The 8 Best Condoms of 2024

LifeStyles SKYN Selection Non-Latex Condoms are latex-free and have a soft feel

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One of our best condoms atop a decorative blue background

Verywell / Amelia Manley

Condoms can be an essential part of a healthy sex life, so finding the right one is key. And there are plenty of options to suit every need. External condoms (also known as condoms) can be used for vaginal, anal, and oral sex as a barrier form of contraception and protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

External condoms come in many sizes, materials, and even flavors. There are regular latex external condoms, latex-free for those with allergies, ribbed condoms for extra pleasure, and extra-sensitive ones to make it feel like you're not wearing an external condom at all.

When choosing an external condom, it's important to keep material, lubrication, and additional features in mind. We researched dozens of external condoms and evaluated them for material, lubrication, scent, added features, and price. We also had a family physician from our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical accuracy, effectiveness, and what else to look for in condoms.

Best Overall

LifeStyles SKYN Original Non-Latex Condoms

LifeStyles SKYN Original Non-Latex Condoms

Amazon

Pros
  • Thin yet durable

  • Latex-free material

  • Includes long-lasting lubricant

Cons
  • Only available in one size

We chose LifeStyles SKYN Original Condoms as our best overall pick because they're latex-free while still offering protective strength and a thin, soft feel.

We like that the condoms are all made with a polyisoprene material that does not contain rubber latex, so they are a good choice for anyone with a latex allergy or sensitivity. This thin but strong material provides a barely-there feeling for increased sensation, and the condoms are lubricated for more comfort.

The SKYN Original condoms also come with ultra-smooth lubricant to avoid friction and irritation while providing a natural gliding sensation. And they're found in most drugstores, making them easy to restock.

Material: Polyisoprene | Added Features: Long-lasting lubricant, ultra-thin | Lubricated: Yes

Best for People with Vaginas

Durex Performax Intense Condoms

Durex Performax Intense Natural Rubber Latex Condoms

Amazon

Pros
  • Desensitizing lubricant on the inside

  • Textured for added pleasure

Cons
  • Only one size available

Durex Performax Intense condoms are a good choice if prolonging intimate pleasure is your goal. These condoms are made with a desensitizing, climax-control lubricant on the inside, and a ribbed and dotted texture on the outside to maximize the experience.

These condoms are Durex's standard girth of 56 millimeters for a comfortable but secure fit and include a reservoir tip for safety. And we like that they have a pleasant scent that adds to the pleasurable experience.

Material: Latex | Added Features: Desensitizing lubricant, ribbed and dotted texture | Lubricated: Yes

Best for People with Penises

TROJAN BareSkin Lubricated Latex Condoms

TROJAN BareSkin Lubricated Latex Condoms

Amazon

Pros
  • Thinner than other Trojan condoms

  • Increases sensitivity

  • Reservoir tip for extra safety

Cons
  • Noticeable latex smell

BareSkin external condoms are one of Trojan’s bestsellers and for good reason. The latex external condoms are 50 percent thinner than the brand’s Ribbed Ecstasy condom, giving them an even more sensitive and natural feeling.

Every external condom has an ultra-smooth lubricant to provide the ultimate pleasurable experience and a reservoir tip for added safety. Not only will this external condom from the trusted Trojan brand work toward preventing pregnancy and STIs but also produces incredible sensations for both parties.

Material: Latex | Added Features: Reservoir tip | Lubricated: Yes

Best Snug Fit

Caution Wear Iron Grip Snugger Fit

Caution Wear Iron Grip Snugger Fit

Amazon

Pros
  • Secure fit for added safety

  • Scent-free

Cons
  • Only one size available

To ensure an external condom performs as intended, it's vital that it's fitted securely and doesn't slip. The Caution Wear Iron Grip Snugger has a width of only 46 millimeters which is 20 percent narrower than a standard external condom, making them less prone to slipping or moving. 

We also like that these external condoms include lubrication for added comfort and are formulated with a reservoir tip for added safety.

Material: Latex | Added Features: Narrow fit, reservoir tip | Lubricated: Yes

Best Value

TROJAN ENZ Lubricated Condoms

Trojan ENZ Lubricated Condoms

Amazon

Pros
  • Classic design for ease of use

  • Durable material

Cons
  • Thicker than some users prefer

For a classic external condom that is affordable while also providing the lubrication and protection you need, try Trojan’s ENZ Lubricated. We like that this pack comes with 36 condoms for the price, making it an accessible option for any budget.

This external condom from a trusted brand sticks with the basics, offering a smooth latex material that’s lubricated for comfort. The reliable design includes a reservoir tip and will reduce the risk of pregnancy or contracting STIs.

Material: Latex | Added Features: Reservoir tip | Lubricated: Yes

Best Latex-Free

Durex Avanti Bare Real Feel Condoms

Durex Avanti Bare Real Feel Non Latex Condoms

Amazon

Pros
  • Natural feel and fit

  • Discreet packaging

  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Cons
  • Lacks significant lubrication

Latex tends to be a go-to material for most external condom brands, making it difficult for anyone who might suffer from an allergy. But these condoms from Durex are made with a polyisoprene material that doesn't cause irritation for anyone allergic to latex. 

In addition, we appreciate that these condoms have a pleasant, non-rubber scent, an easy-on shape with a built-in reservoir tip, and are lightly lubricated for a smooth and intimate feeling.

Material: Polyisoprene | Added Features: Bare-skin feel | Lubricated: Yes

Best Flavored

Durex Tropical Flavors Condom

Durex Tropical Flavors Condom

Amazon

Pros
  • Multi-colored pack

  • Snug fit

  • 5 different flavors

Cons
  • Taste isn't strong enough for some users

Are you looking to add a little spice or taste to your sex life? Then we recommend these Durex condoms that come in tropical flavors and vibrant colors, making it a fun and pleasurable experience, especially if used during oral sex. A variety of flavors are included in the pack, like apple, orange, strawberry, and banana. 

The condoms are made with ultra-thin and lubricated natural latex rubber that provides added comfort and sensation and helps prevent breaking. In addition, we like that these condoms are color coordinated with the flavors and have a simple, straight-sided design that makes them easy to put on.

Material: Latex | Added Features: Multiple colors and flavors | Lubricated: Yes

Best Variety Pack

TROJAN Pleasure Pack Latex Condoms

Trojan Pleasure Pack Lubricated Latex Condoms

FSA store

Pros
  • Includes four different types of stimulation

  • Extra smooth lubricant for comfort 

  • Durable material

Cons
  • Can feel too tight for some

The Trojan Pleasure Pack includes an array of external condoms in different textures and sensations so you and your partner can keep the bedroom fun. This variety pack includes 12 external condoms with the options of ribbed, extra lubricated, warming, and ultra-thin to choose from. 

Each condom is also lubricated and has a reservoir tip for comfort and added safety, and Trojan brand condoms are electronically tested for reliability.

Material: Latex | Added Features: Ribbed, contoured, warming, premium lubricant | Lubricated: Yes

How We Selected the Best Condoms

In order to select the best condoms for our list, we sought out trusted brands with top-selling products. We researched product details and read customer reviews to find the most useful products at different price points. All condoms should provide protection against unwanted pregnancy and STIs so we looked for condoms with added features that made them stand out. We also consulted with medical professionals for their insights. These experts include:

  • Kecia Gaither, MD, double board-certified in OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Director of Perinatal Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in the Bronx
  • Tamika Cross, MD, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist based in Texas
  • Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD, urologist with Orlando Health Medical Group Urology and president of the Florida Urological Society

We narrowed our selections by looking for condoms with features like material, variety packs for convenience, different sizes, ribbed or textured, special or added lubrication, a unique fit, and flavors or colors.

What to Look For in Condoms

Material

External condoms come in a variety of materials for the user, but the most common one you’ll likely find on store shelves is made with latex. This material has proven to work well for external condoms because it is capable of stretching to fit around the penis, all while proving to be strong enough to not tear during intercourse. But not everyone is capable of using latex-based external condoms because they are allergic to the material. “They can also be made of other materials like polyurethane, polystyrene, and lambskin,” says Dr. Gaither.

If you’re using lambskin-based external condoms, though, it is important to note that the material will not protect against STDs like other external condoms. But the material does work as contraception. 

Right Size

If the external condom is too tight or too loose, it is unable to serve its intended purpose as contraception. Experts recommend people with a penis try on external condoms when their penis is fully erect to best determine what size works well for them. “The average penis size is 5 to 7 inches long, with a girth of 3.5-6 inches in circumference,” Dr. Gaither says. “Most condoms are 7 inches long, and have a reservoir at the tip for semen collection.” There are several key signs to pay attention to that could indicate if the external condom is too small or too big on the penis.

According to Dr. Cross, one sign is if the external condom slips on too easily, looks loose, or “you feel like it is moving during intercourse.” This indicates that the external condom is too large and the user should select a smaller size. “If you’re struggling to get it on or you’re putting it on and it feels like it’s cutting off your blood supply, then it’s probably too tight,” Dr. Cross adds. “A condom shouldn’t be uncomfortable.” 

Lubrication

Several external condoms on the market come with lubrication included on the contraception. This added feature can make sexual intercourse more pleasurable. “I would probably say that the lubricated ones would be better because you can never have too much lubrication, but you can have too little,” Dr. Cross says. “Not enough lubrication can result in high friction, breaking and tearing of the condom, or discomfort or abrasions to the vagina.” But this doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone would need to use lubricated external condoms, or separate lube, in order to enjoy intercourse. “If people with a vagina feel like they are adequately lubricated naturally then they may not need a lubricated condom,” Dr. Cross adds. 

It is important to pay attention to the ingredients in lubes if you choose to use one that is separate from what can be provided from external condoms. Oil-based lubricants cannot be used with latex external condoms because it breaks down the material, causing it to be less effective. When using latex external condoms, one should use either a water-based or silicone-based lubricant.

Added Features

Besides using external condoms to help in preventing pregnancy and STIs, they can also be used to increase pleasure and excitement in the bedroom. There are a plethora of external condoms on the market that offer added features, such as extra lubrication, a ribbed design, or a heating and cooling sensation. These features will not only add variety to your sex life, but they can also increase gratification for you and your partner. “I tell my patients to try different brands and styles but not forget the basics to avoid errors,” says Dr. Brahmbhatt. “I also let them know that comfort and experience should be priorities, but not number one—this should always be your and their safety,” he adds. 

Unsure what added features you might like in your sex life? Variety packs can be a simple and budget-friendly solution because they give you the ability to test different condoms without having to buy multiple packs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How effective are condoms at preventing STDs?

    Condoms are about “98 percent effective against STDs,” Dr. Brahmbhatt says. “They can be great at preventing infections like HIV, gonorrhea and chlamydia.” But the expert warned that there are still STDs that could be spread from skin-to-skin contact between partners, despite the use of condoms. This includes “herpes, genital warts, and syphilis,” Dr. Brahmbhatt says. Incorrect and inconsistent condom use can lead to the contraction of STDs, which is why it’s important to have the condom on at the start of skin-to-skin contact to protect everyone.

    “The biggest mistake is just not putting the condom on early enough. A lot of people tend to get started in their activities and foreplay, and body fluids are exchanged before," explains Dr. Cross. "Putting it on halfway during intercourse is not going to be as effective, especially if some sperm has already been exchanged or any bodily fluids from an STI standpoint.”

  • How do I know which size condom to buy?

    Condoms should feel snug on the penis and be capable of staying throughout the entirety of intercourse without moving or falling off. “To ensure proper fit, it's helpful to try on different sizes while the penis is erect,” Dr. Gaither says.

    “Basically, a girth of less than 4.7 inches needs a snug fit, girth 4.7 inches to 5.1 inches needs a regular fit, and a girth greater than 5.1 inches requires a large fit.” Trying on condoms prior to intercourse can assist in making sure the right size is being used during the actual act. “Slippage and breakage are common findings with inappropriate fit,” Dr. Gaither adds.

  • Do external condoms expire?

    Yes, condoms do expire, so it is important to pay attention to the expiration date to ensure the product is working as intended. “The materials over time can break down and not be as effective or can be more likely to break,” Dr. Cross says.

    “It is important to look at expiration dates because the efficacy and likelihood of breaking is going to be impacted, which defeats the entire purpose of using it.”

  • How much do condoms cost?

    Condoms are generally inexpensive, mostly available in drugstores and supermarkets, often in value packs. Most products on our list are around $10 to $20, with one of the cheapest—Caution Wear Iron Grip Snugger Fit—at $6. The Durex Avanti multipack was our most expensive option at $35, but it includes three boxes.

Why Trust Verywell Health

As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. Her experience and knowledge in the fieldwork together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life.