Buying Guide for the Best Fellowes Paper Shredders
Choosing the right paper shredder involves understanding your specific needs and the key features that different models offer. Paper shredders are essential for protecting sensitive information, whether at home or in the office. To make an informed decision, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your requirements.Shred TypeThe shred type determines how the paper is cut. There are three main types: strip-cut, cross-cut, and micro-cut. Strip-cut shredders cut paper into long strips and are the least secure. Cross-cut shredders cut paper into small pieces, offering a higher level of security. Micro-cut shredders provide the highest security by turning paper into tiny confetti-like particles. Choose strip-cut for basic needs, cross-cut for moderate security, and micro-cut for highly sensitive documents.
Sheet CapacitySheet capacity refers to the number of sheets a shredder can handle at once. This is important for efficiency. Small capacity shredders (up to 10 sheets) are suitable for occasional use at home. Medium capacity shredders (10-20 sheets) are ideal for small offices. High capacity shredders (20+ sheets) are best for larger offices with frequent shredding needs. Consider how much paper you typically need to shred at one time to choose the right capacity.
Run Time and Cool Down TimeRun time is how long a shredder can operate continuously before needing to cool down. Cool down time is the period the shredder needs to rest before it can be used again. Short run times (up to 5 minutes) with longer cool down times are common in home shredders. Longer run times (10-30 minutes) with shorter cool down times are found in office shredders. For heavy use, look for a shredder with a long run time and short cool down time to avoid frequent interruptions.
Bin CapacityBin capacity indicates how much shredded paper the bin can hold. Smaller bins (up to 5 gallons) are suitable for home use, while medium bins (5-10 gallons) are good for small offices. Larger bins (10+ gallons) are necessary for high-volume shredding in larger offices. A larger bin means less frequent emptying, which can be more convenient if you shred a lot of paper regularly.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the shredder is during operation. Lower noise levels (below 60 dB) are ideal for quiet environments like home offices. Medium noise levels (60-70 dB) are acceptable for most office settings. Higher noise levels (above 70 dB) might be disruptive in quiet spaces. Consider where you will be using the shredder and choose a model with an appropriate noise level.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are important to prevent accidents. Look for shredders with features like automatic shut-off when hands are too close, safety locks, and jam protection. These features are especially important if the shredder will be used in a home with children or in a busy office environment. Prioritize safety features to ensure safe operation.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the usability of a shredder. These may include the ability to shred other materials like credit cards, CDs, and staples, as well as features like auto-feed, which allows you to load a stack of paper and let the shredder do the work. Consider what additional features might be useful for your specific needs to get the most out of your shredder.
