Every gay man should have a special drawer of tricks—or a black box under the bed—at his disposal. Sex toys put the arse in arsenal when it comes to tools for pleasuring both your partner(s) and yourself.

And there really is quite the selection of gay sex toys to choose from out there. Don’t believe me? Then head into your local gay sex shop and take a gander. You’ll find whole walls displaying fleshlights, penis pumps, cock rings, butt plugs, anal beads, fetish fancies, and dildos of every shape and size humanly (or sometimes inhumanly) possible.

The real trick is choosing the ones that best fit (yes, fit) your vibe, position preferences, and kinky pastimes. These are our best buys for gay men looking to insert something extra into their sex lives—or possibly insert it into someone else’s.

Masturbatory Toys

It doesn’t always take two to tango, but a helping hand never goes amiss. Some gay sex toys can serve as excellent stand-ins to facilitate a little self-love.

Fleshlights

A classic in male sex toys, Fleshlight strokers are sleeves designed to replicate the feeling of penetrative or oral sex through an opening that could resemble either an anus or mouth, depending on your preference. The suction and different textured interiors stimulate the penis as if it were the real deal, and they are designed to resemble an actual flashlight so you can even pop them on your shelf and have no one be any the wiser.

Best-seller: Fleshlight Turbo Thrust

Blowmotion Suction 

Why do all the hard work when something else can do all the work getting you hard? These toys simulate oral sex using suction, vibration, or pulsing air technology. They’re ideal if you want a hands-free, more immersive experience than traditional stroking. In other words, a lazy top's best friend.

Best-seller: Blowmotion Warming Vibrating Male Masturbator

Dick Play

Penis/Cock Rings 

A classic for a reason. Simple yet effective, these rings are worn at the base of the penis to maintain erections and intensify sensation. They come in silicone, leather, metal, and some even vibrate. Hot tip: If you go with metal, make sure to get one that fits your size, as they’re far less flexible than their silicone counterparts—and there’s nothing more frustrating than struggling to pop a ball through during a special moment… or so we hear.

Best-seller: Oxballs WILLY RINGS 3-pack cockrings

Cock Sheath 

Every good weapon benefits from a good sheath. Arm yours with some extra texture and girth with one of these sleeves worn over the penis. It’s simple as well but can greatly enhance the experience for active partners by helping with – let’s go with – endurance and sensation for the passive partners.

Best-seller: Black Mamba Cock Sheath 

Penis Pumps

Need a little help to get going? A penis pump, or vacuum erection device (VCD), is a non-invasive cylinder pump which creates a vacuum to draw blood into the penis, causing an erection and increasing penis size. Just a few minutes of pumping will get you going for at least 30 minutes of… well, pumping. Not that a water-based pumping system is widely considered safer and more effective than air pumps.

Best-seller: Bathmate Hydromax

Magic Wand

You won’t find one of these at Hogwarts that's for sure. Once used as body massagers they are now widely used as a powerful external vibrator, usually by women. However, they also give extremely great sensations when used on the male genitalia – as well as on nipples and the body as a whole. Try it out and see for yourself.

Best-seller: Magic Wand Rechargeable

Ass Play 

Enough dicking around. Let's get internal. Anal toys are really hit the spot for gay men. The prostate (P-spot) to be precise.

Dildos

An obvious one but dildos for gay men come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities—from sleek and subtle to “where the hell are you planning to store that?” Some are realistic, some boldly not. Really your best bet is to get one that resembles what you are used to and work your way up from there with lube being your best friend. Inflatable dildos are also a good option.

Best-seller: Easy Riders Dual Density Silicone Dildo

Double ended dildo 

Want to share some anal action with a newfound friend? Two bottoms that don’t have time to cruise apps for hours to find a good top? The double ended dildo is your best friend. Designed for shared play or hands-free use.

Best-seller: Doc Johnson Double Header Dong Smooth

Butt Plugs

No ifs, just butts. Butt plugs are designed for anal stimulation by providing constant internal pressure. They’re shaped with a tapered tip for easy insertion, a wider middle for a feeling of fullness, and a flared base for safety. Options come in silicone, metal, and glass, and in sizes from beginner to advanced, making them suitable for training, warming up, or prolonged wear.

Best-seller: WAD The Viper

Anal Beads

Getting more adventurous, anal beads are connected spheres that gradually increase in size, allowing for a slow, controlled build-up of sensation during insertion. Typically made from silicone or other body-safe materials, they’re flexible, beginner-friendly, and easy to use. Hot tip: pull them out quickly when climaxing for the best orgasm of your life.

Best-seller: Mister B Anal Balls S

Prostate Massager

Interesting fact: the infamous male G spot is only a few inches into the anus. Prostate massagers, often called P-spot toys, are designed to target that prostate for focused internal stimulation. They typically feature a curved shape to reach the gland and a flared base for safety. 

Best-seller: Lovehoney Butt Tingler 10 Function Vibrating Butt Plug 3.5 Inch

Bullet

Bullets are small, discreet vibrators designed for targeted external stimulation. Compact and easy to slip in they’re great for beginners or for adding extra sensation during partnered play. Most bullet vibrators use simple controls, usually a single button or a small set of buttons to cycle through different vibration speeds and patterns. Remote controlled bullets can be a lot of fun with your partner able to stimulate you without even being in the same room.

Best-seller: VIRGITE P5 PROSTATE VIBRATOR REMOTE CONTROL

F Machines

Ready to take things from handheld to hands-free (and then some)? F***ing machines are exactly what they sound like: motorized devices designed to deliver consistent, customizable thrusting so you can sit back—or position yourself accordingly—and enjoy the ride. Adjustable speeds, angles, and attachments mean you can tailor the experience to your exact liking, whether you’re easing in or going full power mode. They’re not exactly subtle, but then again, neither is the result.

Best-seller: Hismith Sex Machine

Kinky and BDSM Play

A little bit of pain never hurt anyone… who didn’t want to be hurt that is. If you’re curious about (or already a master or master of being submissive) exploring power dynamics or sensation play, there are plenty of gay sex toys for kink and BDSM out there just crying out for your attention. Here’s some to get you going.

Ball Gag

Sometimes you say it best, when you say nothing at all. Ball gags are a common BDSM accessory designed to be worn in the mouth, typically consisting of a firm ball attached to a strap that fastens around the head. They’re used to restrict speech to enhance power dynamics during play.

Best-seller: Mister B Leather Ballgag Black

Spanking Toys (Paddles, Floggers and Whips)

Spanking toys, such as paddles, floggers and whips, are designed for impact play, offering a range of sensations from light taps to more intense strikes depending on the material and technique. Paddles tend to deliver broader, thuddier impact, while whips and floggers create sharper or more varied sensations—with floggers being slightly less relentless than whips and paddles. They come in a range of materials like leather, silicone, or suede. 

Best-seller: Mister B Impact Premium Leather Flogger

Nipple Clamps

Nipple clamps are designed to apply adjustable pressure to the nipples, increasing sensitivity and enhancing stimulation. They typically feature a clamping mechanism—such as screws or springs—to control intensity, making them suitable for different comfort levels. Often made from metal or silicone, some styles also include chains or added weights for extra sensation and control. Stay away from the magnetic ones unless you are pro – those things are relentless. 

Best-seller: Stainless Steel Nipple Clips

ElectroSex Gear

A more adventurous option for those into S&M, Electrosex gear uses low-level electrical stimulation to create unique tingling or pulsing sensations on the body. Typically consisting of a control unit and conductive pads or attachments, it allows users to adjust intensity

Best-seller: Mystim Electrosex Kit

Chastity Cage

A cock chastity cage is designed to enclose the penis, limiting erection and access while emphasizing control and anticipation. Typically worn with a base ring and a locked cage, it comes in materials like metal or plastic and various sizes for comfort and fit. Whether short-term play or longer wear, it’s all about restraint, tension, and the slow burn of delayed gratification.

Best-seller: HolyTrainer Male Chastity V4 Maxi 

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

When you get down to it, what goes into that perfect toy drawer—or black box under the bed—of yours is completely in your, no doubt, adept hands. Whether you’re starting small or going right on in there, the right toys can elevate both solo sessions and partnered play in ways you didn’t know you needed.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here—just what gets you off and the desire to experiment, because every great performance deserves the right props.

FAQ: Just the Tip

What toys are best for beginners?

If you’re just starting out, it’s best to keep it simple. Smaller butt plugs, basic cock rings, and bullet vibrators are all great entry points (so to speak) because they’re easy to use and not too intimidating. Soft silicone materials are usually the most comfortable and forgiving. For anal play, start with something tapered and modest in size, and lube – as always – is your best friend. At the end of the day, you know what you can take and be honest about it with yourself. 

 If you’re exploring solo play, strokers or suction toys can offer a more immersive experience without much learning curve. When it comes to BDSM toys, experiment with a partner who knows what he’s doing. Consent, as always, is key. Safe words all the way. Or safe actions in the case of ball gags. 

Are prostate massagers safe?

Yes, prostate massagers are safe when used properly and with body-safe materials. They’re specifically designed with a curved shape to target the prostate and usually include a flared base to prevent them from going in too far. Start slowly, and use lube, especially if you’re new to internal play, and choose a size that feels manageable. Many modern prostate toys also include vibration settings, which can enhance the experience without requiring extra pressure. 

How do I clean my toys properly?

Keeping your toys clean is essential for both hygiene and longevity. Most toys can be washed with warm water and mild, unscented soap before and after use. Silicone, glass, and metal toys are generally non-porous, which makes them easier to clean thoroughly. Some toys are also waterproof, allowing for more convenient washing, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first—especially for anything with electronic components. You can also use a dedicated toy cleaner for added peace of mind. Make sure everything is completely dry before storing, and keep toys in a clean, separate space (like your trusty drawer or box) to avoid contamination.

What size plug should I start with?

You know your own butt, but if you are asking this question, you should probably start small.

Look for beginner plugs with a slim, tapered tip and a narrower overall diameter—typically around 1 to 1.25 inches at the widest point. The gradual shape makes insertion easier and more comfortable, especially if you’re new to anal play. As you get more comfortable, you can slowly work your way up to larger sizes. Materials like silicone are ideal for beginners because they’re soft and flexible. 

Are silicone toys better?

Silicone toys are widely considered one of the best options, especially for beginners. They’re soft, flexible, and feel more natural against the skin compared to harder materials. High-quality silicone is also non-porous, meaning it doesn’t harbor bacteria when cleaned properly, making it a more hygienic choice. That said, other materials like glass and metal have their own appeal, offering firmer sensations and easy cleaning as well. Ultimately, “better” depends on your preferences.

Featured image by cottonbro studio