Best Inexpensive Shredder (2025 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you’re looking for a shredder that won’t break your bank but still gets the job done, you’ve come to the right place. Finding the best inexpensive shredder can be a difficult task, as you don't want to sacrifice quality, security, and convenience for a lower price. However, it's certainly possible to get a good shredder that is both affordable and efficient.

Before buying any shredder, readers should consider their needs and preferences. They should think about the type of documents they'll be shredding, the shredding capacity they need, how frequently they'll be shredding, the noise level they can tolerate, and the amount of space they have available on their desk or office. Moreover, they should check the shredder's features, such as its shredding speed, cut type, and security level.

Are you tired of dealing with a slow or jamming shredder that takes forever to shred even a couple of pages? Do you want to have peace of mind that your confidential documents are properly disposed of without hurting your wallet? Keep reading to discover some of the best inexpensive shredders for home and small office use. Do you know the difference between a cross-cut and a strip-cut shredder? How long does it take for a shredder to cool down after shredding? You might be surprised by some of the answers!

10 Best Inexpensive Shredder

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for shredding paper, CDs, and credit cards in a home or small office setting.
2
The product is ideal for shredding paper in a household or home office setting.
3
The product is ideal for shredding confidential documents and credit cards in a home or small office setting.
4
Ideal for shredding paper, credit cards, staples, and mail in home or office settings with high security level.
5
This product is ideal for shredding paper, CDs, and credit cards.
6
Ideal for shredding small amounts of paper by hand in a portable and compact manner.
7
The product is ideal for shredding documents, CDs, and credit cards without creating wastebasket debris.
8
The product is ideal for home or office use to shred sensitive documents and credit cards to a high security level.
9
The product is ideal for cutting and shredding small paper items such as notes, bills, portraits, and photos.
10
The product is ideal for shredding sensitive documents, credit cards, and CDs with continuous run time and a large pullout basket.
This product is ideal for shredding paper, CDs, and credit cards in a home or small office setting.
The product is ideal for shredding paper in a household or home office setting.
The product is ideal for shredding confidential documents and credit cards in a home or small office setting.
Ideal for shredding paper, credit cards, staples, and mail in home or office settings with high security level.
This product is ideal for shredding paper, CDs, and credit cards.
Ideal for shredding small amounts of paper by hand in a portable and compact manner.
The product is ideal for shredding documents, CDs, and credit cards without creating wastebasket debris.
The product is ideal for home or office use to shred sensitive documents and credit cards to a high security level.
The product is ideal for cutting and shredding small paper items such as notes, bills, portraits, and photos.
The product is ideal for shredding sensitive documents, credit cards, and CDs with continuous run time and a large pullout basket.

1. Securecut Home Office Shredder With Transparent Window

The P-4 High Security cross cut paper shredder is a powerful and efficient tool for shredding confidential documents. With a shredding capacity of up to 12 sheets at a time, this shredder can effectively reduce the problem of paper jamming with its high strength alloy cutters. It can shred papers into small pieces measuring 13/64*1-45/64 inches (5*18mm), providing maximum security for your sensitive documents.

This shredder is equipped with overheat protection, allowing for continuous shredding at full load for up to 10 minutes before needing a 40-minute cool-down period. The overheat LED indicator will alert you if the machine begins to overheat, and it will automatically shut off to protect the motor, ensuring the longevity of the shredder.

The convenient design of this shredder includes 4-mode control switches (FWD, Auto, Off, Reverse), as well as auto start/stop and manual reverse functions, simplifying the shredding and paper jam clearing processes. The transparent window located on the bin wall allows you to monitor the fullness of the trash, and the handle design makes it easy to empty the 5.5-gallon bin, which can hold up to 250 sheets of A4 paper, reducing the need for frequent emptying.

Designed with safety in mind, this shredder comes with a safety switch that will stop the machine from working and break off power once you lift the machine's head, ensuring your safety during use.

In addition to its impressive features, the Bonsaii paper shredder for home office use comes with a 1-year warranty, providing you with peace of mind and professional customer service to help you with any questions or concerns you may have. If you are looking for a reliable and efficient shredder to protect your sensitive information, the P-4 High Security cross cut paper shredder is an excellent choice.

2. Powershred Lx70-Db 11 Sheet Cross-Cut Household Paper Shredder For Home Office

The Fellowes Deskside Shredder is perfect for personal use and can handle up to 11 sheets per pass, shredding them into tiny 5/32 x 1-9/16” cross-cut particles (security level P-4). Not only can it shred paper, but it can also handle staples, paper clips, plastic credit cards, and junk mail with ease, making it a powerful tool for any home office or shared workspace.

Safety is a top priority with the patented Protective Safety Lock feature, which disables the machine when not in use to provide added protection for you and your family. Additionally, the shredder operates quietly, minimizing noise to reduce distractions, making it ideal for shared workspaces.

The 4.8-gallon Lift-Off Waste Bin eliminates mess by keeping up to 222 sheets contained, and the shredder boasts a continuous 5-minute run time with a 30-minute cool-down period. With its ultra-efficient design, the Fellowes Deskside Shredder is the perfect tool to help you stay organized and protect your sensitive information.

Fellowes, a company dedicated to developing solutions to help you be at your best, has been innovating for over 100 years. With a commitment to quality, you can trust that the Fellowes Deskside Shredder is a reliable and efficient choice for your home office or workspace.

3. Ultra Quiet High Security Shredder For Home Office

Introducing the 8 Sheets Cross-cut Shredder, a compact and powerful shredder that is perfect for homes and small offices. This shredder can shred up to 8 sheets of paper at one time into tiny pieces measuring 3/16 x 23/32" (5 x 18 mm) at a shredding speed of 5.9ft / min, making it an efficient way to dispose of your sensitive documents.

The shredder is also capable of destroying staples, credit cards, clips, and mails, making it a versatile tool that can handle various materials. It meets security level P-4, so you can be sure that your sensitive information is safe.

The main body of the shredder is made of top-notch ABS plastics, which deliver non-deformable construction and long-lasting durability. The steel knife is made sharper and tougher through a high-temperature ion nitriding process, ensuring that it can shred through your documents with ease.

The shredder comes with a 4-gallon basket that can hold up to 210 sheets of A4 paper, reducing the frequency of emptying. The runway-shaped transparent window makes it easy to know when to empty the basket. Additionally, the shredder will stop working once you lift the shredder's head, ensuring your safety.

Despite its powerful performance, the shredder operates quietly with low noise of 60dB, making it ideal for use at home or in the office. Its compact size of 12.6" x 7.5" x 16.4" means that it's easy to place under a desk, saving space.

The shredder also features a jam-proof system and overheating protection. The auto start/stop and manual-reverse function protect the machine from the frustration of paper jams. If the shredder runs continuously over the max time of 5 minutes, it will automatically shut off to protect the machine from overheating.

4. Bonsaii Home Office Shredder – High Security Solution

Introducing the Bonsaii Crosscut Shredder, a powerful and secure shredder for home office heavy-duty use. It is designed to handle up to 12 sheets of paper effortlessly per pass, ensuring that your important documents are shredded securely. Moreover, it can also shred credit cards, CDs, staples, and clips into tiny particles measuring 13/64*51/64 inches (5*20mm), ensuring sensitive information is protected.

The Bonsaii Paper Shredder for home use heavy-duty can run continuously for up to 5 minutes, thanks to its patented cooling system. This feature makes it an ideal shredder for home office use or small office use. You don't have to worry about overheating or slowing down during continuous shredding.

The shredder is easy to operate, thanks to its auto-start/stop and manual-forward/reverse functions that protect it from paper jams. The overheat protection feature also ensures that you use the paper shredder without worrying and prolongs its lifetime. The document shredder will stop working immediately once you lift the head, ensuring your safety.

The shredder is designed to be compact and portable, with a handle and a 5.5-gallon large transparent window wastebasket. With its compact size of 12.6*7.91*18.3 inches, you can easily place it in the corner or under the desk. It is perfect for use in the home or office.

Bonsaii provides a 1-Year warranty for your shredder for home office heavy-duty. If you encounter any issues during use, please feel free to contact their professional customer service team, who is available 24/7 to assist you.

5. Aurora As810sd 8-Sheet Strip-Cut Paper, Cd And Credit Card Shredder Basket

This innovative paper shredder is a must-have for anyone concerned about identity theft. With the ability to shred up to 8 sheets at once at a rate of 9.7 feet per minute, this shredder offers quick and efficient protection for your sensitive information. Not only can it shred paper, but it also has the capability to shred CDs and credit cards, providing comprehensive security for all of your personal data.

Equipped with a 3.20 gallon plastic basket, this shredder can hold a large volume of shredded material, making it ideal for home or small office use. The CD shred size of 1 3/8" wide strips ensures that all of your data is rendered unreadable and unusable.

This shredder is designed with safety in mind, featuring an automatic shut-off function to prevent overheating and a safety lock to prevent accidental activation. Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport, while its sleek design complements any workspace.

With its powerful shredding capabilities and user-friendly features, this paper shredder is an essential tool for protecting your personal information. Trust in its superior performance and rest easy knowing that your sensitive data is always secure.

6. Mini Japanese Handheld Shredder For Home Use

This small mini portable shredder made in Japan is a premium quality product that is perfect for shredding papers without requiring any power. With its compact size, it can be conveniently stored in a desk drawer, saving space on your desktop. The extendable arm can fit over a wastebasket, making it easier to use when shredding papers.

This shredder is incredibly easy to use and requires no power, making it safer for kids to handle without the risk of injury. However, it's important to note that A4 size paper must be folded in half to fit into the opening, and the shredder can only handle up to two sheets of folded A4 paper at a time. It cannot shred plastic, plastic cards, or thick paper.

The shredder’s dimensions are 10.12 x 3.39 x 1.77 inches (25.7 x 8.6 x 4.5 cm) and it weighs 11.15 ounces (316 g). The maximum length when extended is 13 inches (33 cm), and the opening width is 4.72 inches (12cm). The shredder is made of MBS resin, PA resin, and MOM resin.

7. Aurora Pro Shredder: Paper, Cd, Credit Card Strip-Cut.

Introducing the ultimate shredder that provides a secure and efficient way to destroy sensitive documents and data, the Shredder. This powerful machine is designed to shred credit cards, CDs, and DVDs with ease, ensuring that your personal information stays protected.

With an auto start/stop feature, this shredder is incredibly user-friendly and convenient. The thermal protection and overheat protection functions ensure that the machine remains safe and efficient, even during prolonged use.

In the event of a paper jam, the shredder comes equipped with a jam-remover (forward) and manual reverse for easy cleaning and maintenance. The extendable arm can fit over most waste baskets, with a maximum length of 15" or 38.1 cm, making it the perfect addition to any office or home workspace.

This shredder has a shred paper capacity of up to 8 sheets of 20 lb. bond paper, providing you with ample space to shred all of your important documents. The compact design of the shredder makes it easy to store in a variety of locations, while still providing you with a powerful and efficient shredding solution.

Investing in the Shredder is a smart choice for anyone looking to protect their personal information. This shredder is durable, reliable, and easy to use, making it the perfect addition to any workspace.

8. Quiet Home Office Shredder With High Security Level

Introducing the Home Office Paper Shredder, a reliable and efficient document shredder designed to keep your confidential information safe. With its 10-sheet cross cut capacity, this shredder can shred up to 10 sheets of paper at a time into tiny pieces measuring 13/64 x 45/64 inches (5 x 18mm), ensuring a P-4 security level. Not only can it shred paper, but it can also shred credit cards, staples, paper clips, and junk mail, making it a versatile tool for your home or office.

The shredder is easy to operate with its 4-mode control switch, which includes FED, AUTO, OFF, and REV functions. The indicator light shows the state of the shredder, making it easy to use. It also comes with overheat protection to prevent any damage to the machine, ensuring its longevity.

This shredder features a 4-gallon transparent bin that can hold up to 210 sheets of A4 paper, reducing the need for frequent emptying. Thanks to the visible basket design, you can easily see when the shredder is full, and the shredder will stop automatically when the bin is full or when the head of the shredder is lifted.

Constructed with top-notch ABS plastics, this shredder is sturdy and durable, with a non-deformable construction that ensures long-lasting durability. The high-temperature ion nitriding process sharpens the steel knife, ensuring that it can handle heavy-duty shredding tasks with ease.

The Home Office Paper Shredder comes with a one-year worry-free warranty, providing you with a reliable using experience and professional customer service. With its easy operation, safe protection, and sturdy construction, this shredder is a must-have for anyone looking to keep their confidential information safe.

9. Handheld Paper Cutter: Mini Shredder With 1.5l Capacity

Looking for a compact and convenient shredder for your personal use? Look no further than this hand shredder, with dimensions of 15.5x9x14cm (6.1"x3.5"x5.5"), making it easy to carry and requiring minimal space on your desk or in your home.

This hand shredder is manually operated by turning the knob, making it both easy and safe to use, perfect for kids or students. Please note that this product is not designed for commercial use with large quantities of paper, but is ideal for personal use at home.

Featuring four anti-slip pads on the bottom, this shredder will stand firmly on your desktop, ensuring that you can shred your sensitive documents safely and with ease.

If you're concerned about keeping your private information secure, this shredder is an excellent choice. Disposing of unshredded information can lead to a security breach, but with this shredder, you can rest assured that your information will be destroyed.

This hand shredder is suitable for shredding paper, bills, checks, and notes under A6 size or folded A4 size as strip shredded paper. Please note that it is not suitable for shredding cards made of plastic or any hard material.

10. Anti-Jam 14-Sheet Shredder With Cd/card Disposal

The High Security Crosscut is a top-of-the-line shredder that guarantees maximum security and efficiency. With the ability to shred 14 sheets of paper, CDs, DVDs, credit cards, and small paper clips, this shredder is perfect for both personal and professional use. The shredder is equipped with a security level P-4, which shreds paper, CDs, DVDs, and credit cards into small pieces measuring 5/32 by 1-7/32 inches, ensuring that sensitive information is completely destroyed.

The shredder is designed for non-stop use, with a continuous run time of 120 minutes. This means that you can shred large amounts of paper and other materials without having to worry about the shredder overheating or stopping. The shredder is also incredibly quiet, so you can use it without disrupting your work or home environment.

The High Security Crosscut features an anti-jam auto-reverse function, which helps to clear paper jams quickly and easily. This feature ensures that your shredder always operates at peak efficiency, reducing the amount of time you spend dealing with paper jams. Additionally, the shredder is equipped with a 6.0-gallon pullout bin that has LED indicator lights to let you know the standby/overheat/bin-full/overload/door open status, making it easy to keep track of when the bin needs to be emptied.

Best Inexpensive Shredder FAQs

Are there any disadvantages to buying a cheaper shredder?

Yes, there can be several disadvantages to buying a cheaper shredder. Cheaper shredders are often made with lower quality materials and components, which can result in a shorter lifespan and less durability. They may also have a lower shredding capacity, meaning that they can only handle a smaller amount of paper at a time, which can be inconvenient if you have a large amount of paperwork to dispose of regularly.

Cheaper shredders may also be less effective at shredding paper, resulting in uneven or incomplete shredding, which can compromise the security of your confidential documents. Additionally, they may be noisier, slower, and less efficient than higher-end models, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.

In summary, while cheaper shredders may be more affordable in the short term, they may end up costing you more in the long run due to their lower quality and decreased effectiveness. It's important to carefully consider your shredding needs and budget before making a purchase to ensure that you get a shredder that meets your requirements and will last for years to come.

Are there any shredders under $50 that are worth buying?

Yes, there are several shredders under $50 that are worth buying. One of the best options is the AmazonBasics 8-Sheet Capacity Cross-Cut Shredder. This shredder is affordable and efficient, with a cross-cut design that shreds documents into small pieces for added security. It can shred up to 8 sheets at once and has a 4.1-gallon bin capacity, making it a great option for home or small office use.

Another good option is the Aurora AS420C Desktop-Style Cross-Cut Paper Shredder. This shredder is compact and portable, making it a great choice for small spaces. It can shred up to 4 sheets at once and has a 1.32-gallon wastebasket. It also has an auto-start and reverse function to help prevent paper jams.

Ultimately, the right shredder for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, both of these options are affordable and efficient choices that are worth considering.

Can an inexpensive shredder handle heavy-duty shredding jobs?

An inexpensive shredder may not be able to handle heavy-duty shredding jobs as effectively as a more expensive, heavy-duty shredder. Inexpensive shredders are generally designed for light to medium shredding jobs, such as shredding a few sheets of paper at a time. They may not have the power or durability to handle large quantities of paper or other materials, such as credit cards or CDs.

If you have a heavy-duty shredding job, it is recommended to invest in a shredder that is specifically designed for heavy-duty use. These shredders typically have more powerful motors, larger shredding capacities, and are built to withstand heavy use over an extended period of time.

However, if you have a limited budget and need to shred large quantities of paper occasionally, you may be able to use an inexpensive shredder as long as you are careful to not overload it and allow it to cool down between uses. It is also important to regularly maintain your shredder, such as oiling the blades, to ensure it continues to function properly.

How do you choose an affordable shredder without sacrificing quality?

Choosing an affordable shredder without sacrificing quality can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely possible. Here are a few tips that can help you make a good choice:

1. Determine your needs: First, assess your shredding needs. Do you need a shredder for occasional home use or for heavy-duty office use? Knowing your needs will help you choose a shredder that can handle the volume of materials you need to shred.

2. Look for essential features: When choosing a shredder, look for essential features such as auto-reverse function, jam prevention, and a safety switch. These features will ensure that your shredder is safe and efficient.

3. Consider the type of shredder: There are different types of shredders, including strip-cut, cross-cut, and micro-cut shredders. Cross-cut and micro-cut shredders offer better security but are usually more expensive. Strip-cut shredders are more affordable but offer less security.

4. Read reviews: Before making a purchase, read reviews from other users. This will give you an idea of the shredder’s performance, durability, and overall quality.

5. Compare prices: Finally, compare prices from different brands and suppliers. This will help you find the best deal without sacrificing quality.

How long do budget shredders typically last?

The lifespan of a budget shredder can vary depending on several factors such as the frequency of use, the type of materials being shredded, and the maintenance of the machine. Typically, budget shredders can last anywhere from a few months to a few years. However, it is essential to keep in mind that budget shredders may not be designed to handle heavy-duty shredding tasks and may not have the durability to last for extended periods. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and maintenance to ensure the longevity of the shredder. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blades can also help extend the life of the shredder. If you are looking for a shredder that can handle high volumes of shredding and last for years, it may be worth investing in a higher-end model.

What are the best brands for affordable shredders?

There are several brands that offer affordable shredders without compromising on quality. Some of the best brands for affordable shredders include AmazonBasics, Fellowes, Aurora, and Bonsaii.

AmazonBasics offers a range of shredders that are affordable, efficient, and ideal for home or small office use. Fellowes is another brand that offers reliable shredders at an affordable price point. They have a range of shredders that can cater to different shredding needs.

Aurora is also a great brand for affordable shredders. They offer a range of shredders that are ideal for personal or home office use. Bonsaii is another brand that offers affordable shredders with features such as cross-cut and high-security shredding.

When looking for an affordable shredder, it's essential to consider features such as shredding capacity, security level, and ease of use. These brands offer quality shredders that are budget-friendly and can cater to different shredding needs.

What are the best inexpensive shredders on the market?

There are a lot of shredders on the market, and the price range is quite broad. However, finding an inexpensive shredder that meets your needs can be a bit of a challenge. A few good options to consider are:

1. AmazonBasics 8-Sheet Capacity Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder: This shredder is affordable and can handle up to 8 sheets of paper at a time. It also shreds credit cards, which is a nice bonus.

2. Fellowes Powershred W11C: This shredder can handle up to 11 sheets of paper at a time and has a safety feature that automatically stops the shredder if hands touch the paper opening.

3. Aurora AS618SB: This shredder can handle up to 6 sheets of paper at a time and has a compact design that makes it easy to store.

4. Bonsaii EverShred C149-C: This shredder can handle up to 18 sheets of paper at a time and has a long run time, making it great for large shredding jobs.

Ultimately, the best inexpensive shredder for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.

What are the features to look for in a budget-friendly shredder?

When looking for a budget-friendly shredder, there are some important features you should consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. Firstly, consider the shredding capacity. A good budget shredder should be able to shred at least 6-8 sheets of paper at a time. Another important feature is the type of cut. A cross-cut shredder is recommended as it provides higher security than a strip-cut shredder. Additionally, it's important to look for a shredder with a decent run time and cooling down period. A continuous run time of at least 5 minutes and a cooling down period of 20 minutes is preferable. A shredder with a larger bin capacity is also ideal as it means less frequent emptying. Finally, look for additional features such as a manual reverse function to clear any paper jams and a safety feature that automatically stops the shredder when hands get too close.

What are the most common types of shredders and which one is the most affordable?

There are three most common types of shredders: strip-cut, cross-cut, and micro-cut shredders. Strip-cut shredders are the most basic type of shredder that cuts paper into long, thin strips. Cross-cut shredders cut paper into small rectangular pieces, making them more secure than strip-cut shredders. Micro-cut shredders, on the other hand, cut paper into tiny, confetti-like pieces, making them the most secure type of shredder.

In terms of affordability, strip-cut shredders are typically the most affordable option. However, it's important to keep in mind that they offer the least amount of security compared to cross-cut and micro-cut shredders. Cross-cut shredders are a bit pricier than strip-cut shredders but offer higher security. Micro-cut shredders are the most expensive option due to their high level of security.

Ultimately, the type of shredder you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you're on a tight budget and don't need high security, a strip-cut shredder may be the best option. However, if you need to shred sensitive documents, it's worth investing in a cross-cut or micro-cut shredder for added security.

What are the safety measures to consider when using a cheap shredder?

When using a cheap shredder, there are a few safety measures that you should consider to ensure that you do not put yourself or others at risk. Firstly, you should make sure that the shredder is placed on a stable surface to prevent it from tipping over. Secondly, you should avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the shredder's blades. It is also important to keep your fingers and hands away from the shredder's opening to prevent injuries.

Another safety measure to consider is the amount of paper you feed into the shredder at once. Cheap shredders may not be able to handle large quantities of paper, so it is important to feed it only a few sheets at a time to prevent it from jamming or overheating. Additionally, you should never attempt to shred materials that are not meant to be shredded, such as credit cards or CDs, as this could damage the shredder and pose a safety risk.

Finally, it is important to unplug the shredder when it is not in use and to keep it out of reach of children and pets. By following these safety measures, you can ensure that your cheap shredder is used safely and effectively.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!