Womanizer Starlet 3: the small one that gets the job done

The Starlet 3 is the baby of the Womanizer family: the same pulsed-air technology as the models costing over €150, in a pebble-sized format and at a much more sensible price. On paper, it’s the ideal candidate for a first stimulator. And in practice?

Unboxing and first handling

The box is understated, and that’s a good thing. Inside: the toy, its magnetic cable and a leaflet. No storage pouch, which is a shame at this price.

In the hand, it is really small: a little under 12 cm, light, with a shape that sits naturally between thumb and forefinger. The plastic is matt, and the soft silicone head pops off in one movement for cleaning.

In use

For anyone who has never tried one: there is no vibration in the usual sense. The head sits around the clitoris and sends out little waves of air. The sensation is more diffuse than a vibrator, less “electric”, and it builds very gradually.

The six levels are well spaced. The first is a caress, the third is my cruising speed, and the sixth is reserved for days when I’m in a hurry. One tip: a drop of water-based lubricant around the rim of the head makes all the difference to the seal, and therefore to the sensations.

The downside is the single button. If you overshoot the level you like, you have to go all the way round again. In the moment, that’s a little frustrating.

Noise and discretion

Held against the skin, it barely purrs: a partition wall is more than enough. It’s when it’s in mid-air that it makes itself heard, so switch it on once it’s in place.

Battery life and care

This is the model’s real compromise. Thirty minutes of charging for thirty minutes of use, and no more. For solo use, that’s fine; if you like to make things last, you’ll end up plugging it in before every session just in case.

As for care, no complaints: the head comes off and washes in warm soapy water, and the body, which is listed as waterproof, can be rinsed without worry. I leave it to dry with the head removed.

Who is it for?

If you’re hesitating over investing in a pulsed-air stimulator, the Starlet 3 is a reasonable way to check that you like the sensation. If you already know you love it, look at the models further up the range instead, for the battery and the + / − buttons.