The day I stop telling you that I love grinders is the day you should be worried. Because I LOVE GRINDERS! Grinders, or grind pads, have come a long way since my very first one. You’ve read my reviews the Inya Grinder by NS Novelties and the CalExotics Dual Rider Thrust & Grind, but today I want to introduce you to the VibePad 3 by Orion.
I reviewed the VibePad 2 for Peepshow Toys a while back, and they were kind enough to send me the VibePad 3 to review. There are some differences between the two grind pads, so let’s start there!
VibePad 2 vs VibePad 3
VibePad 2 | VibePad 3 | |
---|---|---|
Remote Controlled | Yes | Yes |
Vibration Function Count | 7 | 7 |
Number of Vibrating Zones | 2 | 3 |
Water-resistant | Yes | Yes |
Rechargeable | Yes | Yes |
Flicking "Tongue" | Yes | No |
Insertable G-Spot or P-Spot Stimulator | No | Yes |
Size | 11.4"x8.15" | 11.4"x6.3" with 4.2" insertable length |
If you’re looking for a grinder with an insertable G-spot or P-spot stimulator, you’ll want to read on to learn more about the VibePad 3. If you aren’t interested in an insertable stimulator, the VibePad 2 may be better suited for you! I haven’t tried the original VibePad, so I have not included it on the chart & won’t be making much mention of it below.
Before I go too far, there are some things about grinders that you should know!
Grinders? What Are Those?
Well, my dearest readers, a grinder is wonderful, magical sex toy. For some.
Grinders, or grind pads, are sex toys that are designed specifically for humping and grinding against. The first grinders I saw to hit the sex toy market were non-motorized, though there are now a growing number of motorized grinders available due to their growing popularity. Those first grinders also were very much intended for grinding, without any insertable stimulators. They had heavily textured surfaces, meant to help stimulate the user in different ways as they grind against it. Soon enough grinders were coming available that were designed to penetrate you as you grind on them, like the VibePad 3 or the CalExotics Dual Rider Thrust & Grind.
As grinders have grown in popularity, I’ve seen options that are motorized or have holes to put a bullet vibrator into or even attach to the head of a magic wand! I personally haven’t tried the grinders that attach to the head of a magic wand, but let me tell you… I cannot wait for that day!!
I love grinders because they make for an excellent addition into a threesome or moresome, they allow for a partner to grind against my thigh while they stimulate me, and sometimes, they allow for an enhanced way to enjoy non-penetrative sex.
But, you don’t have to just use a grinder during sex! They also make for excellent solo play toys that can be enjoyed hands-free. Fold a pillow in half and put the grinder on top, place it on the corner of a bed or on a chair, or anywhere that your heart can imagine sitting & grinding.
Let’s Focus on the VibePad 3
Orion’s VibePad 3 is the step up from the original VibePad and from the VibePad 2, though let me be very clear in saying this: the 2 & 3 are both fantastic products, it just depends on what you are seeking out of a motorized grinder! The VibePad 3 brings what the first two models were lacking: an insertable stimulator that can hit the g-spot or p-spot of the user. It features 7 functions and 3 vibrating zones, all individually controllable via a rechargeable remote control. The somewhat smaller surface area than the VibePad 2 also makes the VibePad 3 more comfortable to put on a partner’s thigh to grind against.
The bumps on either side of the g-spot stimulator each vibrate as well. While some grinders are super soft and covered in texture, these bumps are instead very, very firm with no texture to them.
The body-safe silicone used for the VibePad 3 is luxuriously smooth. There is minimal drag and the silicone is just top tier. It feels luxurious to hold… until you pick up the accompanying plastic remote control, which feels far less luxurious. But trust me here: the remote control is a great thing. Imagine humping and grinding along but you need more power and you have to flip the grinder over just to change functions. Noooooo thank you!! I love a good remote control and so should you!
The deep vibrations that the VibePad 3 features are fantastic. They aren’t too buzzy, though there is some buzz. I didn’t mind too much, though I think some deeper, rumbly vibrations would be an excellent addition to future VibePads. Though a grinder is quite different from a saddle style vibrator, I do think that the VibePad 3 is the closest, cheapest alternative to Motorbunny and the “Sweet Spot” attachment specifically.
Pros:
- Great for anyone who wants vibrations + internal stimulation with a grinder
- Body-safe silicone is luxuriously smooth
- Remote controlled
- 3 independently controlled motors with 7 functions
- Budget friendly alternative to saddle style vibrators
- Deep vibrations aren’t too buzzy
- Rechargeable
Cons:
- Awkward to store
- Water-resistant instead of waterproof
- Replacement remotes might be hard to get
- Black silicone does show hard water spots & dust quite easily
- No texture to really grind against
- Price may be too high for some
Care Instructions for VibePad 3
Let’s start with how to charge the VibePad 3! Plug the included USB cord to a charging port or block, then insert the other end into the bottom of the VibePad 3. A light will come on, indicating that the vibrator is charging. Once the vibrator is done charging, be sure to plug in the remote too!
Be sure to clean your VibePad 3 before and after use! Wash it with unscented soap and warm water, dildo side up. This one is only water-resistant, so be sure to not let water get into the charging port. Let it dry completely before using or storing!
While there is minimal drag with the VibePad 3, it’s always good practice to have lubricant handy. Be sure to use a water-based lubricant with the VibePad 3.
Using the VibePad 3
Before you lube up the VibePad 3 for the first time, it’s important to know how to use this. For example, I’d recommend powering on the VibePad before lubing it up! Once it’s powered on but before it starts vibrating, find a comfortable way to ride on the grinder.
I found it easiest to either fold a pillow in half and put the VibePad 3 on top of it, or to sit spread legged leaning slightly forward (usually with my hands between my legs for balance). Insert the g-spot or p-spot dildo facing toward the front of your body. Once you’ve got a comfortable position for humping, grinding and riding, grab the remote to change speeds and find what settings work for you!
My Experiences with the VibePad 3
I have some mixed feelings about the VibePad 3. Not because it’s a bad toy, but because I do tend to gravitate towards squishier grinders with more texture, it’s just missing my favorite features. Orion’s VibePad 3 is, in fact, a fantastic vibrator. My trans wife and I both love the curved g-spot/p-spot dildo and the deep vibrations. That little dildo is a bit flexible, which is nice, but we both found ourselves wishing it was a bit bigger.
That size does make it very beginner friendly, but you still have to be comfortable with the external stimulation bumps that are meant to tease the clitoris and anus. I found that leaning forward or back in either direction will provide more stimulation from those bumps, but I preferred leaning forward for more clitoral stimulation.
It took me a little while to reach orgasm with the VibePad 3, longer than pinpoint clitoral stimulation and/or my favorite g-spot vibe. I think that’s partially due to my having trouble orgasming when I’m on top (it’s just not something I am able to achieve easily). The g-spot dildo did give me the sensation of “oh my gosh, am I actually going to squirt?!” but I never quite got there (which is again, not something I’m able to achieve easily).
The vibrations aren’t very strong – don’t expect wand level power from the VibePad 3, but it does still pack some pretty decent power! I found myself loving the steady speeds for the external stimulating bumps, but sometimes I’d switch things up by using one of the vibrating patterns for the internal stimulator. I’m really glad this thing has a remote because switching between functions to find the right one would be an inconvenient nightmare without it!
However, speaking of that remote… I accidentally stepped on mine and broke it. Which was really frustrating because I had a LOT of trouble getting a replacement. As in, I was never able to get a new remote control. Thankfully, I took these photos before the accident! So a word of caution: be careful with the remote. You do not want to try using this grinder without it.
Storing the VibePad 3 is really where it became a challenge though. It didn’t quite fit into a plastic bag and tossing it into my under bed storage bin didn’t feel quite right either. Ultimately, I kept the box for longer than I usually do, and would store it in the box on a shelf. It was the best way that I found to keep everything together. But the box is pretty large so again, it’s still not ideal for storage.
Recap & Final Thoughts
The VibePad 3 by Orion is a really great addition to their VibePad line and a great addition to the growing list of grind pads available. The smooth silicone feels luxurious to the touch and I love how a little bit of lube goes a long way with grinding against the raised external stimulating bumps. This is a beautifully made, deep vibration grinder.
I would suggest the VibePad 3 for people who want a grinder that has both vibration and penetration, and don’t need a lot of texture stimulation. I’d also suggest the VibePad 3 for anyone whose ever wanted to ride a Sybian or Motorbunny – it’s not the same intensity, but it does give you a good idea about whether a saddle style vibrator would be a good fit for you (without spending a thousand dollars).
This isn’t a cheap sex toy, but it is a well made grinder with not just 1, but 3 good motors inside it. It also feels like a luxurious item when you run your fingers along the silicone. IMO, you’re getting your money’s worth with the VibePad 3! Plus, if you use my coupon code SYDNEY at checkout, you’ll save 10% on your order.
Ready to get a VibePad 3 of your own? Please use my affiliate link to purchase from Peepshow Toys! My coupon code SYDNEY will help you save 10% on your entire order (except for sale items, bundles, and SquarePegToys).