Do you think tossing your sensitive documents into the trash is better than using a paper shredder? That’s not the best practice because it allows thieves to steal your documents, and it is always important to protect against identity theft.
Therefore, consider investing in a paper shredder machine that easily, quickly, and efficiently destroys your documents. These machines reduce your documents into tiny scraps, making them useless.
With these paper shredders, you can shred sensitive and confidential documents. These machines are great add-ons to your office and home spaces. These best paper shredders are more affordable, portable, and compact.
You are in the right place if you are hunting for the best shredders for your requirements. This article details the best paper shredders and includes a guide for choosing the best paper shredder.
Also, see our blogs on the best label makers and best budget 3D printers.
Primary Rating:
4.7
|
Primary Rating:
4.7
|
Primary Rating:
4.6
|
$239.24
|
|
$149.11
|
Description: Discover the Fellowes Powershred 79Ci – the ultimate paper shredder featuring jam-proof technology and ultra-quiet performance. With energy-saving capabilities and SafeSense technology, it leads as the top choice, efficiently shredding 16 sheets per pass into secure cross-cut particles. |
Description: Experience unmatched value with the Bonsaii Paper Shredder C149-C – a silent, 60-minute runtime operator with innovative cooling, quiet motor, jam detection, and 18-sheet cross-cut prowess for diverse documents. |
Description: Find budget-friendly excellence in the AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Shredder – a cross-cut powerhouse for secure document destruction. With automatic start and stop, reverse function to prevent jams, and thermal protection for added safety, it's the ideal choice for reliable shredding. |
Discover the Fellowes Powershred 79Ci – the ultimate paper shredder featuring jam-proof technology and ultra-quiet performance. With energy-saving capabilities and SafeSense technology, it leads as the top choice, efficiently shredding 16 sheets per pass into secure cross-cut particles.
Experience unmatched value with the Bonsaii Paper Shredder C149-C – a silent, 60-minute runtime operator with innovative cooling, quiet motor, jam detection, and 18-sheet cross-cut prowess for diverse documents.
Find budget-friendly excellence in the AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Shredder – a cross-cut powerhouse for secure document destruction. With automatic start and stop, reverse function to prevent jams, and thermal protection for added safety, it's the ideal choice for reliable shredding.
Top 7 Best Paper Shredders in 2024
- Fellowes Powershred 79Ci — The best overall paper shredder (Editor’s Choice)
- Bonsaii Paper Shredder C149-C — Best value paper shredder
- 15-Sheet Shredder Amazon basics — The best budget paper shredder
- Fellowes Powershred 99Ci — Best paper shredder for offices
- Dahle PaperSAFE PS 100 Paper Shredder — The best oil-free paper shredder
- Aurora AU1285MD — Best paper shredder for small office and home use
- BONSEN 10-Sheet Super Micro-Cut Paper Shredder — Best micro-cut paper shredder
What is the Best Paper Shredder Overall?
Fellowes Powershred 79Ci is the best paper shredder as it is comprehensive and well-featured. If you want to have to look into other options, have a look at the comparison table below.
Also have a look at our features on the best colored pencils, the best pens, the best mechanical pens. Plus our top watercolor resources.
7+ Best Paper Shredders in 2024
1. Fellowes Powershred 79Ci (Editor’s Choice)
The best paper shredder overall
Dimensions: 20.25 x 16.25 x 11.63 inches | Weight: 12.8 Kilograms | Paper Capacity: 16 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 6 Gallons | Cut Style: Cross-cut | Max run time: 10 min
If you are searching for a comprehensive and well-featured paper shredder, then Fellowes Powershred 79Ci is the ideal one for you. It features a jam-proof system to eliminate paper jams.
One thing it features is ultra-quiet performance. Furthermore, the machine comes with an energy-saving system to ensure optimal energy consumption and 100% efficiency, making it at the top of our list of the best paper shredders.
It also includes Safe Sense technology to stop the operation when hands touch the paper opening. This paper shredder can shred 16 sheets per pass into tiny 5/32″ x 1-1/2″ cross-cut particles.
While the paper shredder machine may be on the pricier side, it’s important to recognize the value it brings in terms of its durability, efficiency, and advanced features.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Can shred 16 sheets at once | ➖ Expensive |
➕ Can be used for up to 10 mins | |
➕ Can shred docs, CDs, and cards as well |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Crosscut Document Shredder: The perfect paper shredders for home offices and businesses, our heavy-duty paper shredders can accommodate up to 16 sheets of paper at a time and also shred staples,...
- Ultra-Secure Shredding: Ideal for disposing of highly confidential documents, our heavy-duty shredder tears paper into 397 5/32 x 1-½” cross-cut particles for enhanced security; Level P-4 security...
- SafeSense Protection: Designed to help protect more than just your identity, our shredders for home use and offices come equipped with proprietary technology that automatically disables the shredder...
- Continuous 20-Minute Run Time: Our ultra-efficient home and office shredder runs for up to 20 minutes before needing to cool down, meaning you're able to complete multiple shredding jobs in 1 sitting
- Convenient Features: Perfect for shared workspaces, this portable shredder has ultra-quiet operation and automatically detects and powers through tough jobs to prevent jams; Also includes a 6-gallon...
2. Bonsaii Paper Shredder C149-C
Best value paper shredder
Dimensions: 37 x 1 x 64 inches | Weight: 23.11 Pounds | Paper Capacity: 18 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 6 Gallons | Cut Style: Cross-cut | Max run time: 60 Min
If you are looking for the best value for a long-running paper shredder, then this is the one for you. Bonsaii Paper Shredder C149-C runs continuously for 60 minutes, requiring only 10 minutes of cool-down time with its patented cooling system.
It has a motor that maintains an incredible silence that would make it fit to work in libraries. This cross-cut shredder can shred up to 18 sheets in a single feed of A4 size.
One aspect that stands out of this system is the jam detection system, which automatically reverses the paper and starts its operation.
It can shred 18 sheets per feed, including CDs/DVDs, credit cards, and staples. With its 8.7 inches entry slot, it will accept all the letters and legal-size documents and dampen the noise.
Though the Bonsaii Paper Shredder C149-C is smaller than other best paper shredders, it allows easy placement in various settings, especially those with limited space availability.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Can shred 18 sheets at once. | ➖ Bin is not large |
➕ Can shred up to 60 mins continuously. | |
➕ Can shred docs, CDs, staples, and cards. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 60-Minute Shredding: Bonsaii heavy duty paper shredder continous running time up to 60 minutes without stopping withh an advanced cooling system and patented technology. Professional paper shredder...
- 18-Sheet Shredding Capacity: The cross-cut shredder up to 18 sheets(Letter Size, 20lb) at a single pass, shreds paper into tiny particles measuring 13/64 x 63/64 inches (5 x 25mm) and reaches P-4...
- Low Noise & Easy to Move The document heavy duty shredder with 62 dB low noise level will give you a quiet and smooth shredding experience and 4 casters for convenience moving to anywhere you want
- Auto Start & Reverse: Auto start/stop and auto-reverse function protect you from the frustration of paper jams; overheating and overloading protection technology keeps sustainable using and prolong...
- Large Capacity: 6 gallons pull-out wastebasket capacity can hold more than 400 sheets of A4 paper for less frequent and easy emptying; the transparent window makes it easy to see when it is full. If...
3. 15-Sheet Shredder Amazon Basics
The best budget paper shredder
Dimensions: 11 x 14.4 x 20.9 inches | Weight: 22 Pounds | Paper Capacity: 15 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 6 Gallons | Cut Style: Cross-cut | Max run time: 20 min
The 15-Sheet Shredder Amazon basics is the best one that fits any budget. This paper shredder cuts diagonally in a cross-cut style to make slices more secure to destroy all sensitive documents, cards, and more.
It has an automatic mode that starts once the machine detects a paper or other document to shred and stops entirely if there is nothing. It can perform reverse functioning if the paper is not wholly shredded or remains un-shredded, which also helps prevent paper jamming.
A notable feature of this paper shredder is its thermal protection, which turns off the machine automatically once the engine reaches the maximum run time and helps prevent the device from overheating.
One notable drawback of this paper shredder is its lower sheet capacity compared to other models on the market. While some shredders can simultaneously handle larger volumes of paper, this one has a more limited sheet capacity.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Budget-friendly | ➖ Lower sheet capacity than other shredders. |
➕ Can shred cards, documents, and CDs |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 15 sheet crosscut paper/CD/credit card shredder
- Shred size of 3/16" x 1-7/32" (4.7 x 31mm), security level P-4
- 20 minute continuous run time
- Overheat / Overload protection
- LED indicators: Standby/Overheat/Overload/Door open/Bin full
4. Fellowes Powershred 99Ci
Best paper shredder for offices
Dimensions: 19.69 x 14.56 x 27.56 inches | Weight: 36.38 Pounds | Paper Capacity: 18 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 9-gallon | Cut Style: Cross-cut | Max run time: 30 Min
The Fellowes Powershred 99Ci is essential for office use to securely shred all sensitive documents, CDs, DVDs, and other confidential documents.
It can shred 18 sheets per pass into cross-cut particles. From our first-hand experience, we were impressed that it can shred continuously for up to 30 minutes.
However, 40-minute cool-down period. It also features a 9-gallon bin to collect the waste.
It comes with SafeSense Technology which stops shredding if it detects hands touching the paper opening. This shredder can shred faster than micro-cut shredders with its cross-cut style securely.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Can shred 18 sheets at once. | ➖ Expensive |
➕ Run rate of 30 mins continuously. | |
➕ Bin size is big enough to collect all the waste. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Crosscut Document Shredder: The perfect paper shredders for home offices and businesses, our heavy-duty paper shredders can accommodate up to 18 sheets of paper at a time and also shred staples,...
- Ultra-Secure Shredding: Ideal for disposing of highly confidential documents, our heavy-duty shredder tears paper into 397 5/32 x 1-½” cross-cut particles for enhanced security; Level P-4 security...
- SafeSense Protection: Designed to help protect more than just your identity, our shredders for home use and offices come equipped with proprietary technology that automatically disables the shredder...
- Continuous 30-Minute Run Time: Our ultra-efficient home and office shredder runs for up to 30 minutes before needing to cool down, meaning you're able to complete multiple shredding jobs in 1 sitting
- Perfect for shared workspaces, this portable shredder has ultra-quiet operation and automatically detects and powers through tough jobs to prevent jams; Also includes a 9-gallon pull-out bin with a...
5. Dahle PaperSAFE PS 100 Paper Shredder
The best oil-free paper shredder
Dimensions: 8.5 x 13.75 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 9.5 Pounds| Paper Capacity: 10 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 4 Gallons | Cut Style: Cross-cut | Max run time: 5 mins
Are you searching for an oil-free paper shredder machine then the oil-free, hassle-free and easy maintenance of the Dahle PaperSAFE PS 100 Paper Shredder is for you.
This shredder produces particles of 3/16″ x 11/16″ from documents, statements, or any other sensitive documents.
It prevents annoyance and waste of time by automatically reversing in the event of an overfeed with its automatic jam protection.
This shredding machine can also shred credit cards, paper clips, and staples. It also comes with a thermally protected motor that prevents overheating after a continuous run of about five minutes.
For easy usage and convenience, features include simple controls, automatic on/off, and an easy-empty waste bin that you may pull off simply after use.
While it can be seen as a minor drawback, the paper shredder’s run rate may be lower compared to some other models on the market. However, this can be viewed positively, as the lower run rate allows the machine to operate with less noise and heat generation.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Automatic Jam Protection | ➖ Run rate is low |
➕ Thermal protection motor | |
➕ Will produce particles very small after shredding |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- [P-4 SECURITY] -- Cross Cut | 5 Sheet Capacity | 4 Gallon Waste
- [OIL-FREE] -- Hassle-Free shredding maintains performance without oil
- [BUILT-IN JAM PROTECTION] -- Eliminates frustration and down time
- [CONVENIENCE] -- With Automatic On/Off convenience
- [THERMALLY PROTECTED MOTOR] -- Prevents overheating
6. Aurora AU1285MD
Best paper shredder for small office and home use
Dimensions: 13.19 x 9.92 x 11.77 inches | Weight: 17.9 Pounds | Paper Capacity: 12 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 1.8 Gallons | Cut Style: Micro-Cut | Max run time: 5 min
If you are searching for a high-security micro-cut for your professional use, Aurora AU1285MD is the ideal choice. It provides maximum protection by making the document four times smaller than many others.
It comes equipped with anti-jam and auto-reverse technology to avoid paper jams which are ideal for small offices and homes. It also contains LED status indicator lights that indicate on/off, overheats, overloads, and pull-out bin doors open and close.
This paper shredder machine shreds CDs/DVDs, cards, stationery clips, and staples. It features a continuous running rate of about 5 mins for silent operation. It also includes a small bin of 1.8 gallons.
Unfortunately, the Aurora AU1285MD has a relatively smaller bin capacity. However, The compact bin size allows for a more space-efficient design, making it ideal for environments with limited space availability.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Can shred CDs/DVDs, cards, stationery clips, and staples. | ➖ Bin capacity is less. |
➕ Anti-jam and Auto-reverse technology |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- High Security Micro-Cut compact desktop style shredder with 12 sheet capacities; destroys CDs, DVDs, credit cards, junk mail, staples and small paper clips
- Shreds Paper, CDs, DVDs, credit cards, junk mail into small pieces (5/32 by 15/32 inches), security level P-4
- Anti-jam auto-reverse to clear paper jams; nonstop 5-minute continuous run time and hassle free, quiet operation
- "ShredEase angled-feed safety feature prevents accidents; 1.8-Gallon translucent pullout bin with LED indicator lights standby/ overheat/ overload/ door open status
- Measures: 11.8” H x 13.2” L x 9.9” W (inches)
7. BONSEN 10-Sheet Super Micro-Cut Paper Shredder
Best micro-cut paper shredder
Dimensions: 14 x 9.4 x 21.1 inches | Paper Capacity: 10 sheets | Mode: Automatic | Bin Size: 5.3 Gallons | Cut Style: Micro-Cut | Max run time: 30 min
BONSEN 10-Sheet Super Micro-Cut Paper Shredder is designed with the inspiration of office use with premium quality.
It features top Security Level P-5 with a super micro-cut shredder. This paper shredder can shred up to ten sheets each time, making them into tiny 2 x 12mm particles. It can also shred staples, cards, stationery, and legal documents to ensure the safety of your confidential information.
It has a run rate of 30 minutes for continuous operation time. It also includes a patented cooling system to ensure the cooling down of the machine after constant use.
The super micro-cut shredder also contains an automatic reverse function to protect the device from paper jams. The anti-jam system will detect the overload and reverse to clear the jam, and after removing the excess, it will resume again.
It comes with a 58dB low noise operation to keep you out of disturbance from your work and maintain silence. It has a 5.3-gallon removable bin and easy-operation functionality indicators and buttons.
One downside to consider with the BONSEN 10-Sheet Super Micro-Cut Paper Shredders is their relatively lower paper capacity in relation to their price.
However, it’s worth noting that the shredder’s performance, durability, and advanced features still make it a worthwhile investment, despite its lower paper capacity.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Super micro-cut shredder | ➖ Paper capacity is low in relation to price. |
➕ Automatic mode. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- P-5 Security Level: High security microcut with 10 sheet capacity; Shreds paper into 5/64″ x 15/32″ (2 x 12mm) tiny pieces; Also destroys staples/credit cards/mails
- 30-Min Running Time & 50dB Ultra-Low Noise: Patented cooling system ensures continuous running(shreds about 3000 sheet); Ultra quiet operation won't disturb you on your business
- Auto Anti-Jam System: Auto-reverse function protect shredder from paper jamming; Automatically detect overload status and reverse to clear paper jams
- User-Friendly Design: Convenient buttons (Power on, Forward, Reverse) and clear LED indicators show standby/ overheat/ overloade/ bin full/ bin open status
- 5.3 Gallon Pullout Bin: BONSEN P5 super micro cut paper shredder holds 420 sheet of A4 paper for less frequent emptying; Transparent window makes it easy to see bin situation
How to Choose the Best Paper Shredder
Before choosing the best shredder for you, you must consider your needs and the below-mentioned factors.
Cut Type
The cut type is an essential feature to consider before buying a shredder. There are two types, one being strip-cutting, and the other, being cross-cutting.
The strip-cut paper shredder cuts your paper or document into dozens of strips, but thieves may reassemble them in case of theft, and these shredders are common in homes, schools, and offices.
The cross-cut paper shredders offer high security by cutting the paper or documents into much smaller pieces which makes it much harder to reassemble. This paper shredder is ideal for bank documents, oil documents, confidential documents, and business deals.
Shredder Acceleration
Usually, these shredders operate quickly to save time and effort. Depending on the size and make of the machine, the cycle time for these machines can range from two minutes to an hour.
Some machines maintain their acceleration and operational condition until a specific runtime, after which they must cool off. Do your research beforehand to ensure you have no regrets and work efficiently to save time and minimize your efforts.
Noise Levels
These paper shredder machines are noisy, so you must check beforehand if it won’t ruin your place’s silence. You can determine this by checking out the machine’s decibel rating.
Capacity
After you decide to buy the shredding machine, you should also consider the device’s shredding capacity. Capacity refers to the maximum number of sheets that can pass through per pass and the soft sizes that can be passed through a paper shredder machine.
The shred machine should be capable of shredding all sorts of sizes, types, and numbers of sheets. Choosing the depending on capacity should be ideal depending on the usage. However, it should be capable of shredding simple paper to industrial documents and cards. It should also be capable of heavy-duty and departmental use.
Power Saving
You must check the power consumption of these paper shredder machines. Check for the power savings models as they continuously consume 80% of the energy of other shredders.
Some of the best paper shredders, such as those frequently used in offices, may utilize a lot of power when you use them, so this is an essential factor to consider.
Security Features
Security features are essential factors in choosing a paper shredder. More expensive shredders may use lasers and sensors to detect foreign objects and stop the blades before causing damage.
The safety interlock, laser, and sensors are ideal for pets and kids. These sensors can detect nearby movements or objects and trigger the shredder to stop if something gets too close to the opening. This is particularly important to prevent pets or children from accidentally getting injured while the shredder operates.
Advanced Features
Advanced features are present in all expensive machines, so they are important to consider.
Heavy-duty motors that can work continuously are essential when working in collaboration. You should look into shredders with a continuous-duty engine to run non-stop so you can shred as much as possible because some machines require cooling down after some time.
Furthermore, choosing a device that starts automatically can save you some time and make your work easier.
The best way to keep any machine efficient is by regularly oiling it, and if you are using it occasionally, you can do so manually. However, if you use devices regularly and for heavy duty, then you must oil them often, which is a common task that many forget. As a result, some machines feature an automatic oiler to eliminate one more task from your “to-do” list.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of shredders are available?
There are three types of shredders available strip-cut shredder, crosscut shredder, and micro-cut shredder.
Which is better, micro-cutting or crosscutting?
A crosscut shredder cuts the papers or documents vertically and horizontally, whereas a micro-cut shredder cuts them into numerous tiny pieces that are impossible to assemble again. Hence micro-cutting shredder is the best if it is highly confidential. Otherwise, a cross cutting shredder goes well for all offices, banks, cards, and documents.
Which is the most secure shredder cut?
A micro-cut shredder is the most secure shredder, which is ideal for highly sensitive and clandestine paperwork. This paper shredder is mainly used and is suitable for financial institutions, military agencies, and government contractors.
Wrapping Up
It is important to choose the best paper shredder for your needs. To make it easier, this article compiles a list of the best paper shredders that will serve all your needs.
It also includes a guide on how to choose the right paper shredder to help you understand to choose the best and right one. It includes all kinds of paper shredders for every use from the premium ones to the best budget ones in the list.
You might also be interested in our blog on the best black and white printers for home offices and businesses.
Choose the right one depending on your needs and the type of documents or files you would want to destroy to prevent unusual activities. If you have chosen with the help rundown in this article, let us know in the comments.
Related Posts
- Best printers for designers
- Best monitors for designers
- Best tablets for designers
- Best mouse for designers
- Best earphones for music-lovers
- Best cameras for designers
- Best microphones for designers
- Best office chairs for designers
- Best external hard drives for designers
- Best monitor calibrators for designers
- Best pens for creatives
- Best phones for designers & creatives