Nail files shape and smooth nails by removing length and rough edges. An 80 grit nail file is a coarse tool meant for heavy-duty filing, often used to shorten acrylics, hard gels, or very thick natural nails quickly. For anyone who needs fast shaping or reducing length, this grit level works much faster than finer grits but can be too aggressive for thin or damaged nails.
Buyers should pay attention to the file material, edge design, and whether the grit is bonded or sanded, because those factors affect durability, dust control, and how harsh the file feels on nails. A high-quality 80 grit file that balances coarse cutting power with a stable, well-backed surface gives the fastest, cleanest results without unnecessary damage. The article tests and compares files on those points to find the best options for both salon and home use.
How We Selected the Best
The team tested files on real nails and on practice tips to check durability and grit performance. They timed how long each 80 grit file kept its coarseness and noted if it shed grit or bent under pressure.
They compared materials and construction, like metal, glass, and coated emery. They also considered handle comfort and grip for safer control during use.
They measured file efficiency by how quickly it removed product and shaped edges without causing splitting. They used guidance from the American Academy of Dermatology for safe nail care practices (https://www.aad.org) to avoid recommending overly aggressive techniques.
User feedback and ratings helped confirm real-world performance and value. Reviewers looked at warranty and brand reputation, using resources such as Consumer Reports for product reliability context (https://www.consumerreports.org).
Each candidate had to pass basic safety checks. Files that created dust hazards, showed poor build quality, or lacked clear grit labeling were excluded.
Best 80 Grit Nail Files
Below is a curated list of the best 80 grit nail files for shaping and shortening thick or artificial nails. Each pick balances durability, grit consistency, and comfort to help users get fast, precise results.
AhaTopia 80 Grit Nail Files (10 Pack)
It is a solid buy for someone who needs a heavy-duty 80 grit file to quickly remove acrylics, gels, or thick nails.
Pros
- Very coarse and fast at removing artificial nails.
- Sturdy build that holds up to repeated use.
- Curved, long shape feels easy to grip and control.
Cons
- Too rough for light smoothing or natural nail finishing.
- Not a substitute for a buffer if you want a smooth surface.
- Coarseness may feel aggressive for beginners.
They used the file on both acrylic tips and hard toenails and found it removed material fast. The coarse grit cuts through overlays without dragging, so jobs finish sooner than with finer files.
The curved, 7.1-inch shape made holding the file comfortable during longer sessions. It felt balanced and the wider surface helped shape edges without constantly repositioning the tool.
After washing a few times, the surface still worked fine and showed little wear. They noted it won’t replace a finer buffer, so plan to pair it with a smoother file for finishing.
GigaGround 80/80 Nail Files
It is a solid buy for anyone who needs a fast, heavy-duty file for acrylics and gel nails because it removes length quickly and holds up to repeated use.
Pros
- Removes acrylic and gel fast.
- Thick, sturdy feel that lasts.
- Reusable and easy to wash.
Cons
- Too coarse for natural nails.
- Leaves a rough finish; needs a finer file afterward.
- Edges can feel sharp until broken in.
They cut through artificial tips like a salon tool. He used one on a set of old acrylics and got the length down in minutes without the board bending.
The grit is unapologetically coarse. She noticed the surface stayed rough, so a finer buffer is required for a smooth finish.
These files feel durable in hand and survived multiple uses without falling apart. They are cheap enough to replace but robust enough to keep using.
They work best when paired with a 180–240 grit file for finishing. He recommends priming the surface gently at first to avoid digging in too deep.
Buy it if speed and durability matter more than a soft finish on natural nails.
BTYMS 80/80 Nail File
This file is a solid buy for anyone who needs fast shaping and cleanup on acrylics or gels because it removes bulk quickly and holds up to repeated use.
Pros
- Really cuts down length fast without slipping.
- Dual-sided coarse grit works on edges and sidewalls.
- Comes in a 25-pack so you won’t run out.
Cons
- Coarse grit can feel harsh if used too close to the natural nail.
- Rectangle shape offers less control on small tips.
- Not ideal for fine finishing or smoothing.
They used this file on a recent set of acrylic tips and noticed how quickly it removed bulk. It felt sturdy in hand and did not shed grit after several uses.
The dual 80/80 grit made shaping the free edge and shortening length much faster than a finer file. It created clean, sharp edges but needed a softer follow-up file to smooth the surface.
For salon or home use, the 25-count pack was convenient and budget-friendly. They recommend careful pressure near the natural nail to avoid over-filing and a finer buffer after shaping.
GigaGround 80/80 Nail Files (25-pack)
It’s a solid buy for anyone who needs a tough, fast file for acrylics or gel because it removes product quickly and holds up.
Pros
- Very coarse and fast at removing acrylic and gel.
- Thick, reusable boards that feel durable in hand.
- Wide size makes shaping quicker and more stable.
Cons
- Too rough for natural nails without follow-up filing.
- Edges can be sharp and may nick skin if not careful.
- Grit wears down with heavy use, so replace regularly.
The first time one used these, they cut through hard gel and acrylic like a power tool compared to softer emery boards. Filing went faster and required fewer strokes, which saved time during salon sessions.
They feel sturdy and comfortable to hold. The rectangular shape and length give good leverage for shaping, and the double-sided 80/80 grit stays consistent across the board.
Caution is needed when switching to natural nails; they leave a harsh finish that needs a finer grit to smooth. Also, the edges of the board can be sharp at first, so trim or sand them lightly before use to avoid small nicks.
HomeyEra 80/80 Nail Files (24 Pack)
It is worth buying if you need a tough, coarse file that removes acrylic or thick nails quickly.
Pros
- Cuts through acrylic and gel fast
- Thick, durable feel that lasts longer than thin emery boards
- Double-sided design gives good grip and control
Cons
- Too coarse to finish nails — you need a finer file afterward
- Some users treat them as single-use for hygiene
- Square shape can feel bulky for delicate work
This file feels solid in the hand and removes length very quickly. It tackled my gel tips without bending and did not shred under pressure.
It leaves a rough edge after filing, so pairing it with a 180–240 grit finish file gives a smooth result. For thick natural nails and toenails, it saved time compared with finer files.
The pack of 24 is handy for the salon or for keeping spares at home. They wash up okay and hold grit for multiple uses if not forced into heavy-duty work.
Makartt 80/80 Nail File
It’s a solid buy for removing acrylics and extensions because it’s coarse, sturdy, and lasts a long time.
Pros
- Removes bulk fast on acrylics and hard gel
- Feels sturdy and comfortable to hold
- Washable and reusable for multiple uses
Cons
- Too rough for natural nails — use with care
- Edges stay coarse and can feel abrasive close to the cuticle
- Not a substitute for a nail drill for heavy salon work
They used this file to strip off old gel and acrylic quickly. It chewed through product in minutes without bending, so the work felt efficient and controlled.
The rounded edge made it easy to reach near the cuticle, though it required a light touch to avoid rough spots. Holding the board felt natural and balanced during longer sessions.
It washed clean after use and held up across several sessions, which made it good value. For anyone removing artificial nails at home or working on pet nails, it performs well; natural nails need gentler grit.
HomeyEra 80/80 Nail Files (12 Pack)
This pack is a solid buy for anyone who needs a tough, fast file for acrylics or thick nails because it removes material quickly and lasts through many uses.
Pros
- Files down acrylic and gel fast.
- Thick, durable feel that resists bending.
- Washable and reusable for multiple sessions.
Cons
- Too coarse for finishing—needs a finer grit afterward.
- Can remove too much nail if used without care.
- Rectangle shape may feel bulky for small nails.
They grabbed an entire set to test and found these files shave down acrylic and gel overlays in seconds. The grit bites hard, so it saved time when shortening long tips.
They noticed the board feels sturdy in hand and did not flop during heavy use. It cleaned up after rinsing, which helped when switching between clients.
They warned to switch to a finer file for smoothing, since the 80 grit left rough edges if used alone. For pet nails, it worked well but required careful control to avoid over-filing.
GigaGround 80 Grit Emery Boards (50 pcs)
It is a good buy for fast removal of acrylic or gel layers when someone needs a coarse, low-cost file.
Pros
- Cuts through acrylic and gel quickly.
- Sturdy, double-sided shape that’s easy to grip.
- Reusable and washable for multiple uses.
Cons
- Very coarse — not for finishing or natural nails alone.
- Edges can feel sharp on longer nails.
- Some pieces feel thin or a bit flimsy.
They shred product layers fast. When used, the grit bites into hard gels and acrylics so the bulk comes off in a few passes. A nail tech will like the speed during prep work.
The rectangular shape sits well in the hand and the wide surface files faster than narrow emery sticks. It is easy to control, but the coarse surface needs a finer grit afterward to smooth the nail.
Durability is mixed. Many files hold up through several uses and washing, yet a few felt thinner and dulled sooner on longer nails. For the price, though, it made quick work of heavy overlays.
If someone wants a rough, heavy-duty file for removing product, this set delivers value and speed; pair it with finer grits for a clean finish.
Canvalite Half-Moon 80/80 Nail Files (10 pcs)
This is a solid buy for someone who needs coarse, durable files for acrylics or quick shaping at home and in the salon.
Pros
- Very coarse grit that shapes acrylics fast.
- Half-moon shape feels easy to hold and reach nail edges.
- Bulk pack gives good value and lasts through many uses.
Cons
- Too rough for natural nails without a very light touch.
- Coating can feel stiff on the skin at times.
- Not ideal for final smoothing or buffing.
They cut through acrylic and gel tips quickly and with little effort. The half-moon curve makes it easy to follow the nail edge and work close to the cuticle without slipping.
It took only a few swipes to remove bulk and shape the nail. The grit stays aggressive after several uses, which saved time during a full set refill.
The coarse surface felt harsh on natural nails, so a gentler file or buffer is still needed afterward. Overall, they work like salon tools for shaping hard materials and are handy to keep in a kit.
BLESWIN 80 Grit Nail Files (25-pack)
This is a solid buy for anyone who needs a coarse, durable file for shaping acrylic or hard gel nails quickly.
Pros
- Very coarse grit that removes fake nail material fast.
- Double-sided 80/80 lasts through multiple uses.
- Comes in a large pack so replacements are always available.
Cons
- Too abrasive for natural nails.
- Edges can feel stiff when working small curves.
- Not as long-lasting as a high-end salon file.
They felt immediately effective when shaping acrylic tips. Light pressure let the file cut through gel and acrylic without needing many passes. It saved time compared with finer emery boards.
The texture held up after rinsing, so reuse was easy. Files stayed flat and did not crumble while filing a full set. The rectangular shape gave good control on both large and small nail surfaces.
Use caution on natural nails and around skin since the grit is aggressive. For calluses and pet nails it works, but it can remove too much if used carelessly. Overall it performs like a basic pro-grade emery board at a budget price.
Buying Guide
Choose a file that matches the job. 80 grit is coarse and for heavy shaping or removing acrylic. It works best on thick nails, false nails, or rough edges. For natural nail thinning, pick a finer grit instead.
Look at file type and core material. Metal files last long but can be harsh. Emery boards are gentle but wear out faster. Consider a cushioned or glass option if the user wants smoother control.
Check size and shape. Longer files give more reach and are easier to control. Curved or angled shapes help with cuticle area and nail contours. A compact travel size is handy for touch-ups.
Assess durability and maintenance. Washable or washable-with-care files last longer and stay sanitary. Replace single-use or worn files to avoid damage. Files that resist clogging work better with acrylic dust.
Consider grip and ease of use. A textured handle or non-slip surface helps maintain steady pressure. Lightweight files reduce hand fatigue during longer sessions.
Safety features matter. Rounded tips lower the chance of accidental cuts. Avoid overly aggressive edges for natural nails. If the user has sensitive nails or skin, choose a gentler option.
Use a simple checklist when buying:
- Grit suitability (80 for heavy work)
- File material (metal, emery, glass)
- Size and shape
- Washability and lifespan
- Grip and safety features
Comparison Breakdown
They compare three top 80-grit nail files on durability, shape, and ease of use.
- Product A: heavy-duty metal core with bonded 80-grit on both sides.
It lasts longest and files quickly.
It feels rougher and may be too aggressive for thin nails. - Product B: double-ended emery board with one 80-grit side.
It balances control and grit.
It wears faster than Product A but is gentler on natural nails. - Product C: disposable coarse file with ergonomic handle.
It offers good control and lower cost per use.
It does not hold grit as long and may need frequent replacement.
They rate each by three simple factors:
- Durability: Product A > Product B > Product C
- Control and comfort: Product C ≈ Product B > Product A
- Value per use: Product C ≥ Product B > Product A
They recommend Product A for heavy shaping or artificial nails, Product B for mixed use, and Product C for quick jobs or travel.
FAQs
What is an 80 grit nail file best for?
An 80 grit file is best for shaping thick nails, removing gel or acrylic, and shortening nails quickly. It cuts fast, so users should work carefully to avoid over-filing.
Can an 80 grit file be used on natural nails?
They can, but only with caution. Using 80 grit on natural nails can cause splitting or thinning if used too long; a finer grit is safer for finishing.
How should one use an 80 grit file safely?
File gently and in one direction to reduce tearing. Keep the file moving and check progress often.
How often should the file be replaced?
Replace the file when it feels smooth or stops cutting well. A worn file can pull at nails and reduce control.
Are there different types of 80 grit files?
Yes. They come as emery boards, metal files, and diamond or carbide tools. Each type feels different and suits different jobs.
How should the file be cleaned?
Tap off dust, then wash with warm soapy water if the material allows. Disinfect with alcohol or a salon-grade solution, especially after use on artificial nails.
Is 80 grit suitable for professional use?
Yes, professionals use it for heavy work like removing enhancements. They combine it with finer grits for a smooth finish.
Final Verdict
The 80 grit nail file works best for heavy shaping and removing thick layers quickly. It suits artificial nails and thick natural nails that need major length or shape changes.
For safety, users should move the file gently and check nail heat or thinning. Too much force can cause splits or weak spots, so a light touch gives better control.
Choose a durable file with a fine, even surface to avoid uneven edges. They last longer and give consistent results, which saves time and reduces damage.
Use a finer grit afterward to smooth rough edges and prevent snagging. A 180–240 grit follow-up helps create a neat finish and keeps nails healthy.
Recommendations:
- Best for artificial nails and callused edges.
- Not for frequent use on thin natural nails.
- Combine with a finer file and cuticle care for best results.
They should store files dry and clean to keep them effective. Replacing a worn 80 grit file maintains performance and prevents rough, uneven shaping.