13 Best Nail Drills to Perfect Your At-Home Mani or Pedi
From professional nail drills to the best nail drills for acrylics, we've got them all.

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We updated this article in February 2023 to add more information about each featured product based on extensive research done by the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, in addition to including two new picks.
If you like to opt for a DIY manicure or DIY pedicure, one way to upgrade your process is using a professional nail drill, also known as an e-file or electric manicure file. This will give the nails on your fingers and toes a look that mimics what you would receive at the salon. Nail drills are designed for professionals — these products expedite the process of removing polish and cuticles while simultaneously providing precision to your manicure or pedicure. An electric manicure toolset can work on both false and natural nails and can be a multitasker: It can file and shape your nails, easily remove gel polish, take off acrylic nails at home, trim your cuticles and buff your calluses straight to smoothness.
The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab extensively reviews and tests nail products, including nail polishes. The Beauty Lab scientists have yet to formally test nail drills, though Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler tried three nail drills for this article. As they can cause damage to the nail, our scientists do not recommend them unless used by a professional. Ahead, the best nail drills you can buy, including the top pick for beginners, the professionals, acrylics and more.
Our top picks:
You can read more about how we choose and evaluate nail drills at the end of this story. If you're looking for more ways to achieve an Instagram-worthy mani or pedi, check out our guides on the best callus removers and our favorite French manicure ideas, plus the best dip powder nail kits you can use right at home.


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