Why wand vibrators are a classic, and how to choose one

Some toys arrive with a flurry of new features and quietly disappear a year later. The wand has stayed. It's simple, it's generous with its vibrations, and it works for almost any body. If you've been wondering whether a wand deserves a place in your bedside drawer, here's what makes them special and how to pick one you'll love.

What makes a wand a wand

A wand vibrator has a long handle and a rounded head. Instead of focusing vibration on one tiny point, the head spreads it across a wider area, which gives a deeper, more rumbly feel than many smaller toys.

Wands are mainly designed for external use. That makes them wonderfully versatile:

• On the clitoris and vulva, through underwear or directly
• Along the shaft, the testicles or the perineum
• On nipples, inner thighs and anywhere else you enjoy touch
• On shoulders and backs, as a proper massager when you simply want to unwind

Why people keep coming back to them

A wand is often the toy people reach for when smaller vibrators feel too buzzy, too precise or just not quite enough. The broad head means you don't have to find an exact spot. You can press lightly, rest it in place or move it around until something feels right.

The long handle helps too. It gives you reach without twisting your wrist, and it makes a wand easy to share. A partner can hold it for you, you can tuck it between your bodies during sex, or you can hand over the controls completely. If you're exploring toys together, our couples guide has plenty of ideas.

How to choose your wand

Before you add one to your basket, think about these points:

1. Size. Full-size wands give you a big head and a long handle. Mini wands are easier to hold, pack and store.
2. Settings. More functions and intensity levels give you room to experiment, especially if you like to start gently and build up.
3. Power source. Rechargeable wands are cordless, so you're not tied to a plug socket. Check the product page for how each one charges.
4. Materials. A smooth, body-safe silicone head is comfortable and easy to clean.
5. Water resistance. Some wands are fine in the bath or shower and some aren't. Always check before you get it wet.
6. Extras. Some wands do more than one job, like a second end designed for insertion.

Picks at every budget

Under £40

• Tabooboo Under The Sheets Wand Vibrator (£34.99) is a compact mini wand with 10 functions. A lovely choice if a full-size wand feels like a lot, or if you want something that tucks away easily.
• Loving Joy Rechargeable Magic Wand Vibrator Black (£36.99) is a classic full-size shape with 20 functions and 8 intensity levels, so there's plenty to play with. It also comes in purple at the same price.
• Loving Joy Dual Ended Wand Vibrator (£39.99) has a vibrating head at one end and an insertable handle at the other, which makes it two toys in one.

A treat

• LELO Smart Wand 2 Large Deep Rose (£179.99) is the premium end of the range, with a larger head and a luxurious finish. It's also available in Aqua. If you'd like something a little smaller, the LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium Deep Rose is £149.99.

Your first time with a wand

Wands can be powerful, so it pays to ease in:

1. Start on the lowest setting. You can always go up. Coming back down from too much is less fun.
2. Try it through fabric. Underwear, a sheet or a soft towel takes the edge off and is a great way to get used to the sensation.
3. Explore around, not just on. Circle the area, press gently nearby and let the vibrations travel.
4. Keep it moving and take breaks. If anything starts to feel numb or uncomfortable, pause for a while.
5. Add lube if you like. A water-based lube is a safe choice with silicone heads. Our lube compatibility guide explains why.

Only insert parts of a toy that are designed for it, like the handle end of a dual-ended wand. The rounded head of a standard wand is made for the outside of the body.

Looking after it

A little care keeps your wand working well for longer:

• Clean the head after every use with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, keeping water away from any part that isn't waterproof.
• Let it dry fully before you put it away.
• Charge it as the instructions suggest, and store it somewhere clean and dust-free.

Our toy care and cleaning guide goes into more detail.

Whether you want a pocket-sized mini or a full-size favourite, there's a wand for you in our wand vibrators collection. And if this is your first ever toy, take a look at our first vibrator guide too.