Paper shredders

What's behind our paper shredder Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 19 models in paper shredders to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This score is based primarily on speed of shredding mixed paper, effective capacity and convenience. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Speed
This is based on the number of sheets per minute each model could shred.
Effective capacity
The total volume each machine could shred until it stopped.
Convenience
How straightforward, legible and easy to use each model was to use.

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Recommended paper shredders

Recommended paper shredders are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Paper shredder buying guide

To find the paper shredder that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Ratings & recommended paper shredders

Paper shredders (19)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Paper shredder buying guide

We've long recommended that you shred important documents before you dispose of them, especially if they contain vital personal information that identity thieves can use. And unless you want to spend the time dealing with the documents by hand or pay a company to do it for you, the most effective tool is a cross-cut shredder, which slices papers ... Read more