Your e-file is one of the most important tools in your kit. But to get the best results, you need the right e-file bit for the job. From gel polish removal to cuticle work, each bit has a purpose and using the wrong one can cause heat spikes, damage, or wasted time and we get it, theres SO many different e-file bits, with many looking the same how do you know which to choose for which task?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about e-file bits, speed, grit, and usage, so you can work faster, safer, and more efficiently.

Why Choosing the Right Bit Matters

An e-file bit isn’t a one-size-fits-all tool. Each shape, grit, and coating is engineered for a specific purpose. The right bit will:

• Save you time by cutting down on manual filing

• Reduce the risk of damage to the natural nail and skin

• Provide a cleaner, smoother finish for your enhancements

• Improve your ergonomics by reducing hand strain

Understanding E-File Bit Grits

Just like sandpaper, the grit of your e-file bit determines how much material it removes.

• Coarse grit (green/black band): Best for longer, thicker product removal like acrylic or thicker builder gel.

• Medium grit (blue band): Great all-rounder for debulking products such a gel, builder gel, gel polish

• Fine grit (red band): Perfect for smoothing, finishing, and gentle prep.

• Extra fine grit (yellow band): Ideal for delicate cuticle work and sensitive skin types

How to Choose E-File Speed

Your e-file speed should match both the bit and the task:

Many techs fear speed but this can actually cause more damage. Learn about why working higher is actually safer and when to turn up the speed here.

• High speed (20,500–35,000 RPM): Removing bulk or debulking enhancements.

• Medium speed (12,000–25,000 RPM): Refining overlays and shaping, debulking thinner products

• Low speed (5,000–12,000 RPM): Cuticle work and natural nail prep.

Best E-File Bits for Every Task

Here’s your guide to the best e-file bits for each stage of a nail service:

1. Gel Polish & Acrylic Removal

• Recommended bits: 5 in 1 Cross Cut Bit, 5-in-1 Straight Cut Bit, Safety Edge Bit, Skinny Safety Edge Bit, Tornado Bit

• Why: Removes product quickly 

• Grit: Fine, Medium, Coarse.

• Speed: 20,000–30,000 RPM.

2. Cuticle Prep

• Recommended bits: Erin Bit, Tapered erin bit, cuticle lift bit, polishing ball, cuticle ball, lucy, large lucy, skin polishing bit

• Why: Safely exfoliates cuticle and cleans nail walls.

• Grit: Medium, Fine, Extra Fine.

• Speed: 5,000–12,000 RPM.

This guide goes into further detail about choosing the right cuticle bit for each task. 

There's so many different shapes and grits and it can be overwhelming. We break down the difference between flame bits and the best one for you here.

3. Builder Gel & Overlay Refining

• Recommended bits: Safety Edge Bit, Skinny Safety Edge Bit, 5-in-1 Cross Cut Bit, 5 in 1 Straight Cut Bit, Tornado Bit

• Why: Shapes and refines overlays while protecting the cuticle.

• Grit: Fine, Medium

• Speed: 15,000–18,000 RPM.

4. Finishing & Smoothing

• Recommended bits: Lucy, Large Lucy, Skin Polishing Bit, Cuticle balls

• Why: Exfoliates skin and makes it look and feel tidy

• Grit: Fine, medium, coarse

• Speed: 5,000–15,000 RPM.

5. Pedicure & Callus Work

• Recommended bits: Diamond Pedicure Bit, Pedi Callus Bit, Pedi Carbide Bit, Sanding Discs.

• Why: Smooths hard skin, heels, and calluses.

• Grit: Coarse

• Speed: 25,000–35,000 RPM.

Looking to learn more about the difference between 5 in 1 Cross Cut and Straight Cut Bits? We break in down in detail here.

QUICK CHEAT SHEET

Task	Best Bit	Grit	Speed
Gel/Acrylic Removal	5 in 1 Cross Cut / 5-in-1 Straight Cut / Tornado	Medium–Coarse	20–30k RPM
Cuticle Work	Lift / Erin / Ball / Tiny Lift	Fine–Extra Fine	5–12k RPM
Overlay Refining	Safety Barrel / 5-in-1 Cross Cut or Straight Cut	Fine–Medium	12–18k RPM
Finishing	Lucy / Skin polishing bit	Fine, medium	10–15k RPM
Pedicure	Sanding Discs	150	125-35k RPM

 

COMPLETE GUIDES

(feel free to download)

CUTICLE BITS

 

CARBIDE BITS

 

CORRECTIVE BITS

 

SANDING BANDS & MANDREL

 

Learn more about sanding bands and mandrels and how they are made here.

SANDING DISC GUIDE

BRUSH GUIDE

Want to dive more into the speed to use for each technique. This detailed guide has got you covered.

With the right bit, speed, and technique, your e-file becomes a time-saving, precision tool that protects both your client’s natural nails and your hands.

Explore the full Katie Barnes E-File Bit Collection to build your perfect kit today.