The Ultimate Electric Nail Drill Buying Guide For Beginners (2024)

Starting on your nail tech journey?

We’ve got you covered with our top 10 best electric nail drills for beginners.

From salon-quality results to user-friendly designs, we’ve handpicked the best options.

Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to flawless nails with our expert recommendations.

Here’s a peek on our list:

Overview: Best Nail Drills for Beginners in 2024

Top 10 Best Nail Drill For Beginners

Without further ado, here our top picks nail drills.

We rated and reviewed them based on being beginner-friendly.

1. MelodySusie Portable Electric Nail Drill,PC120B

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9.5

Our Score

Switch between 6 bits and 5 tools

Easy to use and affordable

Cools down faster for longevity

2. Kiara Sky Beyond Pro Portable Drill

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9.5

Our Score

7 Interchangeable attachments

Quiet operation

Reversible motor function

9.0

Our Score

Cordless rechargeable

Quiet operation and improved reliability

35000 RPM speed

4. Silvia (PC150C) Portable Nail Drill 20,000RPM

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8.5

Our Score

Comfortable, lightweight

Low heat, low noise

Remove calluses

5. Makartt Nail Drill Electric Nail File JD700

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8.5

Our Score

Intermediate to expert level

Foot pedal mode for hands-free setting

Low vibration and noise

8.0

Our Score

10+ Hour Battery Life

Powerful drill

Brushless Motor

8. Atena (PM220C) Cordless Rechargeable Nail Drill 28,000 RPM

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7.5

Our Score

Cordless and Rechargeable

Portable & Durable

Adjustable speed up to 28,000RPM

9. AIRSEE Rechargeable 30000RPM E File Machine

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7.5

Our Score

Cordless rechargeable

Smooth grip

30,000 RPM

10. OVX Portable Electric Nail Drill Machine

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7.0

Our Score

Low vibration and quiet noise

Adjustable speed

20,000 RPM

What Does Electric Nail Drills Do?

The Ultimate Electric Nail Drill Buying Guide For Beginners (11)

For beginners, an electric nail file is another name for an electric nail drill.

If you’re used to using a manual file, you’ll likely be surprised at how effective an electric drill is to use and how professionally tidy it keeps your nails.

Professional nail salons use electric nail drills to shape both natural and acrylic nails, although they’re more commonly used for acrylics.

Electric nail files have more uses than just shaping nails.

They can also be used to:

  • Remove lifted acrylic by filing down the regrown acrylic before you refill.
  • Repair cracks in acrylic.
  • Sand the nails to prepare them for a full set of artificial nails.
  • Remove calluses and other rough spots from hands or feet.
  • Shape, smooth, and buff the natural nail and fix cuticles.

Electric drills for nails, when powered, turn at high speeds to do all the filing for you. There’s no need to go back and forth as you would with a standard nail file because the spinning head does all the work.

They may take some time to get used to, but the best nail drill sets for beginners give you everything you need without having to learn like a professional.

To help you on mastering your nail drill, here’s a video demonstrating how to use a nail drill machine.

Choose A Versatile and User-Friendly Electric Nail Drill

The Ultimate Electric Nail Drill Buying Guide For Beginners (12)

For nail drills for beginners, a nail drill must prioritize intuitive controls and ergonomic design, ensuring comfortable handling.

Clear instructions and simple operation reduce the learning curve, facilitating novice users’ skill development.

Opting for a drill with interchangeable bits allows beginners to experiment with various nail treatments and techniques, from shaping to buffing, supporting their growth and exploration.

If you want to nail your first e-file purchase, you may want to check this ultimate nail drill buying guide to cover all bases.

Meanwhile, here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

  • Power: Seek a drill with a minimum power rating of 20,000 RPM to handle diverse tasks effectively.
  • Speed Control: Adjustable speed settings enable customization for shaping, buffing, or polish removal.
  • Durability: Look for high-quality materials to ensure longevity, crucial for frequent professional use.
  • Attachments and Accessories: Ensure the drill includes a variety of attachments for versatile nail styling and task versatility.
  • Noise & Vibration: Prioritize quiet operation and minimal vibration to maintain a peaceful environment and reduce hand fatigue.
  • Portability & Design: Consider the drill’s portability, compactness, and cord options for convenient use in various settings.
  • Precision: Look for features such as adjustable speed control and quality bits to facilitate delicate, precise work without damaging nails.

an ensure its safety and cleanliness by taking care of that yourself.

Best Electric Nail Drills for Beginners

Below, we’ve outlined 10 of the best all-around products for those seeking their first electric nail drill.

1. MelodySusie Portable Electric Nail Drill,PC120B

Best Overall

MelodySusie Portable Electric Nail Drill,PC120B

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The MelodySusie PC120B portable electric nail drill is much like what you’d expect from a salon, yet it can be used right in your home for manicures and pedicures.

The set includes six standard-size 3/32″ bits for buffing, shaping, and filing nails, or removing rough skin and calluses, and five buffing heads to perfect the look.

The speed ranges from 0 RPM to high 20,000 RPM, giving this electric drill a wide variety of speeds for the beginner to advanced user. This model provides lasting power over battery-operated drills.

Pros

Adjustable speed and easy to use

Reverse and forward options best for left and right hand use

Simple attachment changes to switch between its six bits and five tools.

Lightweight and portable

Low heat, low noise, low vibration

Cons

Hand unit heats up after heavy use.

Short power cord

Lack of detailed instructions

2. Kiara Sky Beyond Pro Portable Drill

Best Battery Life

Kiara Sky Beyond Pro Portable Drill

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The Kiara Sky Beyond Pro impressed me with its sleek, ergonomic design. It’s lightweight and fits comfortably in my hand, which is a huge plus since I often spend a good amount of time working on intricate nail designs.

Setting it up was a breeze. The instructions were clear, and it was ready to go right after a full charge.

It’s reliable, efficient, and makes doing nails a more enjoyable and less cumbersome task. Despite the high cost and a few minor technical quirks, its performance and portability outweigh these issues

I would recommend it to both seasoned nail enthusiasts and professionals who are looking for a top-notch nail drill that promises and delivers excellence in nail care.

Pros

Quiet operation

Cordless and rechargeable

Solid build quality

User-friendly design

Long battery life

Cons

Quite pricey

Charging quirks

Drill bit locking mechanism issues

Occasional motor strain concerns.

3. DND Portable Nail Drill

Best in Durability

DND Portable Nail Drill

Using the DND Portable Nail Drill in a salon setting has been a positive experience.

The DND Portable Nail Drill combines power, convenience, and durability, making it an excellent choice for both salon professionals and home users.

Its technical features and user-friendly design enhance the overall nail care experience, making it a top contender in the market.

However, the higher price tag and occasional customer service issues are factors to consider. Overall, for its performance and durability, it’s a worthy investment for any professional nail technician.

Pros

Ease of use

Efficient, high RPM and cordless design

Quiet operation

Built with high-quality materials

Cons

Relatively pricey investment.

There’s room for improvement in customer support

Power limitations

4. Silvia (PC150C) Portable Nail Drill 20,000RPM

Best Cordless Convenience

Silvia (PC150C) Portable Nail Drill 20,000RPM

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The Silvia (PC150C) Portable Nail Drill is an essential tool for nail technicians and enthusiasts who value efficiency and portability.

With cordless convenience and USB charging, it’s perfect for on-the-go use. Its ergonomic design, quiet operation, and versatile attachments make it a mini salon in your hands.

However, it requires breaks after 20 minutes to prevent overheating and has a limited speed compared to professional models. Overall, it strikes a great balance between performance and portability.

Pros

Cordless convenience with USB charging

Multiple versatile attachments

Quiet and low vibration

Cons

Requires rest after 20 minutes to prevent overheating

Limited speed (20,000 RPM)

No charger included, USB cord only

5. Makartt Nail Drill Electric Nail File JD700

Best for Salon Setting

Makartt Nail Drill Electric Nail File JD700

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This Makartt Nail Drill could be a great choice for beginners bordering on an intermediate level.

With a few basic attachments necessary for most manicures and pedicures, the drill has what you need without being overwhelming.

The user can control the speed and power, and the drill goes up to a speedy 30,000 RPM for the toughest jobs, like pedicures and gel nails. The handy LED display will show the speed you’re on, in case you need a specific setting.

Additionally, this Makartt drill has safe ventilation to allow heat to escape, which lets you work for longer without worrying about scalding.

Pros

Place into foot pedal mode for hands-free setting control.

Has safety nail bit with locking System

Works in forward and reverse for use with either hand.

Low noise ,low vibration, and low heat.

Easy for salon & home use

Cons

Comes with only one sanding band, which is meant for one-time use only.

Can be difficult to switch bits

Limited number of included bits

6. KUPA Manipro Original 2.0

Best for Salon-Quality at Home

KUPA Manipro Original 2.0

This professional electric nail drill offers many of the benefits of a salon-quality drill, but it’s excellent for use in the home.

As a beginner, you’ll likely enjoy the speed knob to easily control the drill as you work, with easy adjustments as needed.

You’ll also receive three bags of sanding bands, which will set you off on the right foot for frequent manicures or pedicures.

Pros

Includes 5 diamond drill bits to do any manicure or pedicure job

Lightweight

Sleek and stylish

Low noise and vibration

Cons

Lacks detailed instructions for the drill and its bits.

Only 30 days warranty

Some machines look to been having issues turning on.

7. Valentino Vunit – E-File

Best Precision

The Ultimate Electric Nail Drill Buying Guide For Beginners (19)

Valentino Vunit – E-File

The Valentino Beauty Pure VUnit E-File is a sleek, robust, and versatile nail drill perfect for both seasoned pros and newbies aiming to elevate their nail game.

Achieving the perfect mani can be a real struggle with stubborn cuticles and uneven acrylic surfaces. After putting the Valentino VUnit E-File to the test, I can confidently say it lives up to its reputation.

Its power, precision, and versatility make it a valuable tool for both DIY enthusiasts and professional nail techs. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its overall performance makes it a worthwhile investment.

Pros

Exceptional precision and performance

Sleek and stylish design

Powerful yet quiet

Highly durable

Comfortable for extended use

Cons

Speed Control could be smoother.

Limited color options

No Digital RPM Display

Pricier compared to other models.

8. Atena (PM220C) Cordless Rechargeable Nail Drill 28,000 RPM

Best for Portability

Atena (PM220C) Cordless Rechargeable Nail Drill 28,000 RPM

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This professional electric nail drill offers many of the benefits of a salon-quality drill, but it’s excellent for use in the home.

As a beginner, you’ll likely enjoy the speed knob to easily control the drill as you work, with easy adjustments as needed.

You’ll also receive three bags of sanding bands, which will set you off on the right foot for frequent manicures or pedicures.

Pros

User-friendly bit lock system

Lightweight, perfect for travel

20,000 maximum RPMs, which is a salon-quality speed.

Powerful, cordless operation

Cons

Only 1 hour of charge time

Three-speed limitations

Continuous use limited to 30 minutes

9. AIRSEE Rechargeable 30000RPM E File Machine

Best in Versatility

AIRSEE Rechargeable 30000RPM E File Machine

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The AIRSEE cordless rechargeable E-file machine is aesthetically appealing compared to the usual block-like machines.

This portable tool has everything you’re likely to look for in an electric nail drill, like speed control and convenient storage.

There’s a hand control and a forward/reverse switch. Its variable speed goes all the way up to 30,000 RPM, which is plenty of power for completing even the most intense acrylic and gel manicure jobs.

Pros

Variable power settings that can handle various tasks

The twist-lock chuck allows you to remove and insert bits with ease

Smooth grip pad near the tip to allow a firm grasp on the drill

Six metal pieces included

Cons

Some customers mentioned theirs stop charging

Speed might be too strong for some beginners

10. OVX Portable Electric Nail Drill Machine

Best For Gentle Operation

Product Name

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OXV Professional Nail File System has speeds up to 20,000 RPM, yet functions with low vibration and quiet noise.

This set may be a good choice for beginners who don’t want to feel overwhelmed with several bit options, as it includes only six bits and six sanding bands.

The manufacturer markets this electric nail drill for occasional home use and therefore created it with a removable case to help dissipate heat in case of overheating from long-term use.

Additionally, the aluminum body of the drill helps heat escape faster to cool down the unit and keep it functioning longer.

Pros

Six bits that cover all the basic tasks

Corded model that allows consistent power to the drill.

Adjustable speeds

Beneficial for gel users, as it is powerful enough to file down the nail.

Cons

Confusing instructions that don’t explain in detail

The drill bit attachment process may be tricky for some to master.

The Best Brands for Electric Nail Drills

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The best nail drills for those who do nails on a regular basis are made by brands such as MelodySusie, Kiara Sky, Airsee, and Makartt to name a few.

You can quickly check our article about the Best Nail Drill Brands to explore other options.

These manufacturers have been around long enough to build up their customer base with high-quality items that last, including electric drill kits.

How to Use an Electric Nail Drills

Elevate your DIY manicures and pedicures with an electric nail drill. Follow these tips for optimal results:

Prepping Your Nails

  • Clean under nails with a pick or cleaning bit.
  • File nails to desired length with a barrel bit.
  • Shape cuticles gently with a cone bit or cuticle stick.
  • Buff nails to smooth and shine.

Using the Nail Drill Machine

  • Familiarize yourself with settings and bits.
  • Start at the lowest speed and practice holding the drill like a pencil.
  • Use the barrel bit for tips, nail beds, and cuticles.
  • Avoid using on damaged nails.

Consistent Nail Care

  • Use the drill for regular maintenance, but rely on manual tools for quick touch-ups.
  • Regular use keeps natural and artificial nails in top shape.

Keeping it Clean

  • Clean and sanitize the drill and bits after each use.
  • Use compressed air to remove nail dust and a damp cloth to wipe down.
  • Disinfect metal bits; dispose of porous bits after one use.

Follow these best practices for safe and effective use of your electric nail drill. For more details, read our full guide on how to use a nail drill.

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Electric Nail Drill Buying Guide For Beginners (24)

Choosing the best electric nail drill for your needs doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By considering factors like power, speed control, ergonomics, durability, and attachments, you can find a drill that suits your preferences and budget.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, there’s an electric nail drill out there that can help you achieve beautiful, salon-quality nails.

Do you have your favorite nail drill? We always love to hear from you. Share in the comments below.

The Ultimate Electric Nail Drill Buying Guide For Beginners (2024)
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