As sexual medicine evolves, non-pharmacologic tools like penile constriction devices (commonly called “cock rings”) offer options to enhance sexual experiences or help with erectile dysfunction (ED). These devices are worn at the base of the penis to improve rigidity and prolong erections by restricting blood flow out of the penis. While such devices have existed for centuries, their use became more mainstream in the 1970s. They’re now available in various materials and designs, some with advanced features like vibration or data tracking.

A new study compared two medical-grade devices: Eddie by Giddy and the FirmTech Tech Ring. Eddie constricts the dorsal vein without blocking arteries, while FirmTech provides dual-band support around the penis and testicles and offers data tracking. Researchers hypothesized that FirmTech would be more effective and preferred due to its design and features. The authors of the study aimed to fill a gap in research on these devices’ effectiveness and user satisfaction.

Men aged 18 and older, who were capable of engaging in sexual activity, were recruited via social media for this study. Those with certain medical conditions, sensory disorders, or recent pelvic tumors were excluded.

A total of 49 men were included in the study, with an average age of 40. The participants were randomized to use one device first, then the other, over a two-week period. Each device was used 2–3 times during sexual activity or masturbation, followed by a satisfaction survey, which measured ease of use, comfort, and impact on erectile quality.

The data was then analyzed to compare satisfaction and effectiveness of the two devices, particularly between men with and without ED. Participants kept the devices and received a $50 gift card for participation.

Ultimately, FirmTech was rated easier to use both flaccid and erect, more comfortable, and had better adjustability and stretch, with scores significantly favoring it over Eddie by Giddy. While both devices showed similar impacts on firmness, orgasm, and erection duration, participants were more likely to use FirmTech during both masturbation and partnered activity.

Participants with and without ED showed similar overall impressions, but those with ED reported better erection firmness with Eddie by Giddy. Nevertheless, FirmTech was still preferred for partnered activity. Most participants (79.6%) recommended FirmTech compared to 53.1% for Eddie by Giddy. Both devices had some usability issues, but differences were not statistically significant.

In summary, the participants of this study preferred FirmTech due to its adjustability, comfort, and innovative elastomer design, which provides a customizable fit and distributes pressure evenly. While Eddie by Giddy improved erection firmness more effectively in men with erectile dysfunction, likely due to its rigid design and targeted pressure, it was less popular overall because of its harder material and limited adjustability.

This study highlights the lack of extensive research on these devices, emphasizing the need for larger, more diverse studies to understand their impact on sexual health. Providers should use this data to better counsel patients, as these devices can improve sexual function and quality of life. Future research is necessary to further validate their effectiveness and expand options in sexual medicine.

References:

• Orozco Rendon, D., Saffati, G., Whitehead, C., Zuckerman, C., Hom, A., Daily, R., Khera, M., & Cheng, P. J. (2025). Penile constriction devices: A randomized survey study to compare preferences between two medical-grade devices. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 22(1), 43–50. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdae151