Best 6 Large Paper Shredders: Time To Destroy The Biggest Paper Piles




Do you want to buy a big paper shredder?

Continue reading this review, because here you’ll find out about theirs capacity, dimensions, bin capacity, run time and other useful information. Read our buying guide and once you compare those six models, you will find the best one for your requirements.

Our Top Picks

Swingline DM11-13 picksSwingline DM11-13 Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★★
This shredder uses many intelligent features, like self-cleaning cutters, SelfOil feature and Power save mode.
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Bonsaii 4S30 picksBonsaii 4S30 Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
Bonsaii has the ability to shred 240 minutes, it takes up 10 sheets of paper and a separate bin for CDs and credit cards.
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ideal. 2465 picksIdeal. 2465 Big Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
Besides the P-5 security level, this shredder runs continuously, has a powerful 3/4 motor and 11-sheet capacity.
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What Is The Size Of Big Shredders, Exactly?

When we say giant paper shredders, we don’t have a unified explanation of what it is. It is any kind of electronic device that shreds paper into small particles and can have either a big bin capacity, large dimensions, a high sheet capacity, or can even be used by multiple users.

Big Bin Capacity

For a shredding machine to be considered large, it should have at least a 15-gallon waste bin or bigger. On the market, you can even find heavy-duty shredders with bins as big as 76 gallons. The bigger the bin, the more shredded paper can be stored before emptying.

what is big paper shredder

Large Dimensions

The bigger the waste bin, the bigger the dimensions. Likewise, the dimensions are also determined by the size of the feeding throat where you feed the paper for shredding. They are not suitable for small offices and other small spaces.

Large Sheet Capacity

A large capacity model has to shred at least 10 sheets per pass. Sometimes, the sheet capacity can even be as large as 70+ paper sheets. Never exceed the maximum sheet capacity, as it can cause problems such as paper jams, slowing the motor down, or even overheating it.

Multiuser Operation

Shredders with large dimensions are designed for commercial use, departments, warehouses, or big offices. They are intended for multiple people, it can be 10+ users. The more people, the more shredding material.

big shredder for big office

Big Vs. Industrial Vs. Heavy-Duty

A big shredder is one that has a large size for a bin or sheet capacity, while industrial ones work for bulk shredding. On the other hand, a heavy-duty model is suitable for continuously shredding high volumes of paper. One common feature for all of them are their dimensions.

When Is This Option Suitable For Use?

Picking a big shredder for your office, department, or business brings along many benefits. It is part of standard office equipment and having it will help you and your team become more efficient while keeping your data safe.
Protects sensitive data – by cross-cutting or micro-cutting your documents, you can safely dispose them without worrying about identity theft or someone using your business data against you
Can shred continuously – some models do not need cooldown time so that you can continuously destroy your documents without waiting
Shred more paper in less time – with the high sheet capacity, you will be able to get rid of more paper per pass
Better efficiency – your office staff and employees will be more efficient if they can shred their paper faster before they can go back to other tasks
Saves space – despite taking up a lot of space with the giant dimensions, models like these will eventually save you space by destroying unnecessary documents

Look For The Following In Giant Shredders

Before you can decide on a suitable machine, you have to learn about its specifications.

Cut Type

They come in two cut types usually – cross-cut and micro-cut. A cross-cut cuts paper into short strips while micro-cut models creates even smaller particles. The first one offers a medium level of security and the latter a higher level of security. Choose cross-cut for shredding paper that does not contain sensitive information and micro-cut to destroy confidential documents.

paper shredder Cut Type

Sheet Capacity

If you want a truly big machine, do not look for models that cut less than 30 sheets of paper per pass. Sometimes, you can even pick a model that cuts over 300 pages. The larger sheet capacity is ideal if you have a lot of shredding to do regularly.

Bin Capacity

It isn’t practical if you have to shred a high amount of paper and your shredder features a low-volume bin. The bin capacity should be appropriate, choose between 15 gallons and more. For bin, you can use plastics bags or reusable bags.

Run Time

Some of the models are able to run 60 minutes, 4 hours, or even continuously, without stopping. Choose the run time depending on the amount of paper you need to shred.

Jam-Proof

Large, durable shredders usually have anti-jam technology. This is helpful, as you do not want to have to sort out a paper jam of, for example, 50 paper sheets. This technology will prevent the paper from getting stuck, thus saving you the trouble.

What Can They Shred?

Besides shredding paper, most models are also suitable for cutting through harder materials. For instance, some can even cut through bank cards, staples, paper clips, cardboard, and even CDs and DVDs.

cd and paper shredder

Noise Level

Bigger machines might make more noise than small ones, as they cut through more paper sheets at once. Look for a model that makes around 60 decibels for comfortable office settings.

Auto-Lubrication

If you do not want the hassle of manually oiling blades all the time, you should invest in a model with auto-lubrication. This way, the blades will always be oiled and cut smoothly and without squeaking.

Auto-Feed Feature

Models with auto-feed allow you to put hundreds of papers into the auto-feed tray which will then cut without you having to feed it into the opening slot manually. Choose this if you do not want to stand next to it to feed it all time.

How Much Does A Large Paper Shredder Cost?

You won’t be able to get a this giant machine without spending at least over $500. Usually, auto-feed models will cost you up to about $1500, while industrial-grade large models cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Best 6 Big Paper Shredders

Swingline DM11-13 Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 14 x 19 x 24 inches
Weight: 71 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 13 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 11 sheets

Pricey Item
The Swingline DM11-13 comes with 14 x 19 x 24 inches dimensions. This machine weighs 71 pounds. Don’t worry about its weight, there are four casters, so it’s easy to move it around and put it where you need it. It has a high price.

Swingline DM11-13

Micro-cut Shredder
This machine cuts the paper into tiny particles, it’s a micro-cut type. Besides the paper, the shredder shreds credit cards, paper clips and staples. Insert all of your sensitive documents into the slot, the Swingline features high-security level, P-5. Nobody can steal your private information.

Jam-free Indicator
The maximum number of papers you can insert into this machine is 11 sheets at the time. The pull-out bag is able to hold up to 13 gallons. The jam-free indicator delivers two lights, the red light means there is too much paper inserted and the green light means, there is room for more papers.

Swingline DM11-13 review

Self-cleaning Cutters
The Swingline features Intelligent self-cleaning cutters. The sensors detect if some shreds are stuck, they clean the shreds automatically. This feature minimalizes paper jams. There are more intelligent features; the power saving mode and the SelfOil which automatically lubricates cutters and ensures smooth shredding.

RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★★
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★★
Size: ★★★★★
Weight: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE

approx: $1,250 – $1,450
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • large machine with casters
  • it provides a high-security level, P-5
  • shreds credit cards, clips and staples
  • pull-out bin has a 13-gallon capacity
  • insert 11 sheets of paper at the time
  • self-cleaning cutters and self-oil feature

Bonsaii 4S30 Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 16.14 x 12.6 x 24.57 inches
Weight: 38.58 pounds
Bin Capacity: 7.9 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 10 sheets

Stylish Design
Bonsaii 4S30 is an elegant paper shredder available in white color. It will fit in any office or home decor. The dimensions are 16.14 x 12.60 x 24.57 inches. The weight is 38 pounds. Bonsaii is designed with four casters, but you can remove them.

Solid Steel Cutters
The cutters are made of the quality and durable steel, so this device is able to shred the paper as well as credit cards, CDs and DVDs. It features a separate bin for CDs/DVDs and credit cards. That bin holds up to 0.37 gallons. The paper bin has a capacity of 7.9 gallons.

Bonsaii 4S30 review

P-5 Security Level
This is a micro-cut machine destroys paper into tiny particles of 5/64 x 25/64 inches. You can completely rely on it. Insert maximally 10 sheets of paper at the time. The continuous running time last 240 minutes, which is 4 hours of continuous shredding.

Patented Cooling System
Because of the patented cooling system, the cool-down time lasts only 10 minutes. Bonsaii features auto-start/stop and the reverse functions. If you insert too much paper into the paper slot, the device will automatically reverse the cutters. The shredding isn’t loud, there are 58dB for a comfortable environment.

RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★★
Size: ★★★★☆
Weight: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE

approx: $269 – $279
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • heavy-duty micro-cut with P-5 security level
  • 240 minutes of continuous running time
  • auto-reverse and auto-start/stop features
  • max 10 sheets of paper at the time
  • overheating and overload protection
  • separate bin for CDs/DVDs and credit cards

Ideal. 2465 Big Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-7
Shred Type: Super Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 11.75 x 15.5 x 28.75 inches
Weight: 40 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 9 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 9-11 sheets

3-year Warranty
Ideal. 2465 office is a large white device. It measures 28.75 inches of height, 15.5 inches of width and 11.75 inches of depth. It weighs approximately 40 pounds, so there are wheels for easy mobility. The price is affordable for this category and the device comes with a 3-year warranty.

ideal. 2465

Criss-cross Particles
It ensures the P-5 security level, it destroys the paper into the criss-cross pieces of 3/16 x 1-1/2 inches. It shreds staples, clips and credit cards. The motor delivers 3/4 horsepower and it is able to shred 11 sheets of paper at the time.

Optimal Noise Level
The Ideal is a fast electric shredder, it can shred 324 papers per minute. It is designed for multiple users, max 4 people. It runs continuously and the cool-down period is minimal. Also, it delivers an optimal noise level, which won’t disturb you or your colleagues.

ideal. 2465 review

Safety Feature
Above the paper entry, there is a safety flap. It protects your hands, fingers, ties or other objects from cutting shafts. The jam prevention technology uses an auto-reverse feature which automatically detects too much paper and reverses the blades. The bin holds up to 9 gallons.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★★
Size: ★★★★☆
Weight: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★☆

PRICE

approx: $900 – $1000
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • powerful cross-cut paper shredder
  • it reaches a high-security level, P-5
  • runs continuously with a short cool-down period
  • easy-to-remove bin with a 9-gallon capacity
  • transparent safety shield protects hands

GBC 1757576S Auto-feed Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-4
Shred Type: Super Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 19.0 x 13.9 x 25.3 inches
Weight: 45.2 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 11 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 300 sheets

Auto-feed Shredder
The GBC isn’t a manual shredder, it’s an auto-feed machine. That means you can insert a stack of paper into the auto-feed tray and leave the device to do the work. The max capacity is 300 sheets of paper. This is heavy-duty device intended for 5 to 10 users.

GBC Paper Shredder

Remote Control
It works with the SmarTech app. Download the app on your smartphone and track it. You’ll receive notifications when the shredding is complete or there are any issues. This supper cross-cut device ensures a P-4 security level, which is enough for confidential documents.

Paper Shredder With Large Bin
This machine runs 30 minutes continuously, then it requires 30 minutes of the cool-down period. It works ultra quietly. The pull-out wastebasket provides a large capacity of 11 gallons. You don’t have to empty it so frequently. You can use manual feed and insert up to 8 sheets per pass.

GBC Paper Shredder

Intelligent Features
The GBC features self-cleaning cutters, there is no need for manual oiling. Also, there is Auto+ jam Clearance, which provides smooth shredding without paper jams. The Power save mode conserves energy when the device is in standby mode.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★★
Size: ★★★★☆
Weight: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE

approx: $1900 – $2100
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • it accepts up to 300 sheets per pass
  • insert 8 sheets of paper for manual shredding
  • no maintenance with self-cleaning cutters
  • energy efficient product with the power save mode
  • control the device remotely with the app

Fellowes Powershred 425Ci Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-4
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 37.25 x 20 x 22 inches
Weight: 17.28 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 30 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 30 sheets

For Large Offices
The Fellowes Powershred is a heavy-duty office document cutter. It is suitable for commercial use and large offices. Powershred has 37 inches of height, 20 inches of width and 22 inches of depth. It weighs 17.28 pounds, but don’t worry, this device is mounted on the wheels.

30 Sheets Per Pass
This cross-cut machine has the ability to shred 30 sheets of paper per single pass. Also, Fellowes shreds credit cards, paper with staples and clips, junk mail, CDs and DVDs. The paper entry is 12 inches wide, you don’t have to fold the paper. This shredder can be used by 10+ users.

Fellowes Powershred Heavy-Duty review

No Cool-down Period
Powershred provides a medium-security level, P-4, it shreds the paper into the particles of 5/32 x 1-1/8 inches. The bin has a capacity of 30 gallons or 113 liters. Because of the powerful motor which delivers 1.9 HP, it is able to run continuously.

Rapid Paper Shredder
Besides the high sheet capacity, this shredder destroys the paper quickly. Its shredding speed is 20 feet per minute. You don’t have to oil it, there is auto-oil technology. Tt doesn’t produce a loud noise, there are 75 decibels. Also, there are SafeSense technology and jam-proof system.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★☆
Size: ★★★★☆
Weight: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE

approx: $2600 – $3000
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • powerful cross-cut with 1.9 HP
  • it shreds paper with clips and staples, CDs/DVDs, credit cards
  • it runs continuously without stopping
  • max sheet capacity per pass is 30 papers
  • the bin holds up to 30 gallons
  • the shredding speed is 20 feet per minute
  • SafeSense technology protects hands and fingers

HSM 450.2c Industrial Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-4
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 16.88 x 20.88 x 15 inches
Weight: 2352 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 76 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 85 sheets

Industrial Shredder Machine
HSM 450.2c is an industrial paper shredder. It features a sturdy continuous duty motor. The motor uses a chain drive power to shred the different materials. The HSM is available in white color, it is a device with durable casters for easy mobility.

Floppy Discs, USB Sticks
It shreds the papers in a cross-cut way, so the particles are very small and unreadable. Besides the paper, it is able to destroy paper with clips and staples, CDs/DVDs, credit cards, floppy discs, USB sticks. That is possible because of solid steel cutting rollers.

HSM 450.2c Industrial Shredder review

LED Display
When this device detects some material, it will start to shred automatically. When the shredding is finished, the device will shut off. For convenient and safe loading, there is a large hopper. On the control panel, there is a keypad with an LED display, you can see operation status anytime.

Anti-jam Technology
You can insert 85 sheets of paper in it. Also, it comes with rather large bin capacity, it holds up to 76 gallons. When the jam is detected, the HSM automatically switches the device into the reverse mode. This shredder features continuous duty operation.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★☆
Size: ★★★★☆
Weight: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE

approx: 8,885 – $10,299
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • it shreds USB sticks, floppy discs, CDs, credit cards
  • the motor provides continuous duty operation
  • it accepts 85 sheets of paper at the time
  • auto-reverse mode prevents paper jams

Which Security Level Is Good For You?

Shredders made for this situation do not have strip-cut mechanisms, we will ignore P-1, P-2, and P-3 security levels here. If you are going to shred junk mail and other personal documents, you won’t have to invest in more than a P-4 or P-5. If you are dealing with classified and highly sensitive information, you will have to go for a P-6 or P-7 shredders. P-1 is the lowest level of security and P-7 the highest.

types of paper shredder cuts (strip-cut vs cross-cut vs micro-cut)

Is Cross-Cut Or Micro-Cut Better?

If you have the luxury, it is recommended to buy a micro-cut shredder even for personal use. However, if you are going to shred papers that contain no sensitive or confidential information, you won’t have to splash out, so a cross-cut type will be enough.

Alternative Ways To Destroy Large Stacks Of Paper

If you are not interested in destroying large amounts of paper with the help of a shredder, there are different ways you can still get rid of your papers and make them unreadable. For example, you can burn them. Likewise, you can even soak them in water and bleach. If you are not interested in doing any of this yourself, you can always hire a professional service that will shred your documents for you.

Final Verdict

As you can see, there are many good machines on this list. But, we recommend the Swingline DM11-13 paper shredder. It self-cleaning cutters, Power-save mode, self-oil and its capacity is 11 sheets of paper. If you are interested in large capacity shredders, check out the review of high capacity devices. In the next post about 20 sheet paper shredders, read about shredders which shred a large amount of paper per single pass.




Melissa
Melissa is a freelance writer with a Bachelor of Economy. She became one of the OfficeNeedle team members in 2020. Her expertise in business management lies in 6-year experience working in 3 companies which allowed her to improve her business skills. The knowledge she has received through her work, she presents in the educational articles helping many people who start or run a business. Her secret love is design so she writes also about office furniture and equipment.