Most people do best starting with a dildo that has about 5 to 6.5 inches of insertable length and a widest diameter of roughly 1.25 to 1.5 inches, then sizing up one step at a time. Width (girth) matters more for comfort than length, so choose by the widest diameter first and the insertable length second. When you know your numbers, you can filter our dildo collection by size instead of guessing from product names.
Below: how to read a size listing, a simple size ladder, six in-stock picks from 5 to 9 inches, and how to size up safely.
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6 in-stock picks, live prices
In this guide
- <li><a href="#which-measurements-actually-matter">Which measurements actually matter?</a></li><li><a href="#how-to-find-your-size-at-home">How to find your size at home</a></li><li><a href="#a-simple-size-ladder">A simple size ladder</a></li><li><a href="#six-picks-from-5-to-9-inches-compared">Six picks from 5 to 9 inches, compared</a></li><li><a href="#how-to-size-up-safely">How to size up safely</a></li><li><a href="#care-and-material-notes">Care and material notes</a></li><li><a href="#faq">FAQ</a></li><li><a href="#how-we-chose">How we chose</a></li>
Which measurements actually matter?
A product name like "7 inch" usually describes the overall length, base included. Three numbers tell you more:
- Insertable length: the part that can go inside, measured from the tip to where the base or balls begin. It is often 0.5 to 1 inch shorter than the overall length.
- Widest insertable diameter: the thickest point of the shaft or head. This is the number that decides how much stretch you will feel.
- Circumference (girth): if a listing gives only diameter, multiply it by 3.14. A 1.5-inch diameter is about 4.7 inches around; a 2-inch diameter is about 6.3 inches around.
Half an inch of extra diameter is a much bigger change than an extra inch of length. If you are torn between two toys, the one with the smaller widest diameter is the easier choice.
How to find your size at home
You likely already have a reference point. Measure something you have used comfortably, like a previous toy, or a partner, with a soft tape measure: length from tip to base along the top, then the circumference at the thickest point. Divide the circumference by 3.14 to compare it with the diameter shown on our product pages.
For depth, keep anatomy in mind. Planned Parenthood notes that the vagina is about 2 to 4 inches deep when not aroused and can lengthen to about 4 to 8 inches with arousal (Planned Parenthood). Many people never use the full length of a longer toy, so extra inches are mostly about handling room and options rather than depth.
A simple size ladder
These ranges are a starting point, not a rule. Bodies differ, and so do preferences from day to day.
| Step | Insertable length | Widest diameter | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | 4–6 in | under 1.3 in | First dildo, anal beginners, sensitivity or tightness |
| Average | 5–7 in | 1.3–1.7 in | Most vaginal play, a first realistic toy |
| Fuller | 6–8 in | 1.75–2 in | You enjoy average sizes and want more stretch |
| Large | 8 in and up | 2 in and up | Experienced users sizing up gradually |
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Six picks from 5 to 9 inches, compared
Every pick below is in stock, and every measurement comes from the manufacturer's listing. Prices are current at the time of writing.
| Dildo | Insertable / overall | Widest diameter | Material | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ribbed Rainbow Silicone Dildo | 6 in / 6.6 in | 1.3 in | Silicone | $40.95 | Slimmest start |
| Hard-Core 5" Triple Density Dildo | 5.1 in / 6.1 in | 1.8 in | Rubber (phthalate-free) | $42.95 | Short but full |
| Easy Riders 7 Inch Silicone Dildo | 6.5 in / 7.1 in | 1.7 in | Silicone | $43.95 | Average size, suction base |
| Hard-Core 7" Triple Density Dildo | 6.7 in / 7.7 in | 1.8 in | Rubber (phthalate-free) | $48.95 | First step up in girth |
| Real Skin Silicone Dildo 8.5" | 8 in / 8.5 in | 1.8 in | Dual-layer silicone | $100.95 | More length, same width |
| Hard-Core 9" Triple Density Dildo | 8.6 in / 9.6 in | 2.1 in | Rubber (phthalate-free) | $74.95 | Large, for experienced users |
Swipe to compare →
If you want something slim: Ribbed Rainbow Silicone Dildo
At 1.3 inches wide, the Ribbed Rainbow is the narrowest pick here, with 6 inches of insertable length, a soft, flexible silicone body, a curved tip and a suction base. It works for a first toy and for anal play, where a slimmer, flexible shaft is easier to start with. For more slim options, browse our beginner dildos.
If depth is a concern: Hard-Core 5"
The Hard-Core 5" keeps the insertable length to 5.1 inches but has a 1.8-inch widest diameter, so it suits people who want fullness without depth. It has a firm core with softer outer layers and a flanged base that fits most harnesses. The manufacturer lists the material as phthalate-free rubber, not silicone, and says it works with water-based or silicone-based lube.
The average-size pick: Easy Riders 7 Inch
With 6.5 inches insertable and a diameter that tapers from 1.4 to 1.7 inches, the Easy Riders 7 Inch sits right in the middle of the ladder. It's made of silicone, bends without losing its firmness, and has a suction base that also fits most strap-on harnesses. If you want just one "normal" size, this is the easy answer. It's also available with balls and in other skin tones.
The next step in girth: Hard-Core 7"
The Hard-Core 7" gives you 6.7 inches insertable at 1.8 inches wide: about the same length as the Easy Riders, slightly thicker. That makes it a sensible second toy when you like average sizes and want a little more stretch.
More length, same width: Real Skin Silicone 8.5"
The Real Skin 8.5" has 8 inches of insertable length but stays at 1.8 inches wide. That extra length gives you a better grip and more angles to play with, without more stretch. It is dual-layer silicone with a movable outer skin and a suction base. The manufacturer says to use water-based lube only. It's also over our $85 free-shipping threshold on its own.
For experienced users: Hard-Core 9"
At 8.6 inches insertable and 2.1 inches wide, the Hard-Core 9" is a real step up. Choose it only once 1.8-inch toys feel easy. If you're going bigger still, read our guide to big and huge dildos and browse the huge dildos range.
How to size up safely
- Change one thing at a time. Go up about 0.25 inch in diameter or an inch in length, not both at once.
- Use plenty of lube. Use water-based lube with silicone toys. The anus does not make its own lubrication, so use more there (Planned Parenthood). Browse our personal lubricants.
- Warm up and go slowly. Arousal increases depth and relaxation. Pain is a signal to stop, not to push through.
- Use a flared base for anal play. Any toy that goes in the butt needs a flared base so it can't slip all the way in. All six picks above have a wide flanged or suction base.
Care and material notes
Silicone is non-porous and easy to wash with mild soap and warm water. Softer rubber and TPR blends are more porous, so wash them thoroughly, dry them fully, and consider a condom over the toy if you share it (UBC sex toy cleaning guide). Our guide to what dildos are made of covers each material in more depth, and how to clean and maintain your dildo has step-by-step care.
FAQ
What is a good size for a first dildo?
Around 5 to 6.5 inches insertable with a widest diameter under about 1.5 inches. If you're nervous or planning anal play, go slimmer (1.3 inches or less). Our small and beginner dildo guide has more options.
Is length or girth more important?
For comfort, girth. A small jump in diameter adds a lot more stretch than a jump in length, and many people don't use the full length of a longer toy anyway.
Why does a "7 inch" dildo measure less inside?
Names usually describe overall length, including the base. Always check the insertable length; our pre-purchase checklist explains which numbers to write down.
What if the size I order is too big?
Unopened items can be returned within 30 days. Opened items aren't covered, so compare the numbers carefully before you buy. Every order ships in a plain box with discreet billing.
How we chose
We picked in-stock products from our own catalog that cover a clear range of lengths and widths, and took every measurement and material from the manufacturer's listing. We have not hands-on tested these toys, and we don't publish ratings we can't back up.
Ready to compare more sizes? Shop dildos by length, width and material, with free standard shipping on orders over $85.
Sources: Planned Parenthood, vaginal depth and arousal; Planned Parenthood, sex toys; University of British Columbia, sex toy cleaning guide.
