Let's start with the obvious: the La Metropole by Extase is a gorgeous toy. I got mine in pink (which is more of a pinkish copper), and I adore the little painted decal, the lighted button, and the sleek design. Like most high-end toys, the La Metropole comes in beautiful packaging. With phrases like "sensual massager" and "pleasure awaits" gracing the cover, it isn't the most discrete in the world, but is very well-made. A thick cardboard box houses the toy, which sits firmly in a foam insert which can be lifted up to reveal the suede case that comes with it. The case is very discreet, well-made, and fits the La Metropole almost perfectly - I found mine just a bit too tight, though it will likely loosen with extended use. The case smells a bit leathery, but I find it rather pleasant.

The vibrator itself is designed for clitoral stimulation, though it is suitable for penetration. It is short and smooth with a curved point at the end that's perfect for hugging your clit. The vibe is "splash proof," meaning you can take it in the shower or wash it in the sink, but avoid submerging it completely. It's made of aluminum and plastic, and can be cleaned with gentle soap and water. It's powered by a single AA battery, which is a great feature for a smaller vibe, much preferable to hard-to-find watch batteries.

The La Metropole has five vibration modes: steady vibrations in low, medium, and high, alternating low and high pulses (buzz BUZZZZZ buzz BUZZZZZ), and two short pulses followed by one longer, high pulse (buzz buzz BUZZZZZ buzz buzz BUZZZZZ). The modes are controlled by a single backlit button. Hold it for about a second to turn it on, press quickly to cycle through the modes, and hold for three seconds to turn it off. When turned off, the button will blink 1-3 times to indicate battery power (three being fully charged, one low charge). The button is reasonably hard to press, which prevents hitting it accidentally during use or while traveling.

Despite its beautiful design, I was not impressed with the vibrations at all. This vibe is extremely buzzy/high-pitched, which works for some people, but not for me. However, I would still call it a powerful vibe - strong enough to make your hand tingle! I don't have the most power-hungry clit, but it still took a lot to get off with this toy. I had to press very hard, and ended up practically numb by the end. The buzziness makes it a bit uncomfortable to hold, and the sleek surface can be slippery (especially when lubed up). I found the curved tip very nice for clitoral stimulation: you can use it to hug the entire clitoris, use the very tip for pinpoint stimulation, or turn it around for broader, less focused vibes. The tip is nice for gentle g-spot play, but I wouldn't call this a g-spot toy by any means. It's much more suitable for foreplay and perhaps partner play - think of it as an upgrade from the good ol' "come hither" finger motion.

Overall, the La Metropole was just not my ideal toy. It is unrivaled in beauty by any of my old clunky vibes, but it just doesn't bring the the kind of vibration I need - low-pitched and rumbly. If buzzy is what you're looking for, this could be your next favorite. The size and design are nice and unintimidating - good for beginners or partner play. Its nice packaging makes it suitable for a gift, as well.

After two months, the La Metropole has remained unused and stagnant in my sex drawer. I decided to give it another try just for the sake of a good review, but I reached the same conclusion as before: the vibrations on this toy are just not for me. I really wish I could like it as this toy is so pretty, but it's less satisfying than many under-$20 vibes I own.