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Guide

What Is a Sex Doll? Definition, Types, History

A sex doll is an adult-proportioned figure, usually made of TPE or silicone over an internal skeleton, designed for adult sexual use or companionship.

By Updated

Part of: Sex Doll FAQ: Common Questions Answered

In this article 9 sectionsA plain definitionTypesMaterialsTermsHistory and contextBuying, law and careLooking at examplesKey takeawaysFrequently asked questions
Key facts
  • Adult-proportioned figure for adult use
  • Usually TPE or silicone with a skeleton
  • Formats: full, mini, torso, head
  • Different from inflatable products
  • Legal rules vary by country
What Is a Sex Doll? Definition, Types, History

A plain definition

A sex doll, also called a love doll, is a figure shaped like an adult human body, built from soft polymer such as TPE or silicone around a metal or plastic skeleton so it can hold poses. It is sold for adult sexual use, companionship or collecting. We cover adult-proportioned dolls only (policy).

Types

TypeDescriptionGuide
Full-sizeComplete adult bodylife-size dolls
Mini, petiteShorter, lighter, adult-proportionedmini dolls
TorsoPartial bodytorsos
Head or lower bodyPartial formsheads, lower-body
Male and transMale-bodied or mixedmale dolls, trans dolls
AI and tech-enabledDoll plus app or hardwareAI guide

Materials

TPE is soft and cheaper, silicone firmer and more durable, hybrids combine them (material guide). Inflatable, vinyl and latex products are different and cheaper (comparison).

Terms

"Love doll" is largely interchangeable (sex doll vs love doll); see the glossary.

History and context

Sex dolls have a long and murky history. See timeline, industry trends, brothels and film and TV; our article history of sex dolls goes further.

Buying, law and care

If you are curious about buying see buying guide; for law see legal guide; for care see care guide.

Looking at examples

Retailers such as Joy Love Dolls show formats and options side by side.

Joy Love Dolls: see current dolls

See formats and materials listed at Joy Love Dolls to get a sense of the range.

View at Joy Love Dolls →Affiliate link

Key takeaways

  • Adult-proportioned figure, usually TPE or silicone
  • Several formats, from full-size to torso
  • Distinct from inflatable products

Frequently asked questions

01What is a sex doll made of?

Typically TPE or silicone over a metal or plastic skeleton.

02Is a love doll different?

The terms are largely interchangeable.

03Are inflatable dolls the same?

No. They are made of different materials and are far less durable.

04Are sex dolls legal?

In many places, but rules vary. See our legal guide.

Compare the companies we have reviewed

Our Top 10 ranks providers by our overall review score, from dolls we bought and inspected hands-on.

See the Top 10 →