Best Paper Shredders: Finding the Perfect Paper Shredder for You
If you’re like most people, you have a number of sensitive documents that you need to get rid of on a regular basis. You could try tearing them up by hand, but that would take forever and it’s likely that some of the pieces would be so small they’d be difficult to recycle. A better option is to use a paper shredder, and that is where this list of the best paper shredders can help you out.
This list of the best paper shredders will spotlight the top options and will allow you to find the perfect paper shredder for you. With this list, you can make sure that you have the right paper shredder for whatever amount of shredding you need to handle.
Looking for more office-related lists? If so, visit our lists of the best office supplies, best wireless keyboards, and best office chairs. With these lists, you can ensure that your office space is ready to go.
Top 10 Paper Shredders:
1. Fellowes Powershred 99Ci 100% Jam Proof Cross-Cut Shredder
Price: $293.53
About the Shredder: This heavy-duty shredder can handle up to 16 sheets per pass. It features 100% jam-proof technology and runs continuously for extended use. The cross-cut blades provide security for sensitive documents. Ideal for busy offices and home workspaces.
2. Fellowes AutoMax 150C Auto Feed Shredder
Price: $378.35
About the Shredder: This auto-feed shredder allows you to load up to 150 sheets for hands-free shredding. Perfect for high-volume users, it delivers cross-cut security and quiet operation. A pull-out bin adds convenience. Great for efficiency-focused office settings.
3. GBC Paper Shredder
Price: $149.95
About the Shredder: The Swingline Style+ Super Cross-Cut Shredder blends compact design with powerful shredding. It shreds up to 12 sheets and looks sleek in any workspace. The cross-cut blades offer extra security. A stylish and practical option for small offices.
4. TRU RED 16-Sheet Micro Cut Commercial Shredder
Price: $159.95
About the Shredder: This micro-cut shredder provides superior security for confidential documents. It handles up to 16 sheets at a time and also shreds staples, credit cards, and paper clips. The large bin minimizes emptying. Great for office-level demands.
5. Fellowes Powershred 99Ms Micro-Cut Shredder
Price: $529.00
About the Shredder: Designed for high-security shredding, this micro-cut model reduces documents to tiny particles. It handles 14 sheets and includes jam-proof technology. Perfect for shredding sensitive material. Built for serious home or office use.
6. Amazon Basics 6 Sheet Cross Cut Paper
Price: $34.99
About the Shredder: This compact shredder is ideal for light-duty home use. It shreds 6 sheets at once and cuts through credit cards with ease. The cross-cut blades provide moderate security. A budget-friendly choice for everyday needs.
7. Aurora AU1060MA 10-Sheet Micro-Cut Shredder
Price: $160.99
About the Shredder: With a micro-cut system and 10-sheet capacity, this shredder is ideal for secure home use. It features overload protection and a 5-gallon wastebasket. Runs quietly and efficiently. Great for destroying personal or financial documents.
8. Bonsaii DocShred C261
Price: $39.99
About the Shredder: The Bonsaii C261 cross-cuts up to 12 sheets at a time and includes a thermal protection system. It has a 3.4-gallon bin and compact design. Perfect for everyday shredding tasks at home. A dependable, space-saving model.
9. WOLVERINE 18-Sheet Shredders
Price: $251.96
About the Shredder: This shredder offers heavy-duty shredding with an 18-sheet capacity. It provides ultra-quiet operation and P-4 level cross-cut security. Built to handle bulk paper, cards, and even CDs. Perfect for offices with frequent shredding needs.
10. Bonsen 8-Sheet Crosscut Paper Shredder
Price: $39.99
About the Shredder: Compact and affordable, this shredder handles 8 sheets at a time. It includes a 4.5-gallon bin and thermal protection to prevent overheating. Ideal for home or small office use. A great entry-level option with dependable performance.
Editor’s Pick for the Best Paper Shredder
If you’re looking for the most reliable and efficient shredder, our Editor’s Pick is the Fellowes Powershred 99Ci 100% Jam Proof Cross-Cut Shredder. With its 100% jam-proof design and ability to shred 16 sheets per pass, it strikes the perfect balance between power, capacity, and security. It runs quietly and includes a large pull-out bin, making it great for continuous shredding sessions at home or in the office. For users who want commercial-level performance without the fuss, this shredder is a top-tier choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Paper Shredders
What type of shredder is best for personal use?
For light home use, cross-cut shredders like the Amazon Basics 6-Sheet model are a good choice. They offer enough security for general documents and fit well in compact spaces.
What’s the difference between cross-cut and micro-cut shredders?
Cross-cut shredders slice paper into small rectangles and offer medium security. Micro-cut shredders go a step further by turning documents into confetti-like pieces, offering higher security for sensitive data.
Can shredders handle items like credit cards and CDs?
Yes, many shredders such as the WOLVERINE and TRU RED models can destroy credit cards, staples, and CDs. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specs to confirm these features.
What does P-4 security mean on shredders?
The P-4 rating is part of a DIN security scale for shredders. P-4 provides moderate-to-high protection, suitable for confidential documents like medical records or financial information.
How do I prevent my shredder from overheating?
Choose a model with built-in thermal protection like the Bonsaii C261. Allow the shredder to rest between sessions if you’re shredding in bulk to extend the motor’s life.
Tips for Choosing the Best Paper Shredder for Home or Office
1. Determine Your Shredding Volume
Think about how often and how much you shred. Light users can go with 6–8 sheet models, while frequent shredders or offices should opt for 14+ sheet capacities with extended runtime.
2. Consider Security Level Needs
If you’re shredding sensitive materials like tax documents or personal identification, opt for a micro-cut shredder with a P-4 or P-5 security level. Cross-cut models work for everyday paperwork.
3. Look for Jam Prevention Features
Shredders with anti-jam technology, like Fellowes’ Powershred series, prevent paper clogs and save time. This is especially important for office settings with high paper loads.
4. Choose a Model with a Large Waste Bin
For added convenience, choose a shredder with a pull-out waste bin that holds at least 4 gallons. This reduces the number of times you need to empty the machine.
5. Noise and Portability Matter
If you’re in a shared workspace or home office, opt for quiet operation models. Also, look for casters or a compact design if you need to move your shredder regularly.
Best Paper Shredders Conclusion
There is a lot to consider when purchasing a paper shredder, but with the above options, you should be able to find a model that meets your needs.
Hopefully, this list of the best paper shredders has been helpful and has helped you find the perfect paper shredder for your home or office. Before you know it, you can be shredding all the documents you can handle.
Do you have a favorite paper shredder? If you do, please feel free to share that below in the comments.
