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10 Best Pencil Sharpener 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener, Powerful Stall-Free Motor, High Capacity Shavings Tray, Gray (EPS4-KTGRAY)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,208
Type
Blade Quality
Size

Most important from
22563 reviews

Type
High value for an inexpensive, powerful sharpener that’s easy to carry around.
Blade Quality
Delivers a perfect sharp point every time with quick and smooth operation.
Size
Compact design fits easily into small spaces without sacrificing performance.
Compatibility
Keeps colored pencils sharp for detailed art projects.

The Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener is a compact and efficient tool suited for artists, students, and teachers. It features a hardened helical cutter that lasts four times longer than average blades, providing consistent and smooth sharpening. The powerful motor ensures the sharpener won’t stall, making it reliable for frequent use. Its small size is great for saving space in home offices or classrooms without sacrificing performance.

Safety is also considered with a built-in switch that disables the sharpener when the shavings tray is removed, reducing any risk of accidents. The high-capacity shavings tray means you won’t need to empty it very often, which is convenient during busy work or study sessions. One minor drawback is that it’s designed for standard pencils, so unusual sizes or specialty pencils might not fit perfectly.

This sharpener represents a dependable, easy-to-use electric tool that balances durability with a space-saving design, making it a strong option for those needing reliable pencil sharpening.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,208
Type
Blade Quality
Size

Most important from
22563 reviews

Type
High value for an inexpensive, powerful sharpener that’s easy to carry around.
Blade Quality
Delivers a perfect sharp point every time with quick and smooth operation.
Size
Compact design fits easily into small spaces without sacrificing performance.
Compatibility
Keeps colored pencils sharp for detailed art projects.
#2

X-ACTO Pencil Sharpener, Mighty Mite Electric Pencil Sharpener, With Pencil Saver®, SafeStart® Motor, Black, 1 Count - Home, Office, School, Teacher Supplies

Rating
10.0
Size
Compatibility

Most important from
9972 reviews

Size
The compact size makes it convenient to keep on hand, perfect for limited desk space.
Compatibility
It sharpens pencils well and even works effectively with colored pencils.

The X-ACTO Mighty Mite Electric Pencil Sharpener is a compact and efficient tool ideal for teachers and homeschooling environments. Its standout feature is the Pencil Saver technology, which helps to avoid over-sharpening, extending the life of your pencils. The SafeStart Motor ensures that the sharpener only operates when the shaving tray is correctly in place, adding an extra layer of safety, especially important in a school setting. The sharpener's small size (7 x 3.13 x 4.5 inches) makes it convenient for limited desk space without sacrificing functionality.

The blade quality is reliable, with metal components that promise durability and consistent performance. However, it's worth noting that the sharpener is corded electric, meaning it needs to be plugged in, which could limit its portability. The shavings container is easy to empty, though it might require frequent attention due to its compact size. This sharpener is compatible with standard pencils, making it versatile for various types of users, especially those using colored pencils.

The X-ACTO Mighty Mite is a reliable and safe option for anyone needing a durable and efficient pencil sharpener, particularly in educational settings.

Rating
10.0
Size
Compatibility

Most important from
9972 reviews

Size
The compact size makes it convenient to keep on hand, perfect for limited desk space.
Compatibility
It sharpens pencils well and even works effectively with colored pencils.
#3

AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener - Auto Stop, Super Sharp & Fast, Plug in Pencil Sharpener for 6-12mm No.2/Colored Pencils - Classroom/Office/Home PS92

Rating
9.7
Size
Sharpening Angle
Shavings Container

Most important from
14519 reviews

Size
Compact size fits comfortably on any desk without taking up much space.
Sharpening Angle
Offers two sharpening options: a sharp point for detailed work and a blunt tip ideal for children.
Shavings Container
Easy to clean thanks to a large shavings container that prevents messes.
Compatibility
Handles a variety of pencil types, including colored and softer leads, without issue.

The AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener is a plug-in model designed primarily for use in classrooms, offices, or at home. It features a strong motor that quickly sharpens pencils in just a few seconds, saving time compared to manual sharpeners. It accommodates a variety of pencil sizes, from standard No.2 pencils to larger ones like colored and hard charcoal pencils, covering a size range of 6-12mm. This versatility makes it suitable for students, artists, and office workers alike.

A key feature is its auto-stop function, which prevents over-sharpening by stopping as soon as the pencil is sharp enough, helping preserve pencil length and reduce waste. It also automatically ejects broken lead pieces to maintain smooth sharpening. The large, easy-to-open shavings container simplifies cleaning and prevents messes on desks or floors.

Equipped with a durable helical blade made of stainless steel, the sharpener can handle heavy use—up to 8,000 sharpening cycles before needing replacement. Two sharpness settings are available: a sharp point for fine artistic work and a blunt point recommended for children to avoid breakage. The blade is replaceable for long-term convenience. Its compact size (about 4 x 4 x 8.7 inches) fits comfortably on a desk without taking up much space, and the 12V AC adapter supports a wide range of voltages worldwide, making it suitable for international use. While it is not recommended for soft core pencils and requires a power outlet, it provides fast, efficient, and adjustable sharpening for standard and larger pencils, combining speed, durability, and ease of use with thoughtful features like auto-stop and easy cleaning, making it an excellent choice for classrooms, offices, or art projects.

Rating
9.7
Size
Sharpening Angle
Shavings Container

Most important from
14519 reviews

Size
Compact size fits comfortably on any desk without taking up much space.
Sharpening Angle
Offers two sharpening options: a sharp point for detailed work and a blunt tip ideal for children.
Shavings Container
Easy to clean thanks to a large shavings container that prevents messes.
Compatibility
Handles a variety of pencil types, including colored and softer leads, without issue.

Buying Guide for the Best Pencil Sharpener

Choosing the right pencil sharpener can make a big difference in your writing or drawing experience. Whether you're a student, artist, or professional, the right sharpener will ensure your pencils are always ready for use. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a pencil sharpener.
TypePencil sharpeners come in various types, including manual, electric, and battery-operated. Manual sharpeners are simple and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go use. Electric sharpeners offer convenience and speed, perfect for frequent use in a fixed location like a classroom or office. Battery-operated sharpeners provide a balance between portability and ease of use. Choose the type based on where and how often you plan to use the sharpener.
Blade QualityThe quality of the blade determines how well the sharpener can create a fine point on your pencil. High-quality blades, often made from durable metals like stainless steel, will last longer and provide a cleaner cut. If you need precise and consistent sharpening, opt for a sharpener with a high-quality blade.
SizeThe size of the sharpener can affect its portability and ease of use. Small, compact sharpeners are easy to carry and store, making them ideal for students and travelers. Larger sharpeners may offer more stability and additional features but are less portable. Consider where you will be using the sharpener and how much space you have available.
Sharpening AngleThe sharpening angle affects the point of the pencil. Some sharpeners create a long, fine point, while others produce a shorter, sturdier point. Artists may prefer a long point for detailed work, while writers might opt for a shorter point that is less likely to break. Think about your primary use for the pencil and choose a sharpener that provides the appropriate angle.
Shavings ContainerA shavings container collects the pencil shavings, keeping your workspace clean. Some sharpeners have built-in containers, while others require an external container. If you prefer a tidy workspace, look for a sharpener with a built-in container that is easy to empty.
CompatibilityEnsure the sharpener is compatible with the types of pencils you use. Some sharpeners are designed for standard pencils, while others can accommodate colored pencils, charcoal pencils, or different sizes. If you use a variety of pencils, choose a sharpener that can handle them all.

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