Play time! Sexy toys for any valentine

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Fun Factory Amorino vibrator

$99, funfactoryusa.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: In a relationship

How you used the toy: Solo and in an opposite-sex pairing

The toy's claims: "The gently taut silicone stimulation band is placed between the softly rounded tip and the side bud for clitoral arousal. It externally stimulates the Venus mound and the vaginal lips--this little detail ensures levels of excitement of a special kind. When using vaginally and anally simply remove the neon yellow band."

What you thought: When using Amorino alone, I couldn't figure out exactly where the stimulation band should rest, so I removed it for vaginal use, which proved very effective. My partner also struggled to use the stimulation band, so it was quickly flung aside while he continued using it externally to great success.

What your partner thought: "Controlling the vibration levels is intuitive and simple. At one point while using it I heard a strange noise in the kitchen; with this sturdy vibrator in hand, I felt bold enough to confront any intruder. (There was no intruder; I'm guessing they probably bolted when they heard me crank up the vibration intensity). Upon returning to the bedroom, it got the job done quickly and efficiently."

Would you use this again?: Yes.

Additional comments: I've been a Fun Factory fan for years due to their beautiful designs, and the Amorino continues that trend. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Babeland Under The Bed Restraints

$58, babeland.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: In a relationship

How you used the toy: Opposite sex pairing

The toy's claims: "The Under the Bed Restraint system is simple, discreet and sets up in a snap. Four restraint straps and a connector slide under mattress (up to queen-size)--just attach each of the four soft, adjustable cuffs."

What you thought: I appreciated how easy this was to set up and adjust. Once I was strapped in, my partner and I confirmed a safe word and got down to business. The cuffs remained comfortable even when I was pulling against them.

What your partner thought: "As someone who was somewhat intrigued by light bondage before using the restraints, these provided an excellent introduction. Looking forward to future use."

Would you use this again?: Definitely.

Additional comments: Neither of us had used bed restraints before, which led to a LOT of giggling at first. That quickly changed. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Babeland Pop Plug, size small

$15, babeland.com

Gender: Male

Relationship status: Dating

How you used the toy: Same-sex pairing

The toy's claims: "The narrow neck keeps the plug from popping out at an inopportune moment, and the ring on the end--aside from being adorable--makes removal a snap."

What you thought: It was great when on my way to orgasm, but it was hard to keep in and became a distraction trying not to lose it.

What your partner thought: "I don't like anything the color of a My Little Pony."

Would you use this again: Not this one--it was too small. It was smaller than a Ring Pop, which would have been more interesting, honestly ...

Additional comments: When considering the butt plug, respect your body. While I thought going small would be safer, it was more of a hassle. You should just go bigger or go without. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Babeland Pop Plug, size large

$21, babeland.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: In a relationship

How you used the toy: Solo

The toy's claims: "All three sizes of this pink butt plug (small, medium, and large) feature a narrow tip that graduates into a bulbous middle: perfect for that sought-after feeling of fullness."

What you thought: The box calls this the perfect starter plug, and I agree. You can't start small with butt plugs--the little ones look less intimidating, but tend to, uh, pop out at inopportune moments. This was small and soft enough to be comfortable but big and sturdy enough to stay put.

Would you use this again?: Yes

Additional comments: The pull ring at the base makes this look unfortunately similar to a baby's pacifier. Try not to think about it. Unless that's what you're into, in which case, uh. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Ohmibod Club Vibe 2.0

$79, shop.ohmibod.com

Gender: Male

Relationship status: Married

How you used the toy: Opposite sex pairing

The toy's claims: Worn inside a "one size fits all" pair of thong panties my partner calls "the biggest thong I've ever seen," two-part vibrator and remote claims to hum along with the sound of whatever music is playing, or one of five preprogrammed rhythms. It also claims to respond to the sounds of your partner's voice.

What you thought: As the guy in this experience, my involvement was limited to playing around with the remote. In theory, that sounded awesome. In practical application, it was kind of boring. I cycled through all five settings a few times, which was the extent of my involvement. I got a laptop to play some tunes, and found even on the highest volume, the speakers needed to be uncomfortably close to activate the vibration. My voice didn't work too well either; unless I climbed between her legs and screamed for a while, nothing was happening--and that seemed less than sexy.

What your partner thought: Even on the highest setting, she called the sensation "kind of like an annoying gnat in my pants." Her reaction after about 5 minutes: "get my other one, this isn't happening." The musical feedback settings were uneven, only worked with blaring music and were inconsistent.

Would you use this again?: No

Additional comments: Overall, it was a disappointment. Also, the vibrator and the remote were both extremely light, making them feel rather cheap. The instructions encourage wearing it out to the club, which is one feature (full disclosure) we didn't test for this review. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Crave Duet vibrator

From $149, lovecrave.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: Single

How you used the toy: Solo

The toy's claims: "Dynamic and discreet, the Duet packs surprising power in dual micro-motors. Slip the Duet into your hand for moments you want more intense sensations than your fingers can provide. With four vibration modes and four power levels, you'll have fun discovering ideal combinations."

What you thought: This would have been the perfect companion for when I had a roommate. While unbelievably quiet, this clitoral stimulator keeps you busy and engaged and is small enough to keep one hand free. The downside? The buttons are tiny, and it can be difficult to switch speeds or modes when necessary.

Would you use this again?: Yes--if I can remember to keep it charged.

Additional comments: It comes with a leather pouch, so it's travel-friendly and super inconspicuous. It also charges through USB, so feel free to plug it in to your laptop or iPhone port. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Lovelife Discover Petite Travel Vibrator

$59, shop.ohmibod.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: In a relationship

How you used the toy: Solo

The toy's claims: According to the website, "like you, this vibrator is strong in attitude and exquisite in versatility." While I appreciate the compliment, I'm not sure what a strong attitude really means for a sex toy.

What you thought: The microphone shape of this vibrator is its greatest asset, giving the user the option to use both the ball-shaped side and the handle for stimulation. The buttons, which adjust between seven vibration levels, are relatively easy to use and allow for a wide range of sensations and speeds.

Would you use this again?: Probably.

Additional comments: The included USB charger is a nice option compared to replacing batteries--just don't leave this out on your desk at work when you're done charging it. — Feb. 11, 2014

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JimmyJane Form 2

$145, jimmyjane.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: Single-ish

How you used the toy: Opposite sex pairing

The toy's claims: "Twice as powerful as the Rabbit," "water-proof, simple, intuitive controls."

What you thought: The vibrator was very underwhelming. Its shape is not very intuitive, and I was really struggling to find a comfortable position and eventually gave up. The controls were easy to use, but I didn't really appreciate the difference between the strengths of the various settings.

What your partner thought: My partner would not recommend it for other men. "Underwhelming, not strong enough, too small to be of any use."

Would you use this again?: We probably won't use it again together, but I'm going to have fun trying to think up ways this vibrator might actually be useful/interesting, especially since it's waterproof. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Lelo Tara

$149, lelo.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: Married

How you used the toy: Opposite-sex pairing

The toy's claims: Provides pleasure to both parties. For her, it stimulates with both rotation and vibration.

What you thought: It kind of rocked my world. Lives up to the claims of providing dual stimulation. If you're into multiple orgasms, you should definitely give this a go. It wasn't the most intense climax I've ever had, but I really can't complain about continuous waves of pleasure. Curled toes guaranteed.

What your partner thought: He liked the sensation, however, it created a cumbersome experience during sex. The rotation wasn't nearly as obvious for him.

Would you use this again?: Yes (threw my old standby away.)

Additional comments: Would have been nice to have a list of all the different settings. It was a little difficult to navigate to the setting that worked best for me, as Tara only has a single button. A digital display of the settings by number would have made the experience perfect. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Lelo Ida couples vibrator

$199, lelo.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: In a relationship

How you used the toy: Opposite-sex pairing

The toy's claims: Discover a mind-blowing new way to share intimacy with Ida, the premium couples' massager worn by women when making love. Ida is the world's first remote-controlled couples' massager to combine powerful vibrations with thrilling rotations, offering completely new sensations for both partners."

What you thought: Ida offers a lot of options--if you can figure out how to turn it on. I found the remote confusing to operate, and the base of the toy dug into me uncomfortably while, um, making love. My partner and I tried it in two positions; neither was especially pleasurable for me.

What your partner thought: "I was a little confused by the sheer amount of vibration options; I often felt more focused on trying to get the most out of its features than actually enjoying it for its intended purpose. In use, the vibration was a welcome addition, but I quickly found myself on the road to a friction burn. Unless you¿re into road rashes on your junk, use lots of lube."

Would you use this again?: Probably not. I like my sex a little less complicated. With three buttons on the remote and two on the insertion piece, Ida was more trouble than it was worth.

Additional comments: If your partner is super-blind and not wearing glasses in the morning, you can trick him or her into thinking Ida is an iPhone or pair of glasses. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Happy Valley Fuze Velvet dildo

$56, comeasyouare.com

Gender: Male

Relationship status: Dating

How you used the toy: Same-sex pairing

The toy's claims: "Velvet is recommended for folks seeking a narrower dildo that is still long enough for harness sex and pegging."

What you thought: It was small enough to use easily, gives you ample control and definitely intensified my orgasm. It was especially a great "prep" step to get ready for the real thing.

What your partner thought: Good for foreplay but would have preferred a better handle/end piece to help control the dildo.

Would you use this again: Oh yes, it makes for a great bonus to solo or partner sex.

Additional comments: Double stimulation is never a bad thing--using this for penetration while my partner used his mouth where I wanted it made sex even better for me. — Feb. 11, 2014

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OhMiBod Lovelife Share vibrating cock ring

$59, shop.ohmibod.com

Gender: Male

Relationship status: Single

How you used the toy: Solo and in an opposite-sex pairing

The toy's claims: "With this sensual couples vibrator, it's time to take sharing to the next level."

What you thought: The packaging was pretty impressive, which is something I find most sex toys neglect. I decided to try it solo before using it during sex. Though I noticed a more intense orgasm, I felt as though the ring was a little too tight. Other rings I've used in the past were made with material that seemed to stretch more than the Share and fit a bit better. Where it stands out is in the seven vibration patterns. It was great during solo use and even better during sex. Being able to change patterns between the one I liked and the one my partner liked made for a more fun sexual experience.

What your partner thought: Didn't get her comments on this one.

Would you use this again?: Yes

Additional comments: I'm not really sure this thing is worth its list price. The strength of the vibrations are comparable to cheaper models, though the Share offers more variety in the vibrations. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Babeland Beginners' Strap-on Kit

$85, babeland.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: Single-ish

How you used the toy: Same-sex pairing

The toy's claims: A "Beginner" strap-on kit with a leather harness, a "smooth" silicone dildo, and a bullet vibrator.

What you thought: I had experience wearing a strap-on but my partner didn't.

While wearing: The harness went on easily; the straps were intuitive to adjust and had a lot of extra room--almost too much, with more than a foot of extra strap dangling off of me. The dildo was bigger than expected for the "beginner" label. I was pleased that the nylon harness straps were comfortable and didn't cut into me, but I wish they had been leather as the product suggested. The harness had a little pouch for the bullet vibrator, and though my partner appreciated feeling it vibrate the dildo inside of her, I found it pretty annoying--it sat too high on my pelvis for me to enjoy, and pressed into me a little bit in a bad way.

While partner was wearing: I was happy the harness was comfortable enough to give her the range of motion she needed for several different positions.

What your partner thought:

While wearing: Because it was her first time wearing a harness, she still really appreciated the novelty of having a penis. Her main complaint was the vibrator, which cut into her a little. Her biggest compliment was that the harness kept the dildo in place and required very little fidgeting.

While her partner was wearing: She wished the ratio of length to width had been more even, and that the dildo had felt a little softer during use.

Would you use this again?: Yes, with some modifications.

Additional comments: All told, it was a lot of fun for both of us, and a great excuse to change-up what we normally do. Beginners may want to start with a smaller dildo. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Fun Factory Stronic Drei thrusting vibrator

$199.99, funfactoryusa.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: Single

How you used the toy: Solo

The toy's claims: "Delivers thrusting motions as opposed to the buzz generated by vibrators" ... "Stronic Drei can be used hands free in a variety of positions because its back and forth thrust motions keep it in place."

What you thought: The pulsating is a totally different sensation and takes a bit of getting used to--there are 10 different speeds and modes of "naturalistic" pulses, from the "Vienna waltz" to the "dirty dancing." Plus, this is one powerful bugger (charges via USB, so no worries on having extra batteries nearby). But with a little patience and maneuvering (and proper water-based lubrication), the Stronic Drei delivers on the hands-free promise and more. The wide base provides external stimulation, and the curve and ribbing of the piece, er, hits the spot.

Would you use this again?: Yes--practice makes perfect!

Additional comments: You know when you get off of a boat, you still feel like you're rocking back and forth? Yeah. (In other words, maybe only use this one right before bed. You'll be useless afterward.) — Feb. 11, 2014

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Tenga Vi-bo Finger Orb vibrator

$19.99, liberator.com

Gender: Female

Relationship status: In a relationship

How you used the toy: Solo

The toy's claims: This specific version slips around your finger via an elastomer ring, and vibrates when you press the large button. A very colorful video on the Vi-Bo website promises that the Finger Orb will "equip your fingers with vibrating touch."

What you thought: While this definitely is one of the cutest toys I've seen, I wasn't so impressed once I began using it. The Vi-Bo only operates at one speed, so if it's too fast or slow for you, you're out of luck. The ring did stay firmly on my finger, but a one-speed vibration just felt like holding an electric toothbrush.

Would you use this again?: Probably not

Additional comments: I can see this being a great toy for travel, due to its super compact size and non-vibrator-like appearance. — Feb. 11, 2014

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Tenga Vi-bo Hand Orb vibrator

$19.99, liberator.com

Gender: Male

Relationship status: Single

How you used the toy: Opposite-sex pairing

The toy's claims: "Make play-time more vivid and stimulating."

What you thought: It's an interesting design, but one that needs to be modified. It fit perfectly on my hand, but was a little big for my partner to use as suggested. I think the ball could be a bit bigger as well to cover more surface area and to give more control. That said, the Hand Orb was a pleasant surprise during sex. The vibrations were the perfect strength when used during girl-on-top sex. Again, the ball could have been a bit bigger to cover more area, but it made for quite the intense orgasm.

What your partner thought:

ALONE: The toy was an OK addition to solo play, but it would be hard to get the job done alone. A wider, flatter vibrating surface would have been preferred over the sphere shape, which was too small, hard and concentrated. Plus it only has one setting, so if you want more or less vibration, you're out of luck. You're able to get fingers as involved, or not involved, as you want, which is nice. And overall, the orgasm was more intense with the toy than without.

TOGETHER: Again for couples play, the toy was a great addition but not something you'd use totally on its own. Lube it up and slip it on your guy's hand for female foreplay. Then you can transfer it to his penis for girl-on-top sex. Because the ball is so small it wasn't always where the girl needs it to be. It was something new and fun, but there are other toys I'd opt for over this one.

Would you use this again?: Yes — Feb. 11, 2014