Nail Length Chart: Short, Medium, Long and XL
Every nail length in millimeters, from natural short to XXL, with the shapes that suit each one and what it is really like to live with.
“Medium” means something different at every salon. This chart puts nail lengths into millimeters, so you can ask for exactly what you want and know how it will fit into your day before you book.
Tap a length below to see how long it is, the shapes that suit it, and what it is really like to live with.
Nail length chart
| Length | Free edge | Best shapes | Daily life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural short | 0–2 mm | Round, squoval, square | No change at all |
| Short | 3–5 mm | Squoval, oval, short almond | Easy |
| Medium | 6–9 mm | Almond, oval, short coffin | A small adjustment |
| Long | 10–14 mm | Coffin, stiletto, long almond | Takes practice |
| Extra long (XL) | 15–20 mm | Coffin, stiletto, ballerina | Slower daily tasks |
| XXL | 20 mm and up | Stiletto, coffin, duck | Best for short stints |
The free edge is the part of the nail past the tip of your finger. That is what salons mean when they talk about length. The nail bed itself does not change.
How to measure your nail length
Hold your hand palm-up and look at the tip of your finger. Measure from the end of your fingertip to the end of the nail. Do it on your middle finger, since it is usually the longest and sets the look for the rest of the set.
Which length is right for you?
Type all day or work with your hands? Stay at natural short or short. You will not notice them, and they will not break.
Want length but not a lifestyle change? Medium is the sweet spot. It shows off almond and French tips and still lets you use a keyboard.
Want a statement? Long and XL need acrylic, hard gel or press-ons. Try press-ons first to test the length before you commit to a full set.
Weak or peeling nails? Keep them short while they grow. Length puts leverage on the nail, and weak nails snap under it.
Length and shape go together
Some shapes need length to work. Coffin and stiletto look stubby when they are short, because the taper has nowhere to go. Almond needs at least medium length. Round, oval and squoval work at any length, which is why they are the go-to for natural nails. Our nail shape quiz matches a shape to your length and lifestyle.
Going longer without breaking
Grow in steps. Go up one length at a time and give your hands a few weeks to adjust. Keep the edges filed smooth so they do not catch. Use your nail pads, not your tips, for buttons, cans and keyboards. If you wear extensions, fill them on time: a grown-out apex moves the weight forward and makes long nails snap.
For press-ons, get your sizes right first with our nail size chart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keep going: match a shape with the nail shape quiz, get your press-on sizes from the nail size chart, and browse acrylic nail ideas.
