Diamond vs Steel Files: Coarseness, Uses & Buying Guide

As a mechanical engineer, I’ve spent years shaping, finishing, and refining parts with different files. One common question: What’s the difference between diamond files and traditional steel files? And how do you compare their coarseness ratings?

This guide breaks down the differences, explains the D value grit system, compares it with traditional file cuts (bastard, second, smooth), and shows you when to choose each type.

Two Types of Files, Two Coarseness Systems

Traditional Steel Files Made from hardened steel with cut teeth, these files remove material aggressively. Common cut types:

• Bastard-cut: Coarse and fast-cutting

• Second-cut: Medium finish

• Smooth-cut: Fine finish

Best for softer materials like mild steel, brass, wood, and plastic.

Diamond Files These use electroplated diamond grit for abrasion instead of teeth, making them ideal for hardened steel, carbide, ceramics, glass, ferrites, and superalloys.

Coarseness is rated by D values—higher numbers mean larger, coarser grit.

Diamond vs Steel File Comparison

Feature	Diamond Needle File	Traditional Steel File
Abrasive Material	Electroplated diamond grit	Hardened steel teeth
Cutting Direction	Multi-directional	Single-direction (push)
Performance on Hard Materials	Excellent	Limited, dulls faster
Finish Quality	Smooth, controlled	More visible scratches
Lifespan	Longer (especially used wet)	Shorter on hard metals
Material Removal	Controlled abrasion	Aggressive cutting

This close‑up image shows the working surfaces of a diamond file (left) and a traditional steel file (right).

File Coarseness Chart – D Value vs Traditional Cut

D Value	Grit Size (µm)	Steel File Equivalent	Typical Uses
D251+	251+	Extra Bastard-cut	Heavy stock removal
D181–D250	181–250	Bastard-cut	Rough shaping
D126–D180	126–180	Coarse Second-cut	Shaping and blending
D91–D125	91–125	Second-cut	General filing
D76–D90	76–90	Fine Second-cut	Surface refining
D46–D75	46–75	Smooth-cut	Precision finishing
D30–D45	30–45	Extra Smooth-cut	Polishing, fine detail

Best Uses for Diamond Files

• Metalworking: Hardened steel, titanium, tungsten carbide

• Glass & Ceramics: Beveling, smoothing, shaping

• Jewelry & Watchmaking: Finishing, sharpening pivots, engraving cleanup

• Tool Maintenance: Honing carbide tools, knives, blades

• Electronics: PCB hole adjustment, solder cleanup

  
  

Diamond File Care Tips

• Use water or lubricant to prevent clogging

• Clean with a soft brush or brass wire brush

• Avoid soft metals like aluminum (clogs grit)

• Store separately to protect the abrasive surface

  
  

Which File Should You Choose?

For soft materials and fast shaping, go with traditional steel files. For hard materials or precision work, choose diamond files. Many professionals combine both: steel files for bulk removal, diamond files for fine finishing.

Conclusion

Knowing how D value grit compares to traditional file cuts lets you pick the right tool for any job—from shaping titanium to refining glass edges. So, where are we in Diamond vs Steel File comparison? Diamond files deliver precision and longevity, while steel files remain unmatched for aggressive stock removal. The best workshops keep both within reach.

Diamond Needle Files – FAQ

What are diamond files used for? Diamond needle files are used for precision filing of hard materials like hardened steel, tungsten carbide, ceramics, glass, and jewelry metals. They excel in fine shaping, smoothing, and finishing work.

How is diamond file coarseness measured? Diamond files are rated using the D value system, which measures grit size in microns. Higher D values mean coarser grit, ideal for faster material removal.

Are diamond files better than steel files? Diamond files outperform steel files on very hard materials and for precision work. However, steel files are faster for aggressive shaping of softer metals, wood, and plastics.

Can you sharpen tools with a diamond file? Yes, diamond needle files are excellent for sharpening carbide tools, knives, chisels, and other fine-edged instruments, especially when used with lubricant.

How do you clean a diamond file? Use a soft toothbrush, brass wire brush, or soapstone to remove debris. Always use water or lubricant during filing to reduce clogging and extend file life.