What Is a Masturbator or Stroker: The Definitive Guide

Masturbation amplifies sexual arousal or pleasure and can be performed by and enjoyed by all, regardless of gender or race. While it can, and is often done manually, there are devices that can enhance one’s experience to make masturbation easier, or more comfortable. These devices are often referred to as masturbators or strokers. In this guide, we will explore how these devices work, the pros and cons of using them, and some popular devices on the market today

First, let’s clarify what the “typical” act of masturbation often entails. For those with a penis, the most common masturbation technique is to simply form a loose fist and move the hand up and down on the penis shaft. For those with a clitoris, applying pressure and stimulation, either manual or with a vibrator, are common. Regardless of how it's done, the end goal is typically a satisfying orgasm.

Masturbators and strokers are meant to make the act of masturbating more exciting, and for some, even easier! Play gear is available for people of all genders, including transmen who are currently in transition. For someone who may have difficulty with their hands, either gripping or holding something, these devices can be a terrific tool.

Some masturbators simply slide over the penis so one can masturbate manually. They come in different lengths, thicknesses, and may include fun textures.

Sheaths slide over the penis, while still allowing the user to penetrate a partner. As with basic masturbators, sheaths come in many shapes, sizes, textures, and materials.

Clitoral stimulators, available with or without vibrators, provide those with a clitoris additional stimulation around this highly sensitive, nerve-dense area.

Masturbators and strokers not only make the “job” more exciting, but they can amplify the experience by providing extra tightness, nubs, and textures, which provide the user with a fresh, new experience. When using a sheath, these benefits extend to both the wearer and the penetrated receiver.

There are a lot of myths and misinformation (dating back eons of years) around the actual practice of masturbation. In reality, it’s a fun, healthy way to release sexual tension and experience sexual pleasure.

Masturbation has also been proven to help relieve stress and tension. Enhancing one’s mood and improving sleep are just the cherries on top!

Using a masturbator or stroker can take your masturbation sessions to a whole new level.

To get the most out of your masturbator or stroker, experiment! Try different speeds and positions. Use a water-based lube to prevent any unnecessary chafing or uncomfortable rubbing.

And, of course, always keep your play gear in tip top shape by cleaning before and after use with an antibacterial soap or cleaner made specifically for your device.

A three-time Men’s Health Magazine “Best Male Masturbator,” the XPLAY® Jack Daddy wide-mouth stroker will not disappoint. The innovative thumb loop is so practical you’ll want to add it to all your toys!

Perfect Fit Brand®’s Male Masturbator is simple, yet sassy. It features stimulating ribs and nubs. Its thick wall construction provides a wonderful feeling of “tightness” without needing to squeeze with your hand. Looking for even more control, try the Perfect Fit Brand® Male Masturbator with Grips. Sporting simple hand straps on either side, you’ll have an effortless, solid grip on your member every time.

The award-winning Buck-Off™ is the first product in the Buck Angel™ FTM line. It’s a compact stroker specifically designed for men suffering from gender dysphoria. It helps transmen explore and love their bodies during transitional changes that happen as a result of HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

The “per customer request” Kiss-X™ was designed for transmen not in medical transition, or those early on in their HRT journey. Designed as a suction stroker, it fits over the clitoris. It’s similar to the Buck-Off™, but with a smaller hole for smaller parts. Both the Buck-Off™ and the Kiss-X™ are made from a super soft SilaSkin™ material making it pliable and pleasant to the touch. Anyone with a clitoris may enjoy this one!

There are a lot of myths around masturbation that date back hundreds of years. Even today, strong beliefs around the subject are maintained by select groups. Some religions, for example, consider it a sin. Some believe that women shouldn’t masturbate. As a result of these anxiety-inducing beliefs, some people may experience feelings of guilt or shame after masturbating. Or, you may simply not be interested in it, which is OK. Whether or not you masturbate, and how you do it is up to you.

Underlying health conditions can play a role in how, or if, you choose to masturbate. Masturbators and strokers may prove useful in relieving some issues associated with ED (erectile dysfunction), gender dysphoria, pain during penetration, or even sexual trauma.

Using a masturbator or stroker can make masturbation easier, more exciting, or both! The act of masturbating releases several mood boosting hormones such as dopamine, testosterone, endorphins, and more. Reduce stress, relieve anxiety, and get better sleep.

Using a masturbator or stroker introduces new, stimulating textures, a variety of sizes, and more. It’s a great way to experience new and intense pleasure. They can also assist in situations where manual dexterity doesn’t allow one to masturbate well on their own, or with a partner.

Masturbators and strokers are terrific tools for those looking to enhance their masturbation experience. They are helpful in situations where a lack of manual dexterity may prevent someone from masturbating on their own. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. Loving your body is what it’s all about and everyone deserves this simple pleasure. The Buck-Off™ and Kiss-X™, made specifically for trans men, are terrific testaments to this.