6 Best P5 Paper Shredders: Destroy Most Important Documents The Right Way




Are you looking for high-security p5 paper shredder for your work?

Then continue reading this post!

Here you will learn the difference between the all shredder types currently available on the market. After reading a buying guide, you’ll be able to find the P5 model for your requirements.

Our Top Picks

Bonsaii 5S30 Paper Shredder picksBonsaii 4S23 Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★★
This device provides high security, with overheating, overloading and paper jam protection.
Jump To Review

Aurora AU1060MA SummaryAurora AU1060MA Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
Aurora is a great micro-cut machine with a 10-sheet capacity, 6-gallon of bin capacity and 60 minutes of run time.
Jump To Review

Fellowes 450M Paper Shredder SummaryFellowes 450M Paper Shredder
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
The Fellowes is designed for small offices or home use, it features short run time and medium bin capacity.
Jump To Review

P-5 Level: Explained

P-5 offers a high level of security, shredding an A4-sized paper into at least 2000 pieces. This type of machine works with the cross-cut mechanism but does not create particles small enough to be approved by NSA for confidential information.

What Type Of Cut Is P-5?

P-5 is an in-between model of cross-cut shredders and micro-cut shredders. It creates cross-cut particles with an area equal to or less than 30 mm square. Those particles also have to be 2 millimeters wide or less.

P5 paper shredder cutting specs

P-4 Vs P-5 Vs P-6

DIN 66399 laid out the principles for 7 security levels, from P-1 to P-7. P-4 is a cross-cut type with particles only ≤ 160 mm² with width ≤ 6mm. Moreover, P-5 is a tinier cross-cut model with particle width ≤ 2 mm and an area of only ≤ 30 mm². Finally, the P-6 cuts paper into tiny ≤ 10 mm² particles with width ≤ 1 mm. Out of those three, P-4 is the least secure and P-6 is the most secure way of shredding paper.

What Is The Strongest P-5 Device?

The strongest models with a P-5 level are those that can run for around 120 minutes before they need to cool off. Also, the maximum sheet capacity is around 15 sheets per pass. Furthermore, they can be so strong that they only need around 10 minutes to cool off before you can use them again.

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

Look For These Features When Picking

With the abundance of models available to choose from, you will be able to pick the right one for yourself if you consider the following features.

Run Time

Depending on the model and brand, some P-5 machines can run even for an hour or two and have a recovery time of only around 10 minutes. However, some other models can run for only 10 minutes before they need to cool off. If you need to cut a lot of paper in one go, choose a model with a longer run time.

How Many Sheets Can Level 5 Shredders Take?

Many P-5 machines are intended for office use, so they usually have higher sheet capacity. The sheet capacity goes from 9 to 20 documents. That is pretty enough and that capacity is designed for multiple users.

P5 paper shredder capacity

Speed

Compared to, for example, P-4 models, P-5 ones are slower. That is why you should choose them only if you prefer to have a smaller cut compared to shredding paper faster but into larger particles.

Shredding Different Materials

If you are planning to only shred paper, then every shredder will be suitable for you. However, if you also want to cut CDs, DVDs, bank cards, staples, and paper clips, you will have to check which model is suitable for that.

p5 paper shredder shredding CDs

Protect It From Overheating

The micro-cut is the most demanding shredding method. That is why some shredders have LED lights that indicate if the motor starts to overheat. If that happens, you need to turn the device off and leave it to cool down.

Safety Features

Among other features, it is good to go for a model that has an automatic shut-off function, reverse function, and anti-jam function for the safety reasons.

6 Best P5 Paper Shredders

Bonsaii 4S23 Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 14.4 x 22.4 x 10.6 inches
Weight: 31 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 8 sheets

Big, But Portable
The Bonsaii 4S23 is a powerful device intended for large business. It is available in white color and has 14.4 x 22.4 x 10.6 inches. It is not so light, with 31 pounds of weight. But the Bonsaii features four castors, so you can easily move it where you need it.

Bonsaii 4S23 Paper Shredder

Highly Confidential Documents
It is a micro-cut that provides superior security for highly sensitive documents. The Bonsaii will shred the paper into very small particles of 5/64 by 25/64 inches. You can definitely rely on it and cut the documents with your private information on.

Long Run Time
The sheet capacity is 8 sheets per single pass. Bonsaii is able to shred credit cards, CDs, DVDs and paper. Its continuous run time is 120 minutes and the cooling down period lasts 10 minutes only.

Bonsaii 4S23 Paper Shredder eview

Anti-jam System
During its work, the Bonsaii produces 58 dB only, it is a silent device. Also, it is equipped with an automatic anti-jam system. When it is overload, the Bonsaii automatically reverses the blades and prevents paper jams. The pull out wastebasket has a capacity of 6 gallons.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $220 – $270
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • shreds documents for two hours without pause
  • overloading, overheating and paper jam protections
  • micro-cut paper shredder for sensitive documents
  • portable device with four castors
  • high price, but the warranty last 3 years

Aurora AU1060MA Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 21 x 11 x 15 inches
Weight: 24 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 10 sheets

Aurora Design
Aurora AU1060MA is a professional-grade paper shredder. It features a stylish design and comes in an elegant white color. On the front is a transparent window, so you can easily see if you need to empty the bin. The pull-out basket capacity is 6 gallons.

Aurora AU1060MA Paper Shredder

For Home Office
The Aurora dimensions are 21 x 11 x 15 inches and it weighs 24 pounds. Also, there are castors, so it is easy to move it from one palce to another. This is a micro-cut model with a 10-sheet capacity and the security level is P-5.

LED Indicators
On the top of the shredder, you can find LED indicators. Tey are here for power, standby, overheat, overload, door open and bin-full status. YOu can only cut paper and credit cards, you can’t feed it with CDs and DVDs.

Aurora AU1060MA Paper Shredder Review

Quiet Operation
Aurora features non-stop 60 minutes run time. For paper jams, there is anti-jam auto-reverse and overload auto-reverse. Aurora micro-cut shredder operates quietly, so it won’t distract you while you working.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $150 – $170
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • comes with 10-sheet capacity
  • four casters for easier mobility
  • the ultra-quiet operation for a comfortable environment
  • the run time is 60 minutes without stopping
  • automatic anti-jam technology
  • not for CDs and DVDs
  • stylish design which fits in every office

Fellowes 450M Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 10.3 x 13.8 x 22.3 inches
Weight: 22 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 9 sheets

Medium-sized Item
This Fellowes 450M has 22.25 inches of height, 13.81 inches of width and 10.25 inches of depth. It weighs 22 pounds so the four casters improve mobility. The price is very high, the warranty of the machine lasts 1 year and the cutter warranty lasts 5 years.

Fellowes 450M Paper Shredder

Small Office Device
This 450M model is able to shred up to 9 sheets of paper per single pass. It provides high protection for your sensitive documents, you don’t have to worry about identity theft. It shreds credit cards, staples, small paper clips and CDs, so it is a great choice for the office.

SilentShred Technology
The continuous run time isn’t so long, it last 10 minutes and the cooling down period requires 45 minutes. Fellowes features SilentShred technology which minimalizes the noise level. When you need to use it, it won’t distract other people in the room.

Fellowes 450M Paper Shredder review

Easy To Maintain
If a paper jam occurs, the auto-reverse feature will stop and reverse the paper so you don’t have to clean anything. The pull out bin has 5.8 gallons of capacity. It is simple to maintain this product, you need to oil it once a month or twice if you use it all the time.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $340 – $420
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • it shreds paper, staples, paper clips, CDs and DVDs
  • the SilentShred technology decrease the noise
  • the auto-reverse feature prevents the paper jams
  • short run time of 10 minutes
  • ideal for home use or small offices

Kensington K52077AM Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 18.3 x 14.6 x 11.0 inches
Weight: 31.15 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 10 sheets

Compact Paper Shredder
Kensington K52077AM is small, it has 18.30 x 14.56 x 10.98 inches. It is best for small and medium offices. It will fit under the desk or in the corner of the room. It comes with high-security level and shreds documents, paper clips and staples.

Kensington Heavy-duty paper Shredder

Powerful Device
The sheet capacity is 10 sheets at the time. The wastebasket has a 6-gallon capacity, which means you can feed it with 300 sheets before you need to empty the bin. Kensington is a small but heavy-duty device, it runs 120 minutes without stopping.

Anti-jam Technology
If the paper jams happen, the motor will automatically stop and reverse the blades. You don’t have to disassemble the device to pull the paper out. But, there is an LED light which will turn on if the bin is full so you can avoid the paper jams.

Kensington Heavy-duty paper Shredder review

Touch Panel Buttons
There are touch panel buttons on top. The motor doesn’t produce an annoying and loud sound, it runs quietly. The noise level is 58 decibels, which is equivalent to people talk. Kensington features casters for mobility.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $250 – $280
determined by online offer (Amazon, eBay) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • quiet paper shredder with 2 hours of run time
  • great for a high volume of sensitive documents
  • the sheet capacity is 10 sheets at the time
  • best for small and medium offices
  • touch buttons for easy control
  • LED indicator for a wastebasket status

Dahle CleanTEC Paper Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 17.3 x 21.5 x 34.3 inches
Weight: 84 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 23 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 12 sheets

Expensive Paper Shredder
The Dahle CleanTEC 51322 has a high price, it is made in Germany and provides many years of use without issues. The dimensions are 17.25 inches in length, 21.5 inches in width and 34.25 inches in height. It is pretty heavy, there are 84 pounds. Because of its weight, there are casters.

Dahle CleanTEC Paper Shredder

Clean Air
This model shred the papers and it cleans the air. The cleanTEC filter catches up to 98% of fine dust and ensures a healthy environment. So, it shreds confidential documents and produces clean air. Also, EvenFlow lubricator enhances performance.

Very Fast Paper Shredder
Dahle uses Trident grip cylinders and automatic motor reverse for paper jams protection. The Matrix cutting cylinders ensure a powerful performance. The maximal sheet capacity is 12-14 sheets at the time and shredding speed is 18 feet per minute.

Dahle CleanTEC Paper Shredder review

High Bin Capacity
The wastebasket has a high capacity, it’s 23 gallons. The machine is designed for large offices, but you don’t have to put it in the hallway, it doesn’t produce a loud noise. The noise level is 46 decibels only. That is an ultra-low noise, you won’t even notice when it runs.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $250 – $280
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • very expensive paper shredder
  • it’s intended for industrial use
  • high bin and sheet capacity
  • quick shredding speed
  • works very quietly, there are 46dB

Wolverine SD9520 ETL Shredder

SPECIFICATION:

Security Level: P-5
Shred Type: Micro-Cut
Dimensions: 15.8 x 12.2 x 26.1 inches
Weight: 48 Pounds
Bin Capacity: 8 gallons
Sheet Capacity: 15 sheets

Big & Powerful Shredder
Wolverine SD9520 model has dimensions 15.80 x 12.20 x 26.10 inches and 48 pounds. It is big and heavy, but there are casters, so there is no worry about its transport. Its super micro-cut provides high-security level.

Wolverine Black ETL Shredder

Shredding Performances
This model is able to cut papers, paper clips, credit cards, staples, CDs and DVDs. The maximal sheet capacity is 15 sheets of paper per single pass. The shredding speed is 12.5 feet per minute or 3.8 meters per minute. That means the Wolverine can shred up to 200 sheets in 60 seconds.

Low Noise Level
You can easily see if the wastebasket is full through the large transparent window. The motor works ultra quietly, the noise level is 56 decibels. Wolverine features dual thermal protectors which prolong paper shredder life. Also, the maintenance is easy, you don’t have to lubricate it.

Wolverine Black ETL Shredder review

Useful Auto-feature
The maximal continuous run time is 15 minutes. Maybe that seems like a short time, but that is fast and it can shred a high volume of paper at that time. If the motor start to overheat, the device will automatically shut off. After that, the cooling-down period should last 30 minutes.

OUR RATINGS

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

PRICE

approx: $250 – $280
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales

Highlighted Points:

  • super micro-cut paper shredder
  • max 15 sheets per single pass
  • fast shredding speed
  • ultra-quiet paper shredder
  • dual thermal protectors for long lifespan

What Is A P-5 Machine Good For?

P-5 shredders offer enough security for personal use at home. This means that you can shred junk mail, bank statements, receipts, bills, and other sensitive information for secure disposing of. It protects your identity and your personal and confidential business documents.

Final Verdict

The best device on this list is the Bonsaii 4S23 paper shredder. It features 2 hours of run time, auto-reverse protection, thermal and overload protection. If you looking for a heavy-duty device, read the review of the heavy-duty office shredders. For mobile paper shredder, check out the best portable paper shredders post.




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.