buying-guides
Sex Toys for Men: A Beginner's Guide to What's Out There
16 October 2024 · 7 min read
The sex toy market for men has expanded significantly but remains less visible and less normalised than the equivalent for women and vulva-owners. This guide cuts through the noise: what the main categories are, what they actually do, and where to start if you're curious but not sure where to begin.
Masturbator Sleeves
The largest and most accessible category. A masturbation sleeve is a soft, textured chamber — you use it with water-based lubricant for a different sensation than manual masturbation. The range spans from simple compact sleeves (Tenga Eggs, pocket strokers) to full-case products like Fleshlights.
What to look for: Material is the most important spec. TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) is common and fine to use; avoid jelly or unspecified rubber. Internal texture varies from smooth to highly textured — how much texture you prefer is personal and worth experimenting with. A compact sleeve (Tenga Egg or similar) is a good low-cost way to try the category before investing in a full-size product.
Starting point: A Tenga Egg or mid-range manual sleeve. Budget £6–25 to try the format; £40–80 for something like a Fleshlight as a more established purchase.
Prostate Massagers
The prostate gland is located approximately 5–8cm inside the rectum, toward the front of the body. Stimulation of the prostate can significantly enhance orgasm intensity for many people, and prostate massagers are specifically designed with the curve and dimensions to reach it comfortably.
What to look for: A curved toy with insertable length of 8–12cm, diameter of 2.5–3.5cm for beginners, and a vibration motor positioned at the tip. Silicone material is non-negotiable for anal use. A perineum arm (stimulating externally at the same time) is a useful addition.
Starting point: A mid-range vibrating prostate massager in body-safe silicone. Budget £35–70.
Cock Rings
Worn around the base of the penis (or penis and scrotum) during an erection to restrict venous return, keeping blood in the penis for longer. The effects: firmer erections, increased sensitivity, and for many couples, vibration that stimulates a partner's clitoris during penetrative sex.
What to look for: Stretchy silicone for beginners (forgiving sizing). Vibrating cock rings add external stimulation. Safe time limit: 20–30 minutes maximum.
Starting point: A simple stretchy vibrating silicone ring. Budget £10–30.
Penis Pumps
Create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the tissue and causing temporary engorgement. Used for erectile function, sensitivity, and as an erotic activity in itself. No permanent size effects despite marketing claims.
What to look for: A pressure gauge is important for safety. Cylinder diameter should be approximately 0.5–1cm wider than your erect diameter.
Starting point: A manual pump with gauge. Budget £25–50.
Automatic Strokers
Battery or USB-powered devices that move a sleeve mechanically, creating a stroking sensation without manual effort. Ranges from simple vibrating sleeves to sophisticated app-connected devices with significant stroke length and speed range.
What to look for: Stroke length (7cm or more is meaningfully better), noise level, and whether the sleeve is replaceable. App-connected options (Kiiroo, Lovense) add partner interaction.
Starting point: A basic automatic stroker with a proper stroke mechanism. Budget £60–100.
Chastity Devices
Devices worn to prevent erection or masturbation, typically used in D/s relationship contexts. Require careful sizing of the base ring and cage. See the dedicated guide for detail.
Where to Start
If you're completely new to male sex toys, the most accessible starting point is a masturbation sleeve — the Tenga Egg is low-cost, no commitment, and tells you whether textured stimulation appeals to you. From there, a prostate massager or a vibrating cock ring are the next most commonly recommended additions.
Prostate stimulation in particular is worth trying even if you're uncertain: the anatomy is there, the potential is real, and the experience is often more intense than expected for first-time users.
See also: Male Masturbator Buying Guide, Prostate Toy Buying Guide, Cock Ring: How They Work
