10 Best Inexpensive Paper Shredders 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross Cut Paper Shredder is a budget-friendly option that meets the key needs for an inexpensive paper shredder. It uses a cross-cut method to shred paper and credit cards into small pieces (0.2 x 0.7 inches), achieving a security level of P-4, which is suitable for most personal or small office needs. With a sheet capacity of up to 8 sheets of 20-pound bond paper at a time, it also handles credit cards (one at a time), staples, and small paper clips, offering versatility.

Its 3-minute runtime is adequate for small shredding jobs, although the 30-minute cool down period might be a drawback for heavy use, as it requires frequent breaks to avoid overheating. The shredder features a 3.7-gallon bin, which is relatively easy to empty but might require frequent disposal if used regularly. Safety features include overheating protection and an automatic shutoff when the maximum runtime is exceeded, reducing the risk of damage. The shredder operates with a 4-mode control switch and LED status indicators, which provide clear information on power, overheat, and overload status.

It's important to note that metal credit cards should not be shredded, and aerosol products should be kept away from the unit. The shredder has a compact design (12.8 x 7.32 x 14.9 inches) and weighs 8.7 pounds, making it suitable for small spaces.

The Bonsaii 6-Sheet Micro-Cut Paper Shredder is a solid choice for home and small office use if you're looking for an affordable, high-security shredder. It offers P-4 level security, which means it shreds documents into very small pieces (5/32 x 15/32 inches), ensuring your personal information remains safe. Supporting up to 6 sheets at a time, it can also handle credit cards, staples, and paper clips, which adds to its versatility and convenience. Despite its compact size, it includes a 3.4-gallon bin with a transparent window, making it easy to see when it’s time to empty it.

This shredder is user-friendly, featuring auto start/stop and a manual reverse function that helps clear paper jams effortlessly. Additionally, the overheating and overloading thermal protection system helps prolong the machine's life and enhance safety.

The 6-sheet capacity might be limiting if you have larger shredding tasks, and the bin capacity, though sufficient for home use, could fill up quickly in a busier office setting. With a customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 58,000 reviews, it’s clear that many users are satisfied with it. If your shredding needs are moderate and security is a priority, this Bonsaii shredder is a commendable option.

The Bonsaii Paper Shredder is a solid choice for those seeking an inexpensive shredder with good security and practicality for home or small office use. It offers a P-4 high security level, which means it shreds documents into tiny particles, enhancing privacy protection. The shredder can handle up to 10 sheets in one pass and is capable of shredding not just paper, but also credit cards, staples, and paper clips, adding to its versatility.

One of its strong points is the 5.5-gallon bin that can hold up to 350 sheets, reducing the frequency of emptying. The transparent window is a useful feature for monitoring the bin's fullness. The shredder can run continuously for 5 minutes before it needs a cool-down period—a reasonable run time for home and small office settings. However, for users with higher volume shredding needs, the 5-minute run time might be a limitation. Safety features like auto start/stop, manual-forward/reverse functions, and overheat protection add convenience and help prevent jams and damage.

On the downside, the manufacturer advises against shredding certain items like metallic credit cards, and users must avoid aerosol products around the shredder. Additionally, while the noise level isn't specified, most shredders of this type tend to be moderately loud. The Bonsaii Paper Shredder has received a high customer rating (4.5 out of 5 stars from over 5,000 reviews), reflecting satisfaction with its performance and reliability. With a 1-year professional service warranty, users can also expect prompt customer support for any issues. This shredder is well-suited for personal or small office use, particularly for those prioritizing security and ease of use.