Shopping for a sex toy shouldn't feel confusing.
Whether this is your first toy or you're simply looking for something different, the easiest way to choose is to think about what kind of experience you want rather than worrying about all the different shapes and names.
Here's a simple guide to help you find what might suit you.
I'm completely new to sex toys
Start simple.
A small vibrator can be a great first choice because it's easy to use, discreet and lets you explore different vibration settings without feeling overwhelming.
You might like: a bullet vibrator
Bullet vibrators are compact and usually designed for external stimulation. They're easy to hold, simple to control and small enough to store discreetly.
Tickly currently has a 10 Speed Remote Control Mini Bullet Vibrator, which has 10 vibration modes and can also be controlled remotely.
Best for: beginners, discreet play, external stimulation and couples who want to experiment with remote control.
I want internal and external stimulation together
A rabbit vibrator could be worth exploring.
Rabbit-style toys usually have two sections working at the same time: one designed for internal stimulation and a smaller external arm.
Our ROMP Jazz Rabbit Vibrator and 10 Speed Silicone Rabbit Vibrator are both designed for this type of dual stimulation.
Best for: people who enjoy blended sensations and want one toy to do more than one job.
I prefer external stimulation and don't want penetration
You definitely don't have to choose an insertable toy.
Rose and suction-style toys are designed primarily around external stimulation. Rather than relying only on traditional vibration, many use air-pulse or suction-style sensations.
Our Happy Meeting Rose Suction & Vibrating Massager combines air-pulse suction with vibration and is rechargeable and waterproof.
Best for: external stimulation, people who enjoy targeted sensations, and anyone curious about suction-style toys.
I want something stronger
If you know you enjoy more powerful vibration, a wand might suit you.
Wands generally have a larger head and are made for broader external stimulation rather than very precise pinpoint sensations. They can also be useful if tiny controls or very small toys aren't your thing.
Best for: stronger vibration, broader stimulation and people who want something easy to position.
I want something small and discreet
Size matters for practical reasons too.
If you want something easy to keep in a bedside drawer, travel bag or somewhere private, look at bullets and mini massagers rather than larger rabbits or wands.
Our mini bullet is currently one of the lowest-priced ways to try a vibrator on Tickly at £11.
Best for: discreet storage, travelling and beginners who don't want anything intimidating.
I want something to use with my partner
Couples toys don't have to mean anything complicated.
You could choose a remote-control bullet, vibrating ring or a wearable couples vibrator depending on what you'd like to explore together.
Our We-Vibe Sync Lite Couples Vibrator is designed to be worn during partnered intimacy and can also be controlled through an app.
Best for: couples wanting shared stimulation, remote play or something different from solo toys.
I want something fun and a little different
Feeling playful? 🍋
Not every toy has to look serious. If you fancy something playful, colourful or a little different from the traditional rabbit or bullet, our rose and suction toys include some fun, unique shapes worth exploring.
Still not sure? Start here
If you're stuck between a few choices, ask yourself these three questions:
Do I want external stimulation only?
Start with a bullet, rose/suction toy or wand.
Do I want internal stimulation too?
Look at rabbits and other insertable vibrators.
Do I want something simple or something with lots of options?
For simple, start small. If you already know what you enjoy, look at dual-stimulation, suction or couples toys.
There isn't one "best" sex toy for everybody. The right choice is simply the one that feels comfortable, interesting and suited to what you want to explore.
A little reassurance from Tickly
Every Tickly order is sent in plain, discreet packaging, with discreet billing, and you're buying from a UK-based business.
Still unsure? Have a browse, read the product descriptions or get in touch. No awkward questions and no judgement.