Your Complete Guide to Male Sex Toys

In this guide: Can men use sex toys? | Types of male sex toys | How to buy one | How to use one

Sure, your hand has probably had this covered for years... but sex toys can do things your hands could never! The global male sex toy market is expected to grow from 15.9 billion to 35.4 billion GBP by 2036,* which means the category is more mainstream – and more competitive – than ever before.

Why does that matter? Because the clever folks designing sex toys for your penis have to work even harder to make them safe, sexy, and incredible to use. Think warming, pulsing, vibrating, sucking... there are so many sensations to discover. Let’s explore the most popular types of male sex toys, so you know how they work and what to consider when choosing yours.

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• Sex toys for men are smarter than ever. Use them to explore your fantasies, intensify your pleasure, and bring novelty to your (solo or partnered) sex life.

• There’s something for every turn-on. Strokers and masturbators can level up solo play or mimic sex with a partner, cock rings may help strengthen your erection, while anal toys can unlock deeper more intense orgasms. Explore more types below!

• Think about what sensations you’re after – whether that’s suction, texture, or realistic feel. Stick to trusted retailers and check the reviews to hear from people who’ve already tried it.

• Start simple, go slow. A well-made basic toy is often a better first step than diving into something more advanced – it's a great way to try something new without spending a fortune.

• Clean your toy after every use. Check the manual to find out the best way to care for your toy. Always clean and store it carefully to keep mould and bacteria at bay.

Yes, men can use sex toys! There are plenty of sex toys that can be used by anyone, no matter your gender or anatomy. But male sex toys are designed specifically with a penis, balls, perineum (gooch), or male prostate in mind.

For example, you can use a bullet vibe or wand massager on any erogenous zone, from your nipples to your frenulum (i.e. the sensitive skin on the underside of your penis, connecting the head and shaft). Meanwhile, butt plugs and anal beads pleasure the sensitive anal area in different ways and are usually unisex.

Then, you’ve got strokers, masturbators, pocket pussies, cock rings and more – all for the male anatomy. Each one works differently, as you’ll see in detail below. Your hand will always be there when you want to keep it simple, but these toys can offer unique sensations that are pretty fun (and sexy) to explore.

There are so many types of sex toys for men. Here, we’re going to cover the most popular ones, covering how they work, who might enjoy using them, and any drawbacks. With this knowledge, you’ll be prepped to pick your next toy in a jiffy.

When you’re done here, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Sex Toys, which covers our unisex and female-centred toys as well (perfect for finding toys to share with your partner).

Strokers

Strokers do what they say on the box: slip your member into one of these soft, stretchy, textured tubes for a jazzed-up handjob – or the sensation of oral sex.

How does it work?

Squeeze a generous slick of lube into the male stroker. Inside, they feature a ribbed, dotted or generally textured surface that’s designed to stimulate your penis. You can adjust the pressure easily too, by gently squeezing or loosening your grip as you stroke.

How does it feel?

“How comfortable is it inside a stroker? It’s normally fantastic and so much better than just your hand. Maybe you are concerned that the texture of a stroker might be too intense for you. They’re designed to feel good, though – so if one you use doesn’t feel good, that would be unusual!” says DareDevil on the Lovehoney Forum.

Who is it best for?

Strokers are low tech, which makes them ideal for beginners and couples. They’re visually low-key (in case your other half doesn’t like seeing you penetrating a toy modelled on someone else’s bits) and easy to chuck in a suitcase.

You can get open-ended strokers which feel great teamed with plenty of lube or a sloppy blowjob.

Any drawbacks?

Some girthier folks have found that strokers are uncomfortable to get on initially. If that’s the case for you, forum user Fluffbags recommends folding one half of your stroker back over the other half (“kinda like when you join a pair of socks together,” they say) and covering it with lube.

“[Then] place your head slightly inside and fold back the stroker over your penis,” says Fluffbags. “This might allow you to use it without the extra long initial stroke required to fully insert your penis.”

Anything else to know?

Like Fluffbags says, lube is a must. Grab water-based lube and drizzle it both onto your stroker and your member. It’ll reduce friction between your skin and the stroker’s internal textures, making every stroke feel deliciously wet and extra-intense.

Male masturbators

Take a stroker and dial it up! Male masturbators feature the textured inner sleeve element, but they’re often contained in a solid case. They usually offer extra features like vibration, thrusting, rotation, warming and even sucking!

How does it work?

Once you’ve lightly coated the opening with water-based lube, this toy is ready to take you for a ride: insert yourself and check out the settings. There’s likely to be buttons on the case to turn on the different features; if you want to test-drive how they’ll feel, insert a couple of fingers into the toy before you really get going.

How does it feel?

“My wife used it on me the first time and I was uncomfortable with the idea, but when we got into it was great,” shared one customer, reviewing the Blowmotion Thrusting Male Masturbator. “It was a great build-up, and I was asked a few times if I was okay as my whole body would tense up and I’d orgasm like never before!”

Who is it best for?

Pick this one if you want an experience that’s closer to penetrative sex – or possibly even better. This is when you’re ready to invest a bit more and you’re happy taking a little extra care on cleaning, charging, and storing your toy properly.

Any drawbacks?

All those settings can be overwhelming. To narrow things down, pick a sensation you’d like to try most (vibrations, sucking, warming…) and use this to help you choose. Check out our guide on how to use a male masturbator for more tips on using and caring for your toy.

Anything else to know?

Keep an eye out for hands-free male masturbators; these can suction onto hard surfaces (like bathroom tiling) so you can focus on thrusting. Plus: your hands are freed up so you can fondle your balls or use anal beads, too.

Realistic toys

With soft, supple materials that look and feel like a real body part, realistic toys are all about fantasy. You've probably already heard of Fleshlight, a brand that models toys on your favourite porn stars, like Riley Reid or Bonnie Blue!

How does it work?

Realistic toys have an opening modelled on a vagina, butt hole, or mouth. The internal sleeve often has varied textures and widths to surprise and tease your member as you insert yourself.

Fleshlight toys are generally hand-held and fairly discreet. But some toys go further and include a torso, complete with boobs and a bum for you to grip onto. Or you can get a sex doll; your own full-size companion.

How does it feel?

Our customers are big fans of realistic toys. Lovehoney shopper Bram31 loves the THRUST Pro Mini Ella Realistic Pocket Pussy: “It is super soft and the ridges inside are perfectly designed to work their magic very quickly,” he says. “Great for solo play when Mrs Bram31 is away and even better as a couple. We like to warm this up a little in some hot water for added realism.”

Who is it best for?

These toys are for people who get turned on by the visuals of sex or want to fantasize about oral sex, anal sex, or sex with a porn star! “Really does feel like a woman,” says one reviewer on Fleshlight’s Riley Reid toy. If you’re after a ‘real feel’ sex toy that replicates playing with a partner as closely as possible, grab yourself one of these.

Any drawbacks?

Realistic toys often have elaborate inner sleeves that need extra careful cleaning. Make sure you get in all the nooks and crannies with sex toy cleaner right after use and let it air dry for at least 24 hours in a well-ventilated spot before storage.

Anything else to know?

Realistic materials often last longer and feel better if you use renewal powder. Once you’ve finished cleaning and drying your toy, tap on a dusting of renewal powder before you stash it away for next time.

Prostate massagers

The prostate (or P spot) is a raised walnut-sized area inside your anus that can feel incredible to stimulate. Prostate massagers make it easy to find your prostate and tease it with features like vibrations, thrusting, or warming.

How does it work?

With a curved, bulbous head and slim neck, a prostate massager slides into your butt with a generous dash of lube. The bulbous head covers a broad surface area to help you find your P-spot – and maybe even experience a prostate orgasm.

Your toy might also a have a remote control, meaning you can introduce vibrations without bending over or reaching around to fiddle with buttons.

How does it feel?

Anal toys can be a massive turn-on for a lot of guys, regardless of sexuality. Some people find prostate play in particular leads to deeper, more intense orgasms – but it’s different for everyone!

You might like the feeling of ‘fullness’ you get from wearing a prostate toy while you pleasure yourself. And, if you have sex with someone else, they might get a buzz from it too. “That night my partner and I enjoyed it as I entered her, and she could feel the vibrations on her clitoris. WOW!” says one review of the Lovehoney High Roller.

Who is it best for?

If you’ve enjoyed feeling a finger or two in your behind, a prostate massager may feel ever better. Try this toy if you’re curious about a prostate orgasm – but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t have one. Prostate orgasms are elusive, and they’re not the be all and end all of anal pleasure. You might still enjoy the deep vibrations and thrill of trying something new.

Any drawbacks?

Like any vibrating toy, a prostate massager can be noisy at top speeds. Enjoy it when you’re home alone. You can also look out for models that are specifically designed to be quieter – the reviews will tell you whether or not it’s true!

Anything else to know?

Any time you’re playing around with anal, make sure you’re using toys with a wide handle or flared base. You know what they say: ‘no flared base, gone without a trace’...

Cock rings

Designed to sit at the base of your penis, cock rings add a gentle pressure to your member. This can make the sensation of sex or masturbation feel even more intense – some people also find it helps keep their erection.

How does it work?

Cock rings gently restrict the flow of blood away from your penis, which can increase sensitivity and might help maintain your erection. Some also have a loop for the balls, which creates a tugging or squeezing feeling. Others have a vibrating head, which can tease either your balls or your partner's clit.

Start with a flaccid penis – or a semi – and slide the cock ring down to the base of your penis. Lube can help avoid snagging hairs! It should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight.

How does it feel?

You might find a cock ring makes you feel harder for longer, while others find the added sensitivity makes them come faster. It’s totally individual. Either way, a cock ring lets you focus on the main event – whether that’s your hand or sex with a partner – while adding intensity.

“From a partner’s point of view, I really like the way they look when he wears them,” says PKH on the Lovehoney Forum. “[And] when full penetration is a bit too deep for me, the cock ring is like a little cushion or buffer for him to feel like he’s fully in without it hurting me.”

Who is it best for?

You might enjoy using a cock ring on your own, but these toys really come to life with a partner. If you’ve got a vibrating ring, keep the vibrating head above your penis to offer clitoral stimulation for your partner – or turn it upside down. Upside down, the vibrations will travel through your balls or even offer some perineal teasing to your lover.

Any drawbacks?

You’ve gotta find the right size, which means a bit more admin time measuring your member. Lovehoney cock rings usually have measurements listed, so you can find the right fit for you.

Anything else to know?

Trying to slide on a cock ring when you’re already erect can be uncomfortable. Make sure not to leave one on longer than 20-30 minutes to keep things safe (and stop you going a bit numb down there!) Have a look at our guide on how to use a cock ring for more on making the most of your toy.

Penis extenders

Boosting your length and girth, penis extenders sit snugly on top of your member – adding a few extra inches and building out girth for penetrative sex.

How does it work?

Also known as a cock sleeve, a penis extender fits over your shaft to create a fuller, more pronounced feel for your partner. It’s designed to be worn over an erect or semi-erect penis, with a snug base or harness that keeps it in place. Check out our guide on how to use a penis extender for tips.

How does it feel?

“The fit for me, whilst a little snug, is actually pleasurable,” says Tony, a reviewer for the Lovehoney Mega Mighty Kit. Like Tony, you might enjoy the feeling of wearing your sleeve, but the magic is in making your partner feel amazing. It offers “all the pleasure of the wife’s biggest toy but with the feeling of real sex,” Tony explains.

Who is it best for?

This toy is a good pick for you if you have a hard time maintaining a firm erection. It’s also a lot of fun if your partner is keen to try sex with an extra-large or girthy penis.

Any drawbacks?

You might find the sleeve reduces sensitivity for you, by essentially putting a barrier between you and your partner. You’ll also need to make sure you’ve got the right fit, so heck the internal length measurement before you buy. Otherwise, you might end up with a floppy tip – quite the opposite of what you’re after!

Anything else to know?

You can get sleeves that add extra length, girth, or even a textured surface to your member. That’s a lot of fun if you and your partner have fantasies about unusual sexual partners (check out the Creature Cocks Hell Hound Sleeve for inspo).

Penis pumps

If you’ve always fancied giving yourself a boost in the boner department, check out penis pumps. You won’t be permanently larger, but you’re likely to enjoy a pretty powerful erection.

How does it work?

These toys feature an airtight cylinder, into which you can slide your shaft. It creates a suction chamber to increase blood flow, giving you the look and feel of a larger member. You might find it helps maintain a stronger erection than you’d get alone.

How does it feel?

“Not only do I enjoy it, the wife loves it,” says Plump C in a review of the BASICS Trigger Penis Pump. “Makes the head and shaft so plump that she can’t resist riding it and demanding I take her from behind. You won’t regret it for the money spent!”

Who is it best for?

A penis pump is worth trying if your erection isn’t always as solid as you’d like. It’ll give you a temporary boost of firmness and may make you feel more sensitive – unlike a penis extender which can create something of a barrier between you and your partner. Not only that, but penis pumps can play into certain medical fantasies too!

Any drawbacks?

On the subject of medical, you might find pump equipment a bit intimidating. Understandable, but don’t worry; they’re designed to be safe, comfortable, and sometimes even a turn-on to use. Check out our guide on how to use a penis pump for beginner-friendly tips.

Anything else to know?

Penis pumps can give you a temporary boost but if you’re having erectile issues regularly and they’re getting in the way of a satisfying sex life, it’s worth having a chat with your GP.

There’s almost too much choice, right?! To narrow it down, start by focusing on what you already enjoy, and find a toy that builds on that. For example, if you like the feeling of tugging or squeezing your balls, you could get a cock ring with a ball loop. Others love it when someone makes out with their frenulum – so find a toy that teases that specific spot.

We also recommend:

• Sticking to trusted retailers. Choose sellers that clearly list materials, safety information, and product details so you know what you’re getting. It should be easy to get in touch with customer service and return faulty toys, too.

• Checking product reviews. This will help you see if a toy is good quality and how it feels and functions in real life. Everyone’s body is different, but it’s helpful to see what other’s make of a toy before you buy.

• Choose one that suits your lifestyle. Consider noise level (reviews are helpful here), size, ease of cleaning, and whether you want something simple or more high-tech. If you’re in a relationship, consider whether it’s something your partner would want to use with you.

• Being open to new experiences. There are beginner-friendly options for almost everything. You don’t need to be very experienced or particularly kinky to try a range of toys!

Using a sex toy for the first time is all about going slowly and getting familiar with what feels good to you. Follow the steps below to get started with your steamy new purchase:

1. Check the instructions: These toys often involve suction or close contact with very sensitive areas, so make sure you understand how everything works before you begin.

2. Wash it first: Clean your toy with warm water and a toy-safe cleanser before use.

3. Use lube: This helps make things more comfortable and enhances sensation, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

4. Choose the right lubricant: It’s best not to use silicone lube with sex toys, as it can degrade the material. Go for water-based lube and check the packaging to make sure it’s compatible with toys.

5. Layer sensations: Try combining toy use with other stimulation, like gently massaging your balls or exploring other erogenous zones with your fingers.

6. Take breaks: There’s no rush – pause whenever you need to and avoid any discomfort or pain.

7. Try it with a partner: Toys aren’t about replacing someone or something. You might find using toys together is a bonding experience.

8. Clean it afterwards: Wash your toy immediately after use to keep it hygienic and in good condition for next time.

* Source: Male Sex Toys Market Forecast and Outlook By FMI