10 Best Pencil Sharpeners 2026 in the United States

The Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable, quick way to sharpen pencils, whether you're an artist, student, or teacher. It is an electric sharpener, so it works fast and avoids the tiring manual effort. The hardened helical blade (HHC cutter) is a big plus, offering about four times longer life than typical blades, which means it stays sharp longer and works smoothly without frequent blade changes. It also has a powerful motor that doesn’t stall easily, keeping your sharpening experience consistent.

One of its standout features is the large shavings tray, which means you won’t have to empty it as often—perfect for busy environments. The safety switch is thoughtful too; the sharpener won't operate unless the shavings tray is in place, helping avoid accidents. Its compact size makes it a good fit for small desks or crowded home offices.

This model doesn’t offer adjustable point options, so you get a standard sharp point rather than a choice between fine or blunt tips. Also, it's designed for standard-sized pencils; specialty pencils or very thick art pencils might not fit as well. Being made mostly of plastic, it may not feel as sturdy as some metal models, though the durable blade helps balance that. This sharpener is great for general office or school use, offering fast, safe, and low-maintenance sharpening in a small package, but it’s less suited if you want more control over pencil points or need to sharpen very thick or specialty pencils.

The AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener stands out in the pencil sharpener category, especially for students and artists who use colored pencils. This fully automatic sharpener is designed for ease of use; simply drop in your pencil, and it takes care of the rest, which is great for young kids. The hands-free operation promotes safety by eliminating the risk of injury while sharpening, making it a fantastic choice for classrooms or home use.

One of its major strengths is its compatibility with various pencil sizes, accommodating those between 7mm and 11.5mm in diameter. It also features three sharpness settings, allowing users to choose between sharp, medium, and blunt tips, making it versatile for different artistic needs. The rechargeable battery is a plus, providing portability and convenience, particularly if you need to use it outdoors or in places without easy access to power.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the blade is replaceable, it's essential to be cautious with softer core pencils, as they may break more easily if not used with the appropriate sharpness setting. Additionally, some users might find maintenance, such as emptying the shavings container, slightly inconvenient if they are used to traditional manual sharpeners. The design is compact and visually appealing, making it attractive for kids, but it may not appeal to adults looking for a more professional-looking sharpener. With a weight of 1.35 pounds and dimensions that fit neatly on desks, it’s practical for school or home settings.

The AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener is an effective tool for colored pencil users, especially students and young artists. Its automatic features and safety aspects are commendable, though attention is needed for specific pencil types to prevent breakage.

The Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener is designed to enhance your pencil sharpening experience, making it an excellent choice for home or office use. Its standout feature is the HHC Cutter, which significantly extends the life of the cutting blade, providing four times longer sharpening capability compared to traditional models. This means you’ll spend less time dealing with dull blades and more time focusing on your tasks. The powerful stall-free motor ensures that this sharpener won't struggle with thicker pencils, which can be a common issue with lesser models, making it reliable for everyday use.

Another advantage is its space-saving design, which is particularly useful in compact home offices. This sharpener is lightweight, easy to position, and won’t crowd your workspace. The large shavings container is a real bonus, accommodating plenty of shavings before needing to be emptied, which makes maintenance less frequent.

On the safety front, the built-in safety switch is a thoughtful addition, preventing the sharpener from operating when the shavings tray is removed, which can help avoid accidents. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The sharpener is made from plastic, which might not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for more durable materials. Some users might also find that the electric operation could be a hassle if they prefer manual sharpeners for quieter environments or portability. Additionally, while the sharpener is designed for graphite pencils, it may not work well with colored pencils or other types, limiting its versatility.