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Buying sex toys is always an exciting thing to do - but exploring dildos can sometimes feel a bit daunting. The thing is, everyone's tastes and anatomy are different - so even if you've read hundreds of different reviews, it's hard to say which size dildo is going to be right for you.
In this guide, we'll take a detailed look at choosing a dildo. We'll explain everything you need to know about dildo sizes, including length and girth options and the different types available. We'll even share a few expert tips on choosing the right size for you.
When you've finished reading, you'll have a better understanding of the types and sizes of dildo you're looking at online - and, most importantly, what's going to hit the right spots for you!
Understanding Dildo Sizes
Before we get into exploring the different styles and functions of dildos, it's a really good idea to start with some basic sizing information and terminology.
Let's take a look at length, insertable length, girth, and width.
- Dildo Length - Not to be confused with 'Insertable length' - the 'Length' of a dildo is the size from tip to base. This could include parts of the dildo intended for holding, suction cups, perineum stimulators, or even balls.
- Insertable Length - Arguably more important than the overall length, the 'insertable length' explains how much of dildo can potentially be put inside you.
Total Length vs Insertable Length
- Dildo Girth - Also known as 'Circumference', girth is the way most manufacturers measure overall 'thickness'. Generally, girth increases along with length. The girth measurement is the measurement right around the thickest part of the shaft.
- Dildo Width - Also known as 'Diameter,' this is the size of the shaft (or widest part) measured straight across. Diameter is a significantly smaller measurement than girth, so it's important not to confuse the two.
Dildo Girth vs Width
Here are some images that will help you see how these measurements work in reality. These images are based on a typical 6-inch length dildo. They'll give you an idea of how this size dildo compares to a typical 12oz soft drink can and all the different measurements you'll find on a dildo of this size.
Dildos by Length
When you're looking at dildos, the first measurement typically mentioned is length.
Now, although the world of porn would have you believe that bigger is always better, this generally isn't the case with dildos. Some people will be looking for a very 'full' feeling from a long anal toy - but most people find an average size dildo is perfect.
Unlike the porn world, the sex toy industry has a more realistic range of sizes. Take a look at our sizing chart for a rough guide:
|
SIZE |
LENGTH |
|
Small |
2.5-4 inches |
|
Medium |
4-7 inches |
|
Large |
8 inches+ |
Remember to keep in mind the difference between "length" and "insertable" length here. The best retailers will show both figures so you can make a decision based on how deeply you'd like to be penetrated, not just a tip-to-base measurement.
Take a look at how different lengths of dildos compare:
Length and Insertable Length Comparison
Again, we've given you a 12oz soda can compare to here - as well as pointing out the difference between length and insertable length.
Before we sign off on a length, it's important to talk about striking a balance between fantasy and your physical limits. Huge cock fantasies are definitely common - so the idea of enjoying an XL-size dildo might sound like great fun.
If that kind of fantasy is your number-one goal, then go for it - just remember to go slowly at first and use lots of lube! However, if you're more interested in physical stimulation rather than acting out a fantasy, you're likely to find that a 3-6 inch dildo is perfect for the kind of stimulation you're looking for.
Dildos by Girth
Although length grabs the headlines when you're shopping for dildos, it could be argued that girth is actually the more important measurement.
The girth, or thickness, of the dildo you choose, will make quite a lot of difference to the level of stimulation it offers. A very thin dildo is unlikely to stretch you very much - whereas a dildo with a circumference above 4-5" inches will make most people feel like they're being stretched.
Again, we've created a table to give you a rough size guide:
|
SIZE |
DIAMETER (WIDTH) |
CIRCUMFERENCE (GIRTH) |
|
Small |
1 inch |
3.1 inches |
|
Medium |
1.5 inches |
4.7 inches |
|
Large |
2 inches + |
6.3 inches |
Take a look at how different lengths, widths, and girths compare:
Width and Girth Comparison
As you can see, a little bit of extra width equals quite a considerable amount of extra girth. A dildo that's 1-inch wide will be about the same size around as a quarter coin. An extra inch and a half of width might not sound like a lot, but a dildo that's 2.5 inches wide will have roughly the same circumference as the widest part of a standard beer bottle.
Dildo Sizing by Type
Now we've looked at some of the typical measurements and sizes of dildos you'll find, it's worth looking at more specialist types of dildos. Each has unique features and sizes - so it's worth exploring them all to decide what's going to push your buttons.
Male Dildos
At a glance, you might not see much difference between dildos designed for men and regular dildos designed for women. However, there are differences that it's worth being aware of before you place an order.
|
DILDO FEATURE |
DETAILS |
SIZING NOTES |
|
Prostate Stimulation |
Although many male dildos represent an average penis size and average penis girth, they often have a pronounced curve through the shaft. This is because the male prostate is found towards the front of the body - so a male dildo will tend to be curved to allow for better access to this highly-sensitive p-spot. |
|
|
Base Design |
Men's dildos tend to have a flared base that is significantly wider than the shaft of the sex toy. This is because the muscle structure of the anus and rectum can contract, 'pulling' an object inside. A flared base stops this from happening, minimizing any risk of discomfort or difficulty. |
|
|
Size and shape |
Typically, a woman's vagina is capable of accommodating larger toys than a person's anus. Because of this, men's dildos tend to focus more on shape rather than size. Additional stimulation may be built-in to a male dildo too - such as perineum stimulation. |
|
Prostate Massagers
Although sometimes considered a type of sex toy in their own right, prostate massagers deserve a mention wherever male dildos are discussed.
Prostate massagers are slim vibrating dildos designed specifically to stimulate to the prostate. Since the prostate is responsible for that incredible pulsing feeling you get as you orgasm, stimulating it with a toy can recreate this feeling and lead to amazing full-body orgasms.
|
TYPICAL LENGTH |
TYPICAL WIDTH |
TYPICAL GIRTH |
|
4-7 inches |
0.75-1.25 inches |
3-4 inches |
The prostate can usually be found between 2-3 inches inside the anus, so prostate massagers tend to be smaller than most other dildo styles.
- Expect a prostate toy to be around 4-7 inches in length - allowing for comfortable holding and enough insertable length to stimulate your prostate in a number of different ways.
- The circumference of prostate massagers tends to be smaller than other dildos - usually between 3-4 inches.
Wonder if prostate massaging is for you?
Extreme Anal Toys
In the context of anal dildos, anything that's considered "extreme" is usually much larger than typical dildo dimensions.
Extreme anal toys are aimed at people with lots of experience with anal play. If you're considering a very large toy, it's essential that you take the time to gradually and safely stretch your body to accommodate these kinds of giant dildos.
|
TYPICAL LENGTH |
TYPICAL WIDTH |
TYPICAL GIRTH |
|
10-16+ inches |
2-4+ inches inches |
6.5-12+ inches |
There are lots of different extreme anal toys, ranging from very large realistic dildos to fist/arm-shaped toys, and even fantasy-themed dildos.
- To be considered extreme, a dildo will typically be over 10 inches in length and could be up to 14-16 inches or more.
- It's not just the length that is extreme though; dildos with a circumference of 6.5 inches and upward of 12 inches are not uncommon.
Butt Plugs
Butt plugs are another popular type of anal dildo - although they tend to be different dimensions than the average dildo size.
|
TYPICAL LENGTH |
TYPICAL WIDTH |
TYPICAL GIRTH |
|
2.5-5 inches |
1-1.5 inches |
4-6+ inches |
Rather than aiming for any sensation from the length of a butt-plug style dildo, these toys are designed to sit just inside your anus, giving a sense of fullness from their girth. A butt plug will usually taper quickly to create a slim section that your anus closes around - before flaring again to create a final flared base design for safety.
- In our recent guide exploring the best butt plugs on the market, the average size of the toys tested was just over 4 inches - a smaller-than-average length for an anal dildo.
- However, the average width was just over 1.5 inches - making for a larger-than-average circumference of 4.8 inches.
Tips on Choosing the Right Size
If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this talk or length, width, and girth - don't panic. Whether you're new to dildos or a veteran user - we've got some handy tips that will help you choose the perfect toy for you.
If you’re a beginner, start with a smaller size
Millions of Americans watch porn frequently. While it can definitely be fun, the porn industry is guilty of making most people believe that bigger is always better. In truth, when it comes to anal dildos, the opposite is true - at least to begin with.
If you're starting out with a dildo, choose a smaller, more realistically-sized toy to begin with - and buy plenty of lube.
As you play, think about the sensations that you enjoy - is your dildo perfect as-is? Would you like a little more girth? Perhaps more length would help you get off?
Let this thinking inform your next purchase. It's better to start small and work your way up, rather than wasting your money buying a toy that's too uncomfortable to use or puts you off anal play in the future.
Consider materials when choosing the size
Believe it or not, two identical-sized dildos could feel very different inside you if they're made of different materials.
Many dildos are made using high-grade silicone - a flexible, skin-like material that makes for very life-like sensations when you're playing with a toy. Of course, there are other options - notably hard plastics or even glass. These harder options provide a totally different sensation inside you - with no 'give' or flexibility.
Don't be afraid to experiment to find the right combination of size and material for you.
Because of their flexibility, silicone toys tend to adapt to your body a little more than harder toys. This often makes silicone feel slightly smaller than a plastic or glass toy dildo of the same size. However, harder toys deliver more intense, direct stimulation, which many silicone toys can't.
Of course, the choice is yours - don't be afraid to experiment to find the right combination of size and material for you.
Don’t just go for length
As we've already said in this guide, dildos tend to be sold according to length rather than the many other measurements and features they boast.
The length of a dildo is important - and for some people, it's the most important measurement - but for most users, a lot of joy comes from the girth of the toy.
Don't be afraid to experiment before you make a final decision on length or girth. Playing with your fingers next time you're in the shower or relaxing in bed can't tell you a lot about what you'll enjoy. Grab some lube and experiment with inserting a single finger into your anus. Take some time to play and see how you enjoy the sensations. Then, after applying another squirt of lube, try inserting 2 or 3 fingers and see how you enjoy the wider sensation.
Think about whether you enjoy playing around your anus or perhaps a little deeper inside.
You might even play a little with your prostate to get a feel for whether p-spot play could be something you'd like to explore more.
Remember, there's no right or wrong. As long as you're using lube and not causing pain or discomfort, then keep playing until you find your own unique sweet spots! When you do - think about the size of toy that'll help you go back to that place time-and-time-again!
Dildo Sizing Guide: A Summary
There's no such thing as the perfect dildo for all guys - each of us has unique bodies, tastes, and sexual preferences.
As such, it makes sense to understand all the different measurements that come into play when you're using a dildo. There's length to consider, how much of that length can actually be inserted, along with the width and girth of the toy.
If you're starting out with a dildo, it's a good idea to experiment with a little anal play to see what sensations you like
When you've found the areas and techniques that turn you on the most, think about what size of dildo will make that kind of play easier.
Long, short, slim, thick - or even extreme size, there's no one going to tell you what's right or wrong - as long as you use plenty of lube and listen to your body! And don't forget - lots of anal toys are very cost-effective, so you don't have to settle for an all-rounder toy that doesn't quite hit the right spots. Instead, you might consider buying more toys that hit different spots or offer different sensations. Trust us; your orgasms will thank you for it!
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