You’ve got a new vibrator in hand, Quinn in your headphones, and a locked bedroom door. And if it’s your first time using one of these powerful toys, diving into the experience can be just as exhilarating as it is intimidating.

Vibrators are popular for a reason — they bring an intensity to pleasure that fingers and tongues just can’t. For solo toy enthusiasts and curious couples alike, they’ve become a go-to in the bedroom. But although vibrators come with an instruction manual, figuring out what works for you is way more complex than knowing how to turn it on and off.

Here's how to use a vibrator for the first time and discover why you’ll love it. 

What is a vibrator? 

A vibrator, also called a personal massager, is a sex toy that uses vibration to bring sexual pleasure. Although anyone can use this handy little gadget, it’s arguably best for clitoral stimulation, bringing intense sensations that someone’s fingers, penis, or even tongue can’t match. 

The electric vibrator was invented by Dr. Joseph Mortimer Granville in the 1880s. But contrary to popular belief, it wasn't invented to cure “hysteria” in people with vaginas. Dr. Granville actually created the vibrator to treat pain, impotence, and even deafness in people with penises. He marketed them to the general public in the early 1900s for medical use, but as time passed, our ever-innovative ancestors began using them for sexual pleasure. And the sex toy industry was born. 

Nowadays, these pleasure machines come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, from sleek rechargeable wands that hit the G-spot to discreet bullets shaped like lipsticks and necklaces. Vibrators are great for solo play and adding extra fun (and more orgasms) to partnered sex.  

How do vibrators work? 

Vibrators use vibration — steadily or in a pattern — to enhance sexual arousal and cause or increase the chances of orgasm. The vibrations increase blood flow, improve relaxation and pelvic muscle tone, and help you climax. 

Vibrating sex toys stimulate arousal by sending waves of vibration through the body's erogenous zones, like the clitoris, vagina, and anus. But you can put it anywhere the vibrations feel good. These toys typically run on a small motor and are battery-operated or rechargeable, depending on the make and model. Some vibrators, like the cult classic Hitachi Magic Wand, plug into the wall.

Most vibrators let you dial in the intensity to suit your mood, ranging from a gentle hum to a loud, world-rocking buzz. Some also offer suction — a relatively new sensation on the sex toy scene, popularized by the Womanizer toy technology. 

5 benefits of vibrators  

While they're often an Oscar-worthy supporting act during partnered sex (since many great couples’ vibrators exist), vibrators are primarily designed for masturbation. Adding a basic, smart, or luxury sex toy to your self-love routine is an exciting and sexy way to learn more about yourself and how your body works, and you can show your partner how it's done later on.  

Experimenting with a vibrator teaches you about your desires and response patterns in deeply personal ways. It's not just about reaching your big O quicker — though that's definitely a benefit. It's also about enriching your solo sex life to boost your sexual confidence and have better, more satisfying orgasms. 

If you aren’t convinced, here's why you should try one: 

1. It may boost your mood: Using a vibe helps you achieve orgasm, which floods the brain with mood-boosting hormones like oxytocin. These endorphins help you feel happier and less stressed. 

2. It may help you sleep: What you need to fall asleep might be some vibe time. Orgasms release hormones that help prepare you for sleep, including prolactin, oxytocin, and vasopressin. 

3. It may increase your confidence: Connecting intimately with your body and learning to associate it with pleasure can boost your confidence, leading to a positive ripple effect in the bedroom (and even out of it).

4. It may work out your brain: Several areas of the brain activate when you have an orgasm. Sexual activity exercises the regions responsible for sensory, motor, and reward, which also increases blood flow. In other words, it’s good for your brain.

5. It may give you a glow: Orgasms decrease your stress hormones, and since stress is linked to breakouts, those vibrator orgasms might help clear your skin. 

3 types of vibrators  

If you're just starting out, it's essential to know your options and explore one that looks like it’ll suit your needs. 

Here's the scoop on the three main types of vibrators: 

1. External vibrators 

External vibes stimulate the outside of the body, like the clitoris, vulva, labia, outside of the vaginal opening, and outside of the anus. These sex toys range considerably in size, style, and price, but one common shape is the bullet, which offers small but powerful stimulation. The Maude Vibe is an excellent option for beginners. 

2. Internal vibrators 

Internal vibrators are all about stimulating the inside of the vagina and/or anus. They're perfect for people who require penetration to reach orgasm. Internal vibes aren't intended to provide any clitoral or external stimulation, but they're ideal for hitting the G-spot and A-spot with a little extra spice than a dildo would. The handheld, curved Aurora 2 from Bellesa is a great model to start with. 

3. Dual vibrators 

Why settle for one when you can have both? These multitasking vibrators offer the best of both worlds, simultaneously providing G-spot and clitoral stimulation. They usually have an internal dildo and an attachment perfectly placed to reach the clit as it penetrates. The Unbound Clutch dual stim rabbit vibrator is a top choice for many, but you can’t go wrong with the original Classic Rabbit.

How to properly use a vibrator   

While it can be intimidating to choose your first sex toy, learning how to orgasm with a vibrator shouldn’t stress you out. It’s supposed to be fun, so wait until you’re ready and in an environment that makes you feel safe. The best way to use any vibrator, whether it's a bullet or wand massager, is the way that works for you. 

If it's your first time using a vibrator, follow these steps: 

• Set the mood: To create a comfortable atmosphere, dim the lights, light a candle, or queue up your favorite Quinn audio. Appealing to all five senses can create a safe space for experimentation and enhance the overall experience both for solo and partnered play.

• Clean the vibrator properly: Even if it’s fresh out of the box, ensure your new toy is squeaky clean before getting to business. You never know where it’s been. Wash it with mild soap and water or a toy cleaner to keep things hygienic.  

• Charge the vibe or add fresh batteries: Nothing kills the vibe like a vibrator running out of juice. Plug it in before playtime to fully charge or add a fresh set of batteries. 

• Take your time: Rushing is for weekday mornings, not for masturbation (unless you like a quickie). Give yourself permission to explore your new vibrator and enjoy the sexual experience without a timeline.

• Opt for foreplay (even solo): Foreplay's more than just a prelude to intercourse. It's a fun way to get in the mood and prime your body for the main event.

• Have some lube handy: A sex toy-compatible lube, like silicone or water-based lube, can be the difference between “Oh” and “Oh, WOW.” Choose one you like and apply it liberally to the vibrator and your body. Just make sure you read your toy’s instructions first to see what it’s compatible with because some lubricants can degrade the silicone or plastic.

• Start on the lowest setting: Many vibrators have very powerful, rumbly settings, so start small and work your way up. Begin with a gentle rumble and escalate until you find the best sensation. Some toys also have vibration patterns to play with.

• Incorporate stimulation and fantasies you enjoy: Add the motions and rhythms you already know you like to vibrator play. You don't need to reinvent the wheel.

• Ease into penetration: If you're masturbating with an internal or dual vibrator, wait until you're fully aroused to start penetration. Stimulate the vulva or penis until you're warmed up and ready to go. 

• Find what feels good: This is your personal pleasure journey, and there's no right or wrong way to go about it. If something feels fantastic, keep at it, and if it doesn't, switch it up. Your body's the best guide you have, so trust it. 

Amp it up with Quinn 

Need help setting the mood? Quinn is an audio erotica app created by women, for the world. It's home to a wide range of ethical porn for setting the mood, whether you need something spicy to listen to while doing the dishes or want to feel like someone’s whispering sweet nothings right in your ear.

To access thousands of playlists, audio stories, and guided masturbation sessions, download the Quinn app for iOS or Android.