The 13 Best UV Lamps for Nails to Dry Your Polish in Minutes

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We understand firsthand how daunting it is to allow a fresh coat of regular polish to fully dry without accidentally smudging or denting a new manicure. Thankfully, the best UV lamps can dry and cure gel polish—which is generally more chip-resistant than most—in mere minutes.

UV or LED lamps may seem like high-tech, professional-level gadgets accessible only to nail salons, but it’s actually easier than ever to bring these expert-level tools straight to your kitchen or coffee table for less—especially with so many available on Amazon.

From top-rated nail tools designed to dry two hands at a time to more portable options that fold up and fit in your carry-on, we’ve narrowed down the best UV lamps for nails, to dry down your favorite polish in a literal flash.

Related: The Best Nail Drills for Expert-Level Buffing and Shaping

UV LED Nail Lamp True Professional Nail Dryer

This UV LED lamp features three timer options to choose from to dry polish fast, starting at 30 seconds and laddering up to 90. It also includes an LCD display and removable magnetic tray that's spacious enough to cure both hands at the same time.

One satisfied customer writes: "I got one of those tiny lamps with a gel starter kit and let me tell you that does not cure the gel properly. Works great no issues. Long cord to plug in easily and having the 90 second timer for a slower full cure is a must. No heat spikes! Finally can do my nails correctly without them breaking in a day." —Amber

UV LED Nail Lamp

Featuring a near perfect rating on Amazon and over 46,000 customer reviews, this best-selling nail lamp uses a built-in sensor and adjustable timer to cut down on drying time. And did we mention it's on rare sale right now for 33 percent off?

One satisfied customer writes: "I've been using this UV light to cure my gel nails at home. It's light, works great and is small enough to store easily. I use gel nail polish and this lamp, I don't feel the need to go to a salon again! Woohoo." —Kayla W.

Gel Nail Polish Kit with UV Light

Not only does this versatile kit include a powerful UV lamp, but it also contains a number of nail care tools and essentials. From files, and clippers to a range of gel polish for your base, color, and top coats.

One satisfied customer writes: "The lamp is easy to use, the cord is a good length, there is a good amount of room for you hand, the buttons are simple, overall good. I like the colors in the set. The kit came with some basic, but good, nail tools which include a cuticle pusher, nail file, nail trimmer and a brush to dust dust away. The lamp actually dries your nails (as long as you cure it long enough). I am SO glad I bought this and will definitely be using it a lot and saving money by not going to nail salon!" —Angell

Gel UV LED Nail Lamp

Here's an option that takes the guesswork out of the number of seconds left for your nails to dry—Its built-in LCD touch screen makes it crystal clear. Plus, the lamp also features four pre-set timers (up to 120 seconds) that make tailor your curing time simple.

One satisfied customer writes: "I love this product! I was contemplating purchasing a $250 light, but after reading the reviews, I gave this one a shot. I am so happy I did! I used standard gel products, but would also recommend gelish nail hardener, and looks and feels just like my $60 salon nails." —Mel R.

Gel UV LED Nail Lamp

This powerful device has a voltage of up to 40 watts, and uses a soft light in its drying process to minimize skin tanning. It's also a hit among Amazon's nail lovers, since it currently holds over 54,000 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating.

One satisfied customer writes: "I have had several lamps through the years. This one for the money is by far the best I have purchased on Amazon! Great lamp, easy to use!" —Anonymous

UV LED Nail Lamp

The handle on this UV lamp makes it practically seamless to move from room to room. Plus, it uses a dual light source to dry a wide variety of gel polish—from Shellac to more sculptural gel work.

One satisfied customer writes: "This is a very good lamp. It’s powerful so you spend less time under it to cure nails. I wish I’d seen it and paid attention to wattage before buying like 3 others that aren’t nearly as effective. Great lamp for a great price. Highly recommend!" —Anonymous

80W UV Gel Nail Lamp

This Amazon's Choice lamp uses a longer wavelength and cold light to dry nails, and contains an output power that increases gradually overtime.

80W Nail Lamp

Here's another UV lamp with a handle that uses up to 80 watts of power to dry manicures quickly. It also features a magnetic, removable bottom that makes it easier to clean and more spacious when drying down polish on your toenails, too.

One satisfied customer writes: "This light is amazing! My other one gave out on me so I needed a new one and I’m glad I chose this one, it’s nice and spacious, it’s quick, and the reflective bottom makes sure curing gets all the way through! It’s also super high quality. I recommend it for sure!" —Courtney P.

Gel UV Nail Lamp

This streamlined UV lamp turns on with the single touch of a button, and uses an automatic sensor to power up when you're ready to dry. It also has a lower wattage than other devices at 24, which helps minimize potential skin damage.

One satisfied customer writes: "For a 'cheaper' UV nail lamp, this is a great option! Small, but big enough for your whole hand, easy to store and use, and has worked well. Thrilled with the value for the price." —Calie C.

UV LED Nail Dryer

This top-rated drying device can fit in the palm of your hand, and is practically a steal at under $10 (plus an additional 30 percent off). At just 0.11 pounds, it nicely fits in a tote bag or carry-on, just in case you need a quick mani change while on-the-go.

One satisfied customer writes: "Small, portable and works great." —Harmony J.

UV Light for Nails Lamp

The dome-like design of this lamp contains 39 lamp beads for a salon-worthy finish. It also prevents light from leaking out while you use it, helping to protect your eyes and skin from potential UV damage.

One satisfied customer writes: "Exactly what I needed. Works great for gel nails." —Amelia P.

UV LED Nail Lamp

Dry both hands (or feet!) at once with this roomy device that contains 57 LED bulbs that last for up to 50,000 hours—talk about bang for your buck. It even uses infrared sensors to sense your hands and feet, which automatically turn off its curing lights when they're not in use.

One satisfied customer writes: "This product got here super fast and is so easy to use, I was able to get the 'fresh out of the nail salon' look and I’m so happy." —Shanti

UV LED Nail Lamp

This curved UV lamp automatically activates when it senses your hand or foot, and switches between a regular and lower temperature level if it senses its light is too hot for your skin. And as a bonus, it's extremely budget-worthy at under $10.

One satisfied customer writes: "Great product. Lightweight, easy to use. I highly recommend." —Yoshiko L.

Professional Pro 45 LED Nail Light

Here's a nail light that works in 45 seconds to dry gel polish, using an eight-watt LED bulb that you'll never have to worry about changing. And since it has a compact design, the powerful tool won't take up too much real estate on your bathroom counter.

One satisfied customer writes: "I've been using this light for over a year now, It works like a charm. I was a little put off when i first received this, taking it out of the box it just felt like a toy, very light weight, it didn't feel like heavy duty salon style equipment, but it works just as well. I've saved so much money by doing my own gel manicures at home, use this machine twice and it's already paid for itself." —Anonymous

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