10 Best Pencil Sharpener For Kids 2026 in the United States

The AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener is a powerful and fast tool, capable of sharpening a new pencil in as little as 5 seconds, and a used one in 3 seconds. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to save time and avoid the frustration of slower sharpeners. It works with both standard and larger pencils, fitting sizes from 6-12mm, including No.2 and colored pencils, though it might not be suitable for softer core pencils.

One of its standout features is the auto-stop function, which prevents over-sharpening and conserves pencils by stopping automatically when the job is done. Additionally, it has a top-opening lid and a large shavings box for easy cleaning, ensuring that it doesn't create a mess on your desk or floor. The sharpener also includes two settings for sharpness - blunt and sharp - catering to different needs, whether for precise artistic work or safer use by children.

The device is built with a durable helical blade that can be replaced and is designed to last for over 8000 sharpenings. It operates via a plug-in 12V AC adapter, making it convenient for worldwide use. However, it is relatively heavy at 1.45 pounds and might not be the most portable option for on-the-go use. Moreover, while its robust build contributes to its durability, its larger size (3.8 x 3.8 x 7.08 inches) may take up more space compared to smaller, manual sharpeners. This sharpener excels in speed, durability, and maintaining a clean workspace, making it ideal for home or office use, especially for those who need to sharpen a variety of pencil types quickly and efficiently.

The AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener is a smart choice for children who use colored pencils, especially those with sizes from 7 to 11.5mm. Its fully automatic operation means kids just drop the pencil in, and the sharpener feeds it automatically and ejects it once done, which is great for safety and ease of use—no hand pain or sharpener handling needed. The sharpener’s design includes a large hole that fits various pencil sizes and shapes, and it has three sharpening settings (sharp, medium, blunt) allowing for different tip preferences, which is useful for both fine detail and broader coloring.

It’s rechargeable and can also work while plugged in, making it versatile for home, school, or outdoor use. The device is compact and lightweight, fitting easily on a small desk or inside a backpack, plus it has an appealing, kid-friendly look in pink. Durability is supported by its ABS housing and replaceable stainless steel blade, which should handle regular use well.

Some soft core pencils may break if sharpened too sharp, so using the medium or blunt settings is recommended for those. This sharpener is ideal for young artists and students needing a safe, easy-to-use, and neat sharpening solution, especially for colored pencils.

The Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is a kid-friendly manual sharpener designed with safety and convenience in mind. Its standout feature is the Tip Saver Technology which prevents over-sharpening, helping colored and graphite pencils last longer—a nice plus for kids who tend to over-sharpen. The sharpener also includes a customizable sharpening dial, letting users choose between a sharp or blunt point, which is great for younger children who might prefer a safer blunt tip. The attached shavings dispenser drawer securely catches pencil waste and is easy to clean without risking losing parts, which parents will appreciate.

The premium ratchet mechanism makes turning the sharpener smooth and comfortable, which is important for little hands. At just over 5.5 inches long and weighing less than an ounce, it’s portable and easy to store in a backpack or pencil case. Being manual and made of plastic, it’s durable enough for everyday use but might not withstand rough handling over time. However, its plastic build keeps it lightweight and kid-friendly. While it excels in safety, ease of use, and waste management, it lacks electric power, so sharpening might take a bit more effort for some children. Colored pencil sharpening is supported well, making it suitable for art projects.

This sharpener is ideal for children who need a safe, effective, and easy-to-clean tool that helps extend pencil life, and is best suited for those comfortable with manual operation.