Male sex toys have come a long way from the basic masturbator. Today, there are toys designed to offer everything from realistic sensations and automatic stimulation to vibration, suction, thrusting, rotation, anal stimulation and couples play.
Whether you’re shopping for your first male sex toy, looking for something more realistic or simply want to try a completely different type of stimulation, there’s far more choice than you might expect.
From realistic pussies and pocket pussies to automatic sucking masturbators, TENGA Eggs, cock rings, penis sleeves, dildos, thrusting toys and rotating butt plugs, here’s a guide to some of the different male sex toys available and what to consider when choosing one.
Male Masturbators: Where Do You Start?
Masturbators are one of the biggest categories of sex toys for men, but the term covers a huge range of products.
At their simplest, they can be soft sleeves that you control by hand. At the other end of the scale, you’ll find rechargeable masturbators offering automatic movement, vibration, suction and multiple stimulation modes.
The right choice really depends on what you want from a toy. Do you prefer something compact and discreet? A realistic design? Hands-free stimulation? Or a toy packed with different functions?
Understanding the different styles makes choosing much easier.
Pocket Pussies
Pocket pussies are a popular introduction to male masturbators because they’re simple, compact and easy to use.
They usually feature a soft internal sleeve with different textures designed to provide additional stimulation. Some have an open-ended design, while others are enclosed.
Despite the name, not every pocket pussy actually fits in your pocket. The term is now widely used for smaller handheld vagina-style masturbators in general.
They’re a good option if you want something straightforward without motors, charging cables or complicated settings.
Use plenty of compatible lubricant to reduce friction and follow the individual product’s cleaning instructions after use.
Realistic Pussy Masturbators
If appearance and a more lifelike design are important to you, realistic pussy masturbators take the concept further.
These toys are moulded to resemble a vulva and typically use soft, flexible materials with textured internal canals. Designs range from compact handheld toys to larger, heavier masturbators intended to feel more substantial.
Some realistic masturbators feature additional anatomical detailing, while others combine a realistic exterior with internal ribs, bumps and other textures.
When choosing one, think about whether realistic appearance, internal texture or both matter most to you.
Automatic Sucking Masturbators
If you want the toy to do more of the work, automatic male masturbators offer a very different experience from a manual sleeve.
Depending on the model, automatic masturbators can feature suction, vibration, stroking or telescopic movement, rotation and different speed or intensity settings.
Some combine several functions in one toy, creating multiple types of stimulation without needing to control every movement manually.
They can be a good option if you’re looking for something more hands-free or simply want an experience that feels completely different from a conventional masturbator.
Because features vary significantly between models, check exactly what each toy does rather than assuming every automatic masturbator works in the same way.
TENGA Eggs
Small, simple and extremely stretchy, TENGA Eggs offer another approach to male masturbation.
Inside each egg-shaped case is a soft, flexible sleeve featuring its own internal texture. Different TENGA Egg designs have different internal patterns, so changing the design can offer a different sensation without moving to a completely different type of toy.
Their compact size also makes them an approachable choice for anyone who doesn’t want a large or particularly realistic-looking masturbator.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding use, cleaning and whether a particular product is intended for single or repeated use.
Cock Rings
A cock ring might be considerably smaller than a masturbator, but there are plenty of different designs to choose from.
For beginners, stretchy silicone cock rings can be an accessible place to start because the flexible material makes fitting and removal easier.
There are also vibrating cock rings, textured designs and couples cock rings featuring additional clitoral vibration or suction-style stimulation.
Some vibrating models include several speeds and patterns, while remote or app-controlled versions can give a partner control over the settings.
A cock ring should feel snug, never painfully tight. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended wear time and remove it immediately if you experience pain, numbness, unusual discolouration, coldness or significant discomfort.
Penis Sleeves
Penis sleeves fit over the penis and can introduce additional texture, shape or thickness.
Some feature ribs, bumps and raised textures, while realistic penis sleeves create a more lifelike penis shape and appearance.
Certain designs incorporate a cock ring at the base to help keep the sleeve securely positioned, while others may include vibration or additional features.
Penis sleeves can be used during solo or couples play, making them a versatile option for anyone wanting to experiment with different shapes and textures.
Check the dimensions carefully before buying, as sleeve length, internal diameter, stretch and thickness can vary considerably between products.
Dildos & Thrusting Dildos for Men
Dildos certainly aren’t limited to one gender.
Dildos for men come in a huge range of shapes, sizes and styles, including realistic designs, vibrating toys and more advanced automatic thrusting dildos.
Thrusting models use a motorised mechanism to create automatic movement, with some offering several speeds, patterns or additional vibration functions.
If a dildo is going to be used anally, make sure it is specifically suitable for anal use and has a secure flared base or another design feature that prevents complete insertion.
If you’re new to anal toys, start with a smaller design, use plenty of suitable lubricant and take your time.
Butt Plugs: From Simple Anal Stimulation to Rotating Designs
Butt plugs are a popular choice for anyone interested in exploring anal stimulation, with options ranging from small beginner-friendly plugs to more advanced powered designs.
The anal area contains many sensitive nerve endings, which is why some people find anal stimulation pleasurable. A typical butt plug has a tapered shape for easier insertion, a narrower neck and a wide base that remains safely outside the body.
If you’re new to anal stimulation, a smaller, smooth silicone butt plug can be a good place to start. Anal training sets are another option, offering several gradually increasing sizes so you can explore at your own pace.
For those looking for additional sensations, there are vibrating, rotating and thrusting butt plugs.
Vibrating plugs offer different speeds and patterns, while rotating butt plugs use a motorised mechanism to create movement rather than relying solely on vibration. Some designs combine rotation with vibration, creating several sensations in a single toy.
You can also find automatic thrusting anal plugs, which introduce motorised in-and-out movement and may offer several speeds or intensity settings.
There are also remote and app-controlled butt plugs, which can be incorporated into couples play by allowing a partner to control compatible settings. Some app-controlled designs can even be controlled from a distance, making them an option for long-distance couples.
Whatever style you choose, always use a toy specifically designed for anal use with a secure flared base, use plenty of suitable lubricant and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prostate Toys
If you’re exploring male anal toys, you’ll also come across products specifically designed for prostate stimulation.
The prostate can be stimulated internally through the rectum, and prostate massagers are shaped specifically to target this area.
Depending on the design, prostate toys may feature a curved shape, vibration, rotation or additional external stimulation. Some are manually controlled, while others offer remote or app-controlled functions.
If prostate play is completely new to you, choose a smaller beginner-friendly toy, use plenty of compatible lubricant and take your time.
Male Sex Toys for Couples
Male sex toys don’t have to be reserved for solo play.
Cock rings, penis sleeves, masturbators, butt plugs, prostate toys and dildos can all be incorporated into couples play if both partners are interested.
Vibrating couples cock rings can offer stimulation for both partners, with some designs featuring clitoral vibration or suction stimulation. Remote-controlled butt plugs and prostate toys can allow one partner to take control of the settings, while penis sleeves can introduce different shapes and textures.
Masturbators can also become part of couples play rather than something that is only used alone.
Trying a toy together can be as simple as choosing something you’re both curious about and exploring it without putting pressure on yourselves to use it in a particular way.
App-Controlled Male Sex Toys
App control has made male sex toys considerably more interactive.
Depending on the product, app-controlled masturbators, cock rings, butt plugs and prostate toys can allow a partner to control vibration patterns, rotation, intensity or other functions from their phone.
This can be fun when you’re in the same room, but compatible toys can also be particularly useful for long-distance couples, where supported apps allow control from another location.
Available functions and connection methods vary between products, so always check the specifications of the individual toy.
Choosing Your First Male Sex Toy
If you’ve never owned a sex toy before, don’t assume you need the most expensive or feature-packed product.
Think about what actually appeals to you.
If you want something simple and discreet, consider a TENGA Egg or pocket pussy.
If realism is important, look at a realistic pussy masturbator.
If you prefer automatic functions, an automatic sucking or stroking masturbator might be a better fit.
For couples play, a cock ring or penis sleeve can be an easy introduction.
And if you’re curious about anal stimulation, a small butt plug or beginner-friendly prostate toy can be a good starting point, small butt plug or beginner-friendly while more experienced users can explore vibrating, rotating and thrusting designs.
There’s no universal “best” male sex toy — only the type that best matches what you’re interested in exploring.
Don’t Forget the Lube
Whatever toy you choose, personal lubricant can make a big difference.
Lube reduces friction when using masturbators, penis sleeves and other toys, and it’s particularly important with anal toys because the anus doesn’t naturally produce lubrication.
Check which lubricant is compatible with the material of your toy. Water-based lubricant is widely compatible, but always follow the recommendations supplied with the individual product.
With masturbators and sleeves, using enough lube can also help protect softer materials from unnecessary friction.
Cleaning & Looking After Male Sex Toys
Cleaning your toys properly helps keep them hygienic and can extend their usable life.
Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions because the correct method depends on the toy’s material and whether it contains electronic components.
Clean reusable toys before and after use and allow them to dry properly before storing them.
Never submerge rechargeable or electronic toys unless they’re specifically described as waterproof.
If a toy is being shared between partners, clean it between users and use an appropriate fresh barrier where necessary.
Which Male Sex Toy Is Right for You?
With so many different options available, choosing a male sex toy is really about deciding what kind of stimulation you want to explore.
For realistic designs, look at pocket pussies and realistic pussy masturbators.
For automatic stimulation, explore sucking, stroking and vibrating masturbators or motorised thrusting toys.
For something simple and compact, try a TENGA Egg.
For couples play, explore cock rings and penis sleeves.
And for anal and prostate stimulation, there’s everything from simple beginner butt plugs to vibrating, rotating and automatic thrusting designs.
You don’t have to stick to one category, either. With so many different types of male sex toys now available, there’s plenty to explore.
Explore Male Sex Toys
From realistic pussies, pocket pussies and automatic sucking masturbators to TENGA Eggs, cock rings, penis sleeves, dildos, thrusting toys, rotating butt plugs and prostate toys, male sex toys offer more variety than ever before.
Whether you’re shopping for your first toy, upgrading something you already own or looking for something new to introduce with a partner, start with what genuinely appeals to you and explore from there.
