feature models are made from extra-quality silicone and come with rechargeable batteries, app controls, and more.

If you’re interested in trying sex toys out for the first time, ask questions, discuss with your partner thoroughly if they will be involved, and never fall under peer pressure. Instead, try and experiment with what works best for you. We have a detailed dildo sizing guide and everything you need to know about vibrators.

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