Some electric nail files come with a foot pedal so you can control them hands-free. This can take some practice, but it can make a world of difference. (BestReviews)

Properly maintaining your toenails is not an easy or altogether pleasant job. It’s even more difficult and unpleasant the thicker your toenails are. However, there are electric nail files that can make it easier. If you’re giving yourself a pedicure, then you need to be careful to get one that’s easy to use, essentially, upside down.

The best electric nail file is the Makartt Electric Nail File. Everything you need is included and it offers a range of settings to tackle more than just thick toenails.

Electric nail files for thick toenails can be corded or cordless.

If the electric nail file provides power, then the bits do all the work. Every situation calls for a different type of bit, of which there are many. Most files include a handful of bits and are compatible with separately purchased bits.

For thick toenails, you need a natural nail and an under-nail bit. The natural nail bit is for buffing the nail and trimming cuticles. The under-nail bit is for cleaning and shaping underneath the nail.

Other commonly included bits include carbide bits for handling acrylics and pedicure bits for removing dry skin.

Electric nail files frequently include extra accessories. The most common extra is a bunch of sanding bands, possibly of different sizes, and nail care accessories like clippers or old-fashioned files.

Electric nail files measure power in terms of revolutions per minute. Low-power files top out at 10,000 rpm, medium-power files at 20,000 rpm and high-power files at 30,000-35,000 rpm. Most files have adjustable speeds, whether it be finely adjustable with a wheel or slide or with set speed options.

Natural nails typically need no more than 10,000 rpm, though the thickest of toenails might need an extra 5,000 rpm. Never exceed 15,000 rpm for natural nails, as it can easily harm you.

If you want to be able to work on artificial nails such as gels and acrylics, you need at least 20,000 rpm to make adjustments but 30,000 rpm to make major changes.

The best electric nail files are built to eliminate as much of the noise and vibration caused by the motor as possible. Less noise is more of a preference as some don’t mind the whirring. However, less vibration is essential as it makes the file easier and more comfortable to use.

Low-power electric nail files typically cost less than $20, but these may not be enough for the thickest nails. Medium-power files typically cost up to $60. High-power files start around $60 and can go up to $200.

A. Yes, but you need to take precautions. First, read the instruction manual backward and forward, paying special attention to the safety section. Secondly, if you've never used an electric nail file before, start with the slowest speeds until you're comfortable using it. Thick toenails typically require slightly higher speeds than the lowest setting but avoiding causing yourself pain is worth the extra time slow speeds may take.

A. Maintaining an electric nail file just requires regular cleanings. The drill itself should be brushed clean after each use. The bits can be washed. Start with a good scrub with hot soapy water before soaking them in disinfectant for about 20 minutes. Then take them out, let them dry and keep them in a clean, sealed container.

Additionally, don’t use any oils on your nails before drilling. It can gum up the drill and ruin it.

Makartt Electric Nail File: available at Amazon

Our take: This is a high-powered, well-featured and accessory-laden file for a great price.

What we like: It can reach speeds of up to 30,000 rpm in either direction and it has a multistage speed control slider to hit precise speeds. Six bits are included for tackling any possible job as well as several sanding bands and a foot pedal.

What we dislike: A few consumers disliked the included bits; the file is compatible with most bits so you can replace them easily.

Yafex Electric Nail Drill: available at Amazon

Our take: This file is surprisingly powerful for its rock-bottom price.

What we like: It can reach speeds of up to 20,000 rpm in either direction and it has a speed control wheel to adjust the speed. Six bits are included as well as a nail clipper and some sanding bands. It's powered by a USB cord.

What we dislike: Some customers found the speed control wheel to be difficult to adjust. Others had a rare issue with the drill breaking after a few uses.

Imene Professional Nail Drill Machine: available at Amazon

Our take: If you're a professional or simply want the best, grab this file.

What we like: It can reach speeds of up to 35,000 rpm in either direction using a brushless motor that limits heat, noise and vibration generation. It's powered by a rechargeable battery that can last for 10 hours of continuous use.

What we dislike: It's a little too powerful and expensive for casual use. Some purchasers found the power cable to get in the way.

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Jordan C. Woika is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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