In short: choose the Womanizer Premium 2 if you want stimulation through air pulses, a wide range of intensity steps and an automatic mode that varies the sensations for you. Choose the LELO SONA 3 if you prefer intensity that rises without jolts and the option of app control. Both stimulate the clitoral area without direct contact, but not with the same technology.
This comparison only uses data published by the manufacturers and shown on our product pages. When a figure is not published, the table says so rather than estimating it.
Womanizer Premium 2 and LELO SONA 3 at a glance
| Criterion | Womanizer Premium 2 | LELO SONA 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Pleasure Air: air pulses | Sonic waves |
| Settings | 14 intensity levels | 12 settings: 10 on the device, 2 via the app |
| Moving between settings | In steps | Continuous (SmoothRise technology) |
| Automatic mode | Yes: Autopilot | Not published |
| App | No | Yes, optional |
| Heads | Two sizes included | One mouth |
| Practical feature | Smart Silence: starts on skin contact | Travel lock |
| Stated battery life | Not published | About 2 hours of use for 2 hours of charging, 90 days on standby |
| Water resistance | IPX7 | Fully waterproof according to the manufacturer |
| Colours | Warm grey, black, bordeaux | Cyber purple, violet dusk, cream |
Two technologies for the same area
The Womanizer Premium 2 does not vibrate: its Pleasure Air technology sends air pulses around the clitoris without pressing on it. This is the brand's original approach, designed for people who find direct contact or friction overwhelming.
The LELO SONA 3 uses sonic waves, which LELO describes as stimulation that reaches the clitoral area without direct contact. The intention is similar, the sensation different: some people find them close, others very distinct. To understand how both differ from a classic vibrator, read Clitoral stimulator or vibrator: what’s the difference?
Settings: steps or a ramp
This is the most tangible difference in use. The Premium 2 offers 14 intensity levels: a wide range that lets you start very low and climb in small steps. Its Autopilot mode varies the stimulation on its own, which suits you if you would rather not adjust anything along the way.
The SONA 3 has 12 settings, ten available on the device and two unlocked through the app. Its new feature, SmoothRise, smooths the move from one level to the next: intensity rises continuously instead of stepping up at each notch. The app remains optional and adds remote control.
Battery life, water resistance and travel
LELO states that the SONA 3 offers about two hours of use for two hours of charging, ninety days on standby and a travel lock that prevents it from switching on in a bag. Womanizer does not publish a battery life figure in the data we hold for the Premium 2; its Smart Silence feature only starts it on skin contact.
Both can be rinsed under water: the Premium 2 is IPX7 certified and the SONA 3 is described as fully waterproof. In both cases, dry the charging contacts before recharging and use a water-based lubricant. Our guide How to clean and store a sex toy details the routine.
Who the Premium 2 suits, who the SONA 3 suits
The Womanizer Premium 2 is for you if:
- you want to discover air-pulse stimulation, the technology that built Womanizer's reputation;
- you like having many steps so you can progress very gradually;
- you prefer to let the device vary on its own with Autopilot;
- you want to choose between two head sizes.
The LELO SONA 3 is for you if:
- jolts between two levels bother you and you want a continuous rise;
- you would like the option of controlling the device by app or remotely;
- a stated battery life and a travel lock matter to you;
- you like LELO's design and colours.
What if neither suits you?
The LELO SONA 3 Cruise adds intensity that holds when you press the device more firmly. On the Womanizer side, the Liberty 2 offers air stimulation in a travel-friendly format. To browse the brand's full range, see Which Womanizer should you buy? The SoPigalle guide, and for an overview of the brands, LELO, Womanizer and We-Vibe: what’s the difference?
Our verdict
Neither is objectively better: they reflect two ways of guiding the sensation. The Premium 2 is the choice of guided simplicity: many steps, an automatic mode and two heads to fine-tune comfort. The SONA 3 is the choice of fine control: intensity that rises without a break and connected options for those who want to go further.
SoPigalle tip: ask yourself one question before choosing. Would you rather the device improvises, or keep control of every nuance? If the former, the Premium 2; if the latter, the SONA 3.
FAQ: Womanizer Premium 2 or LELO SONA 3
What is the difference between the Womanizer Premium 2 and the LELO SONA 3?
The Premium 2 stimulates with air pulses and increases intensity in 14 steps. The SONA 3 uses sonic waves, has 12 settings and raises intensity continuously thanks to SmoothRise. The SONA 3 can also be controlled by app; the Premium 2 cannot.
Which one has more settings?
The Womanizer Premium 2, with 14 intensity levels. The LELO SONA 3 offers 12, two of which are only available through the app.
Do you need an app to use the LELO SONA 3?
No. Ten of the twelve settings are available directly on the device; the app unlocks the last two and remote control.
Which one should I choose as a first clitoral stimulator?
Both are suitable as long as you start at the lowest setting, with the head resting in place without pressure. If you would rather not adjust anything, the Premium 2's Autopilot makes discovery easier; if you want to control each step, the SONA 3's continuous rise is easier to follow.
Can they be used in the shower?
Yes. The Premium 2 is IPX7 certified and the SONA 3 is stated to be fully waterproof. Dry the charging contacts before each recharge.