When it comes to e-filing, one of the biggest myths out there is that slower is safer when it comes to removal. Many nail techs are taught to fear higher RPMs, sticking to low speeds in an effort to protect their clients. But here’s the truth: running your efile too slowly doesn’t just make your job harder - it can actually cause more harm than good to your machine, your client, and even your own hands.

Why Too Low a Speed Causes Problems

Think of your e-file like a car. Imagine driving at 30mph in first gear - the engine strains, overheats, and eventually breaks down. The same principle applies to your e-file. Running your bit at very low speeds means the motor is working overtime, creating extra pressure, vibration, and heat.

Here’s what happens when you work too slowly:

• Heat build-up for the client – friction increases, creating an uncomfortable “burning” sensation.

• Damage to your machine – the hand-piece motor strains unnecessarily, shortening its lifespan.

• Extra strain on you – you’re forced to press harder, putting more pressure on your wrists and hands.

• Poor results – instead of a smooth, clean cut, you’ll find yourself dragging through product.

The golden rule? The bit should always do the work for you.

Don’t Fear Coarse Grit

Another common misconception is that coarse bits are too aggressive. In reality, a coarse grit cuts cleaner and faster, meaning less time spent on the nail, less pressure, and less heat build-up. Using a finer grit at too low a speed often leads to dragging and over-filing, which ironically makes the service more damaging.

If your bit isn’t cutting through product as quickly or efficiently as you’d like, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to:

1. Turn up the speed

2. Upgrade to a coarser bit

How Fast Is Too Fast?

Here’s the good news: you can safely work up to 35,000 RPM without fear when using a professional e-file. Yes, really! Modern e-files are designed to handle these speeds effortlessly, giving you precision, power, and smooth control. The minimum speed you should be working on is 20,000 RPM for removal of product. The higher the speed, the easier it is for the bit to glide through product with no dragging, no overheating, no unnecessary strain.

E-File Bit Speed & Purpose Guide

How to Tell the Difference Between Fine, Medium & Coarse Bits

E-file bits are graded by grit, just like nail files, and knowing which one you’re using is key to safe and efficient work. The easiest way to distinguish them is by the coloured band at the base of the bit - typically, red = fine, blue = medium, green = coarse, black = extra coarse, and so on. You can also tell by looking closely at the teeth cut of the bit. The further apart the teeth, the coarser the grit, designed for fast removal of bulk product. The closer together the teeth, the finer the grit, giving you more control for finishing and refining. Once you know how to read these indicators, choosing the right bit for the job becomes second nature.

Don’t let myths hold you back. Working at the right speed with the right bit makes your job easier, protects your client, and prolongs the life of your e-file. Instead of fearing speed or grit, embrace them because when your tools do the work, your hands and clients will thank you.

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