17 Best Nail Polish Brands That Won’t Hurt Your Wallet

Essie’s exclusive award winning formula provides flawless coverage with a classic, chic, elegance that is perfect for any occasion, from a special night out to everyday wear. As an added bonus, Essie nail polishes are DBP, toluene, and formaldehyde free. Also, this polish dries quickly, which is a huge plus!

Shades

Known as the ultimate color authority, Essie offers a range of over 100 colors in up-to-the-minute colors with the most fabulously, whimsical names. Although Essie offers shades perfect for any season and occasion, our personal favorite (and the favorite of millions of women on Pinterest) is Angora Cardi. It’s a beautiful, deep rose color that’s totally versatile and can be worn all year long.

Also, if you’re looking to smooth imperfections or hide discoloration, Essie also offers a Ridge Filling Base Coat that works wonders on damaged nails. Try one coat to even out your nail surface beautifully or two coats to create a sheer, pearly look.

Long Lasting

One of the biggest reasons we selected Essie as the best polish overall is due to its outstanding durability and chip-resistant formula. Sure, it’s no no-chip manicure, but it will last for a solid week with little to no chipping.

Value

Not the cheapest on our list, but at a price of $9 a polish you can afford to buy a whole range of colors! Much cheaper than a no-chip manicure and much gentler on your nails as well.

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OPI is one of the most sought after brands in the industry. The width of the square brush makes for a smooth and easy application–the darks go on evenly and the sheers don’t streak. Additionally, the OPI formula dries quickly and is created to be formaldehyde-free, which is always a good thing.

Shades

Available in more than 200 shades, there’s an OPI color for everyone! OPI is known for their elegant classics as well as deep, cool shades–perfect for fall and winter. Lincoln Park after Dark is for sure one of our personal faves, but users also have a lot of love for Hot & Spicy, Midnight in Moscow, and Pale to the Chief. Also, if you’re looking for something to help strengthen and grow your nails, OPI’s Nail Envy Nail Strengthener provides maximum strengthening with hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium for harder, stronger, natural nails in as little as three weeks.

Long Lasting

OPI’s heavily-pigmented Nail Lacquers are long-lasting and chip-resistant, with remarkable staying power providing up to seven days of wear time.

Value

At $10.50 per polish, OPI is definitely in the mid-range of polishes on our list. Although not the cheapest, just over $10 per polish sure beats what you would shell out for that weekly manicure.

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Unwrapping this gel polish kit’s tropical-inspired box feels a lot like Christmas. Lined up on the white foam are the polishes, removable part by part for easy access. There’s even an instruction manual for beginners to check.

Shades

With 20 shades of glittery and glossy primary colors to choose from, you’ll never run out of options. The shades are bright and fun, and stay vibrant even after weeks of wear.

Long lasting

Top coats are what make nail jobs last, but they also leave a lasting impression. Choose between glossy and matte for a classy yet durable finishing touch.

Value

If you do the math, each bottle is more or less $1. Now you can add to cart without guilt!

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We love this polish for so many reasons we don’t even know where to begin! Not only does the brush provide full-coverage with every use, but it’s super easy to use and makes painting your nails a breeze. Additionally, the formula is free of formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. And that feels good too, right?

As an added bonus, the chic, Instagram worthy packaging will look gorgeous on any vanity or make-up stand. We guarantee that alone will make you want to purchase more than one shade!

Shades

Unfortunately, Smith & Cult polish is currently only available in 28 different colors, but they shades that are available are totally on point. Do keep in mind new colors are being added regularly as well, so chances are that range of colors will continue to grow.

Of course we’ve gotta throw in a plug for our favorite color. Though they’re all gorgeous, we’re partial to Suburban Warrior in all its opaque, watermelon glory.

Long Lasting

Now this is where Smith & Cult polish really shines. Expect your manicure to stay pristine for an entire week, even through dish washing, swimming, furious typing or phone scrolling.

Value

Now we didn’t award this one best luxury polish for no reason. At $18, this is one of the most expensive polishes on our list. However, with the quality of formula and long-lasting manicure it provides, we 100% believe this product is worth the investment.

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Sally Hansen Miracle Gel is the only true 2-step gel manicure with no UV or LED light needed; Over 45 shades. This polish is also super pigmented, so one coat will almost always do the trick for a full-coverage finish. Additionally, expect soak-free removal that won’t damage your nails like a gel manicure at the salon will.

Shades

Sally Hansen currently offers over 45 colors to choose from. While that may not be as many as the other brands on our list, the colors that are available are super trendy–we especially love Tea Party and Little Peony.

Long Lasting

Sally Hansen claims this polish will last up to two weeks, but we would say it’s closer to 9 days with no chipping. Still, nothing to scoff at.

Value

 Under $10 for a gel manicure? We’ll take it! Though, do be aware you need to purchase a top coat in addition to whatever colors you select, so be sure to factor that into the price as well.

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The Revlon ColorStay formula is rich, but not clumpy, and a single layer is enough for full coverage. However, you can always opt for two layers if you prefer a shiny finish–that may score you an extra day or two without any chipping as well.

Additionally, the wide angle brush coats nails from base to tip for perfectly smooth, bubble-free application.

Shades

Revlon ColorStay is available in 30 easy to remove shades in vivid, brilliant colors. If you’re looking for the perfect year round color we highly recommend the Queen of Hearts. It’s a deep mulberry that would make for the perfect pedicure on any skin tone.

Long Lasting

Although not the longest-lasting polish on our list, Revlon ColorStay is super durable yet still easy to remove. Still expect around 5 days of chip-free wear. Not too shabby!

Value

At $7.99 this is one of the least expensive nail polishes on our list–and at that price like that you can afford to buy one in every color!

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These tones are perfect for busybodies since the polish dries quickly. Change up your colors or play with some nail art and get results in just a few minutes.

Shades

Other color palettes are available too, ranging from pastels to pinks. Each set has assorted colors that go well together and alone. 

Long lasting

Eternal’s 12-free and vegan formula not only guarantees safety, but also durability even after weeks of wear. Make sure to paint 2 layers, just in case!

Value

Still thinking about whether to buy? Well, at around $12 per collection, you’d only be paying up to $2 per bottle. 

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Not only does Zoya have a 10-free and vegan formula, but it’s also easy to apply and sticks through more than 2 weeks of activities.

Shades

Its limited color range gives the brand a more curated feel — from the hottest tones with eco-friendly formulas to a sleek packaging for presents. 

Long lasting

Since it’s a full-sized bottle and one coat is enough, a set might last you months. Meanwhile, the polish itself will last you weeks before it chips and the color fades away.

Value

At its current price point, a set of this is already a great deal. 

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Multiple coats aren’t the answer if you want a mani-pedi that lasts more than a week. Your nails only need one coat of this nail polish from Sally Hansen to survive your daily activities. It glides, provides full coverage, and dries in 3 minutes.

Shades

There are currently 9 shades to choose from, with the crowd favorites being White On and Invisible. The options are chic enough to stand out on their own but easy to mix and match with other colors.

Long lasting

The thick formula puts the extreme in this lacquer’s quality wear. Whether you use it as a base or a top coat, it will stay on longer than you expect it to.

Value

For its durability and trendy shades, this polish is surprisingly cheap.

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Jump in on the holographic nail trend with Color Club’s Halographic Hues. This regular nail polish looks shimmery under the sun and adopts a silver tone in low light settings. Get the signature halo effect by doing 2-3 coats and a matte top coat.

Shades

18 shades of silver, blue, orange, pink, and violet under Halographic Hues are nothing short of heavenly. You can get creative with these and use them as base, top coat, or for your nail art.

Long lasting

Depending on how much coats you did and whether you used a top coat.

Value

The price might be too steep for a single bottle of nail polish but a trendy set of nails are a good treat for yourself.

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A set of 6 bottles come with an orange gift box, shades set against dark foam for photo enhancement. Choose from a myriad of themes and colors that can either be festive and lowkey.

Shades

The colors in the 7 palettes look so vivid and brilliant, and they only need two coats to get that opacity and shine.

Long lasting

Be hands-on with Modelones’ thick and all-natural formula. Made with natural resin, this nail polish lasts up to 2 weeks following the proper application guidelines.

Value

Although it’s a bit pricey compared to the rest of the list, a set can still help you save from your mani-pedi trips to the local salon.

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Most gel manicures take a while to finish, but not with Gellen. Its quick-drying properties shorten an at-home session to an hour or less for both hands.

Shades

From classic neutrals and pinks, to finally pastel colors, nailaholics can have their pick from a wide range of color palettes and texture.

Long lasting

Lasts for more than 2 weeks if used with a top coat, and doesn’t chip easily while maintaining its glossy finish.

Value

This 6-piece nail polish set isn’t that expensive, so if you’re itching to paint your pointers feel free to grab a seat.

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All Deborah Lippmann polish is formulated to be 7-free, vegan, and, of course, never tested on animals. The formula is thin and silky and the bottle/brush design prevents the polish from going on too thick. Additionally, this luxurious polish is quick drying, highly pigmented, and goes on smooth for a natural, creamy finish.

Shades

Choose from over 100 of Deborah Lippmann’s beautifully bright and airy shades, perfect for summer. Fashion is our Deborah Lippmann color of the moment, which is a gorgeous taupe that flatters all skin tones.

Long Lasting

One reviewer said she gave herself a Deborah Lippmann mani that lasted for 10 days. 10 whole days! Can you imagine? An at-home manicure with that kind of staying power totally justifies the $18 price tag if you ask us.

Value

Like we mentioned previously, $18 for one polish is a bit steep. However, given the fabulous shade range, the environmentally friendly formula, and the phenomenal staying power, we highly recommend giving this polish a try.

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So what’s included in this kit? To put it short, a lot. You will receive a brush restorer, top coat, activator, base coat, and nail powder. As complicated as it seems, this kit is actually really easy to use and will produce intense, vibrant colors with every application.

Shades

Although the kit only comes with one color, there are a wide range of flawless colors available.

Long Lasting

If you do it right, a dip manicure could last for up to 21 days (wow!).

Value

Don’t let the price intimidate you while it is the most expensive product on our list you get a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re up for the challenge, we highly recommending giving this product a try.

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In addition to being budget-friendly and long-lasting, this polish dries in a New York minute (and we can attest to that). It goes on smooth and lasts for days. Oh, and you can buy it for under $2. Who doesn’t love that?

We have to give an honorable mention to Wet and Wild Megalast Nail Color as a close second for the best budget nail polish. While it comes in an adorable bottle and features a square brush for easy application, we found this polish to be a bit goopy taking way too long to dry–which is why we ultimately went with NYC as the best budget option.

Shades

A lot–over 100 to be exact! We were also surprised by how much we loved the range of colors, expect fashion-forward shades that you would see in the most expensive of nail polish lines. Personally, we’re big fans of Park Avenue and Full Metal Jacket, but regardless of what you’re looking for NYC offers something for everyone.

Long Lasting

Lasts for days without chipping, even through constant hand washing.

Value

Unreal! Pick up a bottle (or 10) at your local CVS or Walgreens for under $2!

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Zoya is known as being the healthy color of fashion, offering the largest selection of 5-free shades absent toxins such as formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, dibutyl phthalate and camphor.

Shades

Zoya offers over 400 (yes, 400) runway-inspired shades from deep darks to light neutrals. Reviewers agree that Zoya offers some of the best nail polish colors on the market. As hard as it is to select just one, we’ve gotta say Talia is one of our current favorites.

Long Lasting

As we mentioned above, due to the 5-free formula, Zoya polishes may be more prone to chipping then their less environmentally friendly counter-parts. Now, don’t get us wrong, Zoya will still last over a week with very minimal chipping, but since it is a 5-free formula this polish is more prone to tiny chips here and there.

Value

At just $9 this polish is a pretty average price point compared to the other polishes on our list. Add to that the amazing color selection and long lasting formula and you’ve got yourself the all-around perfect polish.

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