Summary: LELO’s SONA™ 3, famously stealing a moment on “Emily in Paris,” completely won me over. From the first touch, it’s clear this isn’t just a toy; it’s a carefully designed experience. The whisper-quiet sonic wave technology and soft, velvety silicone make every use feel indulgent, serving as a reminder that sex is self-care. Using it feels luxurious, intentional, and somehow essential — the kind of bedside upgrade you didn’t know you needed but now can’t imagine living without.
What I love:
- The SONA 3 is not just sculpturally beautiful, but ergonomically designed to fit perfectly in the palm of your hand. Changing your grip to play with various angles is easy and comfortable, and the premium silicone material is velvety soft.
- The brand’s SmoothRise™ technology makes switching between intensities and indirect stimulation seamless. (Because no one wants a jump-scare when they’re in the moment!)
- The sonic waves are precise and powerful, and the battery life is loooooong — I still haven’t had to charge mine after over a month of semi-regular use!
- The Sona 3 is completely waterproof — as in fully submersible, not just water resistant! So for anyone looking for an ideal bathtime companion, she’s your girl.
- There are 10 modes of SenSonic™ technology, each with adjustable levels of intensity; if you connect to the app, add on two more unique modes, plus the option for partner control.
Things to keep in mind:
- This is a clitoral massager that uses sonic wave technology emitted through a suction nozzle that is… very, very intense. It’s easy to control the intensity for a gentler experience, but if you’re new to suction vibes, expect a learning curve.
- Lube is a non-negotiable for this toy. I also strongly recommend the brand’s cleaning spray, to be sure that the interior of the suction nozzle is fully clean.
- There is an auto-shut off at 20 minutes that is a bit annoying. You can extend it to 30 minutes on the app but you can’t turn it off. It’s easy enough to turn it back on, but it feels a little like when Netflix stops you mid-episode marathon to ask if you’re still watching.
I’m going to start this off with a few announcements: You deserve sexual pleasure. You deserve to feel good in your body. There are tons of research-backed reasons to incorporate orgasms into your self-care routine, but I’m here to tell you that just because orgasms feel good and you want to have one is enough.
“You deserve sexual pleasure. You deserve to feel good in your body.”
Our cultural track record for women and sex is not great. The pressure on women to be both the physical manifestation of every male fantasy while also upholding the vestiges of purity culture puts us in a position where speaking openly about sex and desire is often risky or even taboo. So we don’t, on a larger scale, talk about sex the way many of us actually experience it — from the very basics of our anatomy to the wide spectrum of sexual experiences and types of pleasure, so many of us are left fumbling for scraps of information in the dark. And while there might be tons of sex positive educators and experts out there attempting to change the conversation, the truth is that cultural stereotypes about women (particularly straight, monogamous women) being disinterested in sex and dissatisfied in bed.
Psychotherapist and relationship expert Esther Perel often addresses this by pointing out that women in monogamous relationships aren’t disinterested in sex generally, but disinterested in the quality of sex that they’re expecting to have. Which begs the question: What kind of sex are most women having these days?
And if you’re looking for somewhere to start, allow me to introduce LELO’s SONA 3.
Vibration that sucks — in the best way
When you think “vibrator,” what comes to mind?
I am personally more familiar with the wand-style designs, like the LELO SWITCH™ double-sided wand vibrator, the SORAYA™ 2 G-spot and clitoral vibrator, which I’ve previously reviewed on our sister site, Good Gear. With interior motors that create various vibration patterns designed to stimulate the clit or other erogenous zones, these types of vibes are relatively straightforward and user-friendly — turn them on, apply them to your body, and enjoy!
“Whether it’s perimenopause, our cycles, or even just our mood that day, it’s normal for our bodies to sometimes respond differently to once-familiar pleasures.”
But sexual pleasure is a moving target, and what makes one person see stars might do absolutely nothing for another. This, I’ve learned, is also true for our individual bodies: The trusty vibe that usually sends us into toe-curling ecstasy can some days feel as sexually pleasurable as eating a ham sandwich. Whether it’s perimenopause, our cycles, or even just our mood that day, it’s normal for our bodies to sometimes respond differently to once-familiar pleasures. I like to think of it as how sometimes chocolate ice cream just hits the spot, and other times, I’m really looking for more of a cheese board experience for dessert. Or, something like the SONA™ 3.
This beautifully designed, ergonomic clitoral massager creates a powerful stimulation through the whole internal clitoral network — so not just the visible hood and glans, but also the interior parts (the legs and the bulb, if you want to be technical!). The gentle waves are very distinct compared to a traditional vibrator, creating the sort of mind-blowing orgasm that will convince you to block out a regular date with yourself on your schedule.
I am not being hyperbolic when I say that the very first touch sent my jaw to the floor. The nearly silent suction nozzle is deceptively low key on first glance. A simple button switches the toy on, and if not placed fairly precisely, it doesn’t even feel like it’s doing much. But when it first made contact with my clit, I actually yelped — the SenSonic™ technology vibes are that intense. Think “pinpoint precision impact,” a phrase that might excite or alarm you, depending on your personal sensitivity.
“I am not being hyperbolic when I say that the very first touch sent my jaw to the floor.”
The buttons on the toy are configured so that the user can easily turn the intensity up or down or switch between modes. LELO’s innovative SmoothRise™ technology really shines here, so that all transitions are gradual and never jarring — crucial when you’re in the homestretch.
I’d never used a suction toy before, and LELO also sent me the first and second generation SONAs for comparison. It was instantly apparent why these models are best sellers, from the long battery life to the powerful technology to the ergonomic design. Since all three SONAs are still on the market, how does the newest one compare, and what can you expect from the experience? If you’re in the market for a new toy, which one should you get?
Right this way for a full report!
The basics: shipping, cost, and specs for the SONA models
While I firmly believe that we all have the right to self-pleasure, I also believe we have the right to our privacy — and so does LELO. Everything is always shipped in a discreet, unmarked box. So if you live in an apartment or ever have to pick up your packages from some visible location, you don’t have to worry about your landlord or a nosy neighbor catching a glimpse of your goods.
The SONA™ 3 ($159 in cream) came with USB-charging cord, satin storage pouch, a warranty registration card, detailed instruction manual, and a small sample of their Personal Moisturizer (which I also ordered in the full size for $34.90). For this review, I also received:
- SONA™ ($89 in cerise)
- SONA™ 2 ($129 in black)
- Pleasure Enhancing Serum ($29.90)
- Toy Cleaning Spray ($18.90)
All three toys come with the same charging cords and storage pouches, and apart from their colors seemed pretty indistinguishable from one another. After testing and comparing them, the differences were minor to me — they all feel about the same in my hand and deliver comparable sonic wave sensations, though each new design offers additional modes, and the SONA 3 connects to the app for two bonus setting features plus partner control.
“Each new design offers additional modes, and the SONA 3 connects to the app for two bonus setting features plus partner control.”
The primary physical difference is in the nozzle shape and size, and the grip ridging on the back of each toy. The SONA’s (the pink-colored toy) has the smallest opening, with rounded edges that make the experience a little gentler right from the start. The SONA 2 (black) has a larger opening and more sharply defined edges, which can be a bonus for anyone who likes a really intense and targeted sensation on their clit. The SONA 3 (white) is somewhere in between in both opening size and round vs sharp edges, but the back has ridges that help the toy stay in your grip, which is really clutch for water play. Since all three toys are fully waterproof, this feature is definitely a key upgrade!
Other than that, this is a basic rundown of the three in comparison to one another:
| Feature | SONA 1 | SONA 2 | SONA 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | SenSonic waves | SenSonic waves | SenSonic waves |
| Material | Standard medical-grade silicone | Softer, medical-grade silicone | Silky smooth medical-grade silicone |
| Mouth Size | Standard | Wider, larger mouth | Standard, designed for comfort |
| Patterns/Settings | 8 modes | 12 modes | 10 patterns (16 intensity levels, plus 2 additional patterns via app) |
| App Control | No | No | Yes (Bluetooth enabled) |
The brand has some posts on their blog for comparing the SONA and the SONA 2, and the introduction to the SONA 3 from its launch last summer. But if I’m being honest, I use these toys interchangeably. I’m not currently very particular about which mode I use so much as the technique and intensity, and I’ve found I can achieve truly incredible multiple orgasms with all three. The key is using the right lube and finding a technique that works for you.
The dirty details: how to use and clean the SONA 3
Even when we find a friend we can chat with about our vibrators, chances are we’re still being somewhat general — what kind of vibes we like, how much a toy costs, where we found it, etc. But the experience of using a toy can raise a number of questions, especially when the technology is as powerful and precise as the SONA. The first time I looked at the nozzle holes I was a little intimidated. Having never used a suction toy before, I was slightly worried it was going to be like putting a mini automatic plunger on my clit. (It is essential that I stress to you, dear reader, that IT WAS NOT!)
“The experience of using a toy can raise a number of questions, especially when the technology is as powerful and precise as the SONA.”
The first thing you have to do when you get a new toy is plug it in. All LELO toys have a helpful light that pulses while the toy is charging, and holds when it’s finished. You want to be sure to get the toy fully charged, which takes about two hours.
The first time I tried the SONA I didn’t use lube — an experience that lasted less than two seconds. The sonic waves might feel gentle enough on your hand, but the moment the nozzle mouth is positioned near your clit is a completely different story. If you don’t want to end up learning what a dry leech might feel like attached to your clit, do not skip the lube.
Unlike a more traditional vibrator, suction toys require some finesse to find exactly the right touch for your body. Put a drop of water-based lube directly in the mouth of the nozzle. Turn the toy on, and then let the nozzle just barely make contact with the hood of your clit. Hover there for awhile, and for the love of all orgasms to come, do not apply direct pressure until you’ve gotten more used to the toy. We want our body to warm up and get to know the toy before risking a clitoral rug burn.
“Unlike a more traditional vibrator, suction toys require some finesse to find exactly the right touch for your body.”
After you’ve experimented with hovering, try different angles before gently applying light pressure. Sometimes, I’ve been able to climax without actually sealing the nozzle over my body, but if you want to fully experience the suction orgasm (and we do, oh, we do want that), then you’ll have to explore a little bit. The lube is essential to creating the perfect glide as you explore the touch, and it also helps to lock in the seal once you’ve found exactly the right spot. There’s a subtle and quiet sound shift when the nozzle seals over your clit — once you’ve found it, you can play with applying pressure manually or adjusting the intensity or mode through the buttons.
I am personally wary of linking up my masturbation sessions to an app, but for those so inclined, here’s the scoop: The app unlocks two modes: FINISH ME OFF, which builds up into a homestretch sensation designed to, well, finish you off; and OUT OF CONTROL, which provides a more unpredictable series of modes for people who like that sort of thing. The app also has a Love Bridge feature, which allows a partner to control the toy from their own phone — no matter the distance. Intensity of the settings can also be controlled by tilting the phone while the app is open, which I imagine could be nice when you’re so in the moment that trying to discern one button from the other feels more like rocket science.
“The app also has a Love Bridge feature, which allows a partner to control the toy from their own phone — no matter the distance.”
Another tip? In addition to putting lube in the nozzle, add some to your clit, too. And while you’re at it, the brand’s Pleasure Enhancing Serum will only ramp up the sensory experience even more. The gel uses key ingredient L-arginine, is an essential amino acid that helps the body build proteins and produce nitric oxide — a key molecule for helping blood vessels relax and widen. It has a very subtle icy/hot sensation that makes wherever it’s applied feel slightly tingly and alert. I love it as an additional lube, but I’ve also recently started using it on my nipples — in fact, the SONA and the serum have both been getting acquainted with my nipples lately, and they’re becoming fast friends.
Cleaning the SONA is straightforward: The whole toy is waterproof, so I usually just plop it in the sink or take it with me in the shower to give us both a quick scrub. The one detail to keep in mind is the nozzle itself — it’s a bit too small for even a pinkie, so I usually use a Q-tip to be sure that all the lube has been cleaned out.
Either between uses or before the next session, I use the Toy Cleaning Spray to be sure it’s completely ready for use. Water-based, fast-acting, and free of alcohol and parabens, this spray is PH balanced for safe use. You simply spray the toy, wait five seconds, then rinse thoroughly before patting dry with a towel. Pop the toy in the satin storage bag and it’s ready for the next date!
Final thoughts
I was nervous to try a suction toy, but I’ve really enjoyed broadening my experience and learning new things about my body. Because ultimately, that’s what we’re doing when we pleasure ourselves — we aren’t just chasing an orgasm, we’re learning how we respond to different kinds of touch. We learn what feels good and what feels weird, and we discover new sensations and techniques to enjoy. It’s exciting to not only build our skillset and bring that to the bedroom with a partner, but it also just feels good to experience such heightened sensation all on its own.
“The quality of our sex life is our responsibility — a responsibility we owe first and foremost to ourselves.”
Here’s the thing: No matter our relationship status, we are in a long-term relationship with ourselves. Which means that the foundation of building good quality sexual experiences is our responsibility — with or without a partner. In other words, the quality of our sex life is our responsibility — a responsibility we owe first and foremost to ourselves.
So yes, this is a (rave!) review of LELO’s SONA 3, but it’s also a reminder that buying and using sex toys can be part of your health and wellness routine. In the same way that you might pursue nourishment and movement and high quality sleep, you can (and should!) also pursue your sexual desires. You deserve it.
Stephanie H. Fallon is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade. She is a writer originally from Houston, Texas and holds an MFA from the Jackson Center of Creative Writing at Hollins University. She lives with her family in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and she is the author of Finishing Lines, where she writes about her fear of finishing, living a creative life, and (medical) motherhood. Since 2022, she has been reviewing sustainable home and lifestyle brands, fact-checking sustainability claims, and bringing her sharp editorial skills to every product review. Say hi on Instagram or on her website.
The post Finding The Right Touch: Our Review Of LELO’s SONA™ 3 Intimate Massager appeared first on The Good Trade.
