Cut Paper Shredder
In an era of identity theft, it’s essential to protect personal information by shredding sensitive documents before disposing of them. Unless you want to spend a lot of time shredding by hand or hire someone to do it for you, the best option is to invest in a small paper shredder that can quickly and quietly handle many sheets at once. A cross-cut model, which slices papers into long strips that can’t be pieced back together, is ideal for most users, although the security level of a strip-cut model may not be enough for some businesses.
To help you find the best small paper shredder for your needs, we’ve rounded up our top picks below. Each offers a decent level of security and a comfortable work capacity for an affordable price. For those looking to make a more significant investment, we’ve also included some high-volume options that will tackle larger stacks in one pass.
With a maximum capacity of 18 sheets, this small office paper shredder can easily handle most daily workloads. Its oversized feed opening can accommodate thicker stacks, minimizing the need for frequent trips to empty the bin. A safety angled feed entry helps prevent accidents and a convenient reverse function helps clear jams, streamlining operational efficiency. The paper shredder can even destroy CDs, DVDs and credit cards into tiny particles measuring 3/32 by 1-7/32 inches, offering extra security for more sensitive data.
Heavy Duty Mini Cross Cut Paper Shredder
If you’re concerned about the amount of noise a small paper shredder can produce, look for a model with an exceptionally low decibel rating. We’ve recorded each of the models in our testing side-by-side to measure how loud they are and which produce a less grating, lower-pitched hum rather than a nails-on-a-chalkboard-style shriek that can irritate coworkers and clients alike.
The Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Paper Shredder is an inexpensive option that’s suitable for a home office, offering the ability to destroy up to six pages at once and handles staples and paper clips. Its automatic oiling system lubricates the blades based on motor run time, reducing maintenance costs and keeping your shredder running smoothly. A transparent window allows you to keep an eye on the shredded buildup, and the unit shuts off automatically when it detects hands near the feed opening for added safety.
The X-Cut P-4 Paper Shredder features an auto-reverse function that ensures all of your confidential papers are properly destroyed, even when you’re handling large amounts at once. It’s designed for ultra-quiet operation and has a large, 9-gallon pullout bin to minimize the frequency of emptying. A red and green LED indicator lights help you stay on top of the shredder’s performance, and a full bin alert lets you know when it’s time to empty. This model also comes with a generous one-year warranty to provide additional peace of mind.
