The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Choosing an Electric Nail Drill (E-File)

Nail Drill Features for Pro Nail Techs & Artists

Filing by hand is time-consuming, inconsistent, and hard on your wrists. A quality electric nail drill—often called an e-file—lets you prep, shape, refine, and remove product in a fraction of the time. With the right bits you can even smooth calluses, lift cuticles, or buff a high-gloss shine, making the tool a true workhorse for salon pros and DIY enthusiasts alike. A smart purchase can shave 15–20 minutes off every full set or fill, translating into extra appointments and higher income each day.

Know the Specs That Matter

Cordless vs. Corded: Which Is Better?

Cordless e-files pair a lightweight handpiece with a belt-clip battery pack, giving you freedom of movement—great for mobile techs or cramped stations. Look for lithium-ion batteries rated for at least 8 hours on a 2-hour charge.

Corded models supply constant, peak torque and often cost less for the same specs. If you stay at one workstation all day and need max power for acrylic removal, a corded drill is still hard to beat.

Comfort Isn’t a Luxury—It’s Injury Prevention

Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is often confused with carpal-tunnel pain but stems from chronic exposure to tool vibration. Over time it can cause tingling, numbness, and grip weakness. Choosing a balanced handpiece with good internal damping dramatically reduces fatigue. Always let the bit—not your arm—do the work, and replace bent bits immediately to keep vibration low.

Suggested Drills for Your Kit

• Medicool Pro Power Switch – Case & Bits Bundle – combines the full-power Pro Power motor with a detachable cordless handpiece, cushioned cradle, and a starter bit set. Ideal if you want both portable and plug-in options for salon versatility.
  🔗 Pro Power Switch
• Medicool Pro Power 35K Portable for Nails – compact yet powerful, this cordless e-file delivers up to 35,000 RPM. A top choice for mobile techs or tabletop setups where space is limited.
  🔗 35K Portable
• Medicool Pro Power 20K Professional Electric File – delivering up to 20,000 RPM, this corded model balances control and torque—great for acrylic fills, natural-nail prep, and bit-friendly work.
  🔗 20K Professional Electric File
• Medicool Pro Power 520 Electric File – an affordable, professional-grade corded drill praised for its reliability and smooth performance. A solid backup or starter option.
  🔗 520 Electric File
• Medicool Turbo File II Electric Nail File – a lightweight, budget-friendly pick built for beginner nail techs or occasional use with up to 20 K RPM.
  🔗 Turbo File II
• Medicool Pro Power 30K Precision Electric File – corded with a stable 30,000 RPM and digital display—perfect for techs upgrading to stronger torque without going full 35 K.
  🔗 30K Precision

Why These Drills Matter

• Power & Speed Diversity – 20 K, Switch, and 35 K models let you tailor torque for natural nails, gel polish, or acrylic removal.
• Corded or Cordless Flexibility – choose a pure corded setup for full power or the portable Switch/Portable models for mobility.
• Pro-Grade Reliability at Every Price Point – from the budget-friendly Turbo File II to the high-end cordless systems, there’s a top-performing drill for every budget.
• Warranty Coverage– 
• Full One Year Warranty Included
• 2 Year Warranty is available

Nice-to-Have Features Worth Paying For

• Foot pedal – true hands-free speed and direction control saves seconds on every finger.
• Digital torque display – see exact RPMs instead of guessing.
• Auto-stop overload – shuts off the motor if a bit binds, prolonging lifespan.
• Brushless motor – quieter, cooler, and rated for 10,000+ hours.
• Detachable handpiece cradle – keeps the hot end off the table and within easy reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the same drill on natural nails and acrylics?
A: Absolutely—just dial down the RPM and swap to a fine-grit bit.

Q: How often should I replace sanding bands?
A: They’re single-use. Swap after every client to maintain hygiene and performance.

Q: My drill feels hot after a long fill—normal?
A: Moderate warmth is fine, but excess heat signals a dull bit or clogged vents. Clean or replace bits and vacuum handpiece vents weekly.

Q: Do I really need a foot pedal?
A: Not mandatory, but once you try one you’ll wonder how you worked without it—especially for sculpted sets that require constant forward/reverse switching.

Quick Shopping Checklist

• ✅ 30 V / 35k RPM rated
• ✅ 3/32-inch bit compatibility
• ✅ Low-vibration brushless handpiece (< 4 oz)
• ✅ Forward & reverse, optional foot pedal
• ✅ 6-month+ warranty and US-based service center
• ✅ Starter bit kit included

Final Thoughts

Investing in a high-quality electric nail drill isn’t just about speed—it’s about delivering cleaner work, reducing strain on your body, and elevating the client experience. Choose a model that meets professional power standards, prioritise comfort, and build a versatile bit collection. With a few practice runs and proper sanitation, you’ll wonder how you ever managed with a manual file.

Ready to upgrade? Explore Medicool's collection of best selling electric nail drills and find the one that fits your workflow today.