What is a bullet vibrator?

If you have browsed for a first toy, you have almost certainly seen the word "bullet". It sounds more dramatic than it is. A bullet vibrator is simply a small, smooth, rounded vibrator, usually somewhere between the size of a lipstick and a slim marker pen. It is one of the most popular designs in the world, and for very good reasons.

What does a bullet vibrator look like?

Bullets take their name from their shape: a short cylinder with a rounded tip. Most bullets are under about 10 cm long and around 2 cm across (ours with confirmed sizes are about 89 to 90 mm by 18 mm), so they sit comfortably in the palm of your hand.

Some have a perfectly round tip, which spreads the sensation gently. Others, like the Bijou Classic Bullet, have a gently tapered tip for more focused sensation, and some, like the Rouge Lipstick Bullet, have an angled tip. You can compare the options in our guide to size and shape.

What does a bullet vibrator feel like?

Inside every bullet is a small motor that creates vibration. Because bullets are compact, the sensation is concentrated in a small area, which many people find pleasantly precise. Smaller, faster motors tend to feel "buzzy", while slightly larger motors feel deeper and more "rumbly". Neither is better; it is simply a matter of taste.

Most bullets let you move between several speeds and pre-set patterns, such as pulses and waves. A simple model might have three speeds; our most advanced has twenty-five. If you are new to vibration, fewer settings can actually be easier, as there is less to think about.

Why are bullet vibrators so popular?

They are approachable. A small, softly rounded toy feels much less intimidating than a large one. For many people, a bullet is the natural first step.

They are quiet. Small motors make less noise. Where our suppliers rate the noise, our bullets come in at under 50 dB, quieter than a normal conversation. See noise levels explained for more.

They are discreet. A bullet slips into a make-up bag or bedside drawer without drawing attention. The Rouge Lipstick Bullet even looks like a lipstick, at 18 x 89 mm.

They are versatile. Bullets can be enjoyed solo or shared with a partner, and many people keep using one alongside other toys for years. Our guides to solo pleasure and couples play have gentle ideas for both.

They travel well. Light, compact and often fitted with a travel lock, a bullet is easy to pack for a weekend away.

Battery, rechargeable or app controlled

Bullets come in three broad styles.

A battery model is ready the moment you pop in a battery. A rechargeable model such as the Argent Rechargeable Bullet charges over USB and runs for up to 50 minutes on a full charge. App and remote models add another layer of play, which you can read about in app and remote control explained.

What are bullet vibrators made from?

Good bullets have a smooth outer layer of body-safe silicone, often over a firm ABS core. Body-safe materials are non-porous, so they do not hold on to bacteria and can be cleaned thoroughly. Every product we sell is phthalate-free and made from body-safe materials. Our guide to body-safe materials explains what to look for anywhere you shop.

Is a bullet right for you?

If you want something simple, quiet, easy to store and easy to travel with, a bullet is a wonderful choice. If you already know you prefer a larger toy, a bullet can still be a lovely companion piece. And if you are not sure what you like yet, a bullet is one of the gentlest ways to find out.

Whatever you choose, it will arrive in plain, unbranded packaging with "BH Commerce Ltd" on your bank statement. When you feel ready, choosing your first vibrator will help you narrow things down.