It’s no secret that the sex toy industry has exploded in the past decade. In 2023, the global sex toy industry was valued at $40.6 billion — that’s four times more than the industry’s global revenue in 2016!
But still, when many of us think of sex toys, we first think of vibrators marketed to women. That doesn’t mean that men and nonbinary folks aren’t using sex toys, though. Sex toy usage has increased across all genders in recent years, and a 2023 BedBible report stated that 78% of all people in the US own at least one sex toy.
Sex toys are first and foremost tools for pleasure, but they can come with some health benefits, too. A 2009 study found that men who used vibrators during sex were more likely to engage in testicular self-exam and to report better erectile function.
Despite the pleasure and health benefits, many men might feel uncertain about bringing sex toys into their solo or partnered sex life. Others might only consider using toys on themselves as a way of managing an issue, like erection loss.
Sex toys are for everybody, so if you’re interested in exploring sex toys for men, consider this guide to be your starting point!
Cock Rings
Cock rings are one of the most popular sex toys for men. They work by slowing down the return of blood flow from the penis, helping erections last longer and stay harder. Because of the sustained blood flow, sensations can also feel more intense.
Depending on features and materials, they can be relatively affordable, and many men use them to increase erectile endurance during sex.
While it might be tempting to DIY a cockring using a rubber band or hair tie…please don’t. Both can lead to penile injuries, and that’s a doctor’s visit most of us don’t want to make. Instead, invest in a ring that is actually designed to go on your cock.
You can find options that vibrate and some that don’t, so consider what you’re interested in and how you want to use it! Vibrating options can provide pleasurable sensations to both you and to partners, while non-vibrating options can be incredibly affordable.
Some cock rings can be slipped on while you are completely flaccid, while others should be used when you are partially erect. Using lubricant, stretch them over your penis and around the testicles, so that it is fully wrapped around you. (And as a tip, we recommend not using them for longer than 20 minutes at a time without taking a break).
Products to try: Check out the FunFactory NOS, the Tantus Soft Cock Ring, or the We-Vibe Bond.
Best for: Increasing erectile longevity and firmness
Strokers & Sleeves
Like cock rings, there are many different types of penile strokers and masturbation sleeves that you can explore. Some fully engulf the penis while others are a bit smaller and slimmer. Some are motorized and others rely on the natural movement of the materials to create interesting sensations.
Either way, they’re used as a way of exploring new sensations during solo or partnered play. Think of them as a tool to level up masturbation, hand jobs, or blow jobs!
As a heads up, some strokers and sleeves are designed for one-time or limited use, so make sure to thoroughly read your product descriptions before you hit “check out.”
Products to try: For reusable options, check out the ROMP Dash, Hot Octopuss Pulse Solo, Tenga Flip Zero, CalExotics Boundless FTM Stroker, and the FunFactory Manta.
Best for: Trying new sensations
Butt Plugs and Beads
BedBible found that 46% of men reported owning some type of anal toy. When it comes to toys for your booty, there is a ton of variety. From non-vibrating beads to plugs that create a spinning sensation, you could fill a whole store just with toys designed for butts. Both suction-cup and harnessed dildos can also be used for anal play!
For people with prostates, internal anal stimulation can be incredibly pleasurable. Prostate toys are typically curved so that they can apply more pressure to the prostate gland. That being said, prostate stimulation isn’t the end-all-be-all of butt stuff. The anus has many nerve endings around the anal opening, so some people may prefer shallow stimulation rather than deeper pressure.
No matter what, engaging in butt stuff comes with a few essential tips. First, you absolutely must use lubricant. The anus doesn’t self-lubricate and the anal tissues are incredibly thin and prone to tearing. So, lube helps reduce the risk of injury while helping increase the possibility for pleasure.
Second, remember that slower is better. You might look at a toy and think it’s pretty small, and your anus might have another opinion entirely. Before you grab the biggest toy on the shelf, start with something small (like fingers, beads, or a slim-profile plug) so that your body can get used to the sensation.
Third, remember that when it comes to your butt, you should only use toys designed for butts (no household objects, please). They must have a flared base or handle and be made from nonporous materials (like 100% silicone, stainless steel, and borosilicate glass).
Products to try: The b-Vibe Beginner Snug Plug Set, b-Vibe Rimming Plug Petite, Aneros Helix Syn Trident, FunFactory BOOTIE, Crystal Delights Funfetti Plug, nJoy Pure Plug, Sex & Mischief Anal Beads, and Tantus Acute.
Best for: Exploring new body parts and powerful orgasms.
Nipple Clamps & Suckers
Nipples can be a source of erotic stimulation and pleasure for anyone — yes, even guys. Nipple stimulation can feel nice, and if you want to pair nipple stimulation with a light dose of kink, you can try nipple clamps and suckers.
Nipple clamps work by squeezing the nipple and cutting off blood flow. Many nipple clamps are made of metal and can also be used for temperature play (just pop them in the fridge for about half an hour before using them). Like any sex toy that restricts blood flow, you should only use nipple clamps for about 20-30 minutes before you take a break.
The sensation of wearing them can be intense, but you may find that your nipples feel even more sensitive once you take them off.
As a tip, stick to actual nipple clamps here (not the random clothespins you have lying around). Nipple clamps typically have a screw on them that allow you to control the amount of pressure applied (your nips will thank you).
Nipple suckers are suction toys that work by increasing blood flow to the nipples (like a penis pump). That increase in blood flow can cause a significant increase in nipple sensitivity, too!
Products to try: The Sex & Mischief Adjustable Nipple Clamps and DocJohnson In a Bag Nipple Suckers.
Best for: Playing with sensations and sharability.
Multipurpose Toys
Many toys designed for men are purpose-built for penises or for testerone-influenced bottom growth. Purpose-built toys are great because they tend to do their job really well. That being said, there are some toys that can stimulate many different parts of your body (and your partners’ bodies).
Wand vibrators are my most-frequently recommended versatile toy. You can use them all over the outside of the body (regardless of the type of genitals you have) and they often have attachments so you can use them internally, too.
When considering a toy that may be able to stimulate multiple body parts, I recommend focusing on toys that stimulate the outside of the body (rather than anal or vaginal penetration). Then, think about shape — does it have a wide edge and a narrow edge for different types of stimulation? Is the material flexible or rigid? Is it made out of a nonporous material so it can be sanitized between uses and users?
Multipurpose toys can give you extra value for your money and can help you (and your partners) explore new sensations!
Products to try: The Dame Com and Fin and FunFactory’s VOLTA and LAYA III.
Best for: The jack of all trades.
Sex toy use is associated with increased relationship satisfaction, sexual self-esteem, arousal quality, and orgasm strength, so if you’ve been curious about trying out toys, consider this your official sign to start exploring.