Wand Vibrators

A wand is the vibrator with the big round head on a long handle, and it is the strongest kind of vibrator made. It was sold as a back massager for decades before anyone admitted what it was for, and it still works as one. For clitoral stimulation it delivers deep, rumbly vibration over a wide area, which is why it is the toy that works for people who have given up on smaller ones. This guide explains size, power source, and what separates a good wand from a loud one.

Why a wand feels different

The head is large, so vibration spreads over the whole vulva instead of one spot, and the motor is big enough to produce low frequency rumble rather than a surface buzz. That combination reaches nerves that a bullet never touches, and it does it through underwear or a hand if direct contact is too much. Wands are not subtle; they are the toy for when subtle has not worked.

Full size or mini

Full size wands have a head of five to six centimetres and a handle of 30 centimetres or more. They are heavy, powerful, and the handle keeps the hand well clear. Mini wands are half the size, fit in a bag, and are quieter; the best of them keep most of the rumble and are the better choice for anyone who wants a wand for travel or shares a thin wall. If in doubt, a mid sized rechargeable wand with a head of around four centimetres does nearly everything the big one does.

Mains or rechargeable

Mains powered wands are the original and still the strongest; the cord is the price. Rechargeable wands have caught up in strength over the last few years and are far more convenient; a good one gives an hour or more of use on a charge and can be used in the bath if it is rated waterproof. For a first wand, rechargeable, unless maximum power is the whole point.

Head material and flexibility

A silicone head is soft, warm and easy to clean; hard plastic heads on older designs are cold and slippery. A flexible neck lets the head follow the body and takes pressure off the wrist, and it makes the wand easier to use with a partner. Look for a neck that bends but does not flop.

Controls and levels

A wand needs a low setting that is genuinely low, because the top end is more than most people can use. Look for at least five levels, or a smooth dial, and a control that can be found by touch on the handle. Patterns are less useful on a wand than steady levels.

Attachments

Wand attachments slip over the head and turn it into something else: a G spot arm, a textured cap, a masturbator sleeve for men, a rabbit style cover. They are worth having for a full size wand, and they extend what one toy can do. Check that an attachment is made for your head diameter.

Noise

Wands are loud. A mains wand on high can be heard through a door; a good rechargeable one on low cannot. Pressing the head against the body muffles it a great deal. Choose a mini or a mid size if noise matters more than strength.

Care

Wipe the head with a damp cloth and mild soap, or rinse it if the wand is waterproof; keep water away from the handle of a mains model. Water based lubricant with a silicone head. Remove attachments to clean and let everything dry before storing.

Frequently asked questions