Anal beads are a type of sex toy that come with a string of connected beads with a handle, and can be used solo or with a partner, regardless of gender. The handle is for easy removal, and should be long in length for safety reasons.

These beads are intended to be inserted into the rectum, and then removed at a speed that feels comfortable and sexually stimulating. It is often recommended to pull out anal beads during the height of climax, as it can increase sexual bliss ten fold. By doing this, the nerve endings found at the mouth of the anus are then stimulated. 

The thing about anal beads is that they’re generally smaller than a butt plug (especially the first bead, and also depending on which one you buy). And the fact that they grow in size as you go means that it’s a nice and slow progression in stimulation.

But this is not the only reason why anal beads are so popular. For penis owners, anal beads have the ability to stimulate the prostate.  

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found inside of the anus and is rife with nerve endings. When stimulated, a new kind of orgasm can be experienced… one stronger and more blissful than any other kind they may have ever felt before. 

With that general knowledge on anal beads, let’s zone in one two particular kinds of these sex toys, shall we? Namely, weighted anal beads and flexible anal beads. 

And while both stimulate the same area, they both give off two totally different kinds of sensations. Which one is right for you?

Comparing Weighted and Flexible Anal Beads: Pros and Cons

So you’re interested in anal play, or you’ve already indulged in it and want to heighten your experience. Have you tried weighted or flexible anal beads? Maybe you’ve tried one but not the other, or perhaps you’ve tried neither. 

Well, we’re going to take you through the basics of both so that you can have an idea of which one you should go for next, or which one you can start off with. 

As we mentioned above, anal play can be extremely sexual and satisfying, and even though we only mentioned penis owners thus far, let us tell you why it’s so tantalising for vulva owners too.

You see, when vulva owners engage in anal stimulation, they are indirectly stimulating their G-spot. The G-spot is an area about two to three inches inside of the vagina and, when stimulated, can create an immense build-up leading to incredible orgasms. 

Not just that, but the G-spot is connected to the clitoral network… a common way in which many vulva owners climax. With anal stimulation, the entire clitoral network is being indirectly stimulated, adding to the pleasure of vulva owners. This could then lead to an anal orgasm with added pleasure received from indirect stimulation.

Or, if one would like to stimulate their clitoris and/or G-spot during anal play, they may experience a blended orgasm, which can be very powerful. This is because flexible anal beads can complement other kinds of play without being overwhelming. 

Moving on, let’s touch on the subject of weighted anal beads; how they work, and their advantages and unique sensations.

What Are Weighted Anal Beads?

Weighted anal beads are either only internally or both internally and externally weighted and provide the user with a feeling of heaviness, pressure, and fullness. This heaviness presses firmly on one’s anal sphincter, leaving the user feeling its presence. 

Oftentimes, weighted anal beads are made out of stainless steel or glass, and sometimes, they’re internally made of one of these materials and externally covered in soft silicone. 

How They Work

Weighted anal beads work the same as flexible anal beads: they provide stimulation through movement. Whichever type of anal beads you’re trying, the purpose of them is to stimulate the inside of the body while moving in and out of the rectum. The difference between these two types of anal beads then lies in the sensations felt.

Advantages and Unique Sensations

One unexpected advantage (and a unique sensation) of weighted anal beads is that those that are externally weighted (made of stainless steel or glass) can be used for temperature play. 

Temperature play is a kind of sensation play that utilises different temperatures, hot and cold, to stimulate the body’s neuroreceptors. In this way, you could submerge your sex toy into hot or cold water before use, and enjoy the added sensation. 

Some also like the feeling of using their anal muscles to ‘clamp down’ and hold the weight inside of themselves, aka doing kegel exercises.

And then, for vulva owners, weighted anal beads are great because it puts indirect pressure on their G-spot. This could be during intimacy (for example penetrative p-in-v sex), or during non-intimate moments. 

For penis owners, it too can add that extra bit of stimulation during sexual or non-sexual moments. Masturbation whilst wearing weighted anal beads for example can really enhance the experience.

As per unique sensations, using weighted anal beads gives the user the feeling of micro vibrations of a moving weight, especially when they’re moving or running. It feels as though there’s a ball bouncing, hitting the walls, which can be very pleasurable. 

What Are Flexible Anal Beads?

Flexible anal beads are, well, flexible. They usually contain more beads than weighted anal beads, and thus allow for a prolonged amount of sensation when pulling them out. 

They’re more recommended for beginners (but also equally as satisfying for regular players) as they aren’t as intense as weighted anal beads. 

Flexible anal beads are usually made of silicone, but could also be made of other materials such as plastic, rubber, or latex. Body safe silicone however is the safest material and we recommended always choosing this material.

How They Work

One would use flexible anal beads in the same manner as weighted anal beads. 

This would be to slowly insert each bead into the anus at a pace you’re comfortable with, using a generous amount of lube. No matter how experienced you are, you can insert one, two, three, or all of the beads inside of you, the most important factors are comfort and pleasure. 

Once inserted, they can be removed slowly or quickly, depending on how you feel the most aroused. If done during climax, even better. For removal, there will be a ring or a similar handle at the end of the beads designed for pulling.

The flexibility offers a gentle feeling and not one of fullness (like the weighted anal beads). 

Advantages and Unique Sensations

One advantage of using flexible anal beads is that it’s great for beginners and those more experienced in anal play. This makes it a well-rounded anal penetration toy to use for anyone, regardless of gender. And, if you choose body safe silicone anal beads, you can be sure that you’re being safe during your play time.

Another advantage is that, well, they’re flexible. This is a great factor for newbies who don’t want to be frightened by the feeling of fullness or heaviness. Flexible anal beads are generally less intense, yet still provide a feeling of anal stimulation that’s sexually arousing. They’re perfect for those who have experimented with anal play but aren’t ready to take a serious leap into heavy anal stimulation. 

Additionally, they’re fun for regular players too, even those who do like bigger or weighted anal beads, because they still give off that exhilarating orgasmic sensation when pulled out (especially during climax). Generally speaking, flexible anal beads, made of body safe silicone and have a safe ring or base to pull it out, are great for both newbies and non-newbies and definitely a sex toy worth having in your chest of drawers.

Also, flexible anal beads allow the user to hold them at an angle that suits them, which makes it easy to manipulate and find the best possible pleasure. This is great for solo play. 

When it comes to unique sensations, it’s important that someone who is using them has at least experimented with anal stimulation before. One would need to have tried some kind of penetration, such as using fingers or a butt plug before using anal beads, as they do require a bit of stamina and comfort that won’t come with complete newbies. 

With some stamina and comfort, and taking it slow, flexible anal beads can provide a new kind of sensation that beginners have yet to experience. 

This is because, unlike butt plugs that simply stay in-place, anal beads are made to be inserted and removed. The removal is what will bring about the most pleasure, and will add in an extra level of pleasure for the user that’s new and sexually enhancing, oftentimes intensifying their orgasms.

The kind of sensation is more of a tingling feeling, like that of a massage. It’s not as intense as weighted anal beads that feel full and heavy, which makes it fun for all anal players.

Key Differences Between Weighted and Flexible Beads

While both weighted and flexible anal beads are great anal penetration toys to have, there are key differences between them. 

So before we get more in-depth, here are a few reasons why they differ:

• Weighted anal beads put more pressure on the sphincter thus giving off a feeling that’s fuller, heavier, and of more pressure
• Weighted anal beads give off extra sensations while you move, like feelings of vibrations 
• Weighted anal beads that are made of glass or stainless steel are completely safe materials, and can be used for temperature play
• Weighted anal bead users can ‘clamp down’ to hold their beads inside of them, like doing kegel exercises
• Weighted anal beads puts more pressure on the prostate and indirect pressure on the G-spot
• Flexible anal beads are the right choice for beginners but are equally as great for more experienced players
• Flexible anal beads may contain more beads than weighted anal beads
• Flexible anal beads are less intense, giving off a tingle or massage-like feeling so they are great for those who seek a less intense sexual addition during play time
• Flexible anal beads, when made of body-safe silicone, are completely safe to use (with water-based lube)

Then, more specifically, let’s talk about the sensory experience, and the ease of use and safety when it comes to these anal sex toys… 

Sensory Experience

Weighted anal beads: Using these anal beads is different from using flexible anal beads. You could imagine a type of person who would be wearing them to be more experienced in anal play, who is comfortable using larger anal toys, and who has definitely experimented in anal play with various sizes and shapes. 

This kind of person could wear their weighted anal beads during non-sexual scenarios, such as doing housework, walking around, or even running, because the more movement there is, the more these anal beads put pressure on the anal sphincter. This then gives off feelings of vibration, which is pleasurable. 

In terms of playtime, these anal beads can be used solo or in conjunction with other sensual acts. Either way, the user will feel a sensation of fullness inside of their rectum that feels arousing. The act of inserting and removing the weighted anal beads is pleasurable, and to remove them at the moment of climax is usually when they get the biggest orgasms. These anal beads aren’t recommended for newbies at all.

Flexible anal beads: These anal beads are for the type of person who has started to indulge in the world of anal play, yes, but they’re still fun and a staple for those who love anal. For the sake of this article, we’ll talk about the newbie.

This type of person, as we recommend, will have experienced some anal play. Perhaps they’ve tried butt plugs, dildos, fingering, or anal sex. Like we mentioned, some anal experience is necessary before using flexible anal beads. 

For those who have yet to have experience, we recommend anal training with a butt plug anal training kit. This will allow you to slowly feel the sensation of anal stimulation, become comfortable with it, and to build yourself up to larger toys. 

When you’re ready to use flexible anal beads, the feeling of inserting will be part of the thrill. Going at your own pace, you’ll feel a sense of light stretching and a gentle massage as you insert each bead inside of yourself. 

Using these anal beads means that you can insert as many as you’re comfortable with, and you can wear them during sexual or non-sexual activities to feel the sensation of a gentle massage inside of you, which will be noticeable, tingling, and arousing. 

If you decide to enjoy other sexual acts whilst wearing your flexible anal beads, you can pull them out at the point of climax to really enhance your experience, which is one of the biggest reasons why anal beads are so popular.

Ease of Use and Safety

Are anal beads easy to use? Generally speaking, they are easy to use. But there are things you need to look out for to make sure that they’re easy to use and safe. These things are:

• A ring or handle at the bottom that is designed for pulling: this ring or handle should be easy and comfortable to hold, and large enough so that it definitely will not go inside of you
• Rigid strands: these are usually easier to insert but are less flexible
• High quality material is important: body safe silicone, stainless steel, and glass are great materials
• Start slowly: know your limits, stop if you feel discomfort or pain
• Wash your toys: make sure to follow your specific toy’s cleaning instructions after every use
• Use lots of lube: water-based lube is generally the safest option for silicone sex toys, silicone lube can be used for glass and stainless steel sex toys
• If worried, leave a ball or two out: If you’re worried that you may lose your anal beads inside of you, leave one or two balls outside of your body

Choosing the Right Type for Your Experience Level

To sum up; it’s evident that weighted butt plugs are more suited for experienced anal players and flexible anal beads are better for those who are new to anal play. 

With that, here are some tips for beginners and some advanced users’ preferences:

Tips for beginners

• Choose the right anal beads for you. There are different shapes and sizes, and materials, so be sure to do research on what suits your preference. Silicone may be the best for you as it has softer spheres. Start with a smaller set of beads of one size, or a string that increases in size.

• Maintain good hygiene. Anal play can cause bacteria to spread, so be sure to wash your toys after each use with warm water and mild soap or a sex toy cleaner.

• Lube. Lots of lube is necessary as the anus doesn’t produce lubricant naturally. For a comfortable experience, you’ll definitely need a lot of lube. Apply it around and inside of the anus, and onto every bead.

• Try using your beads during masturbation. Go slow, use lube, enjoy your body, and see how you feel with an added sensation of anal beads during your masturbation session. If you pull out your beads close to orgasms, your nerve endings at the anal mouth will be stimulated, creating more pleasure.

Advanced Users’ Preferences

And now, for those who are more advanced anal lovers, here are a few tips to enhance your experience with anal beads:

• Allow your partner to play with them while they’re inside of you, such as pressing or pulling on it lightly, during foreplay
• Apply a vibrator to the base of your anus while your anal beads are inside of you
• Take advantage of temperature play if you have glass or stainless steel anal beads
• Thrust them in and out
• Use a dildo at the same time for double penetration
• Size up!
• Wear them around the house or while running errands

Product Recommendations

	1. Winyi Dylan Vibrating Anal Beads These flexible anal beads from Winyi are made of silicone, are sleek, have a spherical design, and a tantalising texture for those who want to try something with a twist. It’s been made to complement the body’s curves, offers a smooth insertion, has a tapered tip for easy insertion, and a flared base for easy removal. Another perk that can be an add-on, is that it vibrates (and comes with a remote control)! With 10 different vibrational modes, you can turn up the intensity if you so fancy, or go without. It’s all about your comfort and pleasure.
	2. Nexus Tornado Rotating And Vibrating Remote Control Probe The Nexus Tornado seems quite intimidating, and while it is labelled for both beginners and advanced players, it does have quite a kick. That is because it rotates, vibrates, and pulsates. It’s a set of anal beads that can also be used as a ripple shaft, making it the best of both worlds, and comes with a sleek remote control that works up to eight meters away for ease of use. This anal toy has six modes of vibration, pulsation, and escalation, as well as three rotation speeds, is waterproof, submersible, rechargeable, and has a rippled shaft design for even more sensation.
	3. bVibe Cinco Vibrating Anal Beads If you’re looking for a brand that knows its stuff when it comes to anal pleasure, bVibe is definitely the one to rely on. Their Cinco Vibrating Anal Beads are a premium set of five tapered beads that come with an easy-grip handle, three rumbly motors, and a remote control that works up to 30 feet away. It also has six vibration levels and 15 vibration patterns, allowing for a mix of experiences for those who dare. They’re splashproof, made of body safe materials, USB-rechargeable, have a battery level indicator as to never ruin a moment, and a travel lock for bouts of play on-the-go. These anal beads are marketed as “XL” so we recommended them for more seasoned players.
	4. Romp Amp Silicone Anal Beads Small and flexible, the Romp Amp Silicone Anal Beads are great for simply wearing or for pulling out at the height of orgasm. They’re small to medium-sized, making them a perfect match for those fairly new to anal stimulation, and come with three balls that graduate in size. They’re also made of body safe material that’s easy to use and hygienic, so you can play without worries. A simple yet delicious addition to your sex toy kit that’s fun for all kinds of anal play enthusiasts and regular players.
	5. Njoy Disco Stainless Steel Anal Beads As per weighted anal beads, Njoy is definitely a brand you’d like to know. They’re well-established in the sex toy industry, and have a plethora of toys that are of high quality and produce maximum pleasure. These Njoy Disco Stainless Steel Anal Beads flaunt five luscious ripples on dual sides, and each rounded bead promises a pop of pleasure with every twist and turn. It’s recommended for more experienced anal players because it is geared for sensation-seekers, delivering a thrilling, weighted texture. It comes with an easy grip base that loops around your fingers, is made of 316 stainless steel, is non-porous, and compatible with all lubes. Each ball graduates in size from a slim 30mm to a satisfying 50mm, so you’ll definitely feel the fullness as you progress into sheer euphoria.
	6. Icicles No. 67 - Clear Curved Glass Anal Beads Icicles is a luxurious line of glass massagers that are elegant, upscale, and hand-crafted with amazing attention to detail. The Icicles No.67 Clear Curved Glass Anal Beads are weighted anal beads that are hypoallergenic, non-porous, and body safe, and, if taken care of properly, made to last a lifetime. They’re sleek, have a ring handle for easy insertion and removable, and graduate in size so you can feel the full impact as you go in and out. Another perk? They’re fun for temperature play! Best recommended for more experienced players, the Icicles anal beads are surely a trustworthy and reliable brand, ready to please.

Now you know the difference between weighted anal beads and flexible anal beads, do you know which one is right for you? 

TLDR? Well, it’s probably best for newbies to start with flexible anal beads and graduate to weighted ones. Even so, flexible anal beads are fun for everyone, regardless of experience level or gender.