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10 Best Pencil Sharpener 2025 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

X-ACTO Pencil Sharpener, SchoolPro Electric Pencil Sharpener, Heavy Duty Sharpener for School, Classroom and Teacher Supplies, Perfect for Addition to Homeschooling Supplies, Black, 1 Count

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,234
Type
Blade Quality
Size

Most important from
10542 reviews

Type
Quickly sharpens pencils without the need for twisting, and the large bin makes it easy to manage shavings.
Blade Quality
Fast and fairly quiet operation, leaving pencils with a nice point while being gentle on them.
Size
The best sharpener ever - large, convenient with multiple pencil size settings, a huge reservoir, and works flawlessly!
Shavings Container
The large shavings container is easy to dump and effectively catches shavings without making a mess.
Compatibility
Handles regular and colored pencils equally well, ensuring versatility in use.

The X-ACTO SchoolPro Electric Pencil Sharpener stands out as a durable and efficient option, particularly well-suited for schools, classrooms, and homeschooling environments. Its electric operation ensures quick and consistent sharpening, making it ideal for high-usage settings. One of its notable features is the break-resistant mechanism that creates precise tips, which helps reduce frustrations associated with lead breakages.

Additionally, the Flyaway cutter is a thoughtful addition; it prevents oversharpening by halting the cutter once the pencil reaches the perfect sharpness, thereby extending the pencil's lifespan. This sharpener also boasts a SafeStart motor that ensures safety by stopping the shaving process when the bin is removed, which adds a layer of security for younger users. The XL shaving bin is easy to empty and minimizes mess, making maintenance straightforward and quick.

Compatibility is another strong suit, as the six-size dial accommodates nearly every pencil size, including colored pencils, adding to its versatility. However, one downside could be its reliance on an electric power source, which means it requires access to an outlet and may not be as portable as manual sharpeners. The plastic material, while durable, might not appeal to those looking for a more premium build. In conclusion, the X-ACTO SchoolPro is a reliable, safe, and versatile electric pencil sharpener that's particularly beneficial in environments with frequent sharpening needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,234
Type
Blade Quality
Size

Most important from
10542 reviews

Type
Quickly sharpens pencils without the need for twisting, and the large bin makes it easy to manage shavings.
Blade Quality
Fast and fairly quiet operation, leaving pencils with a nice point while being gentle on them.
Size
The best sharpener ever - large, convenient with multiple pencil size settings, a huge reservoir, and works flawlessly!
Shavings Container
The large shavings container is easy to dump and effectively catches shavings without making a mess.
Compatibility
Handles regular and colored pencils equally well, ensuring versatility in use.
#2

Bostitch Office Pencil Sharpener, One Assorted Color, Twist-n-Sharp, Kids & Colored Pencils, (PS1-ADJ)

Rating
10.0
Type
Blade Quality
Size

Most important from
13907 reviews

Type
The dual option for sharp or blunt pencil tips offers versatile sharpening tailored for different needs.
Blade Quality
The metal blade is safely enclosed, making it child-friendly and worry-free for small hands.
Size
Its compact size and ample shavings capacity keep desks tidy without frequent emptying.
Sharpening Angle
The dual option for sharp or blunt pencil tips offers versatile sharpening tailored for different needs.
Shavings Container
Its compact size and ample shavings capacity keep desks tidy without frequent emptying.

The Bostitch Office Pencil Sharpener (PS1-ADJ) is a small, manual sharpener designed with kids and colored pencils in mind. Its standout feature is the premium ratchet technology, which makes sharpening more comfortable and quicker compared to typical manual sharpeners. The sharpener includes a built-in shavings container with a door that stays attached, making it easy to empty without losing parts. It also offers customizable sharpening with a dial to choose between sharper or blunt points, which is handy for different pencil types and uses. A unique Tip Saver Technology helps prevent over-sharpening, extending the life of your pencils.

Made of durable alloy steel, this sharpener is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry or store. On the downside, you cannot select the sharpener’s color—it arrives randomly in purple, coral, or blue. The sharpening angle isn’t specified, which may matter if you want a very precise point. Being manual, it requires some hand effort, so it’s less suited if you need to sharpen many pencils quickly.

This sharpener works well for children, students, or casual use with both regular and colored pencils, providing a good balance of durability, convenience, and pencil care features.

Rating
10.0
Type
Blade Quality
Size

Most important from
13907 reviews

Type
The dual option for sharp or blunt pencil tips offers versatile sharpening tailored for different needs.
Blade Quality
The metal blade is safely enclosed, making it child-friendly and worry-free for small hands.
Size
Its compact size and ample shavings capacity keep desks tidy without frequent emptying.
Sharpening Angle
The dual option for sharp or blunt pencil tips offers versatile sharpening tailored for different needs.
Shavings Container
Its compact size and ample shavings capacity keep desks tidy without frequent emptying.
#3

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

Rating
9.7
Size
Compatibility

Most important from
9706 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
9.7
Size
Compatibility

Most important from
9706 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.

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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