Choosing the right treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a confusing and often frustrating process. There are numerous options available, each with its own claims and potential benefits. To cut through the marketing hype and get to the heart of what works, we’ve delved deep into the real-world experiences of men using these treatments.
We have meticulously analysed over 2,000 verified customer reviews across five popular ED products – Viagra, Viagra Connect, Sildenafil, Cialis, and Tadalafil – to provide a clear, data-driven guide to help you make an informed decision.
Finding which treatment works for you
One of the most striking findings from our analysis is how common it is for users to experiment with different ED treatments. A significant portion of the reviews, 12% of all reviews, come from individuals who have tried multiple products before settling on one that works best for them.
This reveals a common pattern of “trial and error” as men seek a solution that meets their individual needs and preferences. The good news is that, while one treatment might not work well for you, this does not mean that all options are closed off, and there is a good chance that another product will provide better results. The chart below demonstrates the number of people leaving reviews who have tried alternative products before finding the right ED treatment for them.
| Product | Total Reviews | Reviews Mentioning Comparison | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sildenafil (Generic) | 1083 | 127 | 12 |
| Viagra (Branded) | 282 | 21 | 7 |
| Viagra Connect | 139 | 4 | 3 |
| Cialis (Branded) | 296 | 46 | 16 |
| Tadalafil (Generic) | 510 | 48 | 9 |
Erectile dysfunction tablets comparison
Our comprehensive analysis of product reviews has provided a wealth of insights into the different treatments for ED, based on real user experiences. Here’s a breakdown of how the five products compare across key areas, designed to help you understand what might be the best option for you:
| Feature | Viagra (%) | Viagra Connect (%) | Sildenafil (%) | Cialis (%) | Tadalafil (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pros | |||||
| Effectiveness | 80 | 80 | 86 | 83 | 84 |
| Quick Action | 18 | 10 | 20 | 10 | 12 |
| Long Duration | 8 | 3 | 15 | 35 | 40 |
| Cons | |||||
| Price (too high) | 25 | – | 2 | 4 | 4 |
| Ineffective | 5 | 4 | 7 | 2 | 6 |
| Side Effects | 10 | 2 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
| Delayed Onset | 4 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 12 |
- Effectiveness: Most users find all products improve their ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Sildenafil and Tadalafil, both generics, score slightly higher on this measure than others but every brand receives an 80% positive score or higher for effectiveness.
- Speed of Action: Sildenafil and Viagra are often reported to work quickly, within 30 minutes to an hour. Tadalafil, according to our reviews, has a less immediate effect.
- Duration: Tadalafil (both branded Cialis and generic) is cited for its long-lasting effects. Users often report they can be effective for 36 hours and sometimes even beyond this. Sildenafil and Viagra are generally reviewed as having a shorter duration.
- Price (too high): It is important to consider that this reflects how often users said the price was too high in comparison to other options and not their view of value for money in general. Branded Viagra is most often noted to be expensive.
- Ineffective: Whilst all the products have a high success rate, a small number of users did not find them to be effective at all. Cialis has the lowest ineffective rate according to our reviews but all ED treatments reviewed have a low ineffective rate.
- Side Effects: Headaches, flushing, and nasal congestion are reported across all products. Viagra is often associated with a greater incidence of facial flushing, whereas Tadalafil is often described as having milder side effects overall.
- Delayed Onset: Tadalafil (Cialis) is more often reported to have a delayed onset. This, combined with its long duration potentially means that it is a good option for people who do not need the effect of their ED medication to occur quickly. However for some delayed onset is considered a negative.
Are brands of ED pills important?
Brand/manufacturer is important, and we aren’t just talking about Viagra. Generic treatments such as Sildenafil and Tadalafil are still produced by individual manufacturers.
9.1% of all reviews specifically mentioned avoiding a specific brand/manufacturer and 5% of all reviews reported inconsistent effectiveness/side effects due to a change of the generic brand they had received. This shows that changes in generic formulation noticeably impacts users.
Whilst Viagra and other branded treatments may be more expensive than the non-branded generic treatments, there is less risk of inconsistent results between orders.
Viagra
Viagra, the original branded sildenafil, continues to be a popular option, with a high percentage of users reporting effectiveness. It is particularly favoured for a quick response time, providing users with the confidence to act relatively soon after taking the tablet. However, users often cite its higher cost and the potential for more intense side effects such as facial flushing and headaches as its key drawbacks. Some reviews also suggest that whilst it is broadly effective, other products such as tadalafil may provide a better experience for some users. It is also worth noting that some users have had a reduced efficacy from Viagra, which has meant they require higher dosages for the same results.
Quote: “This really worked for me, I haven’t felt this confident in years!”
Viagra Connect
Viagra Connect, the over-the-counter 50mg version, is also seen as an effective option for ED and has a similar success rate to branded Viagra. This suggests that for many, it provides a useful and accessible route to getting treatment. Users do not report having a preference for Viagra Connect over branded Viagra and many view the product as equally effective, but some reviews mention that the effects are short lived. It is also very rare for users to have experience of a different treatment prior to trying this product. The key benefits of Viagra Connect appears to be its accessibility and convenience.
Quote: “Amazing it changed my life and made me more confident”
Sildenafil
Generic sildenafil emerges as a highly popular choice for many due to its effectiveness and much more affordable cost compared to branded Viagra. It provides a similar experience to Viagra, with the ability to achieve a quick, strong effect, and often with a decent duration. The reviews do highlight inconsistencies between the manufacturers of the product and some report side effects such as headaches, flushing, and a stuffy nose. This does however not outweigh the cost saving for many users who frequently swap and change between sildenafil brands seeking the most effective.
Quote: “Gave me a good erection every time. No side effects whatsoever.”
Cialis
Cialis is valued by users for its unique long-lasting action. This allows for a more spontaneous sexual experience, as the medication can last for up to 36 hours and beyond. Cialis is often described as having milder side effects compared to Viagra. Although side effects such as headaches and flushing are still reported. Many reviews of Cialis highlight the user’s appreciation of the longer duration of the drug, and their preference for this product compared to the shorter acting drugs.
Quote: “It is really good, it works and I have no problems.”
Tadalafil
Generic tadalafil shares the same active ingredient as Cialis, and thus offers the same long-lasting benefits and flexibility of use. While a similarly high level of efficacy is reported in reviews of tadalafil, many users report this product as being more affordable than branded Cialis, and this is often cited as a key benefit. Similarly to generic sildenafil, this product is subject to brand variation and users often have preferences for certain manufacturers, with many reporting varying levels of success when changing brand, highlighting the importance of finding the right individual product.
Quote: “Excellent product, lasts over 3 days with 1 dose”
Choosing the best ED treatment
Ultimately, choosing the best erectile dysfunction tablet comes down to individual needs and preferences. While all of the products reviewed have the potential to help you achieve improved erectile function, it is very common for users to have to experiment to identify the option that provides them with the best mix of efficacy, duration, side effects and cost.
Please note. It is important that men with erectile dysfunction are properly assessed and advised about treatment. This includes having a health check with a doctor to check for any underlying health conditions.
