Behind the Pleasure with CalExotics
- 11 Follow
- 0 Collect
- 1 Like
- 401 Read
- Report
Overall Rating
3.75/5
Product Design
3.0/5
Ease of use
5.0/5
3.0/5
Sensory Quality
4.0/5
Ease of Cleaning
- Price2.0/5
- Noise5.0/5
My verdict
If you’ve been curious about anal play but felt overwhelmed by the options, let me introduce you to the CalExotics X-10 Beads. These beads are designed to ease you into the experience with their gradual sizing and simple, effective design. The clever design allows you to start small (with some itty-bitty beads) and progress at your own pace (to the larger, more ball-like beads). The spacing between the beads offers plenty of room for movement without any slips, and their flexibility ensures they adapt naturally to your body. Talk about comfort! They're a low-risk, easy choice for anyone new to anal toys or looking for a gentler, more relaxed experience. One standout feature is the pull-out ring, which adds an extra layer of safety and control. Whether you’re using the beads solo or with a partner, the loop ensures a secure grip for smooth retrieval, so you can focus entirely on the sensations without any worries. It’s a small but crucial detail that makes the X-10 Beads especially beginner-friendly.
More experienced users might find the smaller beads too subtle, but the larger ones deliver a satisfying “pop” sensation that makes the journey worthwhile. Their approachable size also makes them great for warm-ups or adding variety to partnered play. The PVC material, while body-safe and phthalate-free, is porous, so proper cleaning is essential. Wash with mild soap and warm water, or use a toy cleaner, to keep them hygienic. While I’d prefer silicone for its non-porous nature, the trade-off is understandable given the price.
While they lack the intensity of larger or vibrating options, the X-10 Beads are a great pick for gentle exploration or mixing things up. Whether you’re dipping your toes into anal play or just looking for something low-key, these beads offer comfort and pleasure without breaking the bank.
- Pros
- Perfectly designed with gradual increases bead size and great spacing.
- Flexible and comfortable in use.
- Affordable price point.
- Ideal for beginners, warm ups and sensual play.
- Cons
- PVC material is porous and requires thorough cleaning.
- Lacks the intensity and features advanced users might want.
Design
The X-10 Beads are visually appealing in their simplicity. The beads are perfectly spherical, with the smallest bead starting at just 0.3 inches in diameter and gradually increasing to 1 inch. This thoughtful size progression ensures a comfortable and customizable experience, no matter your level of experience. Each bead is spaced perfectly, giving the string a look that's both visually appealing and functional. The flexible string connecting the beads allows them to bend and adapt to your body’s movements and different play, which I found made a huge difference in comfort. The colors—offered in translucent shades or classic black (which I chose). It also has a retrieval ring at the end which helps you easily and safely pull the beads out with no awkward fumbling.
Quality
The CalExotics X-10 Beads fall into the category of mid-range quality. They’re not high-end due to the use of PVC, which is a more budget-friendly material compared to luxurious options like silicone. However, they’re far from low-quality. The build is solid, the flexibility is excellent, and the beads are thoughtfully designed with smooth textures and safe features like a sturdy retrieval ring. For the price, they offer good value, but they don’t have the longevity or non-porous hygiene benefits of premium materials. If you’re looking for something affordable and beginner-friendly, the quality is more than sufficient.
Experience
Simply put, these beads are quite fun. Their surprisingly flexible build boosted my confidence during insertion, and their mix of smoothness and steady firmness made play easy and enjoyable. That said, you’ll definitely want to use a generous helping of lube—water- or silicone-based both work great. The smallest beads are subtle, making them ideal for getting used to the sensation, while the larger ones provide a satisfying “fullness” without being overwhelming. The real magic, though, happens during removal. That signature “popping” sensation as each bead slides out is thrilling, creating a unique rhythm of pleasure thanks to the well-thought-out spacing between the beads.
If you time it right—say, during a climax—it can take the experience to a whole new level. For me, the sensation was incredibly enjoyable—so much so that I ended up liking them more than some premium anal toys I’ve tried (a pleasant surprise!). Their flexibility also makes them versatile. You can experiment with vaginal play/insertion, or wrap the beads around the penis for teasing sensations during niche practices. We also tried the smaller beads for "sounding-like" play, and it worked surprisingly well—just make sure to use plenty of lube and either wash thoroughly or use a condom when switching between body parts. Overall, these beads deliver far more than you’d expect for the price, and their adaptability makes them a worthy addition to any toy collection.
Performance
I went into this with modest expectations, given the price and beginner-friendly focus. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised. The X-10 Beads don’t promise flashy features or high-end luxury, but they deliver exactly what they’re supposed to: a safe, comfortable, and pleasurable introduction to anal stimulation. They lived up to their reputation as an excellent starter toy, even exceeding my expectations in terms of comfort and ease of use. For more experienced users, the sensations might feel too mild, especially with the smaller beads. However, as a warm-up tool or a straightforward pleasure enhancer, they still hold their own.
Materials and care
These beads do require a bit of extra effort when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Made from PVC—yes, the same material as pipes (but don’t worry, not exactly the same)—this version is body-safe and phthalate-free. However, it is porous, meaning it has tiny spaces where liquids can seep in. What this really means for you is that a quick wipe-down won’t cut it. To keep things hygienic, you’ll need to wash them thoroughly after each use with warm water and mild soap, making sure to clean around every bead. Let them air dry completely before storing them away. If you want to go the extra mile—especially if you plan on sharing or want to extend their lifespan—consider slipping a condom over the beads during use. It’s a simple trick that adds an extra layer of safety and convenience.
Packaging
The packaging is simple and no-frills, which is to be expected at this price point. The clear plastic showcases the product, so you know exactly what you’re getting. While it doesn’t scream “luxury unboxing experience,” it’s discreet and functional.
Price
At around $9.99, these beads are an absolute steal. They’re budget-friendly without feeling cheap or flimsy, making them a low-risk investment for anyone dipping their toes into anal play. Considering the quality, thoughtful design, and versatility, the price is hard to beat.
