There are pros and cons for both laquer and gel. The former is convenient for frequent change ups, but won't last more than a week, while the latter is tougher and will outlast anything else, both in shine and brilliance, but is more difficult to remove and takes a bit more prep work.
I sometimes go to a salon to have my nails done - mani and pedi - but always get gel when the pros do it. I get lazy, so the only thing I have to think about is when to shedule my next appt. I the summer, when I'm in differing moods, I'll revert to doing my own using different colors.

BTW, I like
CND Vinylux best (tons of colors, goes on smooth, and has great lasting qualities). I also snip half the brush (bristles) to give me more control (when the color runs low, I tilt the bottle slightly which works for me). I also find that when new, I give the bottle a good shake - a few minutes worth - and find that the bottle only needs a quick shake (or roll) before use. Rarely does a bottle get old enough to be thinned, and NEVER with acetone (not a proper mix, plus it dries too quickly).
Love to all.
~Melanie