When looking for the dildo of your dreams, you want a shaft that fills you up nicely without being overwhelming — the perfect balance of stimulation and comfort.
Maybe you are shopping for your first dildo, or maybe you are ready for a little more in the size department — whatever your needs, size really does matter when it comes to dildo shopping!
Shopping online for sex toys is quick, convenient, and discreet, but it does make it tricky to judge the size of your new purchase.
Photos are helpful, but looks can be deceiving — I’m not one for conspiracy theories, but I’m sure some sites use hand models with massive hands just to mess with us!
Not to mention, every shop seems to use different measurement conventions!
The last thing you want is to get your brand new dildo in the post only to find out you’ve ordered the wrong size, so we’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Different Measurements
Understanding how different brands and webshops measure dildos is the first step in finding your perfect match. Here are the ones you need to know:
- Length: This usually refers the total length of the dildo, including the base and balls (if there are any).
- Insertable length: This is the measurement of the shaft (the part that will be inside you) sans balls and base.
- Diameter: This is the width of the shaft if you measure from one side to other.
- Circumference or girth: This is the measurment around the outside of the shaft.
Some shops, like Lovehoney, list the circumference, whereas others, like Spectrum Boutique or TooTimid, list the diameter.
It’s important to check which measurement is used so you don’t end up with more or less than you bargained for in the width department!
Also, makes sure to check the measurements in the specifications and don’t only go on what’s in the title — a title that says 9-inch dildo might only have an insertable length of 6.5 inches!
Here at Bedbible, we are team diameter as we think it’s easier to picture what a 2-inch wide shaft looks like than trying to imagine 6.28 inches around.
What Size Dildo is Right For Me?
Diameter (or circumference or girth — whichever makes the most sense to you) is the most important measurement, as this will determine how easy your dildo is to insert, how full it makes you feel, and the intensity of the stimulation.
The insertable length is also important, but you can control how much of the shaft you want to insert, so I recommend starting out by selecting a dildo with your desired diameter.
Tips for Picking the Right Diameter:
- Think about a penis you enjoyed having sex with in the past — roughly what size was it?
- Use your fingers to try out different widths
- If you already own a dildo or insertable sex toy, check the measurement of that and then decide whether you want something bigger or smaller
Choosing a Size Based on Experience
If you are unsure where to start, I’ve put together a general guideline of what to look for based on your level of experience. However, it is important to remember that all bodies are different so these guidelines are only a rough estimate.
Another thing to consider is how you are going to use the dildo. If your dildo is for anal use, you’ll probably want to err on the side of caution when it comes to size and go for something smaller as the anus doesn’t stretch as easily as the vagina.
| Level of Experience | Diameter | Length |
|---|---|---|
| No experience of penetration (with a dildo or penis) | < 1inch | < 5 inches |
| Beginner | 1 – 1.5 inches | 5 – 6 inches |
| Intermediate | 1.5 – 2 inches | 6 – 8 inches |
| Advanced | 2 – 2.5 inches | 8 – 10 inches |
| Size Kings and Queens | > 2.5 inches | > 10 inches |
Delightful Dildos of Every Diameter
Now you’ve got a rough idea of what you are looking for, it’s time to get shopping!
Here are my top picks for each size range to get you going. Maybe you will notice, that I have a thing for suction cup dildos – and you will too.
Less than 1-inch — Blush Temptasia Twist Small Dildo
This small dildo is the perfect starter dildo for anyone that is completely new penetrative play. The twisted design provides some extra textural stimulation, and the suction cup base means it’s anal safe and ready for hands-free fun! What more could you want in a beginner’s dildo? Oh yeah, it’s made of body-safe silicone and less than $15. If you are looking for something that also vibrates choose a small vibrator or another beginner’s vibrator.
Diameter: 0.75 inches
Insertable Length: 3.75 inches
Beginner’s Dildo — Colours Dual Density Silicone Dildo
With a little more girth and a little more length, this approachable dual density dildo has some great details from the realistic testicles to the lifelike texture and sculpted head. You also get the choice of six different colors, including three skin tones. The suction cup base means you can ride it hands-free or slip it into a harness for strap-on partner play.
Diameter: 1.5 inches
Insertable Length: 5.25 inches
Intermediate Dildo — Kendall Swirly Silicone Dildo
Another sublime silicone shaft, this silicone dildo has twists that make each movement feel oh so good, and the curved, bulbed tip is ready to seek out your p- or g-spot. The flared suction cup base means it is perfect for all penetrative play.
Diameter: 1.83 inches
Insertable Length: 7.5 inches
Advanced Dildo — Blush Neo Elite Dual Density Dildo
Now we’re getting up to some sizeable shafts that are going to give you a good stretch! The Blush Neo Elite is big dildo with dual density, meaning it has a firm core with a softer layer for a more realistic feel. The sculpted head is tapered to make it easier to insert this big boy!
Diameter: 2.25 inches
Insertable Length: 8.75 inches
Massive Dildo — King Cock Mega Girthy Ultra Realistic Dildo
If you love a thick dildo, this behemoth might be your new favorite ride! This eye-watering wonder is big in every sense and isn’t messing around! Be sure to warm up properly before attempting to tame this beast. Unfortunately, when you get to this size, it gets a bit tricky to find silicone options and many, like this one, are made from PVC which is porous, so be sure to clean it properly, consider replacing it sooner, and using a condom.
Diameter: 3.18 inches
Insertable Length: 14 inches
Special Sizes for Special Tastes
Generally, the width and length increase in tandem, but that isn’t always what you need.
Maybe you crave something girthy but don’t enjoy deep penetration or vice versa, and thankfully, there’s a dildo for that!
A big dildo isn’t just big in all the ways!
Extra Girthy Dildo — King Cock Mega Chubby Realistic Black Dildo
This thick dildo from King Cock gives you all the girth you could dream of without getting too long. The extra-thick shaft features realistic textures for some seriously strong sensations.
Diameter: 3.18 inches
Insertable length: 7 inches
Long and Thin Dildo — Lifelike Lover Basic Realistic 10-inch Dildo
This long dildo has some serious reach that’s perfect for some deep, deep satisfaction! The long thin design let’s you enjoy deep penetration without the extra girth.
Diameter: 1.5 inches
Insertable length: 10 inches
Some other dildos, where size is almost impossible to measure and report (or expect), but cater to special tasts are: Fantasy dildos, Ridged dildos, Ribbed dildos, textured dildos, or even curved dildos. But also Double dildos (as you have so many measures of length, girth, width and so forth), and Fisting dildos (it’s a hand, I guess the difficulty in measuring girth on that is self-explanatory).
Some Last Things to Consider When Choosing you Dildo:
- The bigger the size, the more intense the textural details will feel
- The bigger the dildo, the softer you’ll want it to be
- If you plan on using your dildo in a harness for strap-on play, you’ll want to go a little up in length.
Now you are armed with the knowledege you need to dildo shop with confidence! And if you’ve already ordered the wrong size by mistake, don’t throw it out just yet! Check out this great advice on what to do if your dildo is too big.