Emi Jay vs Machete vs Teleties: Best Premium Claw Clip Brands

Three brands dominate the premium claw clip conversation: Emi Jay, Machete, and Teleties. Each has cult-like followings, celebrity endorsements, and prices significantly higher than drugstore alternatives. But which one deserves your money?

We've tested all three extensively to compare their grip, durability, comfort, and overall value. Here's the complete breakdown.

For claw clip basics, see our ultimate guide to claw clips.

Quick Comparison

Emi Jay: The TikTok Favorite

What They're Known For

Emi Jay's "Big Effing Clip" (yes, that's the actual name) went viral on TikTok and became synonymous with premium claw clips. The brand, based in Los Angeles, makes handmade clips from custom biodegradable Italian acetate.

The Products

• Big Effing Clip ($38): The signature oversized clip that started it all
• Sweetheart Clip ($28): Smaller version for half-up styles
• Mini Clip ($18): Tiniest option for accents

What We Loved

• Strong hold: Thick hair users consistently report it's the only clip that works
• No headaches: The weight distribution prevents tension
• Aesthetic colors: Trendy, fashion-forward palette
• Celebrity credibility: Worn by Hailey Bieber, Matilda Djerf, Gigi Hadid
• Comfortable: Smooth edges, no snagging

What Could Be Better

• Price: $38 is steep for a single clip
• Availability: Popular colors sell out constantly
• Size options: Limited compared to competitors

Best For

Fashion-conscious buyers who want the viral clip, those with thick hair who've struggled with other clips, and anyone prioritizing trend status.

Machete: The Sustainable Choice

What They're Known For

Brooklyn-based Machete focuses on sustainable accessories. Their clips are designed in Brooklyn and made in NYC from Italian acetate with double-walled reinforcement, featuring unique marble patterns that are embedded (not painted) so they never fade.

The Products

• Grande Heirloom Claw ($42): Largest size for thick/long hair
• Midi Claw ($38): Medium option for most hair types
• Mini Claw ($28): Small accent size
• Micro Claw ($24): Smallest, for fine details

What We Loved

• Durability: Double-walled construction means years of use
• Unique patterns: No two clips are exactly alike
• Sustainability: Eco-acetate is better for the environment
• Size range: Four sizes cover all hair types
• Artisan quality: You can feel the handmade difference

What Could Be Better

• Price: The highest of the three brands
• Weight: Slightly heavier than competitors
• Availability: Some patterns sell out and don't return

Best For

Sustainability-focused buyers, those who appreciate artisan craftsmanship, anyone wanting a unique accessory, and people investing in pieces that last.

Teleties: The Functional Champion

What They're Known For

Teleties made their name with spiral hair ties before expanding to claw clips. Their clips feature patented no-slip technology and a flat design that's comfortable for leaning back. Made from custom nylon that's nearly unbreakable.

The Products

• Large Claw Clip ($18): Full-size for updos
• Medium Claw Clip ($16): Everyday size
• Small Claw Clip ($14): Half-up styles and fine hair

What We Loved

• Price: Most affordable premium option
• Durability: Truly nearly unbreakable
• Comfort: Flat design is perfect for working, driving, resting
• Grip: Patented no-slip technology works
• Practical design: Function over fashion, but still cute

What Could Be Better

• Aesthetic: Less "fashionable" than competitors
• Material: Not biodegradable
• Color variety: Fewer trendy options

Best For

Practicality-focused buyers, those who break clips regularly, anyone who wears clips while leaning back, and value-seekers who still want quality.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Grip Strength

Winner: Tie between Emi Jay and Teleties

Both hold thick, heavy hair reliably all day. Machete is excellent but the heavier construction can cause slight slipping on very smooth hair.

Durability

Winner: Teleties

The custom nylon is genuinely difficult to break. Acetate clips (Emi Jay and Machete) are durable but can crack under extreme stress. Teleties survives being dropped, sat on, and general abuse.

Comfort

Winner: Teleties

The flat design wins for all-day comfort, especially when leaning back against chairs, car headrests, or pillows. Acetate clips are comfortable but the rounded shape is less ideal for resting against.

Aesthetics

Winner: Machete

The handmade marble patterns are genuinely beautiful and unique. Emi Jay offers trendy colors, but Machete's artisan quality is unmatched. Teleties is functional but not a fashion statement.

Sustainability

Winner: Tie between Emi Jay and Machete

Both use biodegradable acetate. Teleties' nylon is durable but not eco-friendly. If sustainability matters to you, choose acetate.

Value

Winner: Teleties

At $14-18, Teleties offers premium quality at nearly half the price of competitors. If you're buying multiple clips or on a budget, Teleties wins.

Overall

No single winner: Each brand excels in different areas. Your best choice depends on your priorities.

Who Should Buy What

Choose Emi Jay If:

• You want the "it" clip everyone recognizes
• Thick hair has defeated other clips
• Fashion trends matter to you
• You value celebrity endorsement
• Sustainability is important

Choose Machete If:

• You appreciate artisan, handmade quality
• Sustainability is your top priority
• You want a unique piece no one else has
• Design aesthetic is as important as function
• You're buying a gift for someone special

Choose Teleties If:

• You prioritize function over fashion
• You've broken other clips and need durability
• Comfort while leaning back matters
• You want premium quality at a better price
• You're buying multiple clips

FAQs

Are premium clips worth the price?

For daily users, often yes. A $38 clip lasting 3-5 years costs less than buying $8 clips repeatedly. But if you use clips occasionally, budget options are fine.

Can I buy these on Amazon?

Teleties is widely available on Amazon. Emi Jay and Machete are sometimes available but buying direct from brand websites ensures authenticity and best selection.

Which is best for thick hair?

All three work well for thick hair. Emi Jay and Teleties large sizes are specifically designed for heavy, thick hair.

Which is most eco-friendly?

Machete and Emi Jay (both biodegradable acetate) are more eco-friendly than Teleties (nylon). Machete emphasizes sustainability most heavily in their brand identity.

Do any come with warranties?

Machete offers the best warranty, often replacing clips that break during normal use. Check each brand's current policy before purchasing.

The Bottom Line

All three brands offer genuinely premium clips worth their prices, but for different reasons:

• Emi Jay: Best for trend-setters and thick hair
• Machete: Best for sustainability and design
• Teleties: Best for durability and value

For most users balancing quality, durability, and price, Teleties offers the best overall value. But if aesthetics and sustainability matter more, Machete is worth the premium.

Explore more claw clip options in our ultimate guide to claw clips or see recommendations by hair type for thick hair and fine hair.