The best tried and tested nail polish: OPI, Rimmel, Barry M and more

Score: 89/100

It’s no surprise that OPI’s world-famous nail lacquer came out on top in our tests. The brand claims its super-strong and chip-resistant polish will stay in place for up to 11 days, so no gel lamps needed. Judging from the high score and feedback from our testers – one of whom said it was “very chip resistant” – the claims appear to ring true.

Our panel also praised the shade pay-off, saying the polishes give “great coverage and colour.” We tested Big Apple Red (a really vibrant red), but thanks to OPI’s extensive range, there's a colour to match every person, outfit or mood.

Score: 88/100

If you want quality at an affordable price, then the Gelly Hi Shine polish range from Barry M is the one for you. All our testers were happy with the colour intensity, which gave them the type of glossy finish you would expect from a gel manicure.

The shades include a timeless deep ‘black cherry’ or you can change it up with a bright ‘pistachio green’ – all guaranteed to help your fingertips stand out. This range delivers a purse-friendly gel-like mani without a trip to the salon.

Score: 84/100

Another popular brand in the polish space, Leighton Denny’s colour range is seemingly endless. We tested the vibrant red Provocative shade, but there's also a deep purple Vamp, or shimmery Get Glazed, plus many more. And the good news is, not only are there a wide range of options, but the pigmentation “deepens depending on the number of layers applied,” according to one tester, giving vibrant results.

The thick, flat brush impressed our panel with its ability to apply a streak-free finish, in just “three strokes.” Multiple panellists praised the polish’s fast-drying power, and our experts agreed – it scored joint-top in our lab for speedy drying. So, even if you’re in a hurry, you can expect a shiny finish in just under two minutes.

Score: 84/100

This nail varnish lived up to its name in our lab test, with results showing that the average dry time is, indeed, 60 seconds – it certainly does what it says on the tin bottle.

As well as being quick to dry, one tester was thrilled that it didn’t chip, even after housework, and for those who did get chips, it was easy to touch up, too.

Score: 79/100

As well as a big range of colours to choose from, what sets this varnish range apart from the rest is the “21 free” claim, which means it’s free from formaldehyde, acetone, parabens and 18 other harsh chemicals that aren’t uncommon on a nail varnish ingredient list.

Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty and halal friendly. The round edged brush ensures easy application, which leaves the cuticle area mess free according to our panel.

Score: 78/100

“One coat wonder” was how one of our testers described this budget-friendly nail polish, and all our testers were happy with the colour pay-off, too. Not only was it a quick-drying varnish with a strong colour pigment, but it also left no visible brush marks.

Some testers did note that results started to fade after a week of application (which we still think is pretty good) but adding a clear topcoat should help avoid that.

Score: 77/100

Another vegan and cruelty-free nail varnish, this boasts a formula made from 90% naturally derived ingredients to protect and preserve the natural vitality of your nails. The French nailcare brand doesn’t skimp out on quality or style either, with 100+ colour shades to choose from. It also offers manicure sets, which would make great gifts.

Nearly all our testers agreed that they were able to achieve their desired look using this polish, but some did note that a bigger brush would have made application a bit easier.

Score: 77/100

Expect nourished nails with this polish from Mii Colour, as the formula is enriched with vitamin C, which contributes to collagen production and a reduction in brittle nails, as well as vitamins A and E to help strengthen and prevent nail yellowing.

It scored well for ease of application – it was “easy to put on, and easy to take off”, according to one tester, thanks to the chunky brush. When put to the test in our lab, the results also showed that it’s chip-resistant – perfect for tidy, polished nails.

Score: 75/100

Essie’s nail varnishes have lined the shelves for years, and for good reason. If you want great coverage and gloss, then this is the one. The majority of testers agreed that it didn’t chip, though it did need more than one coat to reach the desired level of colour. But for most, two coats did the job.

The iconic collection of colours is vast, ranging from deep sea blues to ballet pump-inspired light pinks, glittery topcoats and everything else in between.

There’s no need for a base or topcoat with Nails INC’s latest release, as this 4-in-1 varnish does both, as well as conditioning and adding colour on top. It’s enriched with nourishing peptides, which help to strengthen nails and support growth.

Whether you opt for a bright bubble gum pink or deep mauve, be prepared to stick with it for up to eight days chip-free. GH’s resident qualified nail tech, Melanie Giandzi was seriously impressed with this one’s staying power. Read her full Nails.Inc 1 Step Polish review.

London Grace is a British, female-founded and run brand, established by two former salon owners, so they know a bit about what's best to put in a nail polish. They also know what's best not to put in them, as their varnishes are created with vegan formulas that don't have any nasty added ingredients. This gets a thumbs up from us.

Then there's the extensive colour range. In case you missed it (we doubt it) palettes of cherry, burgundy and deep red are dominating fashion, beauty and interiors right now. And you can now nail the look from tip to toe, thanks to this robust, chip-free polish. There’s a deep Holly, and rouge Scarlett, plus many more. If fact, there’s probably one with your name on it.