Bullet vibrators have been proving that good (nay, great) things can come in bite-sized packages. Shaped like a baby carrot, these compact toys have been delivering targeted buzz to external body parts for decades.
Portable, petite, and discreet, bullets are great for first-time sex toy users and those who enjoy a gentler stimulation—but they aren’t for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before adding one to your collection.
Why bullet vibrators?
What does it do? Bullet vibrators are motorized toys that transmit low-intensity stimulation. Generally no bigger than a pen drive or tampon applicator, these small toys can provide sensation at intensities, durations, and consistencies that are not possible without one.
What body part or parts is it for use with? Bullet vibrators are safe to use on any external body parts, including vulvas, penises, and nipples. Most bullet toys are safe to use vaginally; some even have curved tips for targeted stimulation of the shallow erogenous sponge referred to as the G-spot or G-zonezone. However, bullet vibrators are not anal safe for anal play, as a toy needs to have a flared, T-shaped base to anchor it outside of the body safely.
What’s it feel like? How a bullet toy feels will depend on its motor, as well as the material it is made of, specific shape, and built-in details. But bullet vibrators are commonly described as feeling tinny, teasing, titillating, and targeted. Those brand new to sex toys may describe the sensation as pleasurable and even intensely so.
The vibrations of bullet vibrators generally travel less deeply into the pelvic tissues compared to toys with larger motors. Those who enjoy the pressure of grinding, dry humping, or scissors may find the surface-area-only stimulation of bullets lacking or even downright irritating.
Quick facts
What materials is it made of? Most bullet vibrators are made from either body-safe medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or ABS plastic. Silicone is a skin-soft material that can glide against your body, much like fingers or hands. ABS plastic or stainless steel are much harder options, and generally deliver more intense sensation.
In the last few years, a handful of borosilicate glass bullet vibrators have also hit the market. The smooth finish on these is ideal for those who are easily overstimulated.
Is it loud? It depends. Bullet vibrators are known for being discreet, and because their motor is small, they are generally quieter than larger vibrators (like wands). Most are no louder than an electric razor.
Still, not all bullet vibrators are whisper quiet. Usually, you can muffle the sound with a blanket, but if stress about a roommate or family member hearing the low hum of your toy through the door will interfere with your pleasure, read reviews.
Is it beginner-friendly? Very! Their small size makes them a non-intimidating addition to solo or partnered play. Most bullet vibrators also have a single-button control—used to turn them on, off, and cycle through the different intensities—so there’s no complicated settings to navigate.
Do I need anything besides the toy to use it? Bullet vibrators can be enjoyed on their own, but a squirt of water-based lubricant can go a long way towards reducing uncomfortable friction and increasing the pleasurable sensation of slide.
A sex toy cleanser or cleaning wipes can also be nice for fast clean-up, but they aren’t essential. Body-safe bullets can be adequately cleaned with warm water and fragrance-free soap alone. Sex toys often come with a carrying case, but if yours doesn’t, investing in a satin pouch can help keep yours lint-free between uses.
Are bullet vibrators safe?
Yes, bullets are generally considered safe. When shopping, just be sure to purchase one made from body-safe silicone, stainless steel, ABS plastic, or Borosilicate glass. And, during use, keep it away from your anus unless it’s a bullet specifically designed for anal use. (Once more with feeling: toys can only be inserted in your rear if they have a flared base that can keep them anchored outside your body.) All other erogenous zones, including the vagina, are fair game.
Worth noting: Vibrators cannot permanently desensitize you to other kinds of pleasure. The buzzy stimulation can make your genitals feel temporarily tingly or numb, but that effect fades quickly, and your ability to experience pleasure remains intact.
How can you keep it clean? Cleaning your sex toys after each use is a good habit for keeping your body safe. The natural bacteria from your skin and genitals can multiply over time and cause irritation if reintroduced to your body.
Waterproof bullet vibrators can be cleaned with warm water and a fragrance-free soap, or a dedicated sex toy cleaner. If the packaging indicates that the toy is not waterproof—or only splashproof or water-resistant—utilize a soapy washcloth to wipe the toy clean, avoiding the charging port and/or battery cap.
Most battery-powered bullets aren’t designed to be submerged, so if you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and stick to surface cleaning only.
How to use it?
Bullet vibrators are safe for external use, so anywhere that enjoys the sensation they deliver is fair game. Thanks to their petite shape and precision tip, they’re especially good at delivering focused stimulation to a specific spot—whether that’s your nipples, clitoris, penis, or any other erogenous zone you discover through exploration.
Can I use it alone? You bet! Bullet vibrators can be a great addition to solo play. Their lightweight design makes them easier to hold during a marathon masturbation session than heavier vibrators, while their compact shape can make them feel more accessible. Many people can easily maneuver the toy with just one hand, but they can also be slid into the gusset of underwear or the pocket of a strap-on harness for hands-free usage.
Can you use it with a partner? If so, how? Yes! Because bullets deliver speeds and rhythms your hands, tongue, and crotch cannot match, they’re a great way to bring a new sensation into partnered play. Because they are neither large nor phallic, they can be a less-intimating first couples toy than alternatives. Their non-obtrusive size and simple shape make them easy to add into your usual positions and acts without interfering with intimacy.
As is the case with adding anything new during partnered play, it’s best practice to talk about incorporating it well in advance of its buzz building throughout the room. Consider texting your boo that you read an article about bullet vibrators that piqued your interest, and asking permission to send the link to this article. Alternatively, you can invite a larger conversation about the pleasure products, positions, and more that you each have experience in—then, getting a bullet vibe if that’s a known and acknowledged overlap.
Where to get it?
Where can I get it? Bullet vibrators can be purchased at any online or in-person sex shop. Because bullet vibrators are so small, many sex shops can physically fit and carry more different types of bullet vibrators than other options.
Most retailers default to discrete shipping, sending products in label-free boxes with unidentifiable return addresses. However, if privacy is a priority, you’d be wise to check out the unique Retailers’ Privacy and Shipping information section online to learn how the purchase will show up on bills and bank statements.
Some department stores also carry bullet vibrators—usually in the condom or personal hygiene aisles. Keep in mind that some big-box stores have an age restriction on vibrators and will ask to see an ID at check. You can find out if your go-to store does by browsing the website.
What do they usually cost? Bullet vibrators are widely considered the most affordable vibrator category currently on the market. While they can ring up between $15 and $105 USD, the majority cost $30 USD or less.
To be clear: There are options on the lower end of the cost spectrum that are made of the aforementioned body-safe materials (i.e., silicone, ABS-plastic, stainless steel or glass), but you’ll have to spend a little more for extra features like app-compatibility for long-distance play, remote control for hands-free adjustment, and more extended warranties.
Is there something I can find at home? If you’re a minor who lives somewhere where it’s illegal for stores to sell sex toys to those under 18—or are worried about privacy—you may be happy to know that there are a few DIY sex toys right in your bathroom.
The handle of an electric razor is similar in shape and size to a bullet vibrator, but other vibrating beauty and hygiene tools can double as sex toys, too. However, because these toys are not made for genitals, it’s best to use them with a buffer layer (think: underwear, towel, dental dam, condom, etc.) in between.
How should I pick the right one for me?
Finding the best bullet vibrator for you will require you to consider several key features, including material, shape, and price.
Material:If you enjoy the feeling of skin-on-skin, opt for a bullet made from silicone that offers a similar velvety feel. If you think you’ll prefer something less, well, friction, consider ABS plastic or stainless steel instead. (With any option, you can use a water-based lubricant to reduce stickiness and enhance the sensation of slide and glide).
Shape: Many bullet vibrators look like the ammo they are named for, and are rounded on each end. But there are also options—sometimes called lipstick vibrators—that have one angled edge for even more targeted stimulation. For those interested in a fluttering sensation, check out rabbit bullet vibrators, which have bunny-ear-like attachments on one end.
Price: There are options available for all budgets. No-frill, single-button control bullets are generally lower in cost and best for beginners, as they’ll require less of a learning curve. However, if you want to use the bullet with a long-distance boo, make sure the toy is app-compatible.