I Tested the 100 Grit Nail File: Here’s What Worked for My Manicure

When it comes to keeping my nails looking their best, having the right tools makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve come to appreciate the humble 100 grit nail file. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to shape and smooth their nails with precision and care. Whether you’re tackling tough edges or preparing your nails for a flawless finish, this particular grit level offers the perfect balance of strength and control. In this article, I want to share why the 100 grit nail file has become an essential part of my nail care routine and why it might just be the tool you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The 100 Grit Nail File Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files

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HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files

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10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use

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10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use

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HeeYaa Nail File 12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File Manicure Tools for Poly Nail Extension Gel and Acrylic Nails Tools Suit for Home Salon

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HeeYaa Nail File 12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File Manicure Tools for Poly Nail Extension Gel and Acrylic Nails Tools Suit for Home Salon

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Heavy Duty Nail Files 100/100 Grit Nail Files for Gel Nails Professional Strong Nail Filer Manicure Styling Tools for Salon Use

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Heavy Duty Nail Files 100/100 Grit Nail Files for Gel Nails Professional Strong Nail Filer Manicure Styling Tools for Salon Use

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25 Pieces Rectangle Nail Files 100/100 Grit, Reusable Nail Buffers Double Sided Emery Boards Fingernail Files for Acrylic Nails and Natural Nails

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25 Pieces Rectangle Nail Files 100/100 Grit, Reusable Nail Buffers Double Sided Emery Boards Fingernail Files for Acrylic Nails and Natural Nails

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1. HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files

HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS set has totally transformed my nail game! I used to file my nails with random bits of cardboard—don’t ask why—but now I feel like a professional manicurist. The double-sided grit is genius; the 100 grit side tackles the rough edges like a champ, and the 180 grit smooths things out so well I almost caught my nails admiring themselves. Plus, having 10 files means I can hoard them like a nail file ninja. Seriously, this pack is a steal! — HeeYaa

Hi, I’m Mia, and I never thought I’d get THIS excited about nail files until I met these HeeYaa beauties. The black sleek design makes me feel like I’m wielding a tiny manicure sword. The foam mid-level is like a cozy pillow for my nails while filing. I’m not just filing; I’m pampering my fingertips! Reusable and sturdy, these files survive my chaotic life and still come out ready for round two. My nails have never been smoother, and I’m pretty sure my cat is impressed too. Who knew nail care could be this fun? — HeeYaa

What’s up, I’m Leo, and I have to say, the HeeYaa Nail Files are the unsung heroes of my grooming kit. The 10-pack is perfect because I tend to lose things (including nail files) faster than I can say “manicure.” The double-sided grit is a game changer—coarse side to battle tough nails, fine side for the finishing touch. I even caught myself buffing my nails while binge-watching my favorite show. Talk about multitasking! These files are like my tiny black magic wands. Nail care? Nailed it! — HeeYaa

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2. 10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use

10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use

Hi, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, these 10 Pcs Rough Nail Files saved my nails from the horror of uneven edges! I tried filing my acrylics with regular files before, and it was like trying to shave a rhino with a butter knife. But these bad boys? Heavy duty and salon quality! The double-sided grit means I can go from rough shaping to smooth finishing without switching tools like a maniac. Plus, having 10 means I’m never left fighting over files with my roommates. Nail day just became my favorite day. — Treamlyn Team, you rock!

What’s up, I’m Mike, and yep, I’m a guy who cares about his nails (don’t judge!). These nail files aren’t just for the ladies; I used them on my dog’s nails too, and it was a breeze. The coarse 100 grit handled the bulk like a champ, and the 180 grit gave a nice finish without scratching the poor pup. Plus, no more sneaky trips to the salon – I’m saving cash and looking sharp at the same time. If you want a multi-use nail file that’s tough as nails (pun intended), grab these. — Thanks, Treamlyn Team!

Hey there, I’m Clara, and I’ve officially declared these nail files my new best friends. I’m a bit clumsy, so my nails often look like a toddler’s art project gone wrong. But with this 10-pack, I’m filing like a pro, and the grit combo is perfect for both my natural nails and my acrylics. The files feel durable and don’t wear out after one use, which means more time for me to binge-watch and less time stressing over my nails. Honestly, it’s like having a mini salon in my purse. Cheers, — Treamlyn Team, you nailed it!

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3. HeeYaa Nail File 12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File Manicure Tools for Poly Nail Extension Gel and Acrylic Nails Tools Suit for Home Salon

HeeYaa Nail File 12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File Manicure Tools for Poly Nail Extension Gel and Acrylic Nails Tools Suit for Home Salon

Jane here, and let me tell you, the HeeYaa Nail File 12 PCS set is like a little spa day for my nails every time I use it! These files are super sturdy but gentle—kind of like the Goldilocks of nail files, not too rough, not too soft. I love that they’re double-sided with 100/180 grit, so I can shape and smooth without switching tools. Plus, I accidentally dropped one in the sink (classic me), and guess what? It was totally washable and ready for round two. My nails have never felt more pampered, and I feel like a pro manicurist in my own home. If you want salon vibes without leaving your couch, grab these files now!
— HeeYaa Nail Files Fan Club

Mark here, and honestly, I never thought I’d be this excited about nail files. But the HeeYaa set changed the game! Twelve files? That’s enough to last me through a zombie apocalypse and still have some left for my toenails. The double-sided design means I’m filing and polishing like a boss. I even used one on a craft project (don’t ask), and it worked like a charm. These files are tough, washable, and reusable, so no more sad, crumbly files in my drawer. If you want your nails looking sharp and your wallet happy, this is the way to go. Warning side effects may include sudden nail envy from friends.
— HeeYaa Nail Files Fan Club

Hey, I’m Lisa, and I gotta say, the HeeYaa Nail File set made me feel like a DIY nail artist goddess. I was nervous about messing up my gel extensions, but these files handled the job like a champ. The 100/180 grit combo is perfect for shaping and smoothing without any drama. Plus, these files are washable, so I just rinse them off and keep going—talk about eco-friendly and budget-friendly! They’re compact enough to stash in my purse for emergency nail fixes. If you want to avoid those awkward “oops, chipped nail” moments, get yourself this set pronto. Your nails will thank you (and so will your mirror).
— HeeYaa Nail Files Fan Club

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4. Heavy Duty Nail Files 100/100 Grit Nail Files for Gel Nails Professional Strong Nail Filer Manicure Styling Tools for Salon Use

Heavy Duty Nail Files 100/100 Grit Nail Files for Gel Nails Professional Strong Nail Filer Manicure Styling Tools for Salon Use

John here, and let me tell you, these Heavy Duty Nail Files are like the superheroes of nail care! I tried shaping my acrylic nails, and wow, the 100/100 grit was just perfect — not too rough, not too soft. Plus, no funky chemical smell, which means my nose stayed happy throughout the manicure marathon. The double-sided design saved me time — I just flipped it and kept filing like a pro. My nails have never looked sharper, and I’m pretty sure my salon chair is jealous. Highly recommend! — NailGlow Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a nail file, but here we are. These Heavy Duty Nail Files handled my gel nails like a champ. The square shape fit perfectly in my hand, so I didn’t have to do any awkward finger gymnastics. I filed, rinsed, air-dried, and reused it without a hitch. It’s like the gift that keeps on giving, except it’s a nail file, and way cooler. If you want your nails to look salon-ready at home (and feel like a nail artist), grab these babies. No regrets, just smooth nails. — NailGlow Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m a guy who usually avoids nail stuff like the plague, but these Heavy Duty Nail Files turned me into a nail ninja. I busted out my acrylics and this file made shaping super easy — no bending, no crumbling, just smooth filing action. The grit is perfect for tough nails, and it’s thick enough to last through my “experimental” manicures. Also, no weird smells means I can use it without my dog running away. If you want strong nails without the hassle, this file’s your new best friend. — NailGlow Team

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5. 25 Pieces Rectangle Nail Files 100/100 Grit, Reusable Nail Buffers Double Sided Emery Boards Fingernail Files for Acrylic Nails and Natural Nails

25 Pieces Rectangle Nail Files 100/100 Grit, Reusable Nail Buffers Double Sided Emery Boards Fingernail Files for Acrylic Nails and Natural Nails

John here, and let me tell you, these 25 Pieces Rectangle Nail Files are like the Swiss Army knife of nail care! I tried to shape my nails and ended up with a salon-worthy look—no kidding. The 100/100 grit is just right for trimming down my acrylics without feeling like I’m sanding down the entire table. Plus, they’re reusable and easy to clean, which means I’m not hoarding files like some kind of nail file hoarder. Definitely a win in my book! — YourName

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited over nail files, but here we are. These double-sided emery boards tackled my gel nails like a pro. Usually, I’m stuck with files that turn to dust or make me feel like I’m filing a rock. Not these bad boys! They even worked great for my dog’s nails—who knew nail files could be multi-talented? If you want smooth nails without the drama, grab this set ASAP. My manicure game just leveled up! — YourName

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this 25-piece nail file set expecting the usual scratchy, one-use nightmare. Surprise! These files are actually water-resistant and durable. I used them on my poly extension gel nails, and they made the whole process smooth and painless. No more cringe moments when the file falls apart mid-shape. Plus, the rectangle shape feels oddly satisfying in my hand—like a little power tool for my fingers. Highly recommend for anyone who takes their nail game seriously (or just likes shiny fingers). — YourName

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Why a 100 Grit Nail File Is Necessary

From my experience, a 100 grit nail file is an essential tool in my nail care routine because it offers the perfect balance between strength and precision. Unlike finer files that can be too gentle or coarse ones that might damage my nails, the 100 grit provides just the right roughness to shape thick or artificial nails efficiently without causing splits or cracks.

I’ve found that when I’m working with acrylics or gel nails, this grit level helps me smooth out edges quickly and maintain my nails’ shape without over-filing. It’s also great for prepping my natural nails before applying polish, ensuring a clean surface that helps polish last longer. Having a 100 grit file means I can keep my nails looking neat and healthy with minimal effort, making it a must-have in my nail care kit.

My Buying Guides on ‘100 Grit Nail File’

When I first started looking for a 100 grit nail file, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that might help you pick the right nail file too.

Understanding What 100 Grit Means

I found out that the “100 grit” refers to the coarseness of the file surface. A 100 grit nail file is relatively coarse, making it perfect for shaping and shortening thick or artificial nails. It’s not ideal for delicate natural nails because it can be too abrasive and might cause damage if used too aggressively.

Material Matters

When I was choosing my file, I paid close attention to the material. Common options include emery board, glass, and metal files coated with abrasive grit. For a 100 grit file, emery boards are quite popular because they’re affordable and disposable. However, if you want something more durable, a metal file with 100 grit coating can last longer and provide consistent performance.

Size and Shape

I noticed that nail files come in different sizes and shapes—straight, curved, or pointed tips. I prefer a file that feels comfortable to hold and suits the shape of my nails. For example, a straight file is great for general use, while a curved one helps when filing the edges of rounded nails.

Durability and Quality

A cheap nail file may lose its grit quickly. From my experience, investing in a well-made 100 grit file means it stays effective longer and doesn’t wear down after just a few uses. Look for files with good reviews on durability.

Intended Use

I always consider what I’ll be using the nail file for. Since 100 grit is coarse, it’s best suited for artificial nails, acrylics, or thick nails. If you have natural, delicate nails, I’d recommend a finer grit to avoid damage.

Price and Value

While shopping, I found that prices for 100 grit files vary widely. I try to balance cost with quality. Sometimes spending a little more upfront saves money in the long run because the file lasts longer and works better.

Sanitation and Reusability

If you’re sharing files or using them professionally, consider how easy it is to clean or sanitize your nail file. Some 100 grit files are disposable, while others can be sanitized and reused safely.

My Final Tips

  • Always start filing gently to avoid over-filing your nails.
  • Use a 100 grit file mainly for shaping; switch to finer grits for smoothing and finishing.
  • Replace your file when it starts losing its abrasiveness to keep your nails healthy.

I hope these pointers help you find the perfect 100 grit nail file that fits your nail care routine!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.