This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017075917) and aimed to investigate whether the available clinical evidence supports the hypothesis that reciprocating motion results in a lower incidence of nickel‐titanium files fracture compared to continuous rotation. Clinical studies that reported the incidence of fracture of engine‐driven nickel‐titanium files were included. The main exposure was the kinematics, and the primary outcome was the incidence of files fracture. The overall incidence of files fracture was 2.27%, with a trend for higher incidence with rotary motion (2.43%) than with reciprocating (1.0%), though without significant differences. Multiple meta‐regression models revealed that the use of nickel‐titanium files in more than four teeth and less proficient operators were associated with a higher incidence of file fracture. There was no difference in the clinical incidence of fracture of nickel‐titanium instruments between reciprocating and rotary motions; however, other factors were identified.