Best Nail Files of 2026
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Nail files are an essential tool for maintaining healthy and beautiful nails. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials to suit different preferences and needs. For those who prefer a natural approach, there are crystal and glass nail files that are gentle on the nails and can be reused for a long time. Metal and ceramic nail files are durable and efficient in shaping and smoothing the nails. Emery boards and sandpaper nail files are budget-friendly options that are easily disposable. Whatever the choice may be, having a good quality nail file is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their nails looking their best.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Nail Files
Makartt Nail File 100/180 Grit Nail Files
These professional quality nail files are perfect for shaping and filing down acrylic nails, dip nails, gel nails, and natural nails. The ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and maneuver, and the sturdy construction ensures it won't easily bend or break. They are also washable and reusable, making them a great value for personal use. With 10 pieces in a pack, they are affordable and great for sharing with family and friends.
Revlon Dual-Sided Emery Boards
The Revlon Emery Boards are a versatile tool for nail care, featuring a dual-sided design that allows you to shape and smooth both your fingernails and toenails effortlessly. Their strong and flexible construction ensures durability, making it easy for you to achieve the perfect nail shape without worrying about breakage. With a total of 24 files in each pack, you'll have plenty on hand for personal use or to share with friends. This product simplifies your nail grooming routine, providing a convenient way to maintain your nails at home or on the go.
Revlon Dual-Sided Compact Nail File (10-Pack)
The Revlon Dual-Sided Nail File is perfect for keeping your nails neat wherever you go. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your purse or beauty kit, so you can tidy up your nails anytime. The file features two sides: a rough side for shaping your nails and a smoother side to soften the edges, giving your nails a polished look. Made from durable yet flexible material, this nail file lets you create the nail shape you want without breaking or bending. Just remember to file your nails when they're dry and use gentle strokes to avoid damage.
Tropical Shine 8.5" Nail Files 3-Pack
The Tropical Shine Nail Files offer precise shaping for both natural and acrylic nails, helping you achieve a polished look with ease. Their unique "Zebra File" design gives you excellent control, making nail care more accurate. You’ll appreciate the strong grip and broad surface area that allow you to shape and smooth nail edges efficiently. These files are also designed for easy cleaning — simply wash and disinfect to keep your nail care routine hygienic and safe. With these features, you can enjoy salon-quality results right at home without hassle.
Makartt 180/240 Grit Dual-Sided Nail Files 10-Pack
The Makartt Dual-Sided Nail Files come in a convenient 10-pack featuring high-quality zebra grit that is gentle on your nails and prevents irritation or grit shedding. You’ll appreciate the dual sides with 180 grit for shaping and smoothing ridges, while the 240 grit side preps your natural nails and smooths gel surfaces, making it versatile for various nail types. These files are built to last up to three times longer than regular files, so you get durable performance without frequent replacements. Plus, their flexible design allows them to bend without breaking, offering reliable use whether at home or in a professional salon setting.
Tweezerman Neon Hot Nail Files
The Tweezerman Neon Hot Nail Files come in a pack of 3 assorted colors and feature a 100/180 grit surface for filing natural or acrylic nails. The designer hues add a pop of color to your beauty arsenal and can be matched with stylish nail colors. The files come with a convenient carry case to keep them clean and protected, making them perfect for travel or to carry in your purse.
TsMADDTs Professional Manicure Tools Kit
TsMADDTs Professional Manicure Tools Kit is a great choice for DIYers and professionals alike. This set includes 6 pieces of nail files and 6 pieces of buffer sanding blocks, with 100 and 180 grits respectively. It is suitable for fingernails, toenails, natural nails, acrylic nails and false nails. Customers have praised the quality of the product, noting that the files and buffers are of great quality and the buffing blocks are especially great. However, some customers have noted that the files may be too rough and edgy, so caution should be used when using them.
HeeYaa 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files
HeeYaa 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files are a great choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable nail file. The double sided design with 100/180 grit allows for a lighter touch without damaging the nail. The files are made of top quality adhesive tape and emery board material, making them washable and reusable. Customers have praised the files for their strength and effectiveness, making them a great choice for both professional nail salons and DIY nail art at home.
Teenitor Gel Nail File Set
The Teenitor Gel Nail File Set is a professional manicure tool that works quickly to trim or shape the acrylic nails. It includes different girts for different functions, and is washable and easy to sanitize. Suitable for both salons and home use, these nail buffers are made with premium quality EVC+ Emery board materials and designed with Semicircle Shape & Double Sides for a comfortable nail doing experience.
Tweezerman Professional Nail Files
Tweezerman Professional Nail Files come in a pack of 3 and are of professional quality. They are 7" long and have dual sided 180/240 grits that help in shaping and smoothing nail edges with precision. It is recommended to file nails in one direction to avoid splitting, and to replace the files after three months of regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What grit is best for natural nails?
For natural nails, the best grit for a nail file is 180 to 240. It's important to use a higher grit to avoid damaging the nails. If you have a lower grit file, you can still use it but adjust the pressure while filing.
2. What is a 100 100 nail file used for?
A 100 grit nail file is used to shorten the length of both natural and acrylic nails. It is also suitable for shaping the side walls and free edge of the nails.
3. Is it better to file nails wet or dry?
It is better to file nails when they are dry. Filing wet nails can make them softer and more prone to breakage or over-filing. Clean and dry your nails properly before filing for the best results.
4. What do nail techs use to file nails?
Nail technicians often use electric nail files or drills. These salon-quality tools have interchangeable heads that can file, buff, and polish natural or acrylic nails.
5. Is it better to file or cut weak nails?
Filing weak nails is better than cutting them. Filing allows for a customized shape and helps strengthen the nails, preventing chipping. If your nails are too long, you can clip them first and then use a file to shape and maintain their health.
6. Why glass nail files are better?
Glass nail files are preferred because they are less damaging to natural nails. They have fine particles that seal the nails as they file, creating a smooth edge without cracks. Glass files are ideal for maintaining the health and integrity of natural nails.
7. What is a 320 grit nail file used for?
A 320 grit nail file is considered fine/extra fine and is gentle enough to remove ridges on the natural nail surface. It can also be used to file the edges of the nails.
8. What is 120 180 nail file used for?
A 120/180 grit nail file is suitable for full cover tips. The 180 grit is used to prep the natural nail, while the 120 grit is ideal for making adjustments to the length and shape of the nails.
9. What is 240 nail file used for?
A 240 grit nail file is commonly used by professionals for shaping natural nails and refining the shapes and overlays of nail extensions.
During our nail file research, we found 48 nail file products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 713,290 customer reviews through our big data system to write the nail files list. We found that most customers choose nail files with an average price of $6.29.
The nail files are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of nail files, including Makartt, REVLON, Tropical Shine, Tweezerman, TsMADDTs. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,183 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.
Nail Files Comparison Table
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| Brand | Makartt | REVLON | REVLON | Tropical Shine | Makartt | Tweezerman | TsMADDTs | HeeYaa | Teenitor | Tweezerman |
| Material | EVA, PS board and zebra sandpaper | Emery | Emery | Acrylic | Emery | Acrylic | Sand | Emery | Emery, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) | Acrylic |
| Model Name | 100 180 Grit Zebra Nail File | Compact Emery Boards | 6453-03 | Colossal Collection | 10pcs Nail File 180/240 Grit | Neon Hot Nail Files 3 Pack | TS-Nail | 100/180 Grit Nail Files | Teenitor Gel Nail File Set | Professional Nail Files |
| Grit Type | Fine | Coarse | Coarse | Fine, Medium, Coarse | Medium & Fine | Medium | Coarse, Fine | Medium | Fine | 180/240 grit |
| Color | Zebra Nail File | Red | - | Pink, Blue, Black | Zebra Nail File | Assorted | Black | Black | Green,silver,white | Black |
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