Whether you’re a solo masturbater who wants to add something new to your orgasms or you’re looking for a way to heighten sexual climaxes with a partner, male masturbating toys can help. But the wide variety of options can make finding a toy that suits you overwhelming. The first thing to keep in mind is that each male masturbator feels a little different. Some are made from more realistic materials that do a great job of feeling like real skin, while others have a smoother or more textured finish.

You also want to think about the size of the stroker and how it fits in your penis. Some are designed to fit your entire shaft, while others are more narrow and can only be used by the tip. Some also feature handles or phone mounts, which could be fun for hands-free masturbation.

Another factor to consider is how easily the stroker can be cleaned and sanitized. You’ll want to avoid buying a masturbator that is made from porous material that can’t be easily rinsed and sterilized. This is especially important if you have skin sensitivities and/or you plan to use the toy in the shower. Look for a toy that is made from medical-grade silicone, or one with replaceable sleeves that are easy to invert.

Then there’s the actual design of the toy that can really make a difference in how it feels to masturbate. For instance, some men enjoy strokers that have a shape that mimics the inside of a vagina or the buttocks, while others prefer something more straight and anatomically correct.

If you’re ready to take your pleasure up a notch, check out sex toys that can sync with VR or that have the ability to send and receive sensory input from other devices such as a cock ring. And if you’re really ready to take things to the next level, there are automated strokers that let you fit your sleeve into a holder and then just sit back and watch it do the work for you.

For many people, using a masturbator is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. During masturbation, your brain releases chemicals that can give you a similar feel-good rush to ejaculating. It can also help to relieve loneliness, because it’s a natural way to connect with yourself. But there’s still a stigma around masturbation in our culture, with some guys thinking they need to be horny to use a vibrator. Sexologist Cam Fraser says that this is a shame because masturbation can be very fulfilling for straight men. In fact, using a masturbating toy can actually improve your performance and satisfaction during partnered sex.