6 Best Paper Shredders for 2026

At a Glance

Category	Product	Why We Picked It
Best overall	Aurora AU1275MA	micro-cut security with auto-feed convenience
Best value	Royal 14MC	high capacity for its price with micro-cut protection
Best for heavy use	Aurora AU120MA	handles 120 sheets automatically
Best budget option	Bonsaii C234-A	reliable micro-cut shredding under $50
Best for small spaces	Amazon Basics 8-Sheet	compact design with solid performance
Also recommended	Fellowes Powershred 79Ci	strong performer for home use with cross-cut security

How we chose and tested

We evaluated shredders based on security level, sheet capacity, noise output, and reliability. Testing considered real-world factors like jam resistance, ease of emptying bins, and continuous run times. Models were assessed for their ability to handle staples, paper clips, and credit cards when specified. Security ratings (P3-P5) and cutting types (micro-cut vs cross-cut) were primary considerations for document protection.

The best paper shredders right now

Aurora AU1275MA - Best overall

This 12-sheet micro-cut shredder delivers top-tier security with practical auto-feed convenience. It turns documents into tiny confetti-sized pieces that are nearly impossible to reconstruct.

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Key highlights

P-4 micro-cut security for maximum document protection
Auto-feed mechanism handles up to 12 sheets automatically
60-minute continuous runtime for larger shredding sessions
Quiet operation compared to similar models
Includes credit card and CD/DVD shredding capability

Pros

Excellent security with micro-cut technology
Convenient auto-feed reduces manual feeding
Longer run time than most home models
Handles multiple media types

Cons

Higher price point than basic models
Larger footprint than compact shredders
Auto-feed mechanism adds complexity

Who it is for: Home offices and small businesses needing high security with convenience features.

Skip if

You only shred occasionally or have very limited space and budget.

Royal 14MC - Best value

This 14-sheet micro-cut shredder offers impressive capacity and security at a competitive price point. It handles nearly twice as much paper as similarly priced models.

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Key highlights

14-sheet capacity for its price category
Micro-cut security (P-4 level)
Continuous operation without overheating
Three-year warranty on cutting mechanism
Costco satisfaction guarantee for members

Pros

Excellent value for micro-cut security
Higher capacity than most budget options
Reliable performance with minimal jamming
Good warranty coverage

Cons

Smaller waste bin than some competitors
Window on bin is quite small
Available through multiple retailers

Who it is for: Households and home offices wanting micro-cut security without premium pricing.

Skip if

You need auto-feed capability or frequently shred large volumes.

Aurora AU120MA - Best for heavy use

With its 120-sheet auto-feed capacity, this model handles serious shredding workloads effortlessly. The auto-feed mechanism lets you walk away while it processes entire stacks.

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Key highlights

Massive 120-sheet auto-feed capacity
Micro-cut security for sensitive documents
5-gallon waste bin reduces emptying frequency
Auto-start feature when paper is detected
Handles staples and paper clips

Pros

Unmatched capacity for home/office use
Saves time with auto-feed functionality
Large bin means less frequent emptying
Consistent performance with various paper types

Cons

Significant footprint requires dedicated space
Premium pricing reflects advanced features
No CD shredding capability

Who it is for: Offices, small businesses, and heavy home users with regular shredding needs.

Skip if

You have limited space or only shred occasionally.

Bonsaii C234-A - Best budget option

This 6-sheet micro-cut shredder proves you don't need to spend a lot for quality document security. It delivers reliable performance at an accessible price point.

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Key highlights

Micro-cut security under $50
6-sheet capacity handles most personal documents
Compact design fits in small spaces
Includes thermal protection against overheating
P4 security level for sensitive information

Pros

Exceptional value for micro-cut security
Compact size works in tight spaces
Reliable performance for basic needs
Good build quality for price

Cons

Lower capacity than some competitors
Manual feed only no autofeed
Smaller waste bin requires frequent emptying

Who it is for: Budget-conscious users wanting micro-cut security for personal documents.

Skip if

You regularly shred more than 6 sheets at once or need autofeed convenience.

Amazon Basics 8-Sheet - Best for small spaces

This compact cross-cut shredder balances performance with space efficiency. It's a solid choice for apartments or offices where desk real estate matters.

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Key highlights

8-sheet cross-cut capacity
Compact footprint saves space
P-4 security level for document protection
Handles staples paper clips and credit cards
Quiet operation mode available

Pros

Space-efficient design
Good security for most personal documents
Handles multiple media types
Affordable pricing

Cons

Cross-cut less secure than micro-cut
Slower than some competitors
Basic features without advanced options

Who it is for: Users with limited space who need reliable document shredding.

Skip if

You require maximum security (micro-cut) or frequently shred large volumes.

Also Good

Fellowes Powershred 79Ci - strong performer for home use with cross-cut security.

How to Choose

Consider these factors when selecting your paper shredder:

Security level: micro-cut (P5) offers the highest security turning documents into confetti. cross-cut (P3/P4) provides good protection for most personal documents. Stripcut is generally not recommended due to reconstruction risks.

Sheet capacity: Match capacity to your typical shredding volume. 6-8 sheets works for occasional personal use 10-14 sheets for home offices and 16+ sheets for regular business use. Autofeed models handle the largest volumes.

Cutting type: micro-cut provides maximum security but creates more waste. cross-cut offers good security with less waste volume. Consider your recycling or disposal setup.

Noise level: Shredders range from moderately noisy to very loud. Look for "quiet" or "silent" modes if you'll use it in shared spaces or during quiet hours.

Additional features: Autofeed saves time for large jobs. CD/credit card slots add versatility. Safety features like automatic shutoff protect against accidents. Casters help with mobility.

FAQ

What's the difference between cross-cut and micro-cut shredders?

cross-cut shredders cut paper into small strips (typically 4x40mm) providing good security for most personal documents. micro-cut shredders create tiny confetti-like pieces (about 2x12mm) offering maximum security for sensitive financial or medical information.

How many sheets should my shredder handle?

For occasional personal use 6-8 sheets is sufficient. Home offices typically need 10-14 sheets. Small businesses or heavy users benefit from 16+ sheets or autofeed models that handle 100+ sheets automatically.

Can paper shredders handle staples and paper clips?

Most quality shredders can handle staples and small paper clips. Check specifications before purchasing as some budget models may struggle with or be damaged by metal fasteners.

How important is the security rating (P-number)?

P-ratings indicate security levels with higher numbers offering better protection. P3 or P4 works for most personal documents while P5 (micro-cut) is recommended for highly sensitive information like financial records or medical documents.

Do I need a shredder that can destroy CDs and credit cards?

If you regularly dispose of old CDs/DVDs or credit cards this feature adds convenience. However most people can manually destroy these items if needed making it a nice-to-have rather than essential feature.