Sextech has come a long way. While the industry’s early years were defined by insertable toys designed to mimic penetrative sex, that approach often overlooked a basic anatomical reality: for most people with vulvas, clitoral stimulation is far more likely to lead to orgasm than penetration alone.
As understanding of pleasure evolved, so did the sex toys cluttering our bedside drawers. Bullet vibrators gave way to clitoral stimulators. Realistic dildos were swapped out for suction-based roses, lemons and avocados. Clitoral-focused toys were no longer a niche category; they were the hot new category, particularly after air pulse technology was added to the mix when the Womanizer debuted in 2014. Rabbit vibrators and G-spot sex toys also faded into the background as countless suction toys dominated shelves and conversations.
But the pendulum appears to be swinging again.
Insertable sex toys have been making a noticeable comeback, with thrusting dildos making their way back into the spotlight with several new product launches in past months. Products that might have once been considered too intense or realistic for mainstream consumers are now finding a wider audience. The dildo is back, and now it’s thrusting too.
So, what’s behind the resurging popularity of penetrative toys? And if you’re considering buying a thrusting dildo, which models are actually worth your money?
I’ve been reviewing sextech for more than three years for publications including Glamour, Betches and Metro. During that time, I’ve tested products across the industry, from couples toys to G-spot vibrators. For this piece, I’ll be drawing on my experience with recently released thrusting dildos, alongside others I’ve reviewed over the years.
The evolution of thrusting dildos
Some of the biggest names in sextech are now releasing thrusting toys or returning to their penetrative ranges, including brands that had previously shifted toward softer, less intimidating designs, such as Lelo and Lovense.
According to Lisa Opel, erotic writer, TEDx speaker, and resident sex educator at Mylo, “penetrative toys never really went away. What’s changed is their visibility, design and the way we talk about them. It feels less like a return and more like an evolution.”
Opel believes that changing attitudes are responsible for this shift. “Toys have moved out of the drawer and into the conversation. The more openly we talk about pleasure, the more curious people become, and once curiosity replaces embarrassment, buying behaviour follows.”
She continues, “In a world still so obsessed with penis-in-vagina sex… we’re finally understanding that toys aren’t competition, they’re tools.”
Perhaps many felt sex toys could be excused in the bedroom due to their focus on non-penetrative pleasure, but now we’ve come far enough to accept a different form of penetration. And to thrill ourselves with a little thrusting too.
Maybe that’s what we’re seeing: not a move away from clitoral-focused sextech, but simply a willingness to explore more. And in this case, it’s thrusting dildos.
Comparing my favorite thrusting dildos
Lelo Ina Thrust
For its take on the thrusting dildo, LELO has reimagined the classic rabbit vibrator, a category that became a household name thanks to “Sex and the City.” The result, the Lelo Ina Thrust, combines dual stimulation with two independent motors, allowing you to use it as a traditional rabbit vibrator or switch to its thrusting function.
Unlike some thrusting toys that can feel mechanical or overly aggressive, and so far from the real act, the motion here is surprisingly smooth and natural. The thrusting has a more realistic rhythm, with multiple speed settings that make it easy to find a pace that suits your preferences.
That said, this is a premium product with a premium price tag. It’s one of Lelo’s most expensive toys to date, even by the brand’s expensive standards. At that price, I’d expect better ergonomics too. The handle lacks the secure, comfortable grip needed to maneuver the toy easily, which can make longer sessions feel less intuitive than they should. I also shouldn’t be feeling vibrations through the handle at this price point.
Lovense Spinel
Thrusting machines like the Lovense Spinel can look a little intimidating at first glance, which may explain the choice of a soft pastel pink finish to make it feel more approachable. It’s also one of the more versatile options on the market. You can use it handheld, secure it to a wall or floor with its suction cup, or attach the included handle for greater control. Lovense also offers a range of interchangeable attachments, allowing you to customize the experience.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks. I was disappointed that there’s no dedicated remote control, meaning you’ll need to reach for the controls on the toy itself when using it solo or bring your phone in for the Lovense app. It’s also far from discreet. The motor is noticeably louder than many competitors, making it less suitable for shared apartments.
Most thrusting dildos on this list can be connected to an app. But unlike some others, the Spinel can be synced to the beat of your favorite songs via the Lovense app. The app also offers Group Control, which is a unique way to spice up your solo sessions.
Lovense Vulse
The Lovense Vulse is the best thrusting dildo for couples play thanks to its unique take on the traditional egg vibrator. Rather than simply vibrating, it adds a thrusting motion to the classic design.
The narrow shape is designed to target the G-spot directly, while speeds of up to 120 strokes per minute are impressive for such a compact toy. Its slimmer girth also makes it a particularly good option for beginners or anyone who prefers less internal fullness, while still wanting to experiment with thrusting stimulation. Penetrative toys can be quite an adjustment initially, so this is a good thrusting dildo for beginners. However, it won’t pack a punch, so it’s best used in combination with partner play or another sex toy.
Like the Lovense Spinel, this thrusting egg vibrator can be used long-distance thanks to the app. This also allows you to use the same app functionalities.
Bellesa AirThrust
If clitoral suction toys already hold a special place in your bedside drawer, this is a good option for taking your favorite toy into thrusting territory. It combines the brand’s AirVibe air pulse technology with an extendable thrusting arm, bringing two types of stimulation into one device.
However, the lack of flexibility in the thrusting arm can make the fit a case of hit or miss. It’s quite rigid and doesn’t work with your anatomy. This is particularly noticeable if you’re trying to position the upper part of the sex toy precisely against your clitoris, as there’s limited flexibility to adjust the angle once it’s in place.
The settings are simple to use, but are they too simple? If you’re experienced in sextech, you might feel limited by the lack of an app or additional motors.
Which one to pick?
Thrusting dildos are certainly having a moment, and one that might last, thanks to new technology making their motions feel more realistic and pleasurable. If you’re looking for the most advanced option, the LELO INA Thrust leads the pack, although its premium price may be hard to justify when similarly priced alternatives like the Lovense Spinel offer strong competition. The Bellesa AirThrust is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys clitoral stimulation alongside penetration. And if you’re curious about thrusting toys but not ready to dive straight in, or you’re looking to enhance partnered play, the Lovense Vulse egg vibrator is a great place to start.
As manufacturers continue to experiment with new mechanics and smarter designs, I expect this category to keep changing over the coming years.