If you're looking for the best paper shredders, you've come to the right place. Whether you need to dispose of personal documents or sensitive business information, finding the right paper shredder is crucial to ensure your privacy and security. With a variety of options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one for your needs.
Before making a purchase, there are several factors to consider. First, think about the shredding capacity. Do you need a shredder that can handle a few sheets at a time, or do you require a heavy-duty machine for bulk shredding? Next, consider the security level. Are you shredding confidential documents that require high-level security, or are you simply shredding old bills and junk mail? Lastly, think about the noise level and the size of the shredder. If you're working in a quiet office space or have limited storage, a compact and quiet shredder might be the best choice for you.
Are you tired of manually tearing up each piece of paper before throwing it away? Are you concerned about identity theft and want to ensure that your personal information is properly destroyed? Do you need a reliable and efficient way to declutter your home or office? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then keep reading! In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best paper shredder that meets your specific needs. We will provide you with essential information, tips, and recommendations to help you make an informed decision. Don't let piles of paper and privacy concerns continue to weigh you down, discover the best paper shredder for you today!
10 Best Paper Shredders
# | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
1
|
Ideal for shredding paper and credit cards, with a 4.1 gallon bin for easy disposal of shredded materials.
|
|
||
2
|
The product is ideal for shredding documents, CDs, and credit cards without creating wastebasket debris.
|
|
||
3
|
The product is ideal for shredding paper and credit cards into small pieces for higher security.
|
|
||
4
|
The product is ideal for shredding paper and credit cards with a 5.2 gallon wastebasket.
|
|
||
5
|
This product is ideal for shredding paper, CDs, and credit cards.
|
|
||
6
|
This product is ideal for shredding confidential documents, CDs, and credit cards with a long continuous run time.
|
|
||
7
|
The product is ideal for securely shredding paper and credit cards into small pieces.
|
|
||
8
|
The product is ideal for shredding paper, CDs, credit cards, and other sensitive materials in a home office setting.
|
|
||
9
|
The product is ideal for heavy-duty shredding of confidential documents in an office or home setting.
|
|
||
10
|
The product is ideal for shredding paper and credit cards at home or small offices with high-security micro cut technology.
|
|
1. Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross Cut Paper Shredder And Credit Card Shredder With 4.1 Gallon Bin

The Cross Cut Shredder is a reliable and secure way to dispose of sensitive documents and credit cards. It is designed to shred paper into small particles measuring 0.2 x 1.9 inches (5 x 47 mm), meeting security level P-3 standards. The shredder is capable of shredding up to 8 sheets of 20-pound bond paper at a time, including staples and small paper clips, with an 8.7-inch-wide entry.
The shredder features a dedicated slot for credit cards, which can be shredded one at a time. It also has a 4 mode control switch (auto/on, off, reverse, forward) and LED status indicators for power on and overheat. The shredder has a runtime of 3 minutes and requires a 30-minute cool down period. If it runs beyond the maximum run time, it automatically shuts off to prevent overheating.
The shredder has a handle for easily lifting up the shredder head when it's time to empty the 4.1-gallon bin. It has been quality tested as part of Amazon Basics quality inspections. This means that every shredder is tested before shipping, which may result in some paper shreds from the testing.
It is important to note that aerosol products should not be sprayed or kept in or around the shredder. Additionally, metallic credit cards should not be shredded. The product dimensions are 16 x 1 x 27 inches (LxWxH), making it a compact addition to any office or home workspace.
2. Aurora Pro Shredder: Paper, Cd, Credit Card Strip-Cut.

Introducing the ultimate shredder that provides a secure and efficient way to destroy sensitive documents and data, the Shredder. This powerful machine is designed to shred credit cards, CDs, and DVDs with ease, ensuring that your personal information stays protected.
With an auto start/stop feature, this shredder is incredibly user-friendly and convenient. The thermal protection and overheat protection functions ensure that the machine remains safe and efficient, even during prolonged use.
In the event of a paper jam, the shredder comes equipped with a jam-remover (forward) and manual reverse for easy cleaning and maintenance. The extendable arm can fit over most waste baskets, with a maximum length of 15" or 38.1 cm, making it the perfect addition to any office or home workspace.
This shredder has a shred paper capacity of up to 8 sheets of 20 lb. bond paper, providing you with ample space to shred all of your important documents. The compact design of the shredder makes it easy to store in a variety of locations, while still providing you with a powerful and efficient shredding solution.
Investing in the Shredder is a smart choice for anyone looking to protect their personal information. This shredder is durable, reliable, and easy to use, making it the perfect addition to any workspace.
3. Aurora Au870ma High-Security 8-Sheet Micro-Cut Paper Credit Card Shredder Black

The Aurora High-Security Micro-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a reliable and efficient shredder. It is designed to provide high-security shredding with an 8 sheet capacity, which makes it ideal for both personal and small office use.
This shredder is capable of shredding paper and credit cards into tiny pieces that measure 5/32 by 15/32 inches, which is a security level P-4. This ensures that your sensitive documents and personal information are completely destroyed and cannot be reconstructed.
The Aurora High-Security Micro-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder has a 5-minute continuous run time, which means you can shred a large amount of documents at once without worrying about the shredder overheating. It also has an auto start feature that makes it easy to use, and a manual reverse function to clear any paper jams.
The shredder comes with a 3.9-gallon wastebasket that can hold a large amount of shredded paper and credit cards. It also has thermal protection with an auto shut-off feature and an overheat LED indicator that lets you know when the shredder needs to cool down.
4. Aurora Au1220xa 12 Sheet Crosscut Paper And Credit Card Shredder With 5.2 Gal Wastebasket

The shredder is a reliable and efficient tool for securely disposing of sensitive documents and credit cards. With a 12 sheet capacity, it can handle a significant amount of paper at once, making it a great option for home offices or small businesses. Additionally, the shredder is capable of destroying credit cards and small paper clips, providing a versatile solution for all shredding needs.
The shredder operates by shredding paper and credit cards into small pieces, measuring 3/16 by 1-9/16 inches, and offering a security level of P-3. This ensures that all confidential information is thoroughly destroyed and cannot be reconstructed.
To ensure a smooth and uninterrupted operation, the shredder features nonstop 3-minute continuous run time and overload and thermal protection. The overheating protection prevents the shredder from overheating, while the overload protection ensures that the shredder does not get overloaded and damaged.
The shredder also boasts a 4-mode power switch, allowing the user to choose between auto-off, reverse, forward, and standby modes. The auto-off mode automatically shuts off the shredder when not in use, helping to save energy. The reverse and forward modes allow the user to clear paper jams and shred in both directions, while the standby mode keeps the shredder on standby, ready to use at any moment.
Finally, the shredder comes with a 5.2-gallon wastebasket, which can hold a considerable amount of shredded paper. The wastebasket also features LED indicator lights, which signal when the shredder is on standby or when it is overheating.
5. Aurora As810sd 8-Sheet Strip-Cut Paper, Cd And Credit Card Shredder Basket

This innovative paper shredder is a must-have for anyone concerned about identity theft. With the ability to shred up to 8 sheets at once at a rate of 9.7 feet per minute, this shredder offers quick and efficient protection for your sensitive information. Not only can it shred paper, but it also has the capability to shred CDs and credit cards, providing comprehensive security for all of your personal data.
Equipped with a 3.20 gallon plastic basket, this shredder can hold a large volume of shredded material, making it ideal for home or small office use. The CD shred size of 1 3/8" wide strips ensures that all of your data is rendered unreadable and unusable.
This shredder is designed with safety in mind, featuring an automatic shut-off function to prevent overheating and a safety lock to prevent accidental activation. Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport, while its sleek design complements any workspace.
With its powerful shredding capabilities and user-friendly features, this paper shredder is an essential tool for protecting your personal information. Trust in its superior performance and rest easy knowing that your sensitive data is always secure.
6. Aurora High Security Micro-Cut Shredder

The High-security Micro-cut Shredder is a top-of-the-line shredder that is perfect for users who require high levels of security when disposing of sensitive information. It boasts a 12-sheet capacity and can shred CDs, DVDs, credit cards, and small paper clips with ease.
The shredder produces small pieces that measure 5/32 by 15/32 inches, ensuring that your confidential information remains completely secure. It is classified as a security level P-4 shredder, making it highly effective against identity theft and other forms of data breach.
Once you start using this shredder, you won't have to worry about stopping in the middle of an important shredding job. It has a non-stop 60-minute continuous run time, allowing you to shred large quantities of documents without any interruptions.
The anti-jam auto-reverse feature is another convenient feature that ensures the shredder runs smoothly. It clears paper jams automatically and quickly, so you can continue shredding without any delays. Additionally, the shredder operates quietly, making it ideal for use in busy offices or shared spaces.
The shredder has a 5.0-gallon pullout bin that can hold a large amount of shredded material. The LED indicator lights provide status updates, including standby, overheat, bin-full, overload, and door-open status. This feature ensures that you know when to empty the bin and when the shredder needs attention.
7. Aurora As890c 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper/credit Card Shredder With Basket

This crosscut paper and credit card shredder is designed to provide a secure and efficient way to dispose of your sensitive documents. With its powerful shredding capabilities, it can shred not only paper but also credit cards, paper clips, and staples.
Featuring an 8-sheet capacity, this shredder can easily handle larger volumes of documents, making it ideal for both personal and small office use. It also comes with an 8.7-inch throat width, which accommodates various paper sizes and ensures quick and hassle-free shredding.
Measuring 12.60 x 7.48 x 14.78 inches, this shredder is compact enough to fit in any workspace, yet powerful enough to get the job done. It is user-friendly and easy to operate, making it an excellent choice for those who value efficiency and convenience.
In addition to its impressive shredding capabilities, this shredder is also designed with durability and longevity in mind. Its heavy-duty construction ensures that it can withstand daily use and provide years of reliable service.
8. Bonsaii Home Shredder: 8-Sheet Stripcut, Cd & Credit Card

The Bonsaii Strip-Cut Home Paper Shredder offers a variety of functions to meet your daily shredding needs. This efficient machine can shred up to 8 sheets of A4 size paper, as well as credit cards, CDs, DVDs, and other important documents. With its multifunctional design, you can conveniently shred various items with ease.
One of the most impressive features of the Bonsaii Home Paper Shredder is its overheat protection. The shredder is designed to run for 2 minutes continuously, followed by a 60-minute cool down cycle. An overheat LED indicator warns you if you exceed the time limit, and the thermal protection with auto shut-off protects the machine from damage.
The user-friendly design of the Bonsaii shredder makes it easy to operate. It comes with a safe auto-start mode and manual reverse to clear jams. If paper scraps get stuck in the feeder, you can use the Forward setting to clear them. The Reverse setting is ideal for clearing paper that did not pass through the cutters.
The Bonsaii Strip-Cut Home Paper Shredder is an ideal choice for a home office. It measures 15/64 inches and is backed by a 1-year limited warranty. To ensure that you get the most out of your shredder, it is recommended that you refer to the User Manual, Troubleshooting Guide, and Instructional Video before use. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact Bonsaii for assistance.
This paper shredder also offers a large capacity and safe protection. The light-operated function ensures that the shredding works automatically once the sensor detects something to be shredded. The shredded paper then drops into the large 3.4-gallon bin below. With this heavy-duty shredder, you can be sure that your home and office documents are secure.
9. Bonsaii 18-Sheet Heavy Duty Shredder

The Bonsaii paper shredder is a professional-grade shredder that guarantees a continuous running time of up to 60 minutes without stopping. Thanks to its advanced cooling system and patented cutting technology, this shredder is perfect for heavy-duty use in a home office environment.
With an 18-sheet shredding capacity, this cross-cut shredder can shred paper into tiny particles measuring 13/64 x 63/64 inches (5 x 25mm) and reaches P-4 high-security level. It can also shred credit cards and staples, providing you with complete shredding capabilities.
The document shredder operates at a low noise level of 62 dB, ensuring a quiet and smooth shredding experience. Additionally, the shredder comes with 4 casters for easy mobility, allowing you to move it to any location you desire.
The shredder features an auto start/stop function that prevents paper jams, while the auto-reverse function protects you from the frustration of paper jams. The overheating and overloading protection technology ensures sustainable use and prolongs the shredder's lifetime. To operate the shredder, simply press the power switch and insert the paper into the entrance of the shredder, and it will work automatically.
The shredder's pull-out wastebasket has a capacity of 6 gallons and can hold more than 400 sheets of A4 paper, making it easy to empty and reducing the frequency of emptying. The transparent window on the wastebasket makes it easy to see when it is full.
Bonsaii provides a 1-year warranty for this shredder, ensuring that you have a worry-free experience. If you have any questions about the product during use, Bonsaii's professional customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Invest in the Bonsaii paper shredder and enjoy a quiet, efficient, and secure shredding experience.
10. Amazon Basics 6 Sheet High Security Micro Cut Paper And Credit Card Home Office Shredder, Black

The Micro-cut shredder is an excellent choice for those who prioritize security in shredding confidential documents. It is designed to turn paper into tiny confetti-like pieces measuring 5/32 by 15/32 inches (4 by 12 mm), meeting high-security level P-4 standards. This shredder can shred up to 6 sheets of 20-pound bond paper at a time, in addition to credit cards (one at a time, through dedicated slot), staples, or small paper clips.
To prevent the motor from overheating, the shredder has a 3-minute on / 30 minutes off cycle. If the shredder is continuously used beyond the maximum run time, it will automatically shut off to protect the motor. The 3-mode power switch (auto, off, reverse) allows for easy operation, and the auto-start and overload protection features help prevent serious paper jams. The LED indicator (power on, overheat) allows for easy tracking of the shredder’s status. Equipped with an 8.7-inch paper-entry width, the shredder can easily handle most paper sizes. The lift handle makes it easy to lift the shredder head for hassle-free emptying of the 4.1-gallon bin.
As part of Amazon Basics quality inspections, every shredder is tested before shipping to ensure quality. This means that customers may see some paper shreds from the testing. It is important to note that customers should not spray or keep any aerosol products in or around the shredder and should not shred items like metallic credit cards.
Best Paper Shredders FAQs
Are there any paper shredders that can also handle shredding other materials like CDs or credit cards?
Yes, there are paper shredders available in the market that are capable of shredding not only paper, but also other materials like CDs or credit cards. These types of shredders are commonly known as "cross-cut" or "multi-purpose" shredders. They feature specially designed blades that can handle different materials without causing damage to the machine.
When it comes to shredding CDs or credit cards, it is important to choose a shredder with specific slots or separate compartments dedicated for these items. This ensures efficient and secure shredding, as well as prevents any potential damage to the shredder's blades. Additionally, these multi-purpose shredders often come with safety features such as auto-stop or reverse mechanisms to prevent jamming.
Before purchasing a shredder, it is recommended to carefully review the product specifications and ensure that it explicitly mentions the ability to shred CDs or credit cards. It is also advisable to choose a reputable brand that offers good customer support and warranty options.
Are there any paper shredders that offer advanced security features to prevent identity theft?
Yes, there are paper shredders available in the market that offer advanced security features to prevent identity theft. These shredders are designed to provide an additional layer of protection for sensitive documents. Some of the advanced security features that you can look for in a paper shredder include:
1. Cross-cut shredding: This feature ensures that the paper is shredded into small confetti-like pieces, making it extremely difficult to reconstruct the document.
2. Micro-cut shredding: This feature provides an even higher level of security by shredding the paper into tiny, unreadable particles, making it virtually impossible to piece together.
3. Jam-proof technology: This feature prevents the shredder from getting jammed, which can be a security risk if the documents are left unattended.
4. Auto-feed functionality: Some shredders have an auto-feed feature that allows you to load a stack of documents, and it will automatically shred them one by one, saving time and increasing productivity.
5. Security level indicators: Look for shredders that have security level indicators, such as P-4 or P-5, which indicate the level of security the shredder provides.
It is important to consider your specific security needs and budget while choosing a paper shredder with advanced security features to effectively prevent identity theft.
Are there any specific paper shredder brands that are known for their exceptional performance?
Yes, there are several paper shredder brands that are known for their exceptional performance. One such brand is Fellowes, which is highly regarded for its reliable and high-quality shredders. Fellowes offers a wide range of shredders suitable for both personal and professional use, with features like advanced safety mechanisms, powerful motor, and high sheet capacity. Another notable brand is HSM, renowned for its durable and efficient shredders. HSM shredders are known for their heavy-duty performance, quiet operation, and advanced shredding technologies. Additionally, brands like Dahle and Swingline also offer top-notch shredders that are known for their durability, high-security levels, and user-friendly features. It's important to consider your specific needs and requirements when selecting a paper shredder, and to read customer reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a brand that consistently delivers exceptional performance.
Can you recommend any paper shredders that are compact and suitable for small spaces?
Certainly! When it comes to compact paper shredders suitable for small spaces, there are a few options worth considering. One popular choice is the Fellowes Powershred 79Ci. This shredder offers a compact design that can easily fit in tight spaces, such as under a desk or in a small office. It provides excellent shredding capabilities, with the ability to handle up to 16 sheets of paper at once and also shred other materials like credit cards and CDs.
Another option is the AmazonBasics 6-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder. This shredder is specifically designed to be compact and space-saving, making it ideal for small offices or home use. It can shred up to 6 sheets of paper at a time and also has a slot for credit card shredding.
Lastly, the Bonsaii EverShred C149-C is another compact shredder that offers powerful shredding performance. It can handle up to 12 sheets of paper at once and has a continuous run time of 60 minutes, making it suitable for small office environments.
Overall, these shredders provide compact designs without compromising on performance, making them great options for small spaces.
How does the shredding capacity of different paper shredders compare?
The shredding capacity of different paper shredders can vary significantly depending on the model and specifications. Generally, the shredding capacity is determined by the number of sheets a shredder can handle at a time. Entry-level shredders typically have a capacity of around 6-8 sheets, while more advanced models can handle 10-20 sheets or even more.
However, it's important to note that the shredding capacity mentioned by manufacturers is often based on standard 20 lb paper and may vary with different paper weights or thicknesses. It's always recommended to check the specific shredder's specifications to ensure it meets your requirements.
Additionally, it's worth considering other factors such as the runtime and cooldown period of the shredder. Some shredders may have a shorter runtime or longer cooldown time, which can impact their overall efficiency.
Ultimately, when comparing shredders, it's crucial to consider your specific needs, such as the volume of documents you need to shred regularly, and choose a shredder with a capacity that aligns with your requirements.
What are the noise levels of different paper shredders, and which ones are the quietest?
The noise levels of paper shredders can vary based on factors such as the shredder's design, motor power, and shredding capacity. Generally, paper shredders produce noise levels between 60 to 75 decibels (dB). However, some models are specifically designed to minimize noise and offer quieter operation.
Quiet paper shredders often incorporate noise reduction technologies such as insulated shredding chambers, sound-dampening materials, or advanced motor systems. These features help to reduce noise levels during shredding.
Some of the quietest paper shredders available on the market include models from brands like Fellowes, Bonsaii, and HSM. For instance, Fellowes Powershred 79Ci and Bonsaii EverShred C149-C are known for their quiet operation, producing noise levels around 60 dB.
To find the quietest paper shredder, it's advisable to look for models specifically marketed as "quiet" or "silent." Additionally, reading customer reviews and checking product specifications can provide valuable insights on noise levels and overall performance.
What are the top-rated paper shredders on the market?
There are several top-rated paper shredders available on the market. One highly recommended option is the Fellowes Powershred 99Ci. It offers excellent shredding performance, with a high-security level and a large bin capacity. The AmazonBasics 12-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder is another popular choice. It provides efficient shredding for both paper and credit cards and offers a good balance between price and performance. The Bonsaii EverShred C149-C is also highly rated, known for its durable construction and ability to handle large shredding tasks. Finally, the Swingline Paper Shredder, 14-Sheet, Super Cross-Cut is a reliable option, offering a high level of security and quiet operation. These shredders have received positive customer reviews and are trusted brands in the market. It is important to consider your specific needs and budget when selecting a paper shredder.
What type of paper shredder is best suited for heavy-duty use in an office setting?
When it comes to heavy-duty use in an office setting, a cross-cut paper shredder is the best choice. Cross-cut shredders provide a higher level of security compared to strip-cut shredders by cutting the paper into small confetti-like pieces, making it difficult for anyone to reconstruct the shredded documents.
To handle heavy volumes of paper, look for a shredder with a high sheet capacity and continuous run-time. A shredder with a sheet capacity of 10-20 sheets and a continuous run-time of 30 minutes or more will be ideal for heavy-duty use. Additionally, it's important to consider the bin capacity of the shredder to minimize frequent emptying.
Other factors to consider include the shredder's motor power, safety features like auto-stop and jam-proof technology, and the ability to shred other materials such as credit cards and CDs. It's also advisable to choose a reputable brand known for durability and reliable customer support.
Ultimately, investing in a high-quality cross-cut paper shredder designed for heavy-duty use will ensure efficient and secure document disposal in an office environment.
Which paper shredders have the longest run-time without overheating?
When it comes to paper shredders with long run-time without overheating, there are a few brands and models that stand out. One such brand is Fellowes, known for their high-quality shredders. The Fellowes Powershred 99Ci Cross-Cut Shredder is a popular choice with a run-time of up to 30 minutes before it needs to cool down. Another reliable option is the Swingline Stack-and-Shred 300X Auto Feed Shredder, which has a run-time of up to 30 minutes as well. If you require an even longer run-time, you might consider industrial-grade shredders like the HSM Powerline FA 500.3 or the Intimus 16.50, which can run continuously without overheating. These industrial shredders are designed for heavy-duty use and are ideal for large offices or organizations with significant shredding needs.
Which paper shredders offer the easiest and most efficient maintenance and cleaning?
When it comes to paper shredders, there are several models that offer easy and efficient maintenance and cleaning. One such option is the Fellowes Powershred 79Ci. This shredder comes with a feature called the "100% Jam Proof System," which helps prevent paper jams and ensures smooth operation. Additionally, it has a pull-out bin design that makes it convenient to empty and clean.
Another excellent choice is the Swingline GBC Paper Shredder. This shredder has a self-cleaning feature that automatically removes any paper debris that could cause jams. It also has a large bin capacity, reducing the frequency of emptying.
For heavy-duty use, the HSM SECURIO B32 offers easy maintenance and cleaning. It has a robust cutting unit that can handle high volumes of paper, and its automatic oiler ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan. The pull-out bin and removable waste bag make it convenient to empty and clean.
Ultimately, the easiest and most efficient maintenance and cleaning will depend on your specific needs and preferences. I recommend considering factors such as capacity, jam prevention features, and ease of access to the cutting unit and waste bin when choosing a paper shredder.