What are condoms? / Types of condoms / How we chose / Our picks / How to choose / How to use / FAQs
What are condoms?
Condoms are a form of contraception. There are different types of condoms, but the most common are external condoms designed for people with a penis or for penis-like sex toys.
They create a barrier to protect against STIs by preventing semen and other bodily fluids from entering the vagina, rectum, and mouth.
Condoms are shaped like fitted tubes that are worn over the penis during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They can also be placed on penis-shaped sex toys.
This is an accessible, affordable, and easy-to-use form of birth control. Condoms can also make other forms of birth control more effective when used together.
Many condoms are made with lubricant and come in a variety of fun flavors.
What types of condoms are there?
There are three main types of condoms:
- External condoms go over the penis and can collect semen and pre-ejaculate.
- Internal condoms go inside the vagina and can prevent sperm from entering the vagina.
- Dental dams are a thin sheet that creates a barrier between a partner’s mouth, genitals, or anus during sex.
Condoms are usually made with latex, a type of natural rubber. People with latex allergies can use condoms made with polyurethane, nitrile, or lambskin.
If you’re looking for the most effective type of condoms, male condoms made with latex are likely the most effective.
In addition to preventing pregnancy and protecting against STIs, condoms can also enhance sex. Most condoms are lubricated to help reduce friction during sex, though nonlubricated condoms are also available. Condoms can also come in a variety of flavors to make oral sex more pleasurable.
How we chose
It almost goes without saying, but some condoms are better in quality than others.
Plus, many people have a preference when it comes to condoms — certain condoms are better for specific sensations or functions.
Unsure where to start? Look no further! We chose these condoms based on reliability, comfort, and user reviews.
We prioritized reliability when choosing the best condoms. When used properly, reliable condoms prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect against STIs. Some condoms are easier to use than others and safeguard against factors that increase the risk of pregnancy, such as premature ejaculation.
Comfort was also an important criterion. Condoms also get a bad rap for reducing feeling in some wearers. We included thin and ultra sensitive condoms for those looking for comfort and increased sensation.
User reviews can be brutally honest, so we looked for perspectives from a variety of people, even the most critical. This helped us weed out the condoms that were uncomfortable and prone to breaking.
Healthline’s picks of the best condoms you can buy right now
Best overall
Trojan Extended Pleasure Condoms
Trojan Extended Pleasure condoms are great all-rounders. They’re equipped with a smooth lubricant that helps ensure that pleasure lasts longer. They are made with quality grade latex that cuts down the risk of pregnancy or STIs.
They also contain a Climax Control penile desensitizing lubricant, which may help reduce the chance of premature ejaculation.
Best for people with a penis
Okamoto Crown Condoms
Okamoto Crown condoms are marketed as “the closest thing to nothing at all,” meaning that they’re thin and ultra sensitive, giving a more natural feel for people with a penis.
Despite their thinness, each condom is electronically tested to ensure reliability.
Best for people with a vagina
Trojan Her Pleasure Sensations Condoms
Trojan Her Pleasure Sensations condoms are external condoms designed so that sex will feel extra pleasurable for a partner with a vagina.
It has ribs and contours to increase sensation, and it’s lubricated with Trojan’s signature lube.
Best for penile-vaginal sex
Trojan Fire and Ice Condoms
Trojan Fire & Ice condoms can be great for penis-in-vagina sex.
The condoms have dual-action lubricant with warming and tingling sensations on both sides of the condom, so both partners can equally enjoy the stimulation.
Best for anal sex
Skyn Elite Extra Lubricated Condoms
When it comes to anal sex, lubrication is key.
Using a condom with extra lube, such as Skyn Elite Extra Lubricated condoms, is a good idea. Don’t be afraid to get a bottle of lube and add some more! (Just be sure to get water- or silicone-based lube. Oil-based lubes can degrade condoms.)
This condom’s smooth lubricant is flavor-free, so it’s unlikely to irritate the sensitive tissue around the anus.
Best for oral sex
One Flavor Waves Assorted Flavored Condoms
Using condoms for oral sex might not seem necessary, but it is.
STIs can be transmitted between the mouth and genitals, and condoms can help reduce the overall risk of transmission.
But condoms often taste terrible — which is why flavored condoms are essential.
One Flavor Waves Assorted Flavored condoms come in sweet-inspired flavors, including chocolate strawberry, bubblegum, and banana split.
Best flavored condom
Durex Tropical Flavored Condoms
Another good option for flavored condoms is Durex Tropical Fruit-Flavored condoms, which come in a variety of fruity flavors.
The condoms are also ultra fine, which may create a more natural feel during sex.
Best textured condom
Trojan Ultra Ribbed Premium Lubricated Condoms
Trojan Ultra Ribbed Lubricated Condoms are a popular type of ribbed condom. The friction created by the texture can make it more pleasurable for the person who is being penetrated.
Best warming condom
Trojan Charged Lubricated Condoms
Trojan Charged Lubricated condoms are dual-lubricated with warming lube. This means that each partner — not just the person being penetrated — experiences warming sensations.
The condoms are also deep-ribbed, meaning the person being penetrated may feel extra sensations.
Best prolonging condom
Durex Performax Intense Condoms
When it comes to penis-in-vagina sex, many people find that sexual penetration doesn’t last as long as they’d like.
This is often because the partner with a penis climaxes before the partner with a vagina can.
To prevent this from happening, you can use condoms that prolong the experience. Durex Performax Intense condoms contain a desensitizing lubricant that might do the trick.
Plus, they’re ribbed and dotted, which may be pleasurable for the person being penetrated.
Best sensitivity condom
Durex Invisible Ultra Thin Condom
Durex Invisible Ultra Thin condoms are marketed as “so thin, they’re almost invisible.”
These condoms are the thinnest in the Durex range. They feature a straight-walled shape to help maximize sensitivity.
Best for an average fit
Kimono MicroThin Condoms
If you’re after a standard fit, the Kimono MicroThin condom is designed for penises up to 7.48 inches in length and 2.05 inches in width.
These condoms come in a few different varieties and are extra thin for added sensitivity.
Best for a snug fit
GLYDE Slimfit Premium Condoms
If you’re after a snugger fit, check out GLYDE Slimfit Premium. This condom is designed to fit penises up to 6.7 inches in length and 1.93 inches in width.
GLYDE condoms are made from sustainably harvested latex, so they’re also eco-friendly and vegan!
Best for a larger fit
Trojan Magnum Condoms
If you’re after a larger fit, Trojan Magnum condoms are designed to fit penises up to 8.07 inches in length and 2.13 inches in width.
As with all Trojan condoms, they’re made with high quality latex that is electronically tested.
Best for sex toys
Durex Pleasure Pack Condoms
If you’re sharing sex toys with your partner(s), it’s a great idea to use condoms. This can reduce the risk of STI transmission.
Using a condom can also give the sex toy a whole new sensation.
You may find it helpful to get something like the Durex Pleasure Pack, which includes a variety of popular Durex condoms.
This can be extra fun for masturbation, as it lets you figure out which condoms you enjoy the most.
Also, keep in mind that it’s best to make sure you’re using a water-based lube when combining silicone toys and condoms. Other types of lube can damage the toy.
Best latex condom
LifeStyles Ultra Sensitive Condoms
If you want a simple, lubricated, latex condom that doesn’t have that overwhelming balloon-like scent, LifeStyles Ultra Sensitive Condoms are worth a try.
These condoms are thin but reliable, and the flared shape helps enhance sensitivity for a natural feel.
Best nonlatex condom
Skyn Selection Condoms
If you have a latex allergy, look no further than the condom brand Skyn.
They have a variety of nonlatex condoms to help create whatever sensation you’re in the mood for.
Best for sensitive skin
Durex Extra Sensitive Condoms
One of the best condoms for sensitive skin is Durex Extra Sensitive condoms.
Made with natural rubber latex and extra lubricant, these condoms can be great if you’re prone to post-sex rashes. They’re also ultra fine and fit snugly.
Best lubricated condom
Trojan ENZ Condoms
For a classic, no-frills, lubricated condom, try Trojan ENZ lubricated condoms. The affordable 36 pack is great in terms of value for money.
The high quality lubricant is signature to their condoms and is unlikely to cause an adverse reaction.
Best for the environment
GLYDE Condoms
Made with sustainably harvested natural rubber latex, GLYDE condoms are vegan-approved.
To create their products, GLYDE works with eco-friendly, sustainable fair trade partners. They also support social projects that work to prevent HIV, so each purchase supports a good cause.
GLYDE offers 13 varieties, including specific fits and different flavors.
Best custom fit
myONE Perfect Fit Condoms
If you didn’t know custom-fit condoms were a thing, you do now!
According to myONE’s website, most condoms only properly fit 12 percent of users.
In 2015, the Food and Drug Administration cleared a wider range of condom sizes. Because of this, myONE is able to offer 60 sizes.
To order, you must measure your penis and include your measurements alongside the desired quantity.
Best internal fit
FC2 Female Condoms
Internal condoms are often called “female condoms” because they can go inside the vagina, but this is a bit of a misnomer.
Internal condoms aren’t sex- or gender-specific, and many people who use internal condoms vaginally aren’t female.
What’s more, many people use internal condoms for anal sex.
One of the most well-known and well-loved internal condom brands is FC2. They’re latex-free and can be inserted hours in advance, which allows you to enjoy intimate moments uninterrupted.
Best dental dam
Crosstex 19100 Dental Dam
Dental dams are used between the mouth and vulva or mouth and anus to reduce the risk of STI transmission between partners. They’re rectangular or square and usually made of latex.
If you want something that’s ready to go, the Crosstex 19100 Dental Dam is a great option.
You can also make a DIY dental dam with an external or internal condom.
To do this, snip off the closed end of the condom and cut a slit in the side to make a rectangle. This “sheet” can
then be placed over the genitals or anus.
Best spermicidal condom
Trojan Ultra Ribbed Spermicidal Condoms
Trojan Ultra Ribbed Spermicidal condoms can be great if you want an added layer of pregnancy prevention.
If the condom slips or breaks, the spermicidal lubricant can help prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg.
Another bonus? These condoms are ribbed for added sensation.
Best finger cot
First Aid Only Nitrile Finger Cots
Finger cots are great for protecting against STIs when you’re using your fingers to stimulate your partner.
Most medical-grade finger cots work really well for finger penetration, although you might want to add lubricant to make it feel more pleasurable.
These finger cots from First Aid Only are latex- and powder-free, ensuring they won’t irritate you or your partner.
How to choose
Choosing the right condom depends on your needs. You need to ensure that your condom is the right size and type for your body, and right for the type of sex you’re having.
Remember, correct and consistent condom use is the only way to reduce your risk of STI transmission and, in some cases, pregnancy.
In other words:
- Never reuse condoms, finger cots, or dental dams.
- Don’t use anything that appears damaged or has expired.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging to ensure that the barrier is on correctly and is also stored correctly.
- Use lubrication as needed. The more, the better!
How to use condoms
External condoms are among the most common types of contraceptivesTrusted Source. When used correctly, they’re an effective form of birth control and safeguard against STIs. The key, however, is using condoms as intended.
Condoms are an estimated 98 percent effective when used correctly every time you have sex. This equates to 2 out of every 100 people becoming pregnant when condoms are used as the main form of contraception.
Here is how to use a condom, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source:
- Carefully open the condom wrapper and remove the condom.
- Place the condom on the head of the hard, erect penis.
- Pinch the tip of the condom to release air. This ensures there’s a space in the condom to collect fluid.
- Unroll the condom to the base of the penis.
- When pulling the penis out after sex, hold the condom at the base.
- Remove the condom and discard it.
Always remember the following about using condoms correctly:
- Use a new condom before having sex.
- Check the expiration date on the package.
- Don’t use condoms that have tears or defects.
- Store condoms in a cool, dry place.
- Use condoms made of latex or polyurethane.
- If using lubricant, use one made with water or silicone to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
Which condom feels the best?
Many people complain that condoms interfere with the sensations and feelings associated with sex because they create a physical barrier. Thin condoms are more likely to feel the best for people with a penis since the barrier is less noticeable.
For people with a vagina, ribbed and contoured condoms are best for heightening stimulation. Condoms made with lubricants can cause warming and tingling sensations to increase sensations for both partners.
How do female condoms feel?
Internal condoms designed to go inside the vagina are similar in shape to external condoms, though they’re much larger. Because they aren’t as tight around a penis as external condoms, internal condoms are believed to feel more natural.
How effective are condoms?
External condoms are 98 percent effective when used correctly. Internal condoms are 95 percent effective by comparison.
Where can I get free condoms?
There are many places to get free condoms, including sexual health clinics, Planned Parenthood health centers, local health departments, and more. Your school and doctor’s office are great places to start.
Many nurse’s stations have free condoms available, and colleges tend to give students free condoms at various places throughout campus.