In the current era, we all want everything about a business put down on paper. This includes the organization’s trade secrets, employee data, and other sensitive information. While it’s highly recommendable, we must not forget that it’s one way that can attract catastrophe when the data gets to the wrong hands.
While locking documents containing such information in a filing cabinet is an option, there is a no surefire way of playing it safe other than shredding the records. That’s why every business needs to invest in a decent paper shredder.
Although we call them paper shredders, a good machine should be able to handle other materials carrying sensitive data. Cases in point include CDs, credit cards, and many others. So, how exactly can you tell the right model for your business? Well, we’ve all that sorted out in this article. Read it to the end to identify the right place to direct your cash!
- Cross cut shredder turns paper into small pieces (0.2 x 1.9 inches; 5 x 47 mm); meets security level P-3 standards
11 Best Paper Shredders
#1 AmazonBasics 12-Sheet Home Office Shredder
Although slicing your sensitive records is one way to curb information from getting to the wrong people, the way the machine does the slicing also determines whether it’s possible to get some information from the debris.
Unlike the strip-cut shredders, this cutter slices the unwanted documents diagonally in both directions to smaller sizes that conform to security level P-3 standards. With this approach, there are no chances at all of fetching information from the confetti.
The unit handles up to 12 sheets of 20-pound bond paper at ago. Hence, it’s good for homes and offices that do not have plenty of clutter. However, it’s also available in versions that can handle larger capacities if you need one that can take on a large pile of documents.
For the ultimate protection of all sensitive data, this machine will also devour other materials entailing sensitive information. You can use it for CDs, DVDs, and credit cards to keep your mind at ease.
The Auto-ON mode gets the nit down to business once it detects something to work on. Also, it has an auto-reverse function. This feature comes in handy in case of a jam or partially shredded documents. But since it’s a high-performance machine, you may never have to use this function!
#2 Bonsaii 12-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder
This shredder will also handle a maximum of 12 sheets at a go. It shreds your documents to small and thin pieces. And since it comes with versatility in mind, you can use it for credit cards, ATM receipts, and more.
The heavy-duty cutters eat through almost anything you feed the machine with ease. In fact, you won’t have to get rid of the staples or small clips from your documents before you throw them to this machine.
Whether you are using it for the first time or have interacted with them for a very long time, this machine is one of the most straightforward to utilize. The reliable sensors automate shredding to make using it a breeze for all users.
The tiny papers are swallowed into the 3.5-gallon wastebasket. The large size of the basket accommodates more waste while the large transparent window makes it easy to know when emptying is necessary.
For easy portability of the machine within the office, this electric shredder features four heavy-duty casters. The two front wheels lock to keep the unit stationary. Nevertheless, if you prefer it without the wheels, they are easily detachable.
#3 Bonsaii 14-Sheet Cross-Cut Heavy Duty Paper Shredder
The third suggestion on the list comes from the same manufacturer as the previous option. As the big brother, we expect it to outshine the smaller sibling in several ways.
For instance, it supports up to 14 sheets of paper. Although the difference of two may not make a large difference when you are working on a few documents, it will save you lots of time when you have plenty of records you want shredded.
The patented cooling system allows you to use this machine for 30 minutes continuously. This capability alongside the large capacity and heavy-duty cutters handles up to 3500 documents in a session.
We like that it packs smart auto-start and auto-reverse functionalities. These features let you focus on whatever you are doing in the office as the machine takes care of the unwanted documents.
The LED indicators signal when the machine needs time to cool down. The 4.8-gallon wastebasket has a large transparent window that lets you know when it needs emptying. You don’t have to pull it out to confirm!
#4 Fellowes Powershred 79Ci 100% Jam Proof Medium
If you are willing to spend more for a unit that will power through the toughest jobs, here comes one of the options you should consider buying. This machine will handle 16 sheets of paper- the best intake on the list so far.
We all know that high capacity comes with frequent jamming. Nevertheless, that’s not always the case, and this unit is a perfect example. The advanced jam-proof design of the 79Ci keeps paper jams at a minimal level.
You can use it for papers, credit cards, CDs/DVDs, staples, and clips. Hence, we are safe to argue that it’s one of the most versatile electric paper shredders we have in the market.
Although it’s on all that’s made to handle, this piece comes with user safety in mind. The SafeSense technology utilizes a sensor to detect and cease operations when it senses hands on the paper opening. That said, we see it as an excellent deal for spaces with kids and pets.
SilentShred technology keeps the noise level incredibly low. Thus, if you are looking for a heavy-duty shredder that will retain the serenity of your shared space, you won’t go wrong with this model.
#5 GBC 1757394 Paper Shredder
Get rid of the mess and clutter in your office when protecting all sensitive information about you and the business. This cross-cut shredder conforms to the strict P-4 level security standards.
It slices documents diagonally to very small pieces. In fact, the machine will obtain more than 400 pieces for every A4-size document you feed it. Therefore, you can use it for the most sensitive records.
The cutter tackles 12 sheets of paper at a go. The reliable red and green LED indicator shows when you hit the capacity. Hence, there is no need to count the number of papers to insert; the machine will do that for you.
The large five-gallon capacity means that the machine won’t bother you when using it for a large number of records. The large window at the bin upper lets you know when it’s time to empty.
But with all that said, this machine comes shy in some aspects. For instance, it will demand a 40-minute rest after only four minutes. Hence, it’s not the ideal option for heavy use. However, if you want it for home or light-duty office use, it will work just fine.
#6 Aurora AS890C 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper/Credit Card Shredder
Whether you want it for use at home, office, or commercial place, this paper shredder has all it takes to excel in almost any space. It is a cross-cut version that turns large documents into tiny confetti in no time.
The unit comes with a large 8.7-inch slot. You can insert up to eight pieces of A4-size papers at once. The ultra-sharp stainless steel blade also works well for outdated ATM cards, disks, and other materials that may carry confidential data.
The large bin has a transparent window. This feature lets you know the right time to empty in just a simple glance from your seat. And with the 125-sheet capacity, chances are that you will even forget that the unit needs emptying.
The appliance also boasts plenty of convenience features. For example, it has an extra-long 59-inch power cord for use far from the power outlet. The auto-start activates the blades ones it detects paper in the feed slot.
Although the design means that it may never jam, this shredder has a manual reverse mode in case the unexpected happens by any chance. The thermal overload protection prolongs the lifespan of the unit by preventing it from overheating.
#7 RAGU Paper Shredder 6-Sheet Capacity
The next suggestion on the list is one of the highly ranked shredders. It takes a maximum of six A4 sheets per pass. However, it can also handle thicker materials such as credit cards at the rate of a piece at a time.
The nitrided steel blades are heavy-duty for professional performance all the time. And since they are ultra-sharp, this unit is one of the fastest shredders you will come across in the market.
The one-switch control makes the unit a cinch to use for first-timers. You can slide the button to enjoy the convenience of Auto mode and again to switch the unit to REV mode when you want to clear a paper jam.
The thermal protection circuit is another admirable feature of this paper shredder. It activates the auto shut-off function when the unit begins to overheat. This feature ensures your safety and that of itself.
Of course, one may argue that the 11-liter capacity of the bin isn’t the largest you will find in the market. However, for a light-duty shredder, it’s a decent amount of room and won’t require you to empty often.
#8 Aurora AS420C Desktop-Style Cross-Cut Paper Shredder
For those that are looking for a reliable paper shredder without forking out a large sum, the Aurora AS420C has them in mind. It comes at the fraction of the price of the competitor. But don’t let that fool you- this piece is very powerful when it comes to taking care of the unwanted documents in your office.
Of course, as we can expect from a machine in its price range, it isn’t one of the largest units out there. Nevertheless, we still see this as an added advantage, especially to the low-budget persons who don’t have a large amount of space for the larger shredders.
The compact design still packs the versatility of the larger versions. I mean, other than slicing papers, the Aurora AS420C will also eat through other sources of sensitive information such as credit cards.
The unit has a smaller 4.5-inch wide feed slot. Hence, it will handle up to four folded sheets of paper in a single pass. The durable steel cutters are very reliable and will cut whatever you feed the machine into tiny pieces that conform to the standards.
The 1.32-gallon wastebasket will accommodate up to forty sheets. Instead of coming with a small transparent window, the bin utilizes a see-through design to make it easy to see to track the level of waste from a distance.
#9 HSM shredstar S25 Strip-Cut Shredder
With the ability to work on 25 sheets in a single pass, this is so far the best sheet-capacity we have on the list. The ability to handle more sheets of paper means that you will finish the work faster with this shredder.
The white finish of this piece is super cute and interacts well with most home and office decors. However, if you feel that this isn’t the ideal option for your space, this machine is also available in a black version.
Just like all the predecessors, this machine will handle other materials such as credit cards, CDs, DVDs, staples, and clips. Nonetheless, unlike in the other competitors where all the materials end up in the same bin, there is a separate container for other materials to ensure sorted disposal.
The noise level here stands at 57 dB. Thus, it’s one of the quietest units among the shredders with a comparable amount of power. The five LED indicators let you know the operating status of the unit.
The distinctive anti-jam technology ensures smooth operations. The 6.9-gallon container holds more stuff than any of our previous options. The inspection window lets you see the filling level. But in case you are using it in a lowly-lit area, there is also an LED indicator when the bin gets full.
#10 EZBASICS 5-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder
With an ultra-low noise design, this paper shredder will do the work when keeping the atmosphere comfortable for you and the colleagues around you. The unique design of the cutter reduces paper jams for uninterrupted operations- there is no more need to buy a lubricant!
The machine slices a maximum of five sheets to tiny pieces that make meet the strict security level P4 standards. That said, this piece is one of the shredders that will give you the peace of mind even when using it for the most sensitive documents.
Since it’s fast, this shredder will handle a good amount of clutter within the five minutes it should run. But since it has to rest for 30 minutes, we think that it’s not the perfect option for use in busy large offices with a constant need for paper shredding.
Other than doing the job right, this shredder is very cute and will look great in your space. The compact design takes a very tiny footprint in your office. In fact, it will fit neatly under your desk so it doesn’t have to claim an extra spot on your floor space.
When running on auto mode, the reliable sensors will detect when you feed the slot. The manual reverse functionality provides a quick and convenient way to address jamming when it happens.
#11 BOXIS AF120 AutoShred Microcut Paper Shredder
Although it takes the last spot on our top-notch list, there a whole host of features to admire about this shredder. For example, it features a manual feed intake and an automated feed tray.
The manual feed slot has a ten-sheet capacity and has a run time of ten minutes. The devouring rate of seven feet per minute means that this is one of the most aggressive machines out there.
For a large stack of documents, the 120-sheet feed tray comes in handy. When utilizing this mode, this machine can run up to 20 minutes continuously with the slicing rate of 11 feet per minute. That said, whether you have a few or a large pile of documents to handle, you will always appreciate the convenience that this shredder brings to your office.
Even with the amazing speed and capacity, this shredder will turn a piece of a letter-size document into 1500 unreadable tiny papers. The micro-cuts not only ensure better security of your information but also takes minimal space in the bin.
The spacious pull-out bin is easy and convenient to empty. Finally, this shredder features durably-constructed casters. With these wheels, you will find it easy to move the unit within your space even when the waste bin is full.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is Better Cross-Cut Or Micro-Cut Shredder?
Both cross-cut shredders and micro-cut shredders cut papers into small unreadable sizes. However, micro-cut shredders outshine the cross-cut in that they take less amount of space in the bin. But since most micro-cut shredders have larger bins than micro-cut varieties, it’s now a matter of what you think works best for you.
How Often Do You Need To Lubricate A Paper Shredder?
It depends on the design of the cutters and the frequency of use. The design of some cutters doesn’t need oiling while for others you have no option. If you are using the models that require oiling, the frequency of lubrication will depend on the intensity of use. For light and occasional use, let’s say twice or thrice a week, oiling your shredder every month should work just fine. However, for heavy shredding applications, lubricate your machine after a few hours.
How Do I Choose A Paper Shredder?
Before you choose a paper shredder, there are a whole host of factors to consider. The paper size, sheet capacity, run time, versatility, shredder speed, security level, noise level, and price. Some shredders will require you to fold A4-size documents while others will work with that size. In terms of sheet capacity, a larger one means that it can handle a larger amount of documents at ago. Run time is the amount it can operate before you have to leave it to cool down.
Long run time will allow you to shred more papers. The versatility entails what else the unit can handle other than papers. Shredder speed is how fast the blades turn the paper into shreds. Its expressed in feet per unit time. Also, before you fork out for one, ensure that it has a low noise level and that it meets the necessary standards. Lastly, it should be within the size of your pocket.
What Is A Good Substitute For Shredder Oil?
If your shredder is still under a warranty, only use oil that doesn’t void the warranty. However, you can consider substitute oils if it’s out of warranty. Canola oil is one type of oil that works well for shredders.
Do Shredders Wear Out?
Like any other thing, shredders will wear out with time. Nevertheless, you can keep the blades sharp through proper maintenance. Proper maintenance includes regular lubrication (for some models) and cleaning.
Final Verdict
There is no doubt that we all need to manage our sensitive data very well. That’s why the value of paper shredders should never be underestimated whether at home or in the office.
Our hand-picked models will help you slice your sensitive records when causing you minimum trouble. No matter your needs and the size of your budget, go through the reviews to identify the right piece for your needs.
Last update on 2023-06-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
