The Smoothie, by Nasstoys, is a somewhat “upgraded” basic plastic vibrator. Sporting an elongated phallic shape with subtle ridges midway down the shaft and three speeds, this sex toy seems designed to be reliable rather than flashy. It is slender enough to be beginner-friendly, though its firmness makes the circumference count. While the Smoothie is less than five inches long past the base, it’s certainly long enough to brush against the G-spot when angled properly. It even comes with batteries!

As mentioned, the Smoothie has three speeds. It is turned on with the push of a small rubber button on the rounded base of the vibrator, and then grows in strength with each additional press until it turns off again. Having to shut the vibrator off to access a lower speed, or the medium speed when on high, may be irritating for some. Despite this, however, the motor transfers its vibrations well through the hard plastic of the Smoothie, and this holds true not just for the tip or shaft, but the entirety of the vibrator. This renders the Smoothie well-equipped for clitoral and vaginal use alike.

Just shy of four inches around at its widest point, the Smoothie would serve nicely for someone new to sex toys; while it is a bright cherry red color, this vibrator is otherwise a fairly light, not overly large toy. In addition, its three speeds are quiet, ranging from barely audible to easily blocked by a closed door – and perhaps a blanket – when set at its highest speed. It is easily cleaned with warm soap and water, or it can be wiped down with a 10% bleach solution to sterilize the surface, as the Smoothie is non-porous. Water, silicone and oil-based lubricants are all safe to use with the Smoothie.

Unfortunately, the Smoothie has one big potential negative: its batteries. Yes, there are batteries included, and this vibrator needs them both right away. The problem is that the batteries are size N, which is a relatively obscure – and expensive – size. This vibrator also seems to drain them quickly; I noticed a decrease in power after only six uses. Availability likely varies based on location, but I sought out this battery size at multiple stores with no luck.

In short, the Smoothie is a solid vibrator for beginners and more experienced sex-toy users alike, with the caveat that buyers should be aware that this vibrator takes a somewhat expensive and potentially difficult to find battery.

For me, the Smoothie actually serves well as a substitute for my Hitachi, when noise level is an issue. The vibrations are, while definitely not as strong as the much larger power tool...er, sex toy...focused enough that I come very easily with this little vibrator on my clit. In fact, for me at least the Smoothie is best as a clitoral toy!

To harp on the battery thing again, it's something of a personal pet peeve of mine: the batteries were truly difficult for me to find around here and require shipping costs when purchased online. Your mileage may vary.