A non-motorised sex toy designed for penetration or stimulation, sensation comes entirely from movement and pressure, with no motor or vibration involved.
Most dildos are shaped to resemble a penis, though the category spans a wide range of forms, sizes and materials. Unlike a vibrator, a dildo is silent and requires no battery. It is one of the most versatile sex toys available and is used by people of all genders, solo or with a partner.
Dildo vs Vibrator: What Is the Difference?
The single defining difference is vibration. A vibrator has a motor; a dildo does not. Use the tabs below to compare them across the features that matter most.
Feature
Dildo
Vibrator
Motor / vibration
None
Yes
Primary sensation
Pressure and movement
Vibration and pressure
Needs battery or charging
No
Yes
Makes noise during use
Silent
Some noise
Strap-on compatible
Usually yes
Design dependent
Typically used for
Penetration and thrusting
External or internal stimulation
Material
Body Safe?
Porous?
Notes
Medical-grade silicone
Yes
No
Most popular. Soft, durable and easy to clean.
Borosilicate glass
Yes
No
Firm. Good for temperature play.
Stainless steel
Yes
No
Heavy, firm and very long-lasting.
Hard ABS plastic
Yes
No
Rigid. Often used in budget designs.
Jelly / PVC
No
Yes
Harbours bacteria. Degrades over time. Avoid.
Cyberskin / TPE
No
Yes
Realistic feel but cannot be fully sterilised.
What Are Dildos Made From?
Material is the single most important factor when buying a dildo. There is no UK law requiring manufacturers to certify sex toy materials as body-safe, so the choice falls to you. The safest options are non-porous, meaning bacteria cannot soak into the surface.
Medical-Grade SiliconeBody SafeNon-porous, soft and flexible. The most widely recommended material. Easy to clean and long-lasting.
Borosilicate GlassBody SafeNon-porous and firm. Can be warmed or cooled for temperature play. Extremely hygienic.
Stainless SteelBody SafeNon-porous, heavy and firm. Holds temperature well and is virtually indestructible.
Hard ABS PlasticBody SafeNon-porous rigid plastic. Often used in affordable designs. Safe when kept clean.
Jelly / PVCAvoidPorous material that harbours bacteria. Can degrade and leach chemicals. Not recommended.
Cyberskin / TPEAvoidFeels realistic but is porous and cannot be fully sterilised. Degrades over time.
Shop Body-Safe Dildos at Ava Noir
Every dildo in our collection is made from body-safe, non-porous materials. Silicone, glass and steel options available.
Dildos are used by people of all genders and sexualities, solo and with partners. They are used for vaginal stimulation, anal stimulation, as part of strap-on play or simply as a tool for exploring sensation.
For couples, dildos can be used in penetrative play, in strap-on harnesses or as a shared toy. For a comprehensive look at using one as a man, see our guide to dildos for men.
Completely SilentA dildo has no motor so it makes no noise during use, a key reason many people prefer it over a vibrator.
No Charging RequiredNo batteries, no USB cables. A dildo is always ready to use and will never run out of power.
Full ControlYou control every aspect of sensation, depth, angle, speed and pressure, making it highly adaptable.
Strap-On ReadyMost dildos with a flared or flat base are compatible with strap-on harnesses, opening up a wide range of uses.
Long-LastingWith no electronics to fail, a quality silicone, glass or steel dildo can last for many years with proper care.
Easy to CleanNon-porous materials like silicone, glass and steel can be fully sterilised, making hygiene simple and reliable.
The Main Types of Dildo
Tap any type below to find out more.
Designed to closely resemble a penis in shape, texture and colour. Often made from silicone with detailed skin-like finish. Popular for those who prefer a familiar feel.
Abstract or smooth shapes without representational detail. Often sleeker and more discreet. Preferred by those who want a less explicit aesthetic.
Feature a flat base that attaches to smooth surfaces for hands-free use. Also compatible with most strap-on harnesses, making them very versatile.
A shaft at both ends, designed for shared use between partners or simultaneous vaginal and anal stimulation for a solo user.
Designed specifically for anal use and always feature a flared base to prevent full insertion. The flared base is a safety requirement, never use a toy without one.
Designed to be worn in a harness for penetrative sex with a partner. Available across a wide range of sizes and shapes. A harness-compatible base is essential.
Rigid toys that deliver firm, precise pressure stimulation. Non-porous and can be used for temperature play by warming or cooling before use.
What is the difference between a dildo and a vibrator?A dildo has no motor and produces no vibration. Sensation comes from manual movement and pressure. A vibrator contains a motor and produces vibration, giving a different type of stimulation.
Are dildos safe to use?Yes, when made from non-porous body-safe materials such as medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass or stainless steel. Avoid porous materials like jelly or cyberskin which can harbour bacteria.
Do you need to use lubricant with a dildo?Yes. A water-based lubricant improves comfort and reduces friction. It is safe with all dildo materials including silicone. Avoid silicone-based lubricant on silicone toys as it can degrade the surface.
Can men use a dildo?Yes. Dildos are used by people of all genders. Men commonly use dildos for anal stimulation including prostate massage. Strap-on dildos are used by couples of all gender combinations.
What size dildo should a beginner choose?For a first dildo, a modest size, simple shape and soft material is advisable. The goal is comfortable exploration rather than maximum sensation. You can move to larger or firmer options once you know what works for you.