Pearl-y Essence? I don't think so.

I don't like anything anally so I couldn't tell you if this is a good anal toy. However, from the looks of it, insertion looks easy, but don't take that from me.

I used the toy both vaginally and as clitoral stimulation. I was very, very disappointed with it.

With that said though, this would be a non-threatening toy for beginners and cheap enough for those just starting out on a budget. It would also be good for couples and/or groups.

The toy is made of a smooth plastic. Upon opening it the toy had a plastic odor but washing it before use helped eliminate it. It doesn't taste like anything, so no upturned noses in that respect. It was very smooth to the touch, and would be perfect for a beginner.

The size is not intimidating, so it would be perfect for a beginner. The design is pretty straightforward with your insertable length followed by the dial control.

It's small enough to hide easily within a drawer or a toybag. It's also a great size to travel with.

The small form factor only takes 1 AA battery to operate. On a note with batteries, I found trying to get them out is a bit tricky. I even pulled the entire battery compartment/bullet from the vibe shaft with my finger trying to get the battery out once.

The performance of this was very mediocre in my opinion. It's one of those things where 'you get what you pay for'. The biggest letdown for this toy for me was that it was pretty uncomfortable when used vaginally. The best part about the toy was the dial control---very simple and straightforward to use. The controls, while simple, don't have a way of being accidently changed while you're thrusting the toy unless you really try. As far as noise level? I would be using this toy when you don't have other people around to be alerted to what you are doing. It is VERY loud on its highest setting and even under the muffling of blankets it is still very loud. This toy is NOT waterproof.

The Mini Pearlessence is very easy to clean with hot water and anti-bacterial soap. Being that the toy is not waterproof, DO NOT submerge it, and if it does get wet, make sure it is completely dry before use. Storage is a breeze, you can just toss it back into its packaging (if you kept it) and keep it in a drawer.

As I mentioned earlier, this is one of those things that 'you get what you pay for'! Sure the pricetag is nice, but don't expect any mindblowing satisfaction from this toy.