Good, But Not Great

The Mini Pearlessence is a small traditional vibrator, about four and a half inches long, and tapered off to a narrow point. It is meant mostly for pinpoint clitoral stimulation, but it can be used for penetration as well. I think it's best for someone who likes moderate direct clitoral vibrations. For couples use, it it small enough to be held in place comfortably during sex. It is very quiet and discreet, but not super powerful, so I think it would make a wonderful first vibe. Keep in mind, though, it isn't waterproof, so you can't bring it in the tub or shower with you! It also should not be used for anal penetration, as it lacks a flared base or retrieval cord, so it could slip out of your hand and end up getting lost.

Like many traditional-style vibrators, this toy is made of a hard, smooth plastic. It gets very slick with a little lube, and because it is not a silicone-based material, any type of lube can be used with it. Without lube, I find it has a fair amount of drag on the skin, which makes it a little uncomfortable for me. It has no discernible taste or smell, but plastic is not the safest material for toys. It can not be sterilized, so sharing it with partners you do not share fluids with is not recommended.

This is your typical small traditional-style vibrator. It is four and a half inches long, an inch and a quarter in diameter. This means it is easy to hold, even in the midst of sex. It's a great size for beginners and the more advanced, but definitely not for size queens. It's called mini for a reason! The biggest upside to the small size is the ease of storing it discreetly. It is small enough to slip into any drawer or even a purse without being noticeable, as long as the battery is out so it can't turn on accidentally. It would be perfect for travel as long as you remove the batteries.

It has a wheel at the bottom that turns to turn the vibe on and change the speed of vibration. This makes it really easy to change the speed with one hand. It goes from a very low speed to a moderate one. The vibrations are kind of buzzy at all speeds, never quite deep or intense enough for my tastes. The plus to this is, it is very quiet. Even at the highest speed it wouldn't be heard through a door.

Being made of hard plastic, any lube can be used with this toy and it can be stored with toys of any similar material. It is fairly easy to take care of. Just clean it off with a damp washcloth and some toy cleaner or mild soap. It isn't waterproof, though, so take care not to submerge it when you clean it. It also isn't sterilizable, it can't go through the dishwasher or be soaked in a bleach solution. You could wipe it down with some diluted bleach on a cloth or some rubbing alcohol, but because it is porous, it won't be completely sterilized.

I received this toy in the typical clear plastic clamshell with a paper insert stating the name of the toy and some basic information. No real instructions, just that it takes one AA battery and is made of plastic, and that it comes in six colors. Not really gift packaging, or discreet in any way. No good for storage, either, seeing as it is pretty big for such a small toy.

I got this vibe as a replacement for a traditional style vibe I got in a free gift package years ago. It just doesn't live up to its predecessor for me. It isn't nearly as strong, and it isn't waterproof. While I still think this would be a great first vibrator for someone, it isn't anywhere near my favorite. It's useful, and it works for what it is supposed to do, but it isn't amazing.