AC/DC or just into battery?

Ms Bright did an awesome post on toys and lubes under the general heading of what she'd want on a desert island. It definitely made for better and more varied reading than my own list; a modest selection of lubricants and a redhead.

One of the more entertaining sections was where she tore into the utility of battery operated vibrators. In her perspective, those that plug into the wall are vastly superior to anything depending on batteries to work. It's a valid opinion, especially given that these are products she's probably evaluated first hand to a degree I could never gain since she does happen to have the required plumbing.

On the other hand, people vary. I know women that consider the vaunted Magic Wand as too harsh for their delicate bits. I know other women that find vibration to any degree to be annoying, even if it does trigger an orgasm, it will be utterly dissatisfying.

The advantage of the plug-in variety is that it lasts as long as you pay your electric bill. The motors are more rugged and technology is so mature that quality components are easier to secure than less.

So why does the industry churn out so many that require batteries? Susie attributes it to being cheaper. While I do think there's an element of truth since it allows them to use simpler micromotors to oscillate the toys, I don't think that's the main reason.

My theory is that people are focused on portability and spontaneous use. Most people I encounter tend to keep a drawer or other modest container for their sexual toys. Cords just present one more thing to keep from getting tangled up. People also seem to prefer to not hunt for a wall outlet, when they could conceivably introduce a toy immediately from the drawer. A battery dependant toy conveys the impression it can be taken anywhere, used any time. I don't know of many women that would want to risk a corded toy in the bath or shower.

Time and again I see people choosing ease over quality. I think the battery over outlet bias in toys is just another aspect of it.

Toothbrushes are expanding readily into the disposable powered or rechargeable direction. Give it a couple years and I wouldn't be the least surprised to see it sweeping the adult toy industry. The door has already been opened.