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BEST PAPER SHREDDERS OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST OF THE BEST
Fellowes Powershred 79Ci
Efficient Cross-Cut Shredder
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Sheet Capacity: 16 sheets
Run Time: 20 minutes
Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
Noise Level: Ultra-Quiet

The Fellowes Powershred 79Ci is a top-of-the-line shredder built for efficiency and durability. It offers cross-cut shredding, which ensures that your documents are shredded into small, confetti-like pieces for maximum security.

The shredder can handle up to 16 sheets per pass and operates for up to 20 minutes continuously before needing a cool-down period. It also features SilentShred technology, which minimizes noise, making it ideal for shared workspaces.

Additionally, the Powershred 79Ci includes a SafeSense feature that stops the shredder when hands touch the paper opening, providing an extra layer of safety.

PROS
  • High sheet capacity
  • Quiet operation
  • Safety features
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Large size
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut
Heavy-Duty Paper Shredder
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Sheet Capacity: 15 sheets
Run Time: 20 minutes
Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
Shreds: Paper, CDs, Credit Cards

The AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder offers robust performance and reliability for those who require a heavy-duty solution. This shredder can handle up to 15 sheets of paper per pass and also shreds CDs, DVDs, and credit cards, making it a multifunctional tool for data protection.

With a continuous run time of 20 minutes, it is perfect for larger shredding tasks. The shredder also features an auto-start and manual reverse to clear paper jams, as well as a 6-gallon pull-out bin for easy disposal of shredded material.

PROS
  • High capacity
  • Shreds multiple materials
  • Affordable
CONS
  • Can be noisy
  • May overheat if overused
Bonsaii DocShred C156-D
Compact Desktop Shredder
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Sheet Capacity: 6 sheets
Run Time: 4 minutes
Bin Capacity: 3.5 gallons
Noise Level: Moderate

The Bonsaii DocShred C156-D is an ideal shredder for personal or small office use. Its compact design allows it to fit comfortably on or under a desk, making it convenient for everyday use. The shredder can handle up to 6 sheets of paper at a time and features cross-cut technology to ensure that your documents are shredded into small, secure pieces.

It also includes a 3.5-gallon wastebasket that is easy to empty. The DocShred C156-D offers a 4-minute continuous run time, making it suitable for light to moderate shredding tasks.

PROS
  • Compact size
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
CONS
  • Lower sheet capacity
  • Short run time
Aurora AU1210MA
High-Security Micro-Cut Shredder
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Sheet Capacity: 12 sheets
Run Time: 60 minutes
Bin Capacity: 5 gallons
Noise Level: Moderate

The Aurora AU1210MA Micro-Cut Shredder is designed for high-security shredding, making it an excellent choice for those who need to protect sensitive information. The micro-cut technology shreds documents into tiny pieces, offering a higher level of security compared to cross-cut shredders.

This model can handle up to 12 sheets per pass and features an impressive 60-minute continuous run time, making it ideal for larger shredding tasks. The AU1210MA also includes anti-jam auto-reverse technology to prevent paper jams and a 5-gallon pull-out bin for easy disposal of shredded material.

PROS
  • High-security shredding
  • Long run time
  • Anti-jam technology
CONS
  • Moderate noise level
  • Higher price
Royal MC14MX
Budget-Friendly Strip-Cut Shredder
Shred Type: Strip-Cut
Sheet Capacity: 14 sheets
Run Time: 10 minutes
Bin Capacity: 6.2 gallons
Noise Level: Moderate

The Royal MC14MX is a budget-friendly strip-cut shredder designed for those who need a simple and effective solution for document disposal. It offers a 14-sheet capacity per pass and features strip-cut technology, which is suitable for less sensitive documents.

The shredder includes a pull-out wastebasket with a 6.2-gallon capacity, making it easy to empty and maintain. With a continuous run time of up to 10 minutes, the MC14MX is perfect for moderate shredding tasks.

It also includes an auto-start and manual reverse function to help clear paper jams.

PROS
  • Affordable price
  • High sheet capacity
  • Easy to empty
CONS
  • Lower security level
  • Moderate noise

How our picks compare

SpecificationFellowes Powershred 79CiAmazonBasics 15-Sheet Cross-CutBonsaii DocShred C156-DAurora AU1210MARoyal MC14MX
Shred TypeCross-CutCross-CutCross-CutMicro-CutStrip-Cut
Sheet Capacity16 sheets15 sheets6 sheets12 sheets14 sheets
Run Time20 minutes20 minutes4 minutes60 minutes10 minutes
Bin Capacity6 gallons6 gallons3.5 gallons5 gallons6.2 gallons
Noise LevelUltra-Quiet-ModerateModerateModerate
Shreds-Paper, CDs, Credit Cards---