Best Nail Drills in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 9, 2024
Whatever we do today, we all want to have the means to expedite this process and manicuring is not an exception to the rule. Whether ...Read more
PROS

The dial knob on the front panel makes speed adjustment easy and comfortable to the maximum. Meanwhile, during operation, the tool produces minimum noise and vibrations. 

CONS

The handle cable somewhat lacks flexibility. 

OUR VERDICT

Distinguished by a vertical design and fitted with a foot pedal, this nail drill from MelodySuise stands out for the ultimate compactness and ease of operation. Add to this precise speed control and powerful performance and you'll get a perfect tool for professional use.

detailed parameters
Speed

up to 30,000 RPM

Bits

6

Package

1 x foot pedal, 6 x sanding bands, 1 x power supply for a UK plug

Power Supply

Mains

Warranty

6 months

PROS

Extremely portable. Due to its clip-on design, it can be conveniently attached to the pocket of your jeans. The 2000 mAh Battery provides up to 8 hours of constant power. 

CONS

It can be difficult to find replacements. 

OUR VERDICT

While being packed in a portable body, this little nail drill packs a powerful motor, capable of working at speeds up to 35,000 RPM. This makes it a top choice for newbies and professional nail techs working in beauty salons. 

detailed parameters
Speed

up to 35,000 RPM

Bits

6

Package

1 x plastic holder, 6 x sanding bands, 1 x power adapter with UK plug

Power Supply

Mains

Warranty

30 days Amazon

PROS

Made of high-quality materials, the pen unit is ergonomically designed and weighs only 130 g. Attached to the power block with a long flexible cable, it won't limit the freedom of your movements. 

CONS

The bits quality is not the best for professionals. 

OUR VERDICT

Whether you've decided to do your own nails at home or are at the beginning of your nail tech journey, the nail drill from DiiDa will get you covered. Practical, safe in use, decently powerful, and coming in a complete package with all the accessories you can possibly need, it's a really decent starting point.

detailed parameters
Speed

up to 20,000 RPM

Bits

6

Package

100 x sanding bands, 1 x handpiece holder, 1 x nail powder brush

Power Supply

Mains

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The unique ball-shaped design gives this nail drill a truly modern feel. The power dial eliminates accidental pressing. A vertical design requires very little space. 

CONS

The adaptor tends to get hot with extensive use.

OUR VERDICT

Anyone looking for a nail drill that not only performs well but also has a nice-looking design will find a lot to love about this Delanie machine. This one ticks all the boxes. For your choice, it is available in two colour options: rose gold and grey.

detailed parameters
Speed

up to 35,000 RPM

Bits

6

Package

6 x sanding bands, 1 x handpiece holder, 1 x power cable

Power Supply

Mains

Warranty

6 months

PROS

Includes as many as 150 replacement heads that will last you for a long time. A drill handpiece has a lightweight design, making it convenient for long sessions. 

CONS

It might turn off occasionally to prevent overheating.

OUR VERDICT

This nail drill offers excellent value for the money. Though it is not the most powerful, it doesn't cut out mid-way and allows filing all types of gels and acrylic. All of this makes it the best choice for newbies and nail students.

detailed parameters
Speed

up to 20,000 RPM

Bits

6

Package

150 x sanding bands, 1 x handpiece holder

Power Supply

Mains

Warranty

30 days Amazon

The Best Nail Drill for Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are a modern trend that allows creating a whole variety of beautiful and sophisticated nail designs you won’t be able to do with natural nails. Yet, this type of nail finish definitely needs special tools, and a good nail drill is a must. However, not all nail drills are equally good for acrylics. Though manufacturers claim the opposite, in practice, many models appear to be not the best option for acrylic nails. Since they are much harder than natural nails and gel polishes, you’ll need a powerful and dependable unit with a complete set of strong bits to make unmatched acrylic designs. This is where the MelodySuise nail drill comes into play.

The first feature that makes this model a match for acrylic nails is the high bit rotation speed it generates and precise variable speed control. A large dial knob on the front panel of the control base allows accurately setting the speed from 0 to 30,000 RPM in 1000 RPM increments. Thus, you can both work at a lower speed to process natural nails or go to a higher RPM to sculpt, shape, and file acrylic nails and do professional nail art.

Next to the speed, the nail drill is complete with a set of 6 bits to perform different works both on natural and on artificial nails. All bits are diamond coated to serve you for longer. You’ll get two barrel bits for shortening and surface works, a cone for cleaning under nails and fixing cuticles, and a needle bit for finishing and polishing. In addition, there is also a mandrel and 6 sanding bands for filing and buffing.

With Professional Needs in Mind

Along with high performance and functional versatility, the MelodySuise is also distinguished by a well-thought design. A control base stands out for a more compact vertical profile and also functions as a bit and handpiece holder. On the top of the base, there is a large hole to keep the handpiece when not in use and 6 smaller holes to accommodate the bits. Not only does it save working space but also it will let you have the tool and all the necessary accessories at hand. For more convenience during work, the tool is equipped with a foot pedal that will let you easily activate and turn off the unit by a single movement of your foot.

On the back panel of the base, you’ll find two buttons for choosing forward or reverse direction to suit right-handers and left-handers alike. Besides, the model offers foot and hand modes to optimise the unit operation for pedicure or manicure.

Thought-out to every detail, easy-to-operate, and providing the ultimate functionality, the MelodySuise is a great choice for salon professionals and experienced home users. 

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £64.98
Stock In stock
ASIN B07P7Z12DV

Packs a Punch

What sets the Delanie 35000RPM nail drill apart is that it's tailored for professional use while being easy to get the knack of even for new nail techs, making it incredibly popular on Amazon.

Rarely do models packed in a portable casing provide enough juice comparable to that of pro devices. However, this model isn't one of them. Equipped with a powerful motor, it can gradually reach from 0 to 35,000 RPM, allowing it to accomplish a variety of manicure or pedicure tasks. So, don't let its size fool you; this baby packs a punch.

Furthermore, it's fitted with a long-lasting, rechargeable battery that can provide you with 8 hours of constant power, making it ideally suited for visiting nail techs and travelling purposes. What also adds points in favour of this nail drill is that it has a portable design. Coming with a clip on the back of the device, it can be easily attached to your jeans pocket for easy carrying.

Another standout of this drill is its quiet operation. It doesn't produce a loud noise when in use, nor does it vibrate, so there is no worry of waking up your family members if you decide to get your nails done late at night or early in the morning.

Includes Everything You Need to Get Started

Surely, the supplied kit is no less important than the motor of the device, and the good news is, this model doesn't disappoint. Out of the box, along with the nail drill, you get a complete kit with interchangeable handpieces, giving you everything needed for comfortable work. The bits are easy to replace, thanks to a twist-lock chuck, and have ventilation holes that prevent overheating when operating the device at high speeds.

It is also handy that this unit has an LCD screen. Thanks to that, you will be able to keep track of the rotating speed and its direction as well as the status of the battery charge remaining on the device.

To conclude, the Delanie 35000RPM is one of the most portable nail drills designed for professional use. Fitted with a powerful motor, it can be applied to all types of nails. At the same time, the clip-on design makes it ideal for travelling, allowing you to carry it around attached to your pocket.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B089M3CH68

An All-in-one Package

Seek a quality nail drill that you’ll be able to use straight out of the box for making salon-style manicure and pedicure at home? If so, this very model from DiiDa has all chances to become your best helper.

First and foremost, the unit comes packed with all the necessary accessories you can possibly need for hardware manicure. Thus, a set of drill bits includes barrel and cone bits of different sizes both to cut and shape and to grind and polish your nails, as well as to remove the cuticle. Notably, the bits are good both for your natural and for acrylic nails as well as for thicker and layering fungal nails. In addition, you’ll get a set of 100 sanding bands on two different abrasion rates to remove dead skin and file off the gel polish or acrylic layer in a less traumatic and quicker way. Meanwhile, a little brush that is also included in the set is always nice to have at hand to sweep off the nail powder for no-mess work.

As far as the unit performance goes, with 20,000 RPM drill bit speed, the model is not a power beast. Yet, the mains-powered design along with simple speed and rotation direction controls ensures consistent and flawless drilling operation. At the same time, a lightweight (130g) handpiece gives you precise control for detailed fine jobs and artwork while cutting down fatigue during long-term use. Besides, the bit rotation speed varies from low 2,000 RPM to high 20,000 RPM for you to get the hang of the tool without damaging your nails. Hence, 20,000 RPM is a golden middle great for professionals and beginners alike.

With Focus on Safety

An indisputable benefit of a corded design is a continuous operation and no need to think about battery recharge. It means the tool is ready to use whenever you need it and the power punch won’t depend on a remaining battery charge. Yet, there are also some related dangers, which include motor overload and overheat that might seriously damage the unit in its turn. To avoid this and prevent failures, the DiiDa nail drill comes complete with an automatic overload and overheat protection. So, you can rest assured the tool will switch off automatically in case any of these problems occur. To add more, a handpiece boasts a low-heat design. Made of durable plastic material, it features special vents on the top that enure proper heat dissipation even under intensive use.

Some convenience features you can’t but appreciate include a handpiece stand to keep the tool when not in use and a flexible connection cable for better freedom of movements.

Summing up, whether you are an amateur nail artist at the beginning of your pro journey or just need an easy-to-use quality nail drill to save on salon visits, this little machine from DiiDa will get you covered.

Last updated price £17.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B084TZX6BX

Unique Looking

That's one of the most unusually shaped nail drills we've ever come across. Designed with a rose gold ball body, the Delanie 35000RPM Professional Nail Drill looks glam and is sure to serve as a decoration piece on your nail desk while requiring little space. However, not only the looks make this model an attractive choice. In its modern, sleek body comes a powerful motor, capable of working at 35,000RPM, which makes it suitable for both professional and home use. Moreover, this drill works efficiently and doesn't tend to lose power, as is often the case with cheap machines. So, you can achieve excellent results faster and with less effort on your part.

The Delanie nail drill is comfortable to use and incorporates an overheat protection mechanism, preventing it from being damaged. Also, it comes with a complete kit of accessories coated with aluminium that helps dissipate heat, making it safe to use on natural nails. Overall, the device can be used for all manicure and pedicure tasks, including sharpening, polishing, sanding, grinding, buffering and even removing cuticles. So, if you are in search of a machine that looks nice and can be used for a variety of nail art work, this one fits the bill.

Extremely Lightweight

To dwell on the attachments, you get six standard drill bits of 3/32 inches, including a mandrel, safety bit, needle head, flame bit, cone and ball bit. They are all easy to fit in the device and stay securely in place thanks to the unique design of the twisting locking system. On top of that, they offer smooth work operation, quickly spinning on various nail types without overheating, so you can get a lovely manicure without damaging your natural nails. As an extra safety measure, the machine features a power dial design, preventing you from accidentally choosing the wrong speed setting.

Although the ball-shaped design may suggest otherwise, this nail drill is also quite lightweight. Weighing around 500 grammes, the handpiece can be comfortably used for hours on end without putting excess pressure on your arms muscles.

Finally, it has a forward and reverse rotation speed switch, which makes it comfortable to use for left- and right-handed people.

To bring it to an end, if you are looking for a nail drill that is not only powerful but actually looks cute, you've just found it. Suitable for acrylic and hard gel nails, this model is the perfect fit for a variety of art nail work. And if the pink colour doesn't appeal to you, you can opt for a grey option.

Last updated price £54.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B08HYZTBH1

Budget-Friendly Machine

If you are new to using a nail drill and looking for a budget-friendly machine, the Preciva can be your best bet. This model is easy to use, comes packed really well, and can file off most nail types in no time, making it suitable for use at home, in spas and many other places.

As a corded model, the Preciva nail drill can work at a speed from 300 to 20,000RPM, which will be enough to remove gel covers and acrylic extensions and gently trim your natural nails. It can also be used for polishing, shaping, buffering and grinding nails as it comes shipped with six different drill bits, providing you with everything needed to get a beautiful manicure in the comforts of your home. The direction of the rotation can be reversed, although it is best not to change it too often as it might lead to the damage of a drill bit.

Surely, this nail drill isn't the most powerful out there, but it doesn't stop when pressure is applied to it and produces no nasty vibrations, making it possible to use it for delicate areas. Besides, it is pretty quiet, so you can rest assured it won't interfere with the sleep of your family members.

150 Replacements

Even though it's a budget nail drill, it packs quite a lot of convenient features. On top of the standard set of drill bits, the package comes with six sanding bands and as many as 150 replacements, which should last you for at least one year of use, depending on how frequently you will be using a nail drill.

The machine itself is easy to use and feels great quality, but sometimes, it may turn off to avoid overheating. If this happens, do not start it immediately and give it a few seconds to cool. The drill headpiece weighs a bit more than 600 grammes, which is lightweight enough to use for a prolonged time comfortably. Plus, you get a stand holder included.

To sum everything up, the Preciva 20000RPM nail drill machine can be a sound choice for novice nail techs and all those looking to buy a machine for personal use. It might struggle to file hard gels non-stop, but if you only need a machine for occasional use, this one won't fail you.

Last updated price £18.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B08FX9PTPC

What Is a Nail Drill?

Well-manicured nails always look neat and add to your overall image. And a variety of specialised modern tools makes nail care a breeze. Hardware manicure becomes more and more popular these days, and for a good reason. This procedure requires no time-consuming tweaks and manipulations with scissors and nail nippers. What is more important, it is safer since your fingers, nails, and cuticles are less exposed to damages and there are fewer chances of cuts.

A nail drill is a manicuring machine designed for easy and comfortable nails care by applying rotating bits to nails, sidewalls, and cuticles. As a result, you get perfect manicure and pedicure in no time at all! And there is no need to spend a fortune on beauty salons any longer, you can make professional-grade manicure right at home. A common nail drill set includes either a power block with a handpiece and replaceable bits or just a handpiece with a number of bit attachments.

To dry the gel nail polish faster, consider getting a nail dryer. And a callus remover will help remove rough skin and calluses off your feet making them look perfectly smooth.

What Features to Compare

A nail drill or a nail file is a pretty simple tool easy to get the hang of, no matter if you are a pro tech or just a beginner user. Yet, choosing the set that will work for you and meet your individual needs might become a challenge since the range of models is really vast. Hence, to avoid buying the “wrong” tool, it is recommended to thoroughly consider several key nail drill characteristics.

Rotation Speed

First of all, you should check the rotation speed measured in RPM (revolution per minute). A broad range of speed settings and speed control ensures electric nail drill efficiency and functionality. However, it is not advisable to work at the maximum speed until you get used to the device. As soon as you feel confident operating your nail drill, you can switch it to run at higher speeds safely. Thus, high-speed models will better suit professionals while lower speed tools are a better option for less experienced users who still need some practice to hone their manicuring skills.

Bits

Most manufacturers include auxiliary bits for users to perform a great number of manicuring tasks. If you get such a multifunctional tool, you'll be able to shape and buff nails, remove dead skin and cut cuticle; some bits allow removing calluses and ingrown nails too. The bits may differ in shapes and sizes but you will still recognise what exactly they've been designed for by their look.

Package

In addition to the bits, some manufacturers extend their supply package with some extras Thus, for example, the nail drill set often contains sanding bands, which are helpful when you need to treat artificial nails or remove minor calluses. What you need to remember, though, is that all sanding disks can be used only once and then must be disposed of. A special holder or a cradle can be designed to hold your handpiece when it's not in use. An ergonomic foot pedal enables easier speed control. An included nail drill carrying case offers convenient storage and transportation of the unit along with all the included accessories.

Power

Electric nail drills are either mains- or battery-powered. If you are looking for a nail drill that you could carry around and use during a trip, consider buying a rechargeable one. Such drills are more portable and usually boast up to 5 hours of wireless use. Yet, if you need an efficient tool to use at home, a mains-powered electric nail drill would be the right thing to buy.

Sources:

1. Emily Schuman Nail Tips from An Expert, Cupcakes and Cashmere. March 10, 2015.

2. How to Give Yourself a Manicure at Home, Paula's Choice Skincare.

3. Manicure, Wikipedia. November 25, 2016.

4. How to Give Yourself a Manicure, wikiHow.

5. Nicole Whitney How to Use an Acrylic Nail Machine Drill, LEAF.

6. What Bits to Start With, NAILS Magazine.

7. How to File Your Nails, wikiHow.

8. Cuticle, Wikipedia. November 25, 2016.

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