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Electric Vibrators versus Battery Vibrators
pros and cons of electric and battery vibrators

By Cory Silverberg, About.com

Updated September 13, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

One main difference between vibrators is the power source for the vibrator. Most vibrators are battery operated and require AA or AAA batteries, although vibrators that take small watch size batteries are gaining in popularity. However most of the original vibrators, and today the best quality vibrators remain electric vibrators. There are also electric models that are rechargeable, so you can use them without a cord, but they must be plugged in to recharge in between uses. Here are some of the key differences between electric and battery vibrators:

Electric Vibrators

  • Have stronger vibrations
  • Tend to be better quality and have longer lives
  • Are primarily for external stimulation (some sex toy makers have designed attachments that can be purchased separately and used for penetration)
  • Are generally more expensive

Battery Powered Vibrators

  • Available in a wider range of shapes, sizes, colors
  • Usually not as powerful as electric
  • Compared to brand name electric models, they are not as good quality
  • Generally less expensive, available in a wider price range

Learn more about electric vibrators

Learn more about battery vibrators

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