Top 10 Best Gel-X Nail Starter Kits on Amazon
(From Splurge-Worthy to Budget-Friendly)
Okay, let’s talk Gel-X nails!
If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen those gorgeous, salon-quality nail extensions that everyone’s obsessed with. I’ll be honest, I was skeptical at first.
Could I really get professional-looking nails at home?
Spoiler alert: YES, you absolutely can!
After trying out several kits (and maybe having a few learning curve moments), I’ve put together this list of the 10 best Gel-X nail starter kits you can grab on Amazon.
Whether you’re ready to splurge on the premium stuff or you’re testing the waters with a budget-friendly option, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s start with the OG…the one that started it all.
Apres is basically the gold standard of Gel-X nails, and their 2025 edition is seriously impressive.
Pros: Comes with 280 tips in 14 sizes (including half sizes like 4.5, 5.5, and 6.5!). Advanced tip design with thinner base for a natural look. Professional-grade quality that lasts up to 3 weeks. Multiple shape options: Natural Almond, Sculpted Almond, and more. The tips are incredibly flexible and comfortable.
Cons: Definitely the priciest option on this list. Might be overkill if you’re just starting out. The learning curve can be steep for beginners. Doesn’t always include a lamp in the starter kit.
Bottom Line: If you’re serious about Gel-X nails and want the absolute best quality, Apres is worth the investment. These are what the pros use, and it shows.
Kiara Sky is another professional brand that’s made its way into the at-home nail game, and honestly, their Gelly Tips are fantastic.
Pros: Complete kit includes prep, primer, builder gel, top coat, tips, and a mini LED lamp. Designed to last up to 3 weeks without lifting or chipping. Soak-off formula means easy removal without damage. Super detailed instructions (perfect for beginners!). Available in multiple shapes like Coffin Medium and Almond.
Cons: On the pricier side. Some users find the builder gel a bit thick. Tips can run small for wider nail beds. Limited color options in starter kit.
Bottom Line: This is a solid middle-ground option. You’re getting professional quality without quite the Apres price tag, plus everything you need to get started.
Here’s where things get interesting! Beetles have become super popular in the DIY nail community, and for good reason. This is actually the kit I personally use and love!
Pros: Amazing value, 500 coffin nail tips included! Comes with 5-in-1 glue gel that acts as base coat and adhesive. UV lamp with smart sensing and 60-second cure time. Great for beginners, easy to work with Tons of tips so you can practice without worry. Affordable enough to experiment with different techniques.
Cons: Tips aren’t quite as thin as Apres. Some users report the glue gel being a bit runny. Lamp is smaller/less powerful than professional versions. May not last the full 3 weeks for everyone.
Bottom Line: This is my go-to! I’ve been using Beetles for months now, and I love that I can practice and play around without stressing about wasting expensive tips. The quality is surprisingly good for the price, and my nails usually last about 2 weeks before I’m ready to switch up the design anyway.
Saviland is another Amazon favorite that consistently gets great reviews. Their kit is super beginner-friendly.
Pros: Complete kit with 500 tips, 4-in-1 nail glue gel, mini lamp, file, and cuticle pusher. Strong, flexible, and lightweight extensions. Super clear glue gel makes application easier. Long square tips are trendy and versatile. Great instructions for first-timers.
Cons: Square shape isn’t for everyone. Lamp is pretty basic. Some tips can be too long and require filing. Glue gel bottle is smaller than competitors.
Bottom Line: Solid choice for beginners who want everything in one box. The square shape is having a moment right now, so if that’s your vibe, this is perfect.
Okay, so this is technically a poly gel kit, but it works beautifully for extensions and gives you a bit more control than traditional Gel-X.
Pros: 48W LED lamp (more powerful than most starter kits!). Includes base coat, top coat, and 6 poly gel colors. Poly gel is more forgiving for beginners. Complete tool set included. Can be used for extensions, overlays, or repairs.
Cons: Different technique than traditional Gel-X. Takes a bit longer to apply. Some find poly gel too thick. Learning curve if you’re used to regular gel.
Bottom Line: If you want more versatility and don’t mind learning a slightly different technique, this is awesome. The powerful lamp alone makes it worth considering.
Gellen has gone viral on TikTok, and I totally get why. Their solid glue gel system is genius!
Pros: Innovative solid glue gel (less messy!). 240 pre-filed medium almond tips. Comes with 8W mini nail light. Super affordable. Easy for beginnersm less mess to deal with. Lasts up to 21 days according to reviews.
Cons: Smaller lamp means longer cure times. Only 240 tips (vs 500 in other kits). Solid glue can be tricky to spread evenly at first. Limited shape options.
Bottom Line: The solid glue gel is a game-changer if you’re messy like me! This is a great entry-level kit that won’t break the bank.
Makartt is a trusted name in the nail world, and their extension gel kit is perfect for those who want to try the poly gel method.
Pros: Two 50ML bottles (that’s a LOT of product!). Thick consistency is beginner-friendly. Natural-looking results. Can strengthen thin nails. Great for nail art and sculpting.
Cons: No lamp included. No tips included (you’ll need to buy separately). Requires more tools than all-in-one kits. Steeper learning curve.
Bottom Line: Best for people who already have a lamp and want to focus on quality gel at a good price. Not ideal for complete beginners.
These are pre-shaped with an instant apex, which is super helpful.
Pros: Pre-shaped and pre-buffed tips. Breathable and lightweight. Durable despite the price. Easy application for beginners. Good variety of sizes.
Cons: Smaller kit than the 500-piece option. May need to purchase glue gel separately. Not as many tips for practice. Some sizing inconsistencies reported.
Bottom Line: Great if you want to try Beetles but don’t need 500 tips. The pre-shaped apex is clutch for getting that professional look.
This is the Amazon dupe that’s been making waves on YouTube. For around $20, it’s hard to beat!
Pros: Incredibly affordable. Comes in little baggies organized by size. Decent quality for the price. Good for testing if Gel-X is right for you. Includes basic tools.
Cons: - Quality isn’t quite salon-level. May not last as long as pricier options. Tips can be thicker than Apres. Limited customer support
Bottom Line: Perfect for dipping your toes into Gel-X without commitment. If you’re not sure you’ll stick with it, start here!
Let’s be real, sometimes you just want to try something without spending much. These no-name kits pop up on Amazon all the time.
Pros: - Super cheap (often under $15!). Low-risk way to experiment. Usually includes tips and basic glue. Good for practice before investing more
Cons: - Quality is hit or miss. May not include a lamp. Tips can be thick and unnatural-looking. Shorter wear time. Glue quality varies widely
Bottom Line: Honestly? These are fine for practice or if you’re just curious. But if you want nails that actually last, I’d recommend spending a bit more on one of the options above.
After trying way too many of these kits (my bank account is crying), here’s what I’ve learned: you don’t need to buy the most expensive kit to get great results, but you also shouldn’t go for the absolute cheapest option if you want nails that last.
For me, the Beetles 500-piece kit hits that sweet spot of quality, quantity, and price. I can practice new techniques, mess up without guilt, and still get nails that look salon-quality and last about two weeks. Plus, having 500 tips means I’m set for months!
That said, if you’re really serious about this and want to invest in the best, Apres is the way to go. And if you’re just testing the waters? Grab the Mini Luxe or Gellen kit and see how you like it.
The most important thing is to be patient with yourself. My first few sets were… let’s just say they were learning experiences. But now? I’m saving hundreds of dollars a year and actually enjoying the creative process.