The 4 Best Penis Pumps – The Ultimate Buying Guide

Meet your definitive guide to finding the best penis pump on the market in 2024.

If you feel an increase in penis length, girth, erection hardness or stronger erections would be an advantage between the sheets, penis pumps can be the best option to increase size, stamina and maximize performance.

• Do Penis Pumps Work?
• Are Penis Pumps Safe?
• What do Penis Pumps Do?
• Penis Pump Technologies
• 4 Best Penis Pumps in 2024

Do Penis Pumps Work?

Broadly, regardless of your chosen brand or type, vacuum erection pumps will all work on your penis along the following lines:

When placing your flaccid penis inside the tube of your chosen pump and holding the device’s seal base against your pubic area no air can get inside creating a vacuum.

When pumping, vacuum pressure draws blood into your penis to counteract the change in pressure in the tube as air (or water) is pushed out. This encourages blood flow producing an erection and increases penis health through improved oxygenation of penile tissues.

Over time, working out your penis through repeated negative pressure (pressure pulling out as opposed to pressure pressing in) results in a stretching and enlargement of your penis.

Are Penis Pumps Safe?

Used sensibly: almost entirely safe.

Removing the pump too quickly, causing rapid pressure changes, is an example of unsafe use.

It’s important when purchasing to ensure your device has a quick, fast, and easy to use release valve to guard against any damage from sudden, dramatic pressure changes.

Being too hasty in releasing pressure from the release valve after a workout can lead to your penis becoming bruised and in some cases, permanent damage.

Selecting your penis pump, take into consideration how the release valve mechanism fits your fingers and how easy it is for you to use, not how easy it is claimed to be generally by the manufacturer.

Being able in a panic to release the pressure valve is essential, and the alternative, a discomfort easily avoided with careful consideration on purchase.

Quality of the penis pump cylinder should also be a factor for thought to ensure the plastic doesn’t break due to pressure whilst in use and your penis still inside the pump’s tube. How easy your penis pump is to clean is also vital.

Keeping your device clean is important as warm, moist penis pump tubes can have high bacterial growth.

One of the most common ways penis pumps can cause tissue damage is by over-pumping and overuse, too often, or in sessions of too long a duration.

Here it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guide and instruction as well as the advice of more experienced users on how much pumping is enough pumping.

What Do Penis Pumps Do?

Gains in penis size and girth. If you’re aiming to size up for the bedroom, with regular use, penis pumps are an evidence-based tool that can drive your journey to enlargement, similarly to penis extenders.

Penomet, one of the best brands of penis pump available, have over 10 years research and independent testimonials into the effectiveness of their vacuum penis pumps in enlargement.

In a survey by Bathmate Hydropumps, of 12,000 customers, 81% reported better erections, 70.6% longer and as much as a 30% increase in length and girth over 6 months.

Remember, for penis gains to be permanent you need to keep up a routine of 3 to 6 sessions weekly of a total of 15 minutes use for as long as you aim to maintain or increase your size.

Like a fitness journey to gain muscle, if you don’t keep up a regular pumping routine, training and bulking up your penis, your results will fade quickly.

Erectile Dysfunction. 80 to 90 percent of men with erectile dysfunction who use vacuum penis pumps achieve a rigid erection. They can both be used immediately before sex to achieve an erection or with a regular routine can improve natural erections by improving blood flow, oxygenation, and overall health of penile tissues.

Premature ejaculation. Maintaining an erection inside the tube of a vacuum penis pump without bringing yourself to climax allows you to train your penis to stay erect for extended periods of time.

Penis pumps can also be used with cock rings by placing the ring on before pumping, pumping to gain an erection, and then leaving the ring in place before sex. The ring limits blood drawn into the penis from leaving as quickly allowing the erection to be maintained longer.

Rehabilitation. Doctors support the use of vacuum penis pumps in prostatectomy patients to protect against nerve damage, penile shrinking, and the development of fibrous tissue. In recovery, 92% of men using a vacuum penis pump had greater scores for erection hardness maintaining preoperative penis length.

Peyronie’s disease. Vacuum penis pumps can be used as an effective treatment for Peyronie’s through the breakdown and reconstruction of plaque leading to a straightening of the penis curve and a reduction in pain via improved oxygenation of tissues.

Masturbation and foreplay. Penis pumps give a sucking sensation not dissimilar to oral which can be used in masturbation, as foreplay in domination, and through their use on erogenous zones.

Penis Pump Technologies

Type 1) Air-Based Penis Pumps

Air pumps tend to be more basic, require less set up (other than lubing up liberally) and therefore exist at the cheaper end of the market.

A good option for men with a micropenis they’re also lighter on the wallet and so a better entry option for beginners starting out and who feel apprehensive or uncertain if they’ll benefit.

With an air-based penis pump you can tailor the details of a workout which works best for you trying out different pressures, weekly routines, understanding how your body responds and how the pump feels before (or during) sex.

Manual, air-based pumps involve the use of a handball or trigger to pump up a vacuum pressure.

If using an air-based pump as a starter kit, getting a feel for the right pressure will initially mean some trial and error, so remember the importance of that quick-release valve to release pressure once you’ve hit your level, guard against the possibility of over-pumping and bear in mind these valves can be absent in older models.

Type 2) Handball Pump

This is the more common and cheapest sub-type available and is characterized by the use of a ball pump which you squeeze. The tighter you squeeze the ball, the more pressurized the vacuum. When considering this model of manual air pump look for one which comfortably fits your palm.

Type 3) Trigger Pump

Trigger pumps have a more comfortable mechanism than handball pumps allowing you to pump for longer without cramping. Trigger pumps also give more control and power over the pressure inside the pump tube, creating more effective vacuums for harder erections faster.

With air pumps, it’s necessary to use lube to keep the penis tissues supple for stretching.

Applying a hot towel to your penis for several minutes before using an air pump will warm tissues, increase natural blood flow, and will have a conditioning effect on nerves preventing any pain.

The drawback to keep in mind when considering an air-based penis pump is that there is no cap on the maximum pressure inside the pump tube.

When pumping, if you ignore the pressure gauge, air will continue to compress inside the tube. This can result in excess pressure on the penis from uneven air distribution, subcutaneous bleeding, tiny red spots on the penis, the risk of bursting a blood vessel, and blistering.

Type 4) Electric (Air) Penis Pumps

Hands-free, with the press of a button electric penis pumps, increase, release, or pre-set the pressure within the pump tube.

Often with a seal shaped like a vagina or lips if your aim is to use your pump as a sex toy, automation allows you to focus on sensation and many come with vibrating options for pleasure as well as enhancement-based pumping.

Electric pumps make the process of pumping simpler with less set up than manual penis pumps. They’re also considered safer than traditional air pumps as electric penis pumps are designed to stop after reaching a certain pressure level.

Drawbacks of electric pumps include noise, the need for batteries or chargers, and difficulty getting up to full pressure.

Type 5) Hydro (Water) Penis pumps

Manual, water-based penis pumps use warm water to increase blood flow, lubrication and soften the penis tissue when stretching.

At the higher end of the market, water-based pumps offer the best certifications, evidence backing, durability, and results.

Designed to be taken in the bath or shower water pumps evenly distribute their suction, blanketing your penis from the base, through the shaft, and into the tip eliminating the side effects of air-based pumps.

To use a water-based penis pump, fill the chamber with warm water in the bath or shower and start pumping.

Hydropumps have a one-finger valve that will immediately release the pressure if you over pump and with a limited water capacity have a pressure cap by design allowing for unrestricted pumping and max gains without risk.

One side effect of water-based pumps not found with other varieties is fluid retention. This is when the vacuum which has drawn blood into the penis has also drawn in fluid resulting in a donut swelling at the base of the penile glans.

Fluid retention should disappear after 24 hours and can be avoided by spreading sessions of 15-20 minutes into smaller 4-5 minutes sessions.

The Best Penis Pumps

The better build quality, comfort, and long-term durability you will be able to expect from your penis pump will increase the further towards the higher end of the market you decide you can commit to.

Manual penis pumps, either trigger or handball, are generally the cheapest ($20-$50). The cheaper the device, the lower quality its components.

These pumps are more appropriate for beginner pumpers. For those interested in long term use for maximum gains, pumps at this end of the market can lose suction rapidly and so shouldn’t be considered an investment for your pumping journey.

Mid-priced penis pumps ($50-$200) provide a more authentic level of quality than cheaper pumps and promise average potential penis gains.

Unlike cheaper alternatives which are regularly single sealed units, mid-priced penis pumps can be disassembled and as a result, carry a lower risk of harboring bacteria.

High-end penis pumps ($200-$400) will have superior quality, comfort, durability, and a satisfaction guarantee. These pumps are normally water-based and boast manufacturing standards certificates with components made of medical-grade composites and have undergone rigorous procedures for safety testing.

1) Bathmate UltraMale (Best penis pump overall)

Check Price on Lovehoney

Check Price on BathmateDirect

Check Price on HydroMax

Read Full Review

Incorporating the addition of a handball set to maximize pressure and give 35% more suction the HydroXtreme series is for experienced users looking for maximum gains faster.

Bathmate offers 5 models in the HydroXtreme series including the HydroXtreme Wide Boy (for men with a starting girth wider than 6.5 inches) and each comes with a free accessory kit including cleaning tools.

The product line ranges in size from the HydroXtreme5 to the HydroXtreme11, the world’s largest penis pump.

Bathmate’s addition of a handball pump allows pressure to be increased in small tension increments allowing for precision whilst increasing the device’s safety.

The HydroXtreme is simple to use and comes with a detailed manual of instructions where Bathmate recommends sessions of no longer than five minutes.

The Bathmate HydroXtreme is powerful, living up to its branding. Know your pressure limits when using the Bathmate HydroXtreme series because this device is designed to push them.

Also note that the Xtreme series isn’t appropriate for micropenises, with the HydroXtreme5 not efficient in men who measure under three inches erect.

If purchased directly through the official Bathmate website all Bathmate hydropumps come with a 60-day no-questions-asked return option, a 2-year warranty and free delivery.

Bathmate have dispatch warehouses worldwide meaning most orders will be received within 5 working days.

2) Bathmate HydroMax Series (Best Affordable Pump)

Check Price on Lovehoney

Check Price on Bathmate Direct

Check Price on HydroMax

Read Full Review

With over 1 million customers and an average increase in penis size of 2-3 inches up to 5 inches, Bathmate’s HydroMax vacuum penis pumps dominate the male enhancement industry.

The HydroMax series is one of the best mid-priced penis pumps available and offers the unique “Wide Boy” model.

The Hydromax series of vacuum penis pumps have a satisfaction rate of 92% and are the world’s most popular line of penis pump. This is a pump for experienced users looking for gentle but dramatic gains.

A hydropump, there’s no need for lubricant and the Hydromax product line goes from the Hydromax3, which Bathmate claims as “the world’s first micropenis pump,” to the Hydromax9.

Each model has a number, for example, the HydroMax3, HydroMax5, and HydroMax7.

If your original penis size is that number of inches or lower when erect, this is the model of that product best suited for you.

3) FleshPump Penis Pump

Check Price on Fleshlight

With over 12 million sold, the FleshPump Penis pump by Fleshlight uses an automatic vacuum system, is operated with two simple buttons to pump and release, a quick release safety valve, donut sleeve, USB charging cable and 2oz. of FleshPump Lubricant.

The FleshPump can be disassembled for easy cleaning with the main chamber detaching from the electric pump, the donut sleeve provides a comfortable experience.

The device offers a maximum insertable length of 8 inches, meaning whilst suitable for most intermediate pumpers, this pump may not be for advanced pumpers or men of an exceptionally large size.

The vacuum pressure is both consistent and strong, the device has a 2 hours charging time and Fleshlight offers discreet billing and free shipping on orders over $99.

4) Tracey Cox EDGE Pump

Check Price on Lovehoney

Endorsed by Tracey Cox, author, and acclaimed sex expert, The Edge is a beginner’s handball penis pump.

The Edge has a silicone sleeve, a quick-release valve, can be fully dismantled for cleaning, and comes with a 1-year warranty.

A nice advantage of the Tracy Cox Edge pump is its use of silicone which is non-porous and unlikely to continue to harbor bacteria after sterilizing compared to rubber.

Silicone is also hypoallergenic and one of the safest options for direct contact with your penis. Not many penis pumps use silicone as it doesn’t have a lot of stretch and regularly those with sensitive skin types are forced to purchase universal silicone sleeves to fit their pumps.

The cylinder itself is made of ABS tinted plastic which is thin yet durable. The handball pump, whilst small, is easy to compress and the quick-release valve is easy to use.

Boasting a 30% improvement in erections within 3 months of regular use, the Tracy Cox Edge penis pumps is a good starting point when evaluating what a penis pump may offer you.

What Is A Penis Pump?

A penis pump is a device that helps men temporarily increase the size, length, and girth of their penises by using vacuum pressure to draw blood into the penis.

The pump fits tightly over the entire glans and shaft of the penis, allowing for a proper seal to form near the base of the penis, keeping air from getting inside.

By using either a vacuum pump motor or a ball pump, the user can then increase the vacuum pressure inside the chamber. In turn, this will draw blood into the penis, causing a harder, firmer erection.

Who uses penis pumps?

Penis pumps can be used by pretty much anyone with a penis, be it a man, a transgendered person, or a girlfriend or wife who just wants to help their man gain a bit of size where they need it most.

Generally, penis pumps are used by men who are looking to gain a bit of temporary size.

But they can also be used by men who struggle with erectile difficulties, and need help achieving stronger, harder erections to have intercourse.

So essentially, anyone with a penis can use a penis pump, whether they actually need a bit of help getting things up, or just want to have a bit of extra fun.

Key decision-making factors to consider before you buy a penis pump

Size, material, brand, and whether the device has a vacuum limiter are all important decision-making factors to consider.

But before buying a penis pump, you’ll want to seriously consider your reasons for wanting to use such a device.

Remember that a penis pump can help you achieve better erections, but it’s not a magic solution to all your sexual problems.

Either way, if you need help choosing a penis pump, make sure to consider the following factors.

• Size: Generally, penis pumps will be compatible with a range of different size penises. Some may have different attachment pieces, or they may have a flexible rubber piece designed to accommodate both smaller and larger peens. The important thing to know is that if the device doesn’t fit properly, it might not form a proper seal when creating a vacuum. In this case, you’ll have trouble getting your penis pump to work properly.
• Materials: While most penis pumps are designed with 100% body-safe materials, it’s important to make sure that your penis pump of choice does not contain any materials that you may be allergic to. Additionally, only buy penis pumps from reputable manufacturers who use high-quality materials in their products. Better quality materials mean better quality penis pumps that last longer.
• Vacuum limiter: When shopping around for a penis pump, make sure whatever model you choose has a vacuum limiter. This is kind of like a safety valve for your manhood, which puts a limit on how much pressure the device can apply to your member.
• Privacy: Let’s face it, you don’t want your neighbors or your mom to see your new penis pump arriving in the mail. So be sure to buy from vendors that offer private and discreet shipping options. Trust me! You don’t want to have to explain to your nosy Aunt Betsy what a “penis enlarger pump” is.

What makes some penis pumps better than others?

A good quality penis pump will have a good fit, will be made from high-quality, hypoallergenic materials, and will have a vacuum limiter to ensure that you don’t accidentally hurt your little buddy when trying to pump him up.

Reputable manufacturers also have a history of satisfied customers, which can usually be seen by reading through customer reviews or testimonials, particularly on third-party sites, like Google.

Finally, the price of a penis pump can also be used to gauge whether or not you’re looking at a high-quality device.

So if you buy a more expensive penis pump, you’ll generally be getting a better product made by a reputable manufacturer that will consist of higher-quality materials and that will come with all the best features and benefits.

The Benefits Of Using A Penis Pump

Stronger erections, the ability to achieve an erection whenever needed, and improve performance are all important benefits of using a penis pump.

But the most important benefit of using a penis pump is that it can help you achieve temporary size gains.

So let’s take a look at why I think penis pumps are great:

• Stronger hard-ons: Even if you don’t have any trouble getting it up, using a penis pump can help you achieve stronger and harder erections. This is due to the increased blood that will be drawn into your member.
• Better control: A penis pump can also help you gain better control over your erections. You’ll be able to achieve an erection whenever you need it. No more will the anxiety of needing to get a boner be your worst enemy. Instead, whenever the mood strikes, grab your pump, and you’ll have an erection in no time!
• Good ol’ novelty fun: Using a penis pump can be a lot of fun, especially if you have a partner to use it with. Whether you’re using it to add size, girth, or length, using a penis pump can add some spice to your sex life and give you and your partner something new to play with.

What Results Can I Expect From Using A Penis Pump?

When using a penis pump, you can expect to achieve immediately stronger, harder erections, and a slightly larger, thicker, and longer penis than before.

But you need to remember that both the erectile help and size gains that come from using a penis pump are temporary.

So although a penis pump will help you out in these departments, don’t expect the results to last forever.

But if you’re just looking for a bit of temporary size improvement, a stronger, harder erection, or better overall sexual performance, then a penis pump may be the right thing.

How long do gains last after using a penis pump?

Swelling and size gains typically last for about 30 minutes to an hour after you stop using your pump.

But there are a lot of factors at play, like your arousal level and overall health, which will impact how quickly your size gains fade.

But I can safely say that the hornier, and healthier that you are, the longer you’ll be able to maintain your erections post-pump.

Are there side effects of penis pumps?

Yes, there are a few potential side effects to using a penis pump, which include temporary discoloration, numbness, and minor swelling of the penis (but that’s probably what you were going for anyway).

In rare cases, more serious side effects such as bruising, bleeding, or even erectile difficulties can occur.

But as I said, these are the outliers… And in most cases, you can use a penis pump without experiencing any side effects whatsoever.

That said, it’s important to use a penis pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions and not to overuse it or apply too much pressure.

And, if you ever experience any pain, discomfort, or unusual symptoms, it’s best to stop using the pump and consult with a healthcare professional.

Alternatives To Penis Pumps

Penis extenders, Kegels, physical exercise, penis sleeves, and surgery are all considered alternatives to using a penis pump.

While penis pumps are mostly used for men who have trouble achieving an erection, there are a few alternatives that can be used either to help with erections or to help you get a bigger penis.

1. Penile extenders – Penis extenders or penis stretchers are designed to stretch the penis gradually over a long period, which can lead to permanent lengthening and thickening of the shaft.
2. Kegel exercises – While not specifically designed to increase penis size, Kegels can help you improve your hard-ons and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support your penis. On the other hand, we recommend avoiding mythical penis growth exercises like jelqing.
3. Physical exercise – Regular physical exercise can help improve overall health and cardiovascular function, which can, in turn, improve erectile function and blood flow to the penis. Losing weight can also help make your penis look bigger, especially if your little guy is hiding beneath a layer of fat.
4. Penis sleeves – These are soft, stretchy sleeves that can be worn over the penis during intercourse or masturbation to enhance sexual pleasure for both partners. They can also be used to add girth and length to the penis temporarily.
5. Cock rings: Cock rings don’t really help add any size to your penis, but they can help you maintain an erection once you’ve pumped yourself up.
6. Surgery – Surgical options for penis enlargement include fat transfer and ligament release procedures. But these procedures are expensive, invasive, and come with a lot of risks and complications. So while surgery is an alternative to using a penis pump, it’s best reserved for those who suffer from actual medical conditions.

It’s also worth noting that you might run into many other products or methods that claim to help men enhance penis girth, length, size, or function. While some of these may be legitimate products or methods, it’s important to always be wary of scams and false claims.

And always avoid pills, creams, gels, or lotions that claim they’ll give you a bigger penis.

They’re all total bunk!

Should I shave before using a penis pump?

You don’t need to shave, but it may make your experience a bit smoother and more comfortable when using a penis pump.

Having pubic hair shouldn’t prevent the penis pump from working. But it can get in the way, or get caught in your device if you’re not careful.

Can you say OUCH?!

So whether or not you need to shave really depends on how hairy you are down there.

If your pubic hair is so long and curly that it could double as a wig on a film set, then it might be time to trim things up a bit before using your penis pump.

But if you’ve already trimmed things down, or you’re already as smooth as a dolphin down there, then you shouldn’t run into any problems!

And in that case, pump away, my friend!

Will using a penis pump require me to obtain a prescription from my doctor?

No, you don’t need a prescription from your doctor to purchase or use a penis pump. But I wholeheartedly recommend you to check in with them to make sure it’s safe for you to be using one.

After all, your doctor will be able to ascertain and update you on your current health and well-being, and they might have some tips for you on how to use a penis pump safely and more effectively.

So, no, you don’t need a prescription for a penis pump.

But if you’re thinking about using a penis pump for the first time, I always recommend talking to your doctor first.

Are penis vacuum pumps expensive?

Well, compared to other sex toys or using exercises to increase your penis size, penis pumps do tend to be a bit more expensive, ranging in price anywhere between $100 to $250, or more.

But they are far more affordable than other alternatives like plastic surgery.

Penis pumps range in price depending on the brand, size, and features that you choose.

For instance, Bathmate, which is one of the best manufacturers of penis pumps, has a wide range of pumps available, ranging in price from about $120 for their smaller Bathmate Hydro to about $250 for their much larger HydroXtreme (at the time of writing).

But don’t worry, if you’re on a tight budget, there are still some affordable options out there, like the Paloqueth, Tracey Cox, or the Get Hard Automatic penis pumps that I’ve reviewed up above.

Just remember, when shopping for penis pumps or pretty much any other sex toy, you get what you pay for.

So good penis pumps aren’t cheap, and cheap penis pumps aren’t that good!

Are the results of using a penis pump permanent?

No, the results from using a penis pump are not permanent and will begin to fade once you remove your penis from the vacuum chamber.

Unfortunately, any gains your pump might give you are temporary and will diminish over the next 30 minutes or so.

If you’re looking for more permanent size gains, you’ll want to check out penis extenders, which are one of the only proven methods for permanently increasing size, or you may want to consider surgical penis enhancement options.

How can I make a DIY electric penis pump?

Please, do not try to make a DIY penis pump with any of the items you have laying around your house.

I repeat: DO NOT TRY MAKING A DIY ELECTRIC PENIS PUMP!

It’s dangerous, irresponsible, and you could really end up hurting yourself!

Attempting to build a DIY electric penis pump is like trying to perform open-heart surgery on yourself with a spork.

It’s a really bad friggin’ idea!

I mean, unless you’re an experienced engineer with a degree in rocket science, you’re better off just sticking to the pre-made, FDA-approved pussy pumps and penis pumps that are available on the market.

Using anything else, be it a bike pump, air compressor, or bellows, to try to create your own penis pump is just asking for trouble.

Not only could you end up hurting yourself, but you could also cause permanent damage to your manhood.

And let’s face it, nobody wants a permanently damaged manhood!

Should I use lube when using my penis pump?

Yes, it is generally recommended to use a small amount of lubrication with a penis pump to help create a better seal and reduce the risk of discomfort or injury while your penis is inside the device.

Using a high-quality water-based lubricant can also make it easier to insert or remove your penis from the pump’s chamber.

Having a bit of lube on your skin will also prevent any potential irritation or abrasions that can occur from friction.

So, don’t be afraid to lube it up before you pump it up!

Just remember to properly clean your pump after you’re done and before putting it away!

Additional Useful Resources

• Penis pumps for permanent penile elongation: fact or fiction?
• Surgical and nonsurgical interventions for penis size
• Penis size statistics

Sources

Drogo, KM. Nonpharmacologic Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction. Reviews in Urology, 2002 4(3): S9–S16.

Engel, JD. Effect on sexual function of a vacuum erection device post-prostatectomy. Can J Urol, 2011 Jun; 18(3): 5721-25.

Oderda, M, Gontero, P. Non-invasive methods of penile lengthening: fact or fiction? BJU International, 2011 107: 1278–1282.

Raheem, A, Garaffa, G, Raheem, TA, Dixon, M, Kayes, A, Christopher, N, Ralph D. The role of vacuum pump therapy to mechanically straighten the penis in Peyronie’s disease. BJU International, 201 106(8):1178-80.

Related posts:

Jes Extender Review (2025) – My Results & Rigorous Testing Quick Extender Pro Review (2025): Honest Results From Testing Bathmate Review – Best Hydro, Hydromax and HydroXtreme Pumps Best Penis Extender: The World’s Top 6 Size Enhancers