Choosing your first sex toy can feel exciting—and a little overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it’s normal to wonder where to start, what’s safe, and what will actually feel good for you. The good news is, at Afterglow we sell products that are thoughtfully designed, body-safe, and beginner-friendly, making it easier than ever to explore pleasure confidently. When it comes to male masturbators, there can be a particular sense of overwhelm and confusion about how to select and operate your first toy. This guide breaks down the most important things to consider so you can make an informed, comfortable choice. If you’re specifically browsing male masturbators, this post will help you narrow down options without stress or confusion.
Before buying, it helps to think about what you’re curious about, not what you think you “should” try.
Ask yourself:
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Do you want manual control or something automated?
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Are you interested in internal, external, or full-coverage stimulation?
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Would you prefer a realistic feel or a more abstract sensation?
Male masturbators come in many forms—from simple sleeves to textured designs that enhance sensation without being overwhelming. Your first sex toy doesn’t need to be large or visually bold to be effective. In fact, many beginners prefer:
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Compact designs
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Lightweight toys
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Neutral or discreet appearances
On the flip side, being a first-time user doesn’t mean you have to settle for smaller or less powerful toys. Many beginners prefer products that deliver the most satisfying sensations from the start, including features such as:
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Vibration patterns and intensity modes for customizable stimulation
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Heat options that add warmth and realism
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Adjustable stroking speeds for varied sensations
These features can enhance the experience without making the toy difficult to use, allowing first-time users to explore what feels best for them.
Prioritize Your Needs:
Male masturbators are often designed with discretion in mind, making them easy to store and travel with. At Afterglow, it is our mission to ensure that everyone’s needs are met by providing a wide variety of toys to choose from. Choosing the right size and shape can help your experience feel more comfortable and less intimidating, especially for first-time users.
Manual fleshlights offer simple operation without the need for charging or electricity, making them highly portable and travel-friendly. In contrast, electronic male masturbators provide enhanced sensations and adjustable settings for a more customized experience that requires less physical effort. For example, the Warrior delivers fast-paced stroking, heat, and vibration, allowing users to enjoy powerful stimulation with minimal hands-on involvement.
Cleaning & Maintenance:
Beginners should also consider toy upkeep when choosing their first sex toy. If cleaning feels intimidating, it’s helpful to select a toy that is easy to handle. Manual fleshlights, like the Bea, have no motors, offering a straightforward hygiene routine with no risk of water damage. Electronic fleshlights, such as the WallE, feature removable sleeves and water-resistant designs, making cleaning simple and reducing maintenance concerns.
Look for:
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Waterproof or water-resistant designs
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Toys with simple openings for rinsing
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Materials that work well with mild soap or toy cleaner
Easy maintenance encourages regular, hygienic use and helps your toy last longer. This is especially important when exploring sex toys for the first time.
Decide What Kind of Stimulation You Want:
Before buying your first male masturbator, it helps to think about what types of sensations excite you most. Every toy is designed differently, so knowing your preferences can make your first experience more enjoyable and less intimidating.
Afterglow’s wide selection of products includes manual and electronic masturbators that enhance pleasure and stimulation. Manual fleshlights allow for complete control over pressure and pace. Because these toys are designed to mimic personal masturbation with the added stimulation of a sleeve, users can fine-tune the experience exactly to their liking. In contrast, electronic male masturbators provide a more versatile experience, offering features that manual toys cannot, such as vibration, heat, and consistent stroking speeds. Many models also include multiple modes that can be adjusted with buttons, allowing you to customize the sensation while still maintaining control over what feels best.
It’s also important to consider the types of sensations you enjoy most during sexual activity. Electronic male masturbators are designed to replicate aspects of partnered sex in solo play. For example, if you enjoy a quicker, more vigorous motion, look for a toy with a stroking feature and adjustable intensity. On the other hand, if you prefer slower, deeper sensations with a sense of pressure or tightness, a suction-based device may provide the experience you’re looking for. Choosing a toy that matches your preferred sensations can make your first experience more satisfying and comfortable.
Normalize Curiosity—There’s No “Correct” First Toy:
Overall, it’s important to prioritize your own needs and desires when choosing a sex toy, especially your first one. If you’re buying it for yourself, the only thing that matters is what feels right for you—not what you think you “should” try. Everyone’s preferences are different, and it’s perfectly normal to select a toy that allows you to explore your wants and needs, even if it seems intimidating at first.
Many people feel self-conscious about using sex toys, but there’s nothing wrong with engaging in pleasure that aligns with your personal desires. In fact, shopping for and using toys can foster a more positive relationship with yourself, helping you learn what you enjoy and how you respond to different sensations. Our team at Afterglow has worked hard to cultivate an inventory that has something for everyone - not just what others might expect you to choose. This self-awareness can also improve partnered experiences in the future. Male masturbators, for example, can help users learn about pacing, endurance, and preferred stimulation techniques, making them a valuable tool for exploration and sexual confidence.
It’s Okay to Have Multiple Toys:
It’s also perfectly normal to have more than one toy. Everyone’s needs and preferences can vary from day to day—sometimes you might crave suction, other times stroking. Having multiple toys allows you to switch based on mood or desired sensation, ensuring every experience is enjoyable. Many people find it useful to have both a manual and an electronic toy: a manual option is perfect for travel or discreet use, while an electronic model can stay at home for more versatile, hands-free experiences. Owning different types gives you flexibility, variety, and a deeper understanding of what you enjoy most. For example, the Zephyr is a compact, vibration-based toy that works well for both solo and partnered play and is easy to take on the go. In contrast, toys like the Gamecup are larger and feature heat, stroking, and vibration, along with a built-in phone stand, making them ideal for more immersive, enhanced stimulation at home. Afterglow has a combination of toys that can meet all of your needs.
