10 Best Pencil Sharpeners 2026 in the United States

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 AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener is a solid choice for anyone needing a fast, reliable sharpener for both standard and larger pencils (6-12mm), including No.2, colored, and hard charcoal pencils. It sharpens quickly—new pencils in about 5 seconds and used ones even faster—helping you save time compared to manual or slower sharpeners. A notable feature is its auto-stop function, which prevents over-sharpening and helps preserve your pencils. The sharpener also ejects broken leads automatically, reducing frustration. It offers two sharpening settings: a blunt point for safety or kids, and a sharp point ideal for artists or detailed work.

The durable helical stainless steel blade is designed to last for thousands of uses and can be replaced if needed, which adds to the product’s long-term value. The shavings container is large and easy to empty, helping keep your workspace tidy. Since it plugs into a power outlet with a worldwide voltage adapter, it’s convenient for use at home, office, or studio.

It is not recommended for soft core pencils, so if you work heavily with those, this might not be the best fit. Also, as it requires plugging in, it’s less portable than battery-operated models. This sharpener is well-suited for users who want a durable, efficient electric sharpener that handles a range of pencil sizes and types with minimal hassle.

The Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is a manual sharpener designed with kids and colored pencils in mind. It features a plastic build that is lightweight and easy to handle, though it may not feel as sturdy as metal sharpeners. A standout feature is its attached dispenser drawer that collects shavings securely and is easy to clean, helping to keep your workspace tidy. The sharpener offers customizable sharpening through a central dial, allowing you to choose between a sharp or blunt pencil tip, which is handy for different drawing or writing needs. Bostitch’s exclusive Tip Saver Technology prevents over-sharpening, extending the life of your pencils, especially useful for expensive colored pencils. The premium ratchet technology makes sharpening smooth and quick, avoiding the frustration of manual sharpening that can feel tough or uneven.

Since it’s designed mainly for colored and graphite pencils, it works well for school or art use but might not be ideal for thicker or specialty pencils. Being manual, it requires some effort but is portable and doesn’t need batteries. The plastic material is not the most durable for heavy or long-term use, so it’s best suited for light to moderate use. With a high customer rating and the #1 spot in pencil sharpeners, it provides a reliable choice if you want an easy-to-use, kid-friendly sharpener that protects your pencils and keeps shavings contained.