Say Goodbye to Crusty Nails With These Editor-Vetted Clippers (2024)

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CHANCES ARE, YOU probably have a rusty old pair of nail clippers in your bathroom drawer right now, which begs the question: why buy a new pair? Like other blades and razors, nail clippers can dull over time with regular use, making them less effective. A dull edge is a recipe for disaster because it often crushes your nails rather than cleanly trimming them, which can lead to splitting and breakage. Plus, a dull blade can prolong the manicure or pedicure process, turning it into an arduous task that you keep putting off. If your nail clippers are showing visible signs of wear and tear, it may be time for an upgrade.

When shopping for the best nail clippers, you'll find multiple options in stores and hundreds more online. They might all look the same, but their performance can vary based on various factors. So, what should you look for in a pair of nail clippers, and which ones are the best on the market? Below, we'll highlight the key factors to bear in mind during your search for the best nail clippers.

Best Nail Clippers

What to Consider

Material

Look for clippers that are made from materials like stainless steel, carbon steel, or titanium steel to help ensure lasting durability. Tools made from stainless steel are able to withstand regular use and cleaning without rusting or deteriorating, and they tend to stay sharper for longer. Another perk of this metal is that it's non-porous, which reduces the risk of your nail clippers harboring bacteria or fungi that can lead to infections. Springing for stainless steel clippers is definitely worth the initial investment for both hygiene and longevity reasons.

"When choosing a clipper, I prefer stainless steel for its durability," says celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik. "It allows the clipper to last and stay sharp longer as well as stand up to professional disinfection procedures. I like a clean, no-frills design for easy use."

Size

Nail clippers come in a range of sizes, from small clippers meant for baby fingers and toes to large clippers designed for use on your toenails. The best size really comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer using smaller tools on their hands for more precision and larger clippers on their feet to trim their toenails, which tend to be thicker. If you have to pick one, go with a larger set of nail clippers, which can be used on both hands and feet.

"I opt for large toenail clippers for both hand and foot care," says celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec. "Their substantial size and weight offer a more comfortable grip, enhancing stability during use."

How We Selected

For the last month, our grooming-obsessed editors and writers have been researching the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated nail clippers to find the best options for a wide range of needs, preferences, and budgets. Our team reviewed dozens of nail clippers and evaluated their design, performance, durability, and features. We also consulted with multiple nail techs and experts and evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best nail clippers for men.

Toss out those rusty nail clippers; it's time to invest in a pair of good quality tools that will elevate your grooming routine. Below, we've rounded up ten of the best expert-approved nail clippers to keep your nails looking sharp and tidy at home.