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Best Files For Acrylic Nails (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a professional finish to your nails, acrylics are an excellent option. While many people rely on salons to get this done, it’s now possible to do it on your own. One of the essential things you need to consider is the type of file to use. Most salons use electric files due to their convenience, but manual files are also an excellent choice.

When buying files for acrylic nails, there are several factors you need to consider. One of the primary considerations is the grit. A higher grit number means that the file is more abrasive, making it better suited for shaping the nails. On the other hand, a lower grit number is less abrasive and perfect for buffing the nail before and after applying the acrylic.

Are you tired of constantly having to retouch your nails? Do you want to save money on salon visits? If yes, then you need the right tools to do it at home. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know which file to choose. Are there any specific brands that you should look for? What should you be on the lookout for when buying a file? Keep reading to get all the answers.

10 Best Files For Acrylic Nails

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for filing and shaping poly nail extension gel and acrylic nails at both home and salon.
2
The product is ideal for shaping and filing nails for acrylic, gel, and dip manicures.
3
Ideal for manicure and pedicure, shaping, carving, polishing and grinding acrylic and gel nails with 6 included bits and sanding bands.
4
This product is ideal for professional nail technicians and home users for filing and shaping acrylic nails.
5
This product is ideal for manicure and nail art at home, in a salon or by a nail tech.
6
It is ideal for professional nail care, including filing, shaping, and buffing acrylic nails, poly nail gel, and nail extensions.
7
The product is ideal for manicure and pedicure, specifically for filing and shaping acrylic nails with its powerful cordless motor.
8
The product is ideal for shaping, polishing, and filing acrylic and gel nails at home or in a salon.
9
The product is ideal for nail care, including filing, polishing, and removing acrylic and gel nails both in salons and at home.
10
The product is ideal for shaping, polishing, and grinding nails, including acrylics and gels, for home or salon use.
This product is ideal for filing and shaping poly nail extension gel and acrylic nails at both home and salon.
The product is ideal for shaping and filing nails for acrylic, gel, and dip manicures.
Ideal for manicure and pedicure, shaping, carving, polishing and grinding acrylic and gel nails with 6 included bits and sanding bands.
This product is ideal for professional nail technicians and home users for filing and shaping acrylic nails.
This product is ideal for manicure and nail art at home, in a salon or by a nail tech.
It is ideal for professional nail care, including filing, shaping, and buffing acrylic nails, poly nail gel, and nail extensions.
The product is ideal for manicure and pedicure, specifically for filing and shaping acrylic nails with its powerful cordless motor.
The product is ideal for shaping, polishing, and filing acrylic and gel nails at home or in a salon.
The product is ideal for nail care, including filing, polishing, and removing acrylic and gel nails both in salons and at home.
The product is ideal for shaping, polishing, and grinding nails, including acrylics and gels, for home or salon use.

1. Professional Double-Sided Nail Files For Home & Salon.

The Semicircle Shape & Double Sides of these Nail Files are designed to provide a comfortable nail doing experience. Made with top quality adhesive tape and emery board materials, these nail files are sturdy, durable and long-lasting. Each pack comes with 12 nail files, each measuring 7.09 x 1.10 x 0.16 inches, making them essential nail art tools for filing nails before nail treatment & nail extension.

These nail files are easy and effective to use, as they remove ridges on your nail surface, ideal for poly extension gel, natural and artificial nails, manicure and pedicure. They are also versatile and can be used for nail shaping, grooming, styling and polishing on your fingernails, toenails, natural nails, acrylic nails and false nails.

Not only are these nail files great for personal use, but they are also a must-have in professional salons and for DIY nail art at home. They are a terrific gift for girls who love nail art as a birthday gift, Christmas gift or Halloween gift. These nail files are not only washable but also reusable, and water-resistant due to the high-quality adhesive tape and emery board materials used.

Pros

  • Made with top quality adhesive tape and emery board materials
  • Semicircle Shape & Double Sides provide a comfortable nail doing experience
  • Comes with 12 nail files, each measuring 7.09 x 1.10 x 0.16 inches
  • Easy and effective to use, removes ridges on your nail surface
  • Versatile and can be used for nail shaping, grooming, styling and polishing
  • A must-have in professional salons and for DIY nail art at home
  • Washable and reusable, water-resistant

2. Makartt 10pcs Strong Nail Files: Professional Grade!

Achieve professional-looking nails with ease using these heavy-duty emery board nail files. The set comes with 10 pieces of 100-180 grit nail files made from robust construction, ensuring long-lasting use. These nail files are perfect for shaping and filing down various types of nails, including acrylic, dip, gel, gel x, and poly nails. They are also great for natural nails, especially thick toenails. Add this essential nail tool to your acrylic nail kit, poly nail gel kit, dip powder nail kit, gel x nail kit, or gel nail polish kit.

The ergonomic design of these nail files allows for better control and accuracy. The curve shape provides a comfortable grip for easy maneuvering. The curved section is ideal for filing the sides of the nail, while the rounded edge is perfect for filling near the cuticle. Whether you're a nail tech or a DIYer, these nail files are a must-have in your nail care kit. They are great for angles and can be used by left and right-handed individuals.

Not a fan of nail drills? No problem! These nail files can make the job done really well. You will feel like a true professional. Plus, they're washable and reusable, making them a cost-effective solution for your nail care needs. Sanitize them after each use and use them again and again.

The set also makes a great gift for her, whether it's for Valentine's Day or any other occasion. It's perfect for nail art lovers, at-home manicure DIYers, or anyone who loves to keep their nails looking great. Share them with your family, friends, and even your pets. These heavy-duty nail files are also great for pet owners who want to file their dogs' nails. The 100 grit boards are sturdy enough to use on your dogs' nails, and they're sure to love it too!

Overall, these affordable and sturdy fingernail files are essential nail tools for manicure. They're perfect for achieving salon-quality nails at home. So, add these professional nail files to your nail care kit today and get ready to impress.

Pros

  • Made from heavy-duty emery boards for long-lasting use
  • Suitable for various types of nails, including acrylic, dip, gel, gel x, and poly nails
  • Ergonomic design allows for better control and accuracy
  • Can be used by left and right-handed individuals
  • Washable and reusable for cost-effective nail care
  • Great gift idea for nail art lovers and at-home manicure DIYers
  • Sturdy enough to use on dogs' nails

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for very fine nails

3. Melodysusie's Portable Rechargeable Nail Drill.

Achieve professional-quality manicures with the MelodySusie Nail Drill. This high-speed nail drill is equipped with a high-quality bearing that allows it to work smoothly at a speed of up to 30,000 RPM, which can be easily adjusted using the speed control knob. This makes it perfect for both professional nail technicians in salons and beginners who are just starting their journey to nail beauty at home.

The efile also comes with superior torque, which ensures that it does not stop occasionally when you apply the appropriate pressure. It is perfect for buffing nails, filing the shape of various nails, and smoothing calluses or hardened skin on your hands and feet.

This nail drill is rechargeable and cordless, making it easy to use anywhere, anytime. It comes with a large battery capacity of 2000mA and can work for up to 7 hours when fully charged for about 2.5 hours. The smart LCD screen displays the precise RPM and electricity, and the belt clip of the body case allows you to hang it on your waist for convenience. The compact size (6.08*2.94*0.98) also makes it easy to pack in your traveling bag or case.

The handpiece of the nail drill is made of special aluminum alloy material and has ample ventilation holes that effectively dissipate heat. It is lightweight and pencil-shaped, making it perfect for extended use. Additionally, its low vibration ensures that your hand does not become numb after long-term use. It works with all kinds of 3/32” shank bits.

Overall, the MelodySusie nail drill is a functional, versatile, and quiet tool that allows you to do your own manicures like a pro. Its top-quality features make it an ideal choice for both professionals and beginners.

Pros

  • High-quality bearing for smooth operation
  • High and adjustable speed of up to 30,000 RPM
  • Superior torque to avoid stopping occasionally
  • Rechargeable and cordless with a large battery capacity
  • Smart LCD screen for displaying precise RPM and electricity
  • Compact size for easy portability
  • Ample ventilation holes for effective heat dissipation
  • Low vibration for extended use

4. Belle Pro Nail Drill Set: Fast & Portable Mani-Pedi

The Belle Electric Nail Drill is a powerful and portable option designed for nail students and technicians. It features a brushless motor with Japanese bearings that provides high precision with 0.015mm coaxiality max. The control box allows for forward and reverse modes and has a variable sliding speed control that ranges from 2000 to 35,000RPM. It operates ultra-smooth, quietly, and without vibration.

This professional nail drill is rechargeable and portable thanks to its built-in large capacity battery. The lightweight, battery-powered control box provides 10-20 hours of use with only a 2-hour charging time in either 110V or 220V. The control box has an LED display, variable speed dial, forward and reverse button for added convenience.

The handpiece is made of special aluminum alloy material that is low heat and low vibration for a safe and comfortable experience. It is also lightweight at only 0.45 lb., making it easy to hang on the waist and use for extended periods without causing hand numbness. The pencil-shape and lightweight design make it perfect for precise and delicate work.

This affordable electric nail drill set comes with a premium carrying bag including special customized high-quality 3/32” bits made of durable ceramic, carbide, and 20Pcs #150 Grit sanding bands for nail drill. It also features a unique removable nail drill transparent case built with a 2-in-1 handpiece cradle and belt clip for added convenience.

Belle Professional offers friendly customer service and a full 1-year parts and labor warranty with your electric file purchase. Every Belle-certified nail manicure machine is tested several times to ensure a good experience.

Pros

  • Powerful and portable option for nail students and technicians
  • Brushless motor with Japanese bearings provides high precision with 0.015mm coaxiality max
  • Variable sliding speed control ranges from 2000 to 35,000RPM
  • Ultra-smooth, quiet, and vibration-free operation
  • Rechargeable and portable with a built-in large capacity battery
  • Lightweight handpiece made of special aluminum alloy material
  • Low heat and low vibration for a safe and comfortable experience
  • Comes with a premium carrying bag and special customized high-quality bits and sanding bands
  • Unique removable nail drill transparent case with a 2-in-1 handpiece cradle and belt clip
  • Friendly customer service and a full 1-year parts and labor warranty

5. Makartt Pink Nail Drill – Salon-Quality Diy Manicures

The Makartt MALORY Nail Drill Machine is a high-speed nail drill that has approved the CE certificate, ensuring its quality and safety. It has an adjustable speed of 0-30000 RPM, allowing for fast and efficient grinding of nails. The machine is rechargeable and portable, with a battery life of 8 hours after a 2.5 hour charge. Its riveting design makes it easy to install and disassemble, and it can be hung on your belt or waist or packed in your travel bag or case.

This electric nail file is easy to operate with its 'FWD-Forward' and 'REV-Reverse' button function to change direction. To use the handpiece, simply rotate it from the white middle part to open the drill bits, and press the button on the white middle part to close the hole and hold the bits tightly. The nail polisher comes with 6 professional grinding heads that are convenient for replacement, and it works smoothly and quietly with low vibration and noise for an enjoyable manicure and pedicure experience.

Makartt has also upgraded the drill bit set to ensure that it is effective in removing various gels. The new version bit is made of advanced materials that greatly protect your nails, making it a great investment for both personal and professional use.

Pros

  • High-speed nail drill with adjustable speed of 0-30000 RPM
  • CE certified for quality and safety
  • Rechargeable and portable with 8 hours of battery life
  • Easy to operate with 'FWD-Forward' and 'REV-Reverse' button function
  • Comes with 6 professional grinding heads for convenient replacement
  • Smooth and quiet operation with low vibration and noise
  • Upgraded drill bit set effectively removes various gels and protects nails

6. Makartt Pink Pro Nail Drill Kit

Stephanee Nail Drill is an innovative and user-friendly electric nail file designed for technicians and customers of any skill level. It is perfect for both salon and home use. The drill is rechargeable and can operate up to 8-10 hours after a full charge in 100-240V. The control box boasts an LED display, variable speed dial, forward and reverse button. The high-quality bearing of this drill enables it to work smoothly at a high and adjustable speed of 0-35000rpm. It is equipped with a security protection system that stops the handpiece from working when the overload protection function is started to avoid overheating due to improper operation. This drill kit comes with 5pcs nail drill bits and sanding bands, making it the perfect tool for carving, engraving, routing, grinding, sharpening, sanding, cutting, polishing, drilling, and even removing cuticle dead skin and calluses.

The Stephanee Nail Drill is truly versatile and powerful enough to work with natural acrylic nails, gel polish dip powder nails, and more. Its LCD display can clearly show you the speed and the power status, making it easy to control and use. This drill is perfect for those looking for a professional-grade tool that can be used at home or in the salon.

Please keep in mind that the drill is equipped with a security protection system. If the overload protection function is started, the handpiece will stop working to avoid overheating due to improper operation. Make sure to turn off the power and check the handpiece for any improper operation, such as the drill bit not being locked when the machine is started. After finishing all the checks, restart the machine for continuous use.

Pros

  • Innovative and user-friendly design
  • Rechargeable and long-lasting battery life
  • High-quality bearing for smooth and adjustable speed
  • Versatile and powerful enough for natural acrylic nails, gel polish dip powder nails, and more
  • Equipped with a security protection system to avoid overheating

Cons

  • – May be a bit pricey compared to other electric nail files
  • – May take some time to get used to the various controls and settings

7. Lavinda Diamond Rechargeable Nail Drill – Beauty Essential

The Updated Coreless Motor Nail Drill is a must-have for any nail artist. It is equipped with a powerful and advanced coreless motor that generates lower vibration and heat for a smooth and long-lasting operation. The motor is 36 much stronger and efficient than others in the market. You can now do your nails more efficiently and quickly.

This nail drill machine is rechargeable and portable, which means you can take it anywhere you want to do your nails. It has a long battery life with a 3000 power capacity. When fully charged for two hours, the Lavinda acrylic nail drill will work for up to 10-12 hours. The device has a Type-C connector that can be inserted in any Type-C-enabled device, regardless of the side. You can be creative and do your nail art anywhere you want!

The electric nail drill has a high speed of 35000RPM, which is adjustable from 0 to 35000 RPM. It has two directions of rotation, enabling both right-handed and left-handed use. The device also has a pause button that allows you to power it down when you change the drill bits and turn to the speed you need quickly.

This nail drill kit has a unique exterior design and crafts that make it stand out. It is a functional drill kit that enables carving, engraving, routing, grinding, sharpening, sanding, cutting, polishing, drilling work, and more. You can be as creative as you want and let your creativity fly! Be the bling bling girl you always wanted to be!

The Updated Coreless Motor Nail Drill has CE/ UL/FCC/MSDS certificates, making it much safer and more durable. The device also comes with a 12-month warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the seller via Amazon mailbox.

Pros

  • Equipped with a powerful and advanced coreless motor that generates lower vibration and heat for a smooth and long-lasting operation.
  • The nail drill machine is 36 much stronger and efficient than others in the market.
  • Rechargeable and portable, which means you can take it anywhere you want to do your nails.
  • Long battery life with a 3000 power capacity.
  • The electric nail drill has a high speed of 35000RPM, which is adjustable from 0 to 35000 RPM.
  • Unique exterior design and crafts make it stand out.
  • Functional drill kit that enables carving, engraving, routing, grinding, sharpening, sanding, cutting, polishing, drilling work, and more.
  • CE/ UL/FCC/MSDS certificates, making it much safer and more durable.
  • Comes with a 12-month warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction.

8. Melodysusie Compact Nail Drill: Power For Perfect Nails.

Achieve salon-quality nails at the comfort of your own home with this Multifunctional Electric Nail File. It comes with 6 metal bits and 6 sanding bands, all of which are compatible with 3/32” shank bits, allowing you to grind, carve, cut, and polish your nails to perfection. It also doubles as a cuticle remover, making it a complete nail care tool.

Adjust the speed of the electric nail file with ease using the speed control button. It has a powerful motor that can reach a maximum speed of 20,000 RPM, ensuring a fast and efficient nail care routine. The low noise and low heat feature of this electric nail file makes it a comfortable tool to use. Its smart heat dissipation mechanism prevents overheating, but it is recommended to use it no more than 20 minutes continuously.

With its compact and lightweight design, this electric nail file is portable, allowing you to do your nail art work anytime, anywhere. It is perfect for both home and salon use, making it a versatile tool for nail care enthusiasts. Simply connect the power cord to start using it.

Pros

  • Comes with 6 metal bits and 6 sanding bands for a complete nail care routine
  • Adjustable speed up to 20,000 RPM for fast and efficient nail care
  • Low noise and low heat for a comfortable nail care experience
  • Smart heat dissipation mechanism to prevent overheating
  • Compact and lightweight design for portability
  • Suitable for both home and salon use
  • Easy to use with a simple power cord connection

Cons

  • – Recommended to use for no more than 20 minutes continuously
  • – May require additional practice for beginners to get used to the tool

9. Quickcharge Pink Nail Drill For Pro Manicures

The High-Speed Bearings of this superior nail drill work smoothly at a high and adjustable speed (max 35000 RPM) by rotating the speed control knob with ease. It is a great electric nail filer for both professional nail salon use and DIY nail art at home. The rechargeable and portable design makes it perfect for on-the-go use. The cordless nail drill machine comes with a large capacity battery of 3600mAh, which charges for about 3 hours and can be used for up to 8-10 hours. The portable size (6.3*2.8*1 inch) and lightweight of this electric nail file make it compact to pack into your bag for carrying out conveniently anywhere anytime. The quality aluminum alloy handpiece is made up of powerful yet quiet torque with smart heat dissipation and low vibration, making it comfortable to grip in hand. The twists lock system makes it easy to change nail drill bits, providing a safe and effective nail art experience. Our e file machine is very easy to use with the one-touch button supporting to display power and change forward/reverse direction with speed showing on the LCD screen. The one-touch operation design gives you a simple and convenient use experience, both professionals and beginners could master this nail drill machine easily. The nail drill kit includes 7 nail drill bits and 6 sanding bands for different usage, meeting all nail beauty needs. It is perfect for manicure and pedicure, such as grinding, carving, cutting, polishing, removing natural acrylics nails, gel polish dip powder nails, callus, cuticles, and more, as well as for all nail arts.

Pros

  • High-speed bearings for a smooth and adjustable speed
  • Rechargeable and portable design for on-the-go use
  • Low heat, low noise, and low vibration for a comfortable nail art experience
  • Easy to handle with one-touch button and twists lock system
  • Multi-functional nail drill kit with 7 nail drill bits and 6 sanding bands

10. Pro Nails Efile: Joeoen's Ultimate Electric Nail Drill

The JOEOEN Electric Nail Drill Kit is a powerful and efficient tool made of durable aluminum and high-quality bearings. It operates smoothly at a high-speed adjustable rate of 0-40000 RPM, with low heat, low noise, and super low vibration. This professional nail drill is ideal for both beginners and professionals.

The electric nail file drill has a locking and heat dissipating function, which makes it easy to change the bit by simply twisting the locking system. The switch design ensures that the drill is stable and prevents it from popping out during operation. The nail drill handle has holes for quick heat dissipation that allow for prolonged use without hot hands.

The JOEOEN Electric Nail Drill features a smart display that shows the speed and direction, making it easy for beginners to adjust the speed accurately. The speed knob is beautiful and can be rotated left and right to adjust the speed. It also has a memory function and can be paused. The F/R key allows for changing the direction of the rotating bit, making it ideal for both right-handed and left-handed use.

This multifunctional nail filer comes with a nail drill pen storage and grinding bit holder, making it convenient to use the drills and pens needed before starting nail work. The design also saves space on the manicure table, and the anti-slip strip at the bottom of the machine prevents it from scratching the desktop, making it safer to use.

The JOEOEN Electric Nail Drill Kit comes with 1 ceramic bits, 6 metal nail drill bits, and 6 drill bit standing bands, making it perfect for both home and salon use. It is suitable for carving, engraving, routing, grinding, sharpening, sanding, cutting, polishing, drilling, and can meet all your demands for acrylic gel nails, nail dip powder, poly nail gels, reshaping all kinds of nails, and smoothing calluses or hardened skin on hands and feet.

Pros

  • High-speed adjustable rate for efficient nail art
  • Low heat, low noise, and super low vibration for comfortable use
  • Smart display and adjustable speed for accurate control
  • Multifunctional design with storage and grinding bit holder for convenience
  • Suitable for both home and salon use with a wide range of applications

Cons

  • – Not a charging model

Best Files For Acrylic Nails FAQs

Are electric files better than manual files for acrylic nails?

When it comes to acrylic nails, both electric and manual files have their own advantages and disadvantages. Manual files are cheaper and easier to use for beginners, but they require more time and effort to achieve the desired results. On the other hand, electric files are faster and more efficient, but they can be more expensive and require some skill and practice to use properly.

Electric files are particularly useful for removing bulk from acrylic nails, while manual files are better for shaping and refining the edges. Electric files can also be adjusted to different speeds and levels of power, allowing for greater precision and control in the filing process.

However, it's important to note that electric files can be more damaging to the natural nail if used improperly or at too high a speed. It's always best to consult a professional nail technician for advice on which type of file to use and how to use it safely and effectively.

In summary, both electric and manual files can be effective for acrylic nails, but it ultimately depends on personal preference and skill level. It's important to use the right tool for the job and to prioritize the health and safety of the natural nail.

Can I use the same file for both natural and acrylic nails?

Yes, you can use the same file for both natural and acrylic nails, but it is recommended that you use different grits of files for different purposes. Natural nails are delicate and require a finer grit file, whereas acrylic nails are stronger and can handle coarser grit files. Using a fine grit file on acrylic nails can take longer to shape and may not work as effectively as a coarser grit file. On the other hand, using a coarse grit file on natural nails can cause damage and weaken the nail. It is important to choose the right grit file for the job to ensure a smooth and even finish. Additionally, it is important to sanitize your file after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria and infection. Overall, using the right file for the right job can make a big difference in the quality of your nail work.

How often should files for acrylic nails be replaced?

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length and strength to their natural nails. However, like any other nail enhancement, acrylic nail files need to be replaced regularly to ensure that they continue to work effectively.

The frequency at which acrylic nail files should be replaced depends on the level of usage. A professional nail technician may need to replace the file after every use to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria. On the other hand, those who do their own acrylic nail maintenance may need to replace the file after a few uses or when it starts to lose its grit.

It's important to note that using a dull or worn-out file can cause damage to the natural nail and lead to breakage or splitting. To avoid this, it's recommended to replace the file once it starts to feel less effective or after a certain number of uses.

In conclusion, the frequency at which acrylic nail files should be replaced depends on the level of usage, but it's essential to replace them regularly to maintain healthy nails.

What grit should I use on my acrylic nail file?

When it comes to acrylic nail files, the grit level is an important factor to consider. Grit refers to the coarseness or roughness of the file's surface, and it determines how quickly and effectively it can file down the acrylic nails. Generally, the lower the grit number, the rougher the file, and the higher the grit number, the smoother the file.

For acrylic nails, it is recommended to use a file with a grit level between 100 and 180. These grit levels are coarse enough to remove the acrylic material without damaging the natural nail underneath. However, it is important to note that using a file with a grit level that is too rough can cause the acrylic nails to become brittle and prone to breaking.

It is also advisable to use a high-quality acrylic nail file to ensure that the grit is consistent and does not wear down too quickly. Regularly cleaning and sanitizing the file is also important to prevent the spread of bacteria and maintain its effectiveness.

In summary, choose an acrylic nail file with a grit level between 100 and 180 to effectively file down the acrylic material without damaging the natural nail.

What types of files are best for shaping acrylic nails?

When it comes to shaping acrylic nails, the type of file you choose can make a big difference in the final result. There are several types of files available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

The most commonly used files for shaping acrylic nails are typically made of either glass or metal. Glass files are gentle and easy to use, making them a popular choice for beginners. They also tend to be less abrasive than metal files, which means they're less likely to damage the natural nail. Metal files, on the other hand, are more durable and can be more effective at removing excess acrylic. However, they require a bit more skill to use properly and can be harsh on the nail if not used correctly.

In addition to glass and metal files, there are also electric files available that can make shaping acrylic nails even easier. These files use a rotating head to quickly and effectively shape the nail, but they require some practice to use safely.

Ultimately, the best type of file for shaping acrylic nails will depend on your personal preferences and skill level. It's always a good idea to start with a gentle file and work your way up to more abrasive options as needed.

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