Skip to Content

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

These Press-On Nails Look Amazing—and Last

They’re the best of the best. Promise.

Headshot of Genesis RivasBy Genesis Rivas
hands of a beautiful well groomed violet lavender nails gel polish on a beige background
Mariia Kokorina//Getty Images

As a beauty editor and self-proclaimed press-on princess, I've tried every press-on nail brand I've found. Trust me when I say they've come a long way from the original drugstore press-on manicures that barely stayed on for an hour. Now they're chic and durable, and they come in an incredible array of designs—from classic, neutral colors to bold, trendy patterns. They're also more versatile, available in a variety of lengths and shapes, from exaggerated stiletto nails to short and rounded options that you can still wear while typing.

Another reason I love them: Press-on nails aren't just an easy at-home option that offers a professional-looking manicure in minutes; they're also a healthier alternative for your nails. They don't require any maintenance or heavy-duty removal like gel or acrylics (just soak them in warm water to remove), and they protect your natural nails from external aggressors. In my case, press-ons have stopped me from biting and picking at my nails. (I'm the problem, it's me.)

If you haven't tried press-on nails yet, consider this your sign to give them a go. To help you choose the best of the best, I tested and gathered my favorite picks.

1
Best Long-Lasting

Nails of LA Press-On Extensions

Press-On Extensions
1
Best Long-Lasting

Nails of LA Press-On Extensions

Now 69% Off
$5 at nailsofla.com
Credit: Nails of LA
Pros
  • Durable
Cons
  • Designs are often sold out

The glue that comes with the Nails of LA press-ons is no joke. It can last a couple of weeks without budging. The nails come in playful patterns and designs and aren't so long that they're obstructive to your daily life. Each kit contains 24 nails, a dual-sided file and buffer, a cuticle stick, and that no-joke glue.

2
Best Inclusive Sizing

Olive and June Cockatoo Press-Ons

Cockatoo Press-Ons
2
Best Inclusive Sizing

Olive and June Cockatoo Press-Ons

Credit: Olive and June
Pros
  • A ton of sizes
Cons
  • Designs are often sold out

If you have tiny pinkies or wide nail beds, then you'll appreciate this inclusive kit: Most press-on nail kits only offer around 25 to 30 nails, but this kit comes with 42 press-on nails to account for all different nail sizes. They also offer a ton of manicure options, from solid colors to mixed sets.

3
Best Solid Color Nails

OPI xPRESS/On Short Solid Color Press-On Nails

xPRESS/On Short Solid Color Press-On Nails
3
Best Solid Color Nails

OPI xPRESS/On Short Solid Color Press-On Nails

Credit: OPI
Pros
  • Wearable
Cons
  • Glue isn't as strong as other options

When you're in a pinch and need a cute but simple manicure in minutes without sacrificing your ability to do regular things (read: type, open up a soda can, etc.), these press-ons have you covered. They come in 15 solid colors, from bolds to neutrals.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
4
Best Packaging

Sally Hansen Salon Effects Perfect Manicure Press-On Nails Kit

Salon Effects Perfect Manicure Press-On Nails Kit
4
Best Packaging

Sally Hansen Salon Effects Perfect Manicure Press-On Nails Kit

Now 21% Off
Credit: Sally Hansen
Pros
  • Unique try-on packaging
Cons
  • Could include more nail sizing

The new Sally Hansen press-ons come in so many colors, designs, shapes, and lengths that there's an option for everyone: bold and long, short and square, monochrome colors, and fun patterns. The nails come in an innovative box that allows you to slide your fingertips underneath the plastic-encased tips so you can see how they'll look on you before buying. Each kit comes with both glue and adhesive tabs, along with a nail file and prep pad.

5
Best Overall

Kiss Nude Nude Bare but Better Nails

Nude Nude Bare but Better Nails
5
Best Overall

Kiss Nude Nude Bare but Better Nails

Credit: Kiss
Pros
  • Durable
  • Chic style
Cons
  • Could include more nail sizes

These look so realistic, are very durable, and have a classic neutral style that's perfect for any occasion. The Bare but Better collection comes in small, medium, and long sizes, so you can choose a length depending on your preference. I like the medium length because it gives just the right amount of extension without feeling like you can't do basic activities. Each kit contains everything you need for a long-lasting style: 28 nails, pink nail glue (which matches the nail hue), a mini file, and a manicure stick.

6
Best Designs

Chillhouse Chill Tips Press-On Manicure Kit

Chill Tips Press-On Manicure Kit
6
Best Designs

Chillhouse Chill Tips Press-On Manicure Kit

Credit: Chillhouse
Pros
  • Trendy designs
  • Durable
Cons
  • Could offer more nail sizing

Want a trendy manicure with intricate designs but don't want to spend hours getting them done at a nail appointment? Chillhouse has you covered. The brand offers the cutest designs on the market, from this neutral yin-yang option to checkered patterns and swirly prints. Each kit contains 24 nails, a dual-sided file and buffer, a cuticle stick, and nail glue (and this nail glue is so good, I use it with other brands, too).

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7
Best for Beginners

imPRESS Color Press-On Manicure, Gel Nail Kit

Color Press-On Manicure, Gel Nail Kit
7
Best for Beginners

imPRESS Color Press-On Manicure, Gel Nail Kit

Credit: imPRESS
Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • Short length
Cons
  • Adhesive isn't as long-lasting as glue

At first, putting on press-on nails with glue is tricky; things can get sticky quickly. This option lets you forgo the glue. Instead, you peel and press the included two-sided stickers onto your natural nails then place and press-on the tips. I find that this short length doesn't feel restrictive or make it difficult to get things.

8
Best Long Nails

PaintLab Press-On Nails

Press-On Nails
8
Best Long Nails

PaintLab Press-On Nails

Credit: PaintLab
Pros
  • Creative designs
Cons
  • Sizing might be difficult for those with small nail beds

For those who love length: These PainLab press-ons give extension-like acrylics or gel-X nails without the maintenance or price tag. They come in bright, bold, and unexpected designs that are sure to boost your mood whenever you look at your mani.

Headshot of Genesis Rivas
Genesis Rivas

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

Watch Next
 
preview for Oprah Daily US - Beauty Playlist

Skin & Makeup

best chemical exfoliants

These Chemical Exfoliants Are Transformative

red light therapy

11 Best Red Light Therapy Tools That Really Work

derrick rutledge and oprah winfrey

The O-Ward Winners Oprah’s Makeup Artist Loves

best led face masks

LED Face Masks for Clear, Bright, and Smooth Skin

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Logo
twitter icon
facebook icon
instagram icon
pinterest icon
Hearst Lifestyle and Design Group

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.

©2023 Oprah Daily LLC. All rights reserved.

Privacy NoticeYour CA Privacy Rights/Shine the LightDAA Industry Opt OutCA Notice at CollectionTerms of UseSite Map
Cookies Choices