Best 6 Small Paper Shredders: Models Small In Size But Big In Performance




Are you interested in small paper shredders?

In this review, you will learn about benefits of owning smaller devices. In our buying guide, you’ll find all the necessary information before purchase so you can be sure that small machine is your first choice.

Our Top Picks

Fellowes Powershred P-35C picksFellowes P-35C Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★★
This compact cross-cut shredder features a 5-sheet capacity, 2 minutes of run time and a safety lock button.
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AmazonBasics picksAmazonBasics Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
AmazonBasics is an affordable device with reverse function and thermal protection against overhating.
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GBC Paper Shredder PS06-02 picksGBC PS06-02 Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
This is a cheap stripcut type, with small dimensions wihch makess it great for personal use.
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What Kind of Shredder Offer Are There?

Mini-sized models come in different styles and are usually small enough to store away when not in use. Moreover, they can be operated manually, by batteries, or have a power cable.

Manual Options
You don’t need any power source for it, besides your hands. They consist of a basket and a top with blades and a turning knob. By turning the knob, the blades rotate and shred paper you put inside the cutting throat on top of the machine.

Battery-Powered Options
Some tiny models are powered by batteries. They can have batteries or can sometimes even be powered by USB. Compared to manual ones we mentioned above, these usually don’t come with a basket. They are a handheld device with buttons and a cutting throat where you feed the paper.

small electric paper shredder

Mini Electric Options
The last option are miniature electric models. They are great for personal use and home offices, as well as any other spaces with access to electricity.

Shredder Without A Basket
Models without a basket are also consideres smaller than average. They are lightweight and only come with a cutting head where you feed the paper. One advantage of these shredders is their extendable arm so you can fit them on different basket sizes. After use, you can store them away without them taking up too much space.

What Types Of Cuts Are There?

There are three main kinds of shredder cuts out there. Firstly, strip-cut models cut paper into long strips and thus offers the lowest level of security. This type is usually for manual models. Secondly, a device with a cross-cut mechanism cuts paper into shorter strips. Because of this, it offers a higher level of security and can be found on small-sized machines. Finally, a micro-cut shredders are usually reserved for bigger models with more complicated cutting mechanism, producing very small cuts for confidential documents.

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

Why Use A Small Machine?

A mini office appliance has many advantages and functions for an occasional user. To find out if such a shredder really is the one for you, we have explained its uses and functions below.

Who Is A Mini Version For?

The version that comes in a small size is a good choice for people who shred paper occasionally and in small volumes. For example, you want to get rid of your personal documents – bills, mail, bank statements, etc. They are also the right pick for those who live in small spaces (apartments, RVs) or need to take it along with them when traveling. Another advantage is that these models are affordable. They have small baskets, low sheet capacity, and short-run size.

What To Look For In Small Paper Shredders?

what to look for in a small paper shredder

Small Size For Light Use

The main characteristic of these typesof devices is that they are compact. Check the dimensions of the product to make sure that it fits the space you had in mind for it. For example, some models are only as high as 10 inches or less.

Small Sheet Capacity

These shredders usually don’t have a large sheet capacity. You can find them with only two sheets per single pass. If that is too low sheet capacity for you, they can also have from 1 to 10 sheets at a time.

Short Run Time

As they are tiny compared to bigger models, they have a short run time of around 2 minutes usually. Cooldown periods after run-time are sometimes even between 20 and 40 minutes.

Bin Capacity

Because they are small, these models can’t have a large wastebasket capacity. The average size is from 1 to 10 gallons. Some models have an in-between capacity of around 3 gallons, too.

Best 6 Mini Paper Shredders

Fellowes P-35C Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-4
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 12.6 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches
Weight: 7.9 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 3 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 5 sheets

Personal Use
The Fellowes P-35C is 12.6 inches high, 13.8 inches wide and has a depth of 7.9 inches. It weighs 7.9 pounds, so it is easy to move it wherever you need it – under your desk, on the desk, in the corner of the room. It is small and fits everywhere.

Fellowes Powershred P-35C

P-4 Security Level
This model shreds with the cross-cut method which makes it P-4 security level. It is also known as confetti cut or diamond cut type. It is good for sensitive documents because it provides a medium level of security. it can shred credit cards, staples and paper clips.

Lift-Off Wastebasket
You can feed the Fellowes with five sheets of paper per single pass. The wastebasket capacity is 3 gallons. The bin has a lift-off head, so you need to remove the head and throw the shredded papers. Fellowes runs continuously for up to 2 minutes, then it requires a cooling down period of 20 minutes.

Fellowes Powershred P-35C review

Safety Lock Feature
You can find the safety lock button on top of the head. That means it won’t work when the lock button is on whcih makes it a safety feature if you have kids or pets. The button will disable the shredder until you move it in unlock position.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $90 – $100
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • it runs for up to 2 minutes before a cool-down period of 20 minutes
  • shreds the plastic credit cards, staples and paper clips
  • shreds five sheets of paper per pass with the cross-cut method
  • the safety Lock button locks the shredder for use
  • lift-off wastebasket with a 3-gallon capacity

AmazonBasics Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-3
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 12.1 x 7.7 x 15 inches
Weight: 8 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 3.8 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 6 sheets

Low Price
AmazonBasic has 12.10 x 7.70 x 15 inches. It is simple to move it because it has only 8 pounds. If you have a space on your desk, this mini model will fit and its price is affordable.

AmazonBasics 6-Sheet

Auto Mode
It shreds up to 6 sheets of paper per single pass. Also, it destroys credit cards, CDs, DVDs. Before you feed the paper, you don’t have to remove paper clips or staples too. If you switch the auto mode, the shredder will start and stop automatically.

Thermal Protection
If there is unshredded or partially shredded paper, use the reverse function. That function prevents paper jams and cleans stuck paper. The thermal protection will immediately shut off the device to prevent overheating. Keep in mind that is not for sensitive documents, it meets the P-3 security level only.

AmazonBasics review

Easy To Maintain
The maintenance is a breeze. You can buy lubricate sheets or lubricant and you don’t have to do it more than once a month. The bin capacity is 3.8 gallons which is ok for a small machine.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $30 – $45
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • cross-cut with low-security level
  • it shreds up to 6 sheets per single pass
  • thee control-switch modes – on, off and reverse
  • short run time of up to 2 minutes
  • thermal protection prevents motor from overheating
  • not designed for confidential documents

GBC PS06-02 Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-2
Shred Type: Strip-Cut
Dimensions: 11.3 x 6.1 x 12.6 inches
Weight: 5 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 3.8 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 6 sheets

Strip-cut Type
The GBC PS06-02, is the smaller option on this list. It has 11.3 x 6.1 x 12.6 inches and it weighs 5 pounds. You can put it on your desk, without reorganizing the desk. It is a strip cut type, so it shreds paper into long strips.

GBC Paper Shredderr

Low Sheet Capacity
Because of the strip-cut method, don’t use this GBC PS06-02 for secure and confidential documents. The maximum is 6 sheets of paper per single pass, but it is better to put 5 or fewer papers once.

Basic Security Level
The official security level is P-2, a basic security level. You can shred paper clips and staples, but don’t use it for CDs and DVDs. The device runs for up to 2 minutes continuously. The wastebasket has a small capacity of 2.38 gallons.

GBC Paper Shredder review

Manual Reverse Function
If you put too much paper into the machine, paper jams occur. When that happens, use the manual reverse feature, it. It will reverse the blades and shred the stuck paper again. Also, the blades are covered, so you can’t harm your fingers or hand.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $35 – $50
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, GBC) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • mini paper shredder for an affordable price
  • manual reverse function for paper jams
  • strip cut type for non-confidential documents
  • it shreds paper clips, paper and staples
  • low sheet capacity and bin capacity

Bonsaii C237-B Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-3
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 11.8 x 7.1 x 14.3 inches
Weight: 6.39 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 3.4 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 6 sheets

Portable Handle
Bonsaii 237-B has 14.1 inches of height, 11.8 inches of width and 7 inches of depth. It is lightweight, there are 6 pounds. There is a portable handle on top of the devic so you can lift it and empty the bin. You can see if the bin is full through transparent window.

Bonsaii C237-B

P-3 Security Level
The wastebasket has a higher capacity, 3.4 gallons or 13 liters. This cross-cut shreds papers into tiny particles of 13/64 x 1-37/64 inches. The security level is P-3, so it’s not for sensitive documents. It is able to shreds up to 6 sheets per single pass.

Credit Cards, Paper, Staples,…
You don’t have to remove staples and paper clips when you feed papers to the machine. Also, you can shred credit cards, but just one at the time. Bonsaii runs continuously for 4 minutes before it needs to cool down for 40 minutes. It is good for small offices.

Bonsaii C237-B review

Overheating Protection
If you run it over its limit, the motor will start to overheat and the device will stop working. Don’t try to pull out the paper, just shut off the machine. Put it in auto mode, then Bonsaii will automatically turn on/off, which saves energy.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $155 – $230
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • it’s a home office cross-cut model
  • shreds up to 6 sheets of paper per single pass
  • convenient handle for easy bin emptying
  • the wastebasket has a capacity of 3.4 gallons
  • auto-start mode improves using the shredder
  • the reverse mode will clean up the paper jams

Aurora AS420C Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-3
Shred Type: Cross-Cut
Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 10 inches
Weight: 1 Pound
Bin Capacity: 1.32 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 6 sheets

Cross-cut Shredder
Aurora AS420C is a desktop shredder machine. It measures 9 x 7 x 10 inches and weighs 1 pound only. It is available in grey color. This is cross-cut, able to shred paper and credit cards, but put only one credit card at a time.

Aurora AS420C

Quality Cutters
Cutters made of quality and durable steel are inside the machine. Before you put the paper into the feed slot, you need to fold it four times. The throat width is 45 inches. The machine has a handle so you can lift the head and empty the bin.

Three Modes
This tiny model is able to shred 4 papers at the time. The wastebasket volume is 1.32 gallons or approximately 40 sheets of paper. You can choose between three modes – auto/on, off and reverse. When the device is on or in the standby position, the LED indicator is on.

Aurora AS420C review

Detachable Power Cord
Aurora features manual reverse mode, so you can easily clean up if the paper is jammed. Also, it comes with thermal protection, so if the device starts to overheat, it will shut off immediately. The run time lasts for up to 2 minutes, then the cool-down time is required.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $30 – $40
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, Target) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • small and compact machine
  • it shreds paper and credit cards
  • three modes – auto/on, off and reverse
  • overheating protection prolongs motor life
  • the detachable power cord is included in the package

Kikar Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-1
Shred Type: Strip-Cut
Dimensions: 11.3 x 3.9 x 2.50 inches
Weight: 15.2 ounces
Bin Capacity: None
Sheet Capacity: 2 sheets

Handheld Shredder
The Kikar is a handheld machine. You can take it and use it wherever you go, it is compact and fits in every bag. Its dimensions are 11.30 x 3.90 x 2.50 inches and this device weighs less than 1 pound. Also, the price is low.

KIKAR usb shredder review

Strip-cut Type
The package contains Kikar portable shredder, USB to DC power cable and user manual. This mini device is great for people who travel a lot and for those who don’t have much space. Kikar shreds the paper into thin strips, so it’s not for sensitive documents.

Batteries Or USB
Kikar is able to run on four AA batteries or a USB port. The feed slot is 4 inches wide. For easy control, there are two buttons: forward and reverse button. If paper stuck into the machine, switch the reverse button and shred the paper again.

KIKAR usb shredder

Fold The Paper
This battery-powered machine comes with a carrying strap, you can put it around your hand during shredding. Kikar doesn’t produce a loud noise, so if you use it in the office, it won’t disturb your colleagues.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $30 – $40
determined by online offer (Amazon, eBay) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • USB or battery-powered type
  • small and lightweight
  • strip-cut method for shredding
  • runs on 4 AA batteries if there isn’t a USB port
  • quiet operation for a comfortable workplace

How Do You Use A Paper Shredder?

Depending on the type of shredder you have, they are operated differently. For electric models, you will have to turn them on and then feed the paper into the slot opening. The paper will then shred. You will have to stand above the bin if you have a handheld model that comes without the basket. If you have a manual model, you will have to do hand-cranking by turning the knob to shred paper.

how to use small paper shredder

What Can You Use Instead?

If you do not want to invest in a shredder with small dimensions (even though they are quite affordable), there are many alternative ways to destroy paper. For example, you can burn documents by lighting them on fire. Another way to get rid of them would be to turn them into pulp. Alternatively, you can hire a paper shredding service to do it for you. Likewise, you can also censor sensitive data on papers to protect it before discarding it.

Final Verdict

We recommend the Fellowes P35-C paper shredder from this list. It runs for up to 2 minutes, has a 5-sheet capacity, safety lock feature and 3-gallon bin capacity. More small options, you can read the post about compact paper shredders. If you shred papers occasionally, consider personal paper shredders.




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.