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The 11 Best Press-on Nail Kits for an Instant Fall Manicure, Tested by Editors

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Updated September 9, 2024: This article on the best press-on nails was updated with fall nail designs and addition editor testing reviews. We are currently testing additional press-on nails from brands like Dashing Diva for consideration in this expert-approved guide.

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Just like a good blowout, a new set of fall nails leaves you feeling polished, pulled together, and ready for whatever the season brings. But a salon mani can cost you a pretty penny and precious time. Our solution? False nails that look professional. Compared to a gel manicure or an acrylic set, the best press-on nails cost a fraction and only take about 15 minutes to pop on — plus, they’re easy to remove and replace to match your outfit or mood of the moment.

“One of the benefits of press-on nails is cost,” explains celebrity nail artist and Nails of LA founder Brittney Boyce. “A set from the salon costs a minimum of $40, and press-on nails can be as inexpensive as $9.” Press-on nails also give your nails a uniform look; if you’ve chipped a nail, you can easily conceal inconsistencies in length with good faux tips. And contrary to what you may think, press-on nails don’t damage your nails, as long as you remove them properly without prying them off, according to Boyce.

Press-on nail kits have had a makeover in the past five years: Breakable claws are out and realistic-looking, durable faux nails are in. The DIY beauty hack is one of the most popular TikTok beauty products with over 170 million views and searches on the app, where users share press-on nail tutorials and review kits from top brands like Kiss, Glamnetic, and Chillhouse. There are so many types of press-on nails to suit your needs, but at-home gel nail extension kits that come with mini LED nail lamps have particularly spiked in popularity; rather than simple nail glue, these kits bond the faux nail to your natural one with soft gel adhesive for weeks of wear time. And you won’t miss out on viral TikTok and Pinterest nail trends like Hailey Bieber-inspired “glazed donut” nails or edgy Halloween nails — the best press-on nail brands refresh their designs each season.

Beyond the home salon, beauty insiders are embracing press-on nails from the red carpet to the runway, too. Allison Williams stunned with graphic adhesive tips at the 2024 Met Gala, while nail artist Julie Kandalec designed over 1,000 custom press-ons for models at the Christian Cowan’s spring 2024 runway. “I’m pro press-on,” says Kandalec, who cites Olive & June Acrylic Instant Mani Press-On Nails as a great long-wear option. She explains that kits with adhesive tabs will wear for just a few days, whereas those that apply with nail glue can last you over a week.

For the latter, she says, “The tips are just made out of plastic, so you just soak them off like you would an acrylic and they come off in 15 minutes — no damage. It’s a great way for someone to grow out their natural nails underneath.” Kandalec adds that gel tips like Kiss Salon X-Tend Press-On Nails that are cured at home are the most enduring option, though “removal is going to take a little bit longer” — but more on that later. The latest press-on fall nail art options are available in varying lengths, shapes, and styles, with easy-to-use adhesives that make application quick and simple.

We put these press-on nails through three rounds of rigorous testing to ensure they’re worthy of your hands, and these 11 options passed with flying colors. Read on for the top fall press-on nail kits of 2024, plus pointers on application, removal, and how to make press-on nails last.

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Top Press-on Nails of 2024

Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Press-on Nails, Tested & Reviewed

To curate this list of the best-of-the-best press-on nails on the market, WWD Shop editors subjected our nail beds to extensive testing across dozens of press-on nail brands. We enlisted two celebrity nail artists for expert recommendations and tips on seamless application, then we conducted extensive research across top beauty retailers and beloved press-on nail kits on TikTok to determine the most universally satisfactory options on the market. During our press-on nail testing, we tried various nail lengths, shapes, designs, and adhesive applications.

Since our initial round of testing in January 2023, our team of product testers have conducted a second and third round of testing to revisit our original recommendations and examine new discoveries on our radar, whether recommended by our expert sources, TikTok FYPs, or rave reviews. We’ve been testing fall nails all summer long (we popped them on for week-long vacations, Fashion Week events, and summer weddings) in order to evaluate durability, comfort, and wear time limits. Exceptional brands like Kiss continued to rise in our rankings. Press-on nails that no longer impressed us when compared to new kits we tried were removed from this guide, however, we found that many of our original recommendations remain stellar picks for their finish and long-lasting wear.

The best press-on nails are not created equally. While some adhere with nail glue, others lock in place via sticky tabs or adhesive that’s cured with an at-home LED nail lamp. Plus, the range of shapes and designs is ultra-personal, so rather than choosing one top recommendation, we’ve selected three that represent different application techniques and manicure preferences.

  • Kiss Impress Color Fx Press-on Nails: If you’re not looking to fuss with glue, the Impress Press-On Nails from Kiss are super quick to apply and come in so many colors that look like a fresh gel manicure. This set is comfortably short (just slightly longer than a filed-down natural nail) and by far the easiest to remove on our list. We recommend grabbing them in a value pack to keep your home salon stocked.

  • Glamnetic Press-on Nails: Aptly named, Glamnetic press-on nails are your best bet for a long-wearing, full-glam manicure in minutes. This almond-shaped kit flatters the hand with an elongating style that still allows you to type on the keyboard (see, no typos here!), while the brand also offers everyday shapes like short round tips, along with a bounty of nail art designs and salon-worthy finishes, from shiny chrome to metallic swirls. Durable and seamless, we love to glue these on and go.

  • Kiss Salon X-Tend Press-on Nails: These cutting-edge X-Tend Press-On Nails make for an ideal at-home mani to apply before a vacation or a period when you don’t want to worry about losing a nail because they double-down on extended durability with a gel lamp that bonds faux nails to your natural ones. This top press-on nail kit comes recommended by Kandalec for its super long-lasting wear and because the nails don’t split or chip like plastic options.

pink press on nail kit 3-pack
pink press on nail kit 3-pack

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Kiss Impress Nails Short Solid Color Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.7/5 rating
Number of nails: 3 kits of 30
Adhesive type: Sticker
Tools included: Nail file, cuticle stick, and prep pad

$18.99

Buy Now at target

These Kiss press-on nails outperform their competition at the drugstore. The sticker-style adhesive means you don’t have to fuss with nail glue, so they’re a great option for press-on beginners. These top press-on nails come in a slew of shimmery, solid-color shades that look classic but with a modern twist (chrome, anyone?). The shape and size is easy to file down from a square to a round or almond shape. Pro-tip: For a super long-wearing manicure, double-down with a small drop of nail glue under the the adhesive sticker. Trust us, those claws won’t be popping off any time soon.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “I apply these Kiss Impress nails multiple times throughout the year; they’re my favorite when I need fresh nails, fast. The adhesive can get stuck on spare pieces of hair when they start to lift, but usually, they last me about five to seven days. The tips feel like thick gel polish and best of all, they leave no residue after you remove them. I’ve continued to test them against similar options but they still come out on top.” — Senior Beauty & Lifestyle Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan

Wear time: 4.6/5 rating | Ease of application: 5/5 rating | Results: 4.7/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $18.99


editor tests pink press-on nail kits
WWD Shop writer Olivia Cigliano tests Kiss Impress Nails Short Solid Color Press-On Nails in our New York City office.
brown press-on nail kit; hand wearing brown nails
brown press-on nail kit; hand wearing brown nails

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Glamnetic Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 5/5 rating
Number of nails: 30
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail glue, double-sided file, cuticle stick, and prep pad

$15

Buy Now at Amazon

$15

Buy Now at Sephora

$15

Buy Now at ulta

Glamnetic is the go-to if you’re longing for length — even the shortest styles will give you a good free edge. The immigrant-owned brand launched with faux lashes in 2019 and has since become an established player in the press-on nail space. Although Glamnetic offers solid colored press-on nail kits, they’re known for their funky nail art: You can shop chic French sets, iridescent manicures à la Hailey Bieber, or go with a kit that combines different designs in a similar color palette for a bespoke effect. We’re loving this bronze-toned matte set for fall.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “Throughout three rounds of press-on nail testing, I noticed one common issue with lengthy press-on nails: They’re far more likely to break than shorter options. That’s never been the case with Glamnetic throughout every trial. The nails are thinner and lighter than other press-ons, but they stayed secure until I removed them. They’re the only lengthy press-ons I could wear for more than a week without dealing with chipping. Plus, they’re not too long for typing on a keyboard.” — WWD Shop Writer & Producer Olivia Cigliano

Wear time: 5/5 rating | Ease of application: 5/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $15


french press on nails
french press on nails

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Kiss Salon X-Tend Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.9/5 rating
Number of nails: 30
Adhesive type: Glue and LED nail lamp
Tools included: LED soft gel adhesive, cuticle stick, and prep pad

$12.19

Buy Now at target

Kiss Salon X-Tend Press-On Nails are an innovative new addition to any at-home salon. Rather than applying with sticky tabs or just glue, these tips cure to your nail beds like any gel mani. They start with a small dot of gel adhesive to secure the nail in place, then lock onto your natural nails in mere minutes with the help of an LED nail lamp. For those who have a particularly flat nail bed, Kandalec explains that the tips in this nail kit are “thicker and stronger than plastic options, so you’re going to have more longevity.”

Editor testing and review notes: “Wow — the extra lamp-curing step is completely worth it. These tips lasted me over two weeks. I’m an avid glue-on-and-go girl, but these blow typical press-ons out of the water with super strong durability that avoids pesky pop-offs while you’re out and about. I found the thicker glue is far easier to work with than other runnier formulas, which makes up for the added few minutes of curing under the lamp.” — Cigliano

Wear time: 5/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.8/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $12.19


nude pink press on nail kit
nude pink press on nail kit

Kiss Bare But Better Fake Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.8/5 rating
Number of nails: 28
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail file and wood stick

$8.99

Buy Now at Target

If you’re looking for a clean, polished manicure, the Kiss Bare But Better range is a great option for all occasions. Available in different skin tones and lengths, the sheer tips seamlessly blend into the nail bed as a your-nails-but-better mani. This set comes in a medium coffin shape, which is chic and functional for everyday wear.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “When I can’t decide on a nail design, I always gravitate toward these nails. I’ve been wearing them for years, but after retesting them, I’m still impressed by their flattering look, bend-proof durability, and week-long wear time. Keep in mind that sheer press-ons mean you have to be extra careful upon nail prep and application, otherwise you’ll be able to see air bubbles under the nail. I recommend using a little extra nail glue to avoid those bubbles; that’ll get you a seamless blend.” — Sullivan

Wear time: 4.8/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.6/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $8.99


11 Best Press-on Nails of 2024, Tested by Editors and Experts
11 Best Press-on Nails of 2024, Tested by Editors and Experts

Paintbox Bordeaux Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.9/5 rating
Number of nails: 32
Adhesive type: Gel tabs and glue
Tools included: Nail file, wood stick, and prep pad

$24

Buy Now at paint box

Designed by nail artists in the famed New York City studio, Paintbox Press-ons bring professional manicures to your home salon. They come in an elegant, medium-length oval shape made with recycled plastic. Uniquely, the tips range in half sizes so you’re bound to find a perfect fit. You also get the option between short- or long-term wear with the inclusion of both gel tabs and brush-on glue, both of which won’t damage your precious nail beds in the long run. There are so many high-style designs to choose from, but this Bordeaux set is essential for fall.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “If you’re looking to fool your friends, these are the best salon-like press-on nails I’ve tested. They’re so glossy and smooth like a real gel mani and fit my nail beds seamlessly. Both the gel tabs and glue secure the tips quickly, but if I want an extra-strength hold, I’ll add a tiny bit of glue first before applying with the tab. When it comes to nails this pretty, I never want to take them off. I wore them on a week-long vacation full of hiking, unpacking, and re-packing my suitcase, and they stayed intact the whole time.” — Sullivan

Wear time: 4.9/5 rating | Ease of application: 5/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $24


person testing blue press-on nails
WWD Shop writer Olivia Cigliano tests Paint Box Press On Nails in our New York City office.
green press-on nail kit
green press-on nail kit

Chillhouse Chill Tips Nail Art Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.7/5 rating
Number of nails: 24
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail glue, cuticle stick, dual nail file and buffer, and prep pads

$19.59

Buy Now at target

If you’re eager to mix up your nails with cool designs (but hate how long it takes at the salon) order up some Chillhouse Chill Tips. The edgy brand has spa locations in New York and Paris, but you can get one of their signature nail art manicures at home with their press-on nails. Chillhouse launches new tips seasonally, so you can always look forward to new colorways and designs.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “Chillhouse Chill Tips are my favorite to pop on for the weekend, or when I’m heading on vacation. The funky designs uplift my mood every time I glance at my fingertips. The tips are medium length, but you can easily file them down if you prefer a shorter manicure.” — Sullivan

Wear time: 4.6/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.7/5 rating | Results: 4.9/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $16


editor tests green press-on nail kit
WWD Shop writer Olivia Cigliano tests Chillhouse Chill Tips Nail Art Press-On Nails in our New York City office.
hand holding white press-on nail kit
hand holding white press-on nail kit

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Olivia & June Acrylic Instant Mani Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.9/5 rating
Number of nails: 42
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail glue, cuticle stick, dual nail file and buffer, and prep pads

$9.99

Buy Now at Target

Olive & June pioneered a foolproof system for at-home manicures, complete with a custom silicone brush handle attachment that gives you more control when you’re painting your nails with your non-dominant hand. So we weren’t surprised when Olive & June’s press-on nails debuted with a kit that makes applying press-on nails easy; the set has a massive range of nail sizes that makes it easy to find your exact fit. Keep tabs on their seasonal limited-edition designs, which always sell out. These nails have more of a curve to them than others on our list, so those with flatter nail beds will want to press down on each nail before applying for a longer-lasting result.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “I consider myself a well-seasoned pro at applying press-on nails, so when I was in a pinch, I took a risk and popped on The Instant Mani in an Uber ride on the way to dinner. Despite the chaotic city traffic and overcrowded back seat of the car, I managed to locate the perfect nail size for each of my nails with ease. The glue instantly gripped — without any nail filing or cuticle prep — and the nail tips seemed to have a unique, tight curve that held super secure on the natural nail apex. The mani lasted me for two whole weeks, which is impressive compared to other popular brands I’ve tried, and earned me so many compliments. Everyone assumed they were fresh from the salon.” — Cigliano

Wear time: 5/5 rating | Ease of application: 5/5 rating | Resuls: 4.8/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $9.99


hand wearing blue tip press-on nails
hand wearing blue tip press-on nails

Btartbox Short Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 5.9/5 rating
Number of nails: 30
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Storage box, nail glue, adhesive tabs, dual nail file and buffer, cuticle stick, and prep pads

$14.97

Buy Now at amazon

If you’re an avid scroller on #NailTok, you’ve seen buzz around Btartbox press-ons. They’ve got over 14.5 million views and searches on TikTok for their easy application and natural appearance that looks straight from the salon. That’s because they’re hand made from gel — not printed plastic — which results in a super shiny and durable finish. They’re also flexible, so they’ll properly mold to your natural nail apex and create a seamless cuticle line. We love this glossy blue set for a wash of rich color, but the brand offers a treasure trove worth of dramatic shapes and designs for when you’re craving something a little more glam.

Editor testing and review notes: “Ever since our last round of product testing, I’ve kept Btartbox in my regular rotation. Off the bat, you’ll notice that these press-ons feel far more sturdy than traditional plastic tips. I found it easy to find the right fit for each nail and keep them glued down thanks to the flexible nature of the gel tip. This summer, I wore a long French set for a week-long trip in Europe and was amazed that they still looked new when I got home — for an extra four days. I love this shorter set for the work week when I’m typing all day.” — Cigliano

Wear time: 5/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.8/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $14.97


editor tests blue press-on nails
WWD Shop editor Olivia Cigliano tests Btartbox Short Press On Nails in our New York City office.
black press-on nail kit
black press-on nail kit

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Opi Xpress/On Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.9/5 rating
Number of nails: 30
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail glue, cuticle stick, dual nail file and buffer, and prep pads

$12.99

Buy Now at amazon

$12.99

Buy Now at ulta

Opi is a renowned nail polish brand — even if you’re not a manicure person, you’ve seen their colors on the fingertips of legends like Beyonce? and Kerry Washington. The Opi Xpress/On Press-On Nails are a genius addition to the line, allowing you to achieve a pretty manicure at home with iconic OPI colors, like Funny Bunny, Bubble Bath, and Lincoln Park After Dark — a cult favorite for fall. The faux nails feel like gel polish rather than plastic, which is a rare find.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “Finding a good fit for my pointer, middle, and ring fingers is always difficult, as a faux nail that’s slightly too big or too small throws off the look and wear time of my manicure. OPI’s press-on kits have loads of mid-sized tips to ensure a perfect match for those tricky-to-fit fingertips.” — Sullivan

Wear time: 4.7/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.9/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $12.99


11 Best Press-on Nails of 2024, Tested by Editors and Experts
11 Best Press-on Nails of 2024, Tested by Editors and Experts

Paintlab Press-on Nails

Editor testing review rating: 4.8/5 rating
Number of nails: 30
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail file, wood stick, and prep pad

$12.99

Buy Now at amazon

Isn’t this tortoiseshell press-on nail set so cute? Paintlab kits stand out for their trendy designs and flattering nail shapes. The affordable nails are especially durable thanks to a protective UV coating that allows you to re-wear a set multiple times — so you’ll get an impressive bang for your buck. All you need to do is prep your nails, add a drop of glue, and you’ll have a salon-quality manicure in just 10 minutes.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “Paintlab nails are my favorite brand for holiday-themed nails, like Halloween nails. I’ve been testing them for about three months, and they’re uniquely harder than other flexible tips on the market. They feel more like an acrylic set than gel extensions, which allows them to be bend-proof and resist chips and splits. I notice they’re a bit more narrow in size too, so keep that in mind if your nail beds are particularly wide.” — Cigliano

Wear time: 4.8/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.7/5 rating | Results: 4.8/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $12.99


silver french tip press-on nail kit
silver french tip press-on nail kit

Static Nails Metallic Reusable Pop-On Manicure

Editor testing review rating: 4.8/5 rating
Number of nails: 24
Adhesive type: Glue
Tools included: Nail glue and dual-sided buffer

$20

Buy Now at ulta

If you’ve ever searched for press-on nails, odds are you’ve come across Static Nails. They’re one of the few brands that make reusable press-ons you can actually wear more than once, thanks to the ultra-durable tips. You can browse over 200 styles in varying lengths and shapes, from extra-short square to medium coffin and long almond. We love these fun silver French tips that’ll earn you so many compliments.

Editor’s testing and review notes: “I always keep a set of Static Nails on standby — the high-shine tips look flawless and realistic. The brand also has a great, non-damaging nail glue you brush on just like polish, and I use it with any glue-on faux nails I apply.”

Wear time: 4.7/5 rating | Ease of application: 4.8/5 rating | Results: 5/5 rating

Price upon publish date of this article: $20


How to Apply Press-on Nails

When applying a fresh set of press-on nails, Kandalec explains that proper sizing can pose an initial challenge. She explains that the curve of many press-on nails, also known as the apex, is often too curved for flat nail beds, so it’s important to select a larger tip that’ll align with the natural shape of the nail, rather than one that’s too small and may pop off despite tacky adhesive. “The key is if you don’t have to press it down, that’s when you know have the right fit. Size up and then file down the sidewalls of the press-ons to get the best fit.”

“Prep is everything, no matter what kind of manicure you’re doing,” stresses Boyce. “If you don’t buff and cleanse the nail properly, the polish or glue won’t be able to bond properly.”

Applying glue can also present a learning curve. Kandalec’s pro tip? “More is more.” To avoid trapped air bubbles under the tip which can increase your risk of developing greenies (a sign of infection), she explains that, “if you’re doing a clear nail, especially if you do a lighter color, make sure that the whole nail plate is covered with adhesive, that way it just looks like it’s your natural nail.”

Here’s how to apply press-on’s for a long-lasting result:

  1. Cleanse your hands by removing any existing polish from your fingertips, then washing your hands thoroughly. If you have a free edge, use a nail scrubbing brush to clean underneath your fingertips, then let your hands dry for about 10 minutes.

  2. File and shape your natural nails, then lightly buff them to remove any visible shine.

  3. Fit your faux nails by finding the press-on nail that’s the closest match to your natural nail. “If you’re between sizes, choose the bigger option, then lightly file down the sides of the faux nail so they fit your nail bed without touching your skin,” says Boyce.

  4. Wipe down the natural nail with rubbing alcohol, and wait for it to fully evaporate. This key step ensures that the adhesive will set properly for a longer-lasting manicure. Without it, the natural oils on your nail will interfere with the glue’s ability to bond.

  5. Apply the press-on nails: If using adhesive stickers, remove the sticker backing and firmly press the faux nail onto your natural nail for 10 to 15 seconds. If using glue, dot a drop onto the base of your natural nail and the base of the faux nail. Carefully place the faux nail onto your fingertip, holding it in place for 30 seconds. Use a cuticle stick to remove any excess glue from the side walls of your nail.

  6. Repeat steps four and five on each nail.

  7. Cleanse your hands once more after 30 minutes of application to remove any excess glue that has wandered to the perimeter of your nail beds.

How to Remove Press-On Nails

Resist the urge to peel or pull them off — this tugs off layers of your natural nail, causing damage. You can remove your press-on nails two different ways: One option is to soak your nails in a bowl of warm water with a spoonful of coconut oil for about 20 minutes. You can also buff the faux nails and soak them in acetone for about five minutes, which is Boyce’s preferred method. After soaking your nails with coconut oil and water or acetone, Boyce says to gently rock the faux nail back and forth until the press-on nails have loosened; then they’ll gently fall off without damaging your natural nails.

How to Make Press-On Nails Last

Wondering how long press-on nails last? With proper application, your press-on manicure can last for up to two weeks. These practices will help keep them in tip-top shape.

  • Avoid water for 30 minutes after application: “If you get water on the nail glue before it dries, any excess glue on your cuticle or the side walls of your nail will dry down white instead of clear,” Boyce explains. To preserve your manicure after it’s set, wear rubber gloves when you’re doing dishes.

  • Grab a scalp massager: These handheld silicone brushes lather up shampoo without applying pressure to your fingertips. They also prevent your nails from snagging on your hair when you rake conditioner through it — this lessens the likelihood of your nails coming loose or falling off after wash day.

  • Apply cuticle oil: Emollient nail products are essential for any manicure, according to Boyce. “Without oils and creams, the natural nail becomes brittle and dry, preventing a long-lasting manicure,” she explains. Focus on the sides and base of your nails when you massage it on.

How We Tested and Selected the Best Press-On Nail Kits

A total of 30 press-on nail kits were tested by four WWD Shop editors and product testers for this best press-on nails shopping guide. These fall nails were worn for as long as they lasted on our nail beds, ranging from four days to two weeks. Since our initial round of testing in January 2023, we conducted a total of four rounds of testing to assess our original recommendations and compare them to new discoveries recommended by nail artists or TikTok users. While testing the best press-on nails, we exposed the nails to water, soap, cuticle oil, body lotion, lots of tapping on a keyboard, folding laundry, opening packages, and so much more. The press-on nails that chipped, broke, or popped off were nixed from our list.

To choose the best press-on nail kits, we considered a multitude of factors, including the wear time, durability, feel, and ease of application and removal. We made sure to evaluate every type of press-on nail, including glue or adhesive tab tips, gel extensions that cure with LED nail lamps, and everything in between. We noted the faux nail size options, ensuring that each option on our list is inclusive of the largest and smallest of nail beds, giving special props to kits equipped with a large selection of tip options and half sizes. We also interviewed a nail expert with experience creating her own press-on nail brand and used her expertise to inform our selections.

Before you go, check out our list of the best gel nail polishes:

Why Trust WWD

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Brittney Boyce is the definition of a multi-hyphenate as a celebrity nail artist to Hollywood’s biggest stars, founder of cutting-edge nail brand, Nails of LA, content creator, and more. Boyce began her career as a nail extension specialist in high-end nail salons across LA. Rapidly establishing a reputation, Boyce became highly sought-after for editorial, fashion and beauty campaigns. Now, Boyce works with top celebrities including Megan Fox, Machine Gun Kelly, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Travis Barker, and Olivia Rodrigo. Her nail looks are viral sensations including the $30,000 diamond manicure on Machine Gun Kelly for the 2022 Billboard Music Awards, benefiting local Cleveland charities. Beyond her skills as a manicurist, Boyce has lent her talent to beauty brands to support marketing, product development, content and more. In 2020, Brittney launched NailsofLA – the ultramodern adhesive nail designs brand.

celebrity nail expert Julie Kandalec
celebrity nail expert Julie Kandalec

Julie Kandalec is a celebrity nail artist and educator. To Julie, nail care is far beyond just polish. Always the artist, she is also trained in painting, drawing, color, and dance. Known for her gentle touch, calm demeanor, and precise attention to detail, Julie’s specialties vary from a clean, natural nail to elaborate, custom-designed nails. Julie’s work can now be seen in major publications, beauty campaigns, and regularly on the fingertips of Kim Kardashian, Jessica Chastain, Emily Blunt, Rose Byrne, and many more.

Meet the Authors

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She’s spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty industry for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She became a press-on nail nut during the pandemic, testing dozens of sets from different brands. To compile the best press-on nail kits, she factored in durability, ease of application, wear time, and whether or not the sets damage your natural nails.

Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. At WWD, she regularly tests and reviews top-rated beauty products. She updated this shopping guide in September 2024 with new fall nail releases, trend insight, and additional editor-tested press-on nail reviews.

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