5 Best Electric Nail File for Thick Toenails
Got thick toenails that just won’t cooperate? Whether it’s from age, fungus, or just plain genetics, trimming and shaping thick toenails can be so frustrating. Good news: an electric nail file can totally change the game. In this post, I’m breaking down the best electric nail files for thick toenails that are powerful, easy to use, and actually work. These are all top-rated tools perfect for at-home use, even if you’re new to using an electric file.
Why You Need a Strong Nail File for Thick Toenails
Let’s be real; manual nail clippers and buffers just aren’t cutting it (literally). Thick toenails need more power and precision, and that’s where an electric nail file comes in. Here’s why they’re worth it:
- Great for fungus or aging nails – Helps gently file down thick or brittle nails.
- Poses Less pressure on your hands because the drill does all the work.
- Great for shaping, thinning, and smoothing.
- Faster grooming – No more struggling with regular tools.
🧾 Quick Summary
| Product | Best For | Speed Settings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicool Pro Power 520 | Pro results at home | Variable up to 20,000 RPM | $$$ |
| Beurer MP62 Nail Drill Kit | Beginner-friendly kit | Up to 20,000 RPM | $$ |
| Pure Enrichment ManiPedi Pro | Basic shaping | 2 Speeds | $ |
| Makartt JD700 | Salon-like results | Up to 30,000 RPM | $$ |
| UTILYZE Electric Nail File | Smooth buffing | Variable up to 20,000 RPM | $$ |
1. Medicool Pro Power 520 Electric Nail file – Best for Thick, Tough Nails
If you’ve got super thick, stubborn toenails and you’re over fighting with regular clippers or cheap files, the Medicool Pro Power 520 might just be your new best friend. This isn’t your basic Amazon nail drill, it’s a professional-grade tool that many salons actually use. But don’t worry, you can totally use it at home too.
🎯 Key Features & Benefits
| Feature | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| 20,000 RPM Motor | Powerful enough to handle really thick nails |
| Lightweight Handpiece | Less strain on your wrist during longer sessions |
| Forward/Reverse Switch | Great for righties and lefties |
| Smooth operation | No shaking or stalling while filing |
| Professional quality | Will last years if taken care of |
✨ Why It’s So Good for Thick Toenails
Thick toenails need a file that’s strong, steady, and won’t slow down when you apply pressure. The Pro Power 520 checks every box:
- Consistent power: The motor stays smooth even when you push it against hard nails. No weird jerky stops.
- Variable speed dial: You can adjust it as you go. Start slow, then ramp it up once you get the feel for it.
- Perfect for medical pedicures: Many podiatrists and medispas use this tool for foot care.
So, if your toenails are thick due to age, injury, fungus, or genetics—this drill has the torque to file them down without a fight.
🛠️ What You Can Do with It
- Thin down thick toenails safely
- Smooth ridges caused by fungus or damage
- Prep nails before applying polish or antifungal treatments
- Remove dead skin or calluses with a sanding band
- Use it on acrylics and gels if you do both mani + pedi at home
Heads-up: This is not a “plug in and play” tool for total beginners. It’s super easy once you get the hang of it, but you’ll want to read the instructions and maybe watch a YouTube tutorial or two before your first try.
Downsides:
Let’s keep it real—this machine is powerful and professional, so it’s not the cheapest option out there. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- It’s a little pricey. But you’re paying for durability and salon-level performance.
- No fancy LED lights or digital screen. This one’s more about power than frills.
- You may need to buy bits separately. It usually comes with a starter set, but you might want to upgrade your bits if you’re doing serious toenail work.
2. Beurer MP62 Nail Drill Kit; Electric Nail File for Beginners with Thick Toenails
If you’re new to electric nail files and want something that’s powerful but not scary, the Beurer MP62 is your go-to. It’s gentle enough for beginners but strong enough to handle thick toenails, even ones caused by fungus or aging. And the best part? It comes with everything you need in one kit; no need to buy extra pieces just to get started.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Variable Speed Dial (Up to 20,000 RPM) | Lets you adjust the power for sensitive or tough nails |
| 10 Attachments Included | All tools are high-quality and cover every nail care need |
| Built-In LED Light | Helps you see exactly what you’re doing—no missed spots |
| Protective Cap (Dust Shield) | Blocks nail dust from flying in your face—especially helpful when working on toenails |
| Sturdy Storage Case | Keeps everything organized and clean between uses |
Thick toenails aren’t just annoying; they can be painful if you don’t take care of them properly. The Beurer MP62 is a solid choice if you want something easy to hold and control. This one lets you file down thick toenails gradually and safely enough power to tackle thick, curved, or discolored nails without jumping into pro-level tools.
Attachments You’ll Actually Use
The Beurer MP62 comes with 10 pro-style bits, and yes—they’re actually useful. Some standouts for thick toenails:
- Sapphire Cone: Thins out thick toenails or buffs out ridges
- Fine Sanding Disk: Smooths the surface after filing
- Cylindrical Grinder: Perfect for reducing bulk on the nail edge
- Flame Grinder: Helps shape around the cuticle or corners
These aren’t flimsy plastic pieces. They’re made from durable sapphire-coated metal, which gives you long-lasting use and smooth results.
What to Keep in Mind
- It’s not cordless, so you’ll need to be near an outlet
- If your toenails are extremely thick or fungal, this may take more time compared to heavy-duty drills like the Medicool
- Doesn’t cut—it’s for filing, not trimming, so you might still need clippers first
3. Pure Enrichment ManiPedi Pro – Best Budget Option
Pure Enrichment ManiPedi Pro electric file is Compact, Easy, and Budget-Friendly for Thick Toenails. Don’t let the small size fool you, its a great little workhorse if you’re dealing with thick toenails but don’t need a high-powered salon-grade machine. It’s super easy to use, doesn’t take up much space, and comes with all the basics.
If you want to keep your toenails trimmed and tidy without dropping big bucks or dealing with complicated settings, this one hits the sweet spot.
Important feature details
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Two Speed Settings | High speed for thick toenails, low for buffing and touch-ups |
| LED Light | Illuminates hard-to-see areas—especially useful for toes |
| 7 Attachments | Everything from sanding to smoothing to cuticle care |
| Ergonomic Design | Easy to hold, lightweight, no hand cramps |
| Compact Storage Case | Keeps bits clean and organized on the go or at home |
This isn’t a pro tool—but for basic care and regular maintenance, it’s more than enough. Especially if you’re trimming down mild to moderately thick toenails caused by things like age, injury, or dry nails. Here’s what makes it work:
- Solid torque for its size. It doesn’t slow down when you press it against thicker nails
- Multiple attachment options. You can file, shape, and smooth without switching devices
- Simple two-speed control. One click and you’re good to go—no complicated dials or digital screens
Attachments With this electric nail file
The ManiPedi Pro comes with 7 durable tools, and you’ll especially love these for thick toenails:
- Sapphire Cone & Disk – Help grind down thick nails safely
- Coarse Shaping Cone – Great for cleaning up the edges of thicker nails
- Polishing Disk – Smooths the surface so your nails look clean and healthy
- Cuticle Tool – Gently pushes back thick or dry cuticles
They’re easy to switch out and click securely into the tool—no twisting or fiddling required.
👍 What Makes It Stand Out
✅ Super beginner-friendly – no learning curve, no guesswork
✅ Affordable – great value for under $40
✅ Quiet motor – won’t sound like a dentist’s drill in your bathroom
✅ Gentle but effective – ideal for regular maintenance, especially for seniors or people with brittle nails
✅ Travel-friendly – lightweight and comes with a case
A Few Downsides to Know
This is Not for extremely thick or fungal toenails . You’ll want something stronger like the Medicool or Makartt if your nails are super hard. Also, it has Only two speeds and No reverse direction (Works best for right-handed users).
4. 🌀 Makartt JD700 Nail Drill – Salon Results at Home
If you’re tired of fighting with your toenails every time you do a pedicure, and you’re ready to upgrade from basic kits, the Makartt JD700 is the real deal. This thing is like the SUV of nail drills—strong, reliable, and made to handle anything you throw at it, including super thick, curved, or fungal nails. It’s also one of the few e-files that’s loved by both home users and pros, which says a lot.
| Feature | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Variable Speed (Up to 30,000 RPM) | Customize the power to match your toenail thickness |
| Forward/Reverse Switch | Works for both righties and lefties |
| Foot Pedal Control | Optional hands-free use for more precision |
| Minimal Vibration & Noise | Comfortable to hold and quiet enough for home use |
| Professional Build | Built to last, even with regular heavy use |
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Thick Toenails?
Thick toenails need power—and the JD700 brings it.
- 30,000 RPM Max Speed: That’s more than enough to file through even the hardest toenails
- Smooth operation: No rattling, shaking, or stopping, even with pressure
- Foot Pedal Option: Keeps your hands free and gives you better control
- Built-in cooling system: So it doesn’t overheat with long use (a big deal if you’re doing multiple nails)
It’s the kind of drill that makes you feel like a pro, even if you’re just doing your own feet in the bathroom.
🛠️ What You Can Do with It
- File down super thick, overgrown toenails
- Remove dead or callused skin around toes
- Smooth out fungus-damaged nails for treatment
- Use on acrylics, gels, dip powder for manicures too
- Sand down ridges and prep nails before polish or trimming
This is especially useful for people who:
- Have chronic nail thickness issues
- Are recovering from toenail fungus
- Care for elderly family members
- Want pro results at home
When it comes to pricing, it a bit expensive , but well worth the investment if you want quality. Also, it’s easy to use for beginners.
5. ✍️ UTILYZE Electric Nail File – Best for Buffing & Smoothing
If you don’t need crazy power and just want a basic electric nail file to keep your toenails in check, the TouchBeauty 5-in-1 is a cute little lifesaver. It’s battery-powered, lightweight, and designed for people who prefer a gentle touch over intense filing.
Think of it as your everyday maintenance buddy, not a tank like the Makartt, but a perfect option for light filing and buffing when your toenails are getting thick but not wild. t handles light to moderately thick nails just fine, especially if you soak your feet first. It’s great if you:
- Struggle with manual nail files
- Need something gentle and easy to use
- Want to keep toenails shaped and smooth between trims
It’s also great for elderly users, kids, or anyone nervous about power tools near their feet.
🎯 Key Features & Benefits
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| 5 Attachments | Covers all basic nail needs: shaping, smoothing, buffing |
| Battery-Operated | No cords—take it anywhere! |
| Compact & Lightweight | Easy to hold and carry |
| Quiet Operation | Won’t startle pets or housemates |
| Gentle Filing | Safe for thinner or sensitive nails |
What’s Included?
These are the 5 heads you get with it:
- Filing Head – Shapes and shortens thick nails
- Buffing Head – Smooths out the surface after filing
- Shaping Head – Great for curved edges on toenails
- Shining Head – Adds a nice natural shine
- Cuticle Pusher – Helps clean up the nail base
They’re easy to pop on and off—no tools needed.
A Few Limitations
- Not for severe thickness or fungal nails – It just doesn’t have enough power for tough jobs
- Single speed only – You can’t adjust the intensity
- Battery-powered – You’ll need fresh batteries often if you use it a lot
- Smaller build – May feel flimsy if you’re used to salon tools
How to Use an Electric Nail File for Thick Toenails?
Here’s a quick step-by-step for beginners:
- Start clean: Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften nails.
- Choose the right bit: Use a thicker sanding band or coarse file.
- Go slow: Start on the lowest speed and work your way up.
- File in one direction: Don’t saw back and forth.
- Moisturize: After filing, apply a thick foot cream or oil.
Pro Tip: Always sanitize your bits after use, especially when working on toenails!
Final Verdict
The TouchBeauty 5-in-1 is a great pick if you’re looking for something portable, safe, and simple to use on slightly thick toenails. It’s not meant for major nail issues, but if you just need a little help keeping things tidy and smooth, it gets the job done, especially for casual users or as part of your regular self-care routine.
And, here is a quick takeaway on all five of them:
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| Medicool Pro Power 30K | Max power & professional results on very thick toenails |
| Beurer MP62 | Beginner-friendly with pro-quality features |
| Pure Enrichment ManiPedi Pro | Simple, gentle, and budget-friendly for light thick nails |
| Makartt JD700 | Salon-quality drill for serious nail jobs |
| TouchBeauty 5-in-1 | Portable, affordable, and ideal for gentle home use |
