Dildo Size Guide - How to Get the Right Length and Width: A Visual Guide

Dildos come in every size from the demure beginner probe to the 12 inch whopper. Making the right choice about what will work for your body can be overwhelming but don’t worry, Betty is here to help pick the perfect dildo for you.

When choosing a dildo, there are 4 metrics you need to consider:

1. Length
2. Insertable Length
3. Width
4. Girth

These are 4 distinct measurements. Usually the general rule of thumb is, the longer the dildo, the greater the width (and girth), but that's not always the case.  You can have short, thick dildos, and very long skinny dildos. 

1. DILDO LENGTH 

When dildo manufacturers list their products, they use the overall length. What that means is from top to bottom (from tip to base).  If the dildo has balls, or a suction cup, that is included in the overall length.

2. INSERTABLE LENGTH

This is the measure of how much of a dildo you can insert in your body. Since many dildos have ball and suction cups, these take away from the insertable length of a dildo. An 8" dildo (length) might only have a 5" or 6" insertable length.

INSERTABLE LENGTH = LENGTH - SUCTION CUP/BALLS

The difference between length and insertable length can be seen in this handy video tutorial 

How to Determine the Size of a Dildo

Selecting the right size for a dildo can be confusing, as total length and insertable length are not always the same. Additionally, factors like width and girth can significantly impact comfort and usability. Understanding these differences is essential for choosing a product that suits your needs.

Understanding Dildo Measurements

When purchasing a dildo, it's important to pay attention to three key measurements: overall length, insertable length, and width/girth.

• Overall Length: This refers to the total length of the dildo from the tip to the base. It includes all external features such as balls, suction cups, or flared bases, which may not be part of the usable length.

• Insertable Length: This is the portion of the dildo that can actually be inserted into the body. It is often shorter than the overall length due to external features that prevent deeper insertion.

• Width/Girth: The width, or diameter, of a dildo is measured across the widest part. Some retailers list circumference instead, which is the total distance around the dildo. A wider dildo provides a fuller sensation, while a narrower one may be more comfortable for beginners.

To illustrate the difference between these measurements, let's examine two dildos from the King Cock 3D Triple Density line. Both are listed as eight inches in overall length. However, one has balls while the other does not. The dildo with balls has an insertable length of five inches, whereas the one without balls has an insertable length of six and a half inches. Although they are technically the same size in total length, their functional usability varies significantly.

Choosing the Right Dildo for Your Needs

When selecting a dildo, it is crucial to consider how you plan to use it.

• For Harness Use: If you intend to use it with a harness, a model without balls may provide more insertable length, allowing for greater flexibility and control during use.

• For Realism and Aesthetic Appeal: If realism is a priority, a dildo with balls may be a preferable option, as it provides a more lifelike experience.

• For Comfort and Fit: Beginners may prefer a narrower dildo with a moderate insertable length, while those who enjoy a fuller sensation may opt for a thicker model with a shorter insertable length.

By understanding the distinctions between overall length, insertable length, and width/girth, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your preferences and comfort level. Whether you are looking for a realistic option or one designed for use in a harness, both of these models are available at Betty’s Toy Box.

3. DILDO WIDTH

Manufacturers generally measure the width of a dildo rather than the circumference (or girth). To give you a great comparison, here is a visual of how dildo width translates to the average can of soda.

As illustrated below, keep in mind that the average penis is 1.5 inches wide. Many dildos are much larger, so keep that in mind before you purchase something too big. An average soda can is 2.6 inches in width at its widest point. If you notice the dildo you've been eyeing is creeping up into that soda can girth, you may want to think again, unless you're looking for a very challenging experience.

4. DILDO GIRTH

Dildo girth is a measure of the circumference of the dildo. The girth is directly related to the width: the wider the dildo, the greater the circumference (remember Grade 8 math?) 

Width is probably an easier measurement to use, since it's easier to picture how big a 2" wide dildo would be, but how big is a dildo with a 6.5" girth?

CONCLUSION

Not sure which size dildo is for you?  If you're a beginner, we recommend starting out with a smaller dildo that's more similar to an average size penis.

Click here to browse or smaller dildos under 7" in length

If you've used dildos before and feel like you're ready for something a little larger, you can browse our larger dildos (8" or more) here.

To learn even more about dildos, here is another good video demonstrating different sized dildos.

And, be sure to read our Complete Guide to Dildo Materials.