Sex Machines Explained: It Doesn't Get Tired, It Doesn't Stop, and It Doesn't Need a Compliment

Picture a cock that doesn't get tired. It doesn't slow down, it doesn't lose interest, and it doesn't come after four minutes and roll over. It just keeps going at exactly the speed you've set, at exactly the angle you like, until your legs give out. Your hands are free. Someone else could be holding the remote.

A sex machine is a fairly clear sign your bedside drawer has stopped meeting your requirements. It's usually a powered base that moves a dildo back and forth, and all you have to do is get on it. It doesn't have to be about going harder. Many people love it for the steady pace and the sheer relentless patience.

What does it actually do?

Thrusting machines move an attachment back and forth. Other powered toys rock, rotate or vibrate, so start with the movement you want. A big freestanding base and a compact tabletop unit take up very different amounts of room, and some fold for storage.

The Hismith Pro Traveler 2.0 is a portable thrusting machine with app control and a remote. It's small enough to store easily, without losing the point of the thing. Browse our sex machines for bigger options.

Speed, depth and angle are different things

Speed's how fast the attachment moves, stroke's how far it travels, and angle's the direction it comes from. They matter far more than a breathless claim about maximum power. A dildo you love at a slow pace can feel completely different at speed.

Begin with a small, comfortable range and a low speed. Stop for pain, and switch it off before you reposition yourself. A machine doesn't know if you've moved, and it won't stop out of politeness.

Keep the stop control within reach

Learn the controls before you're anywhere near it, with the speed turned down. You need a reliable, reachable way to stop it, whatever position you're in. Having your partner on the controls adds a very bossy edge. It's not permission for surprise increases, though, so agree on the pace first. And stay untied, because you need to be able to get off it fast.

A physical control, a remote and a phone app aren't the same thing. Think about what happens if a remote gets dropped or a connection cuts out.

Choose an attachment you already like

Use attachments and connectors approved for your machine. An improvised adapter's a shit place to save money. Size and firmness still matter, and you don't need the largest dildo available just because the machine can move it. Our dildo size guide can help. Anything going in your arse still needs to be made for that, and a machine moves a lot, so keep the depth well under control.

Give it a stable place to work

The base or mount needs the support it was designed for, with room for its full movement and your body. Keep cables clear. Think about noise, storage and cleaning as well. Removable toys and the powered base need different care, and a washable dildo doesn't make the motor washable. Use plenty of lube, and keep it close. You'll need it.

If you're more interested in changing position than in powered motion, our sex swing guide is a good place to look. Otherwise, clear your afternoon.