Cross-cut

Strip-cut shredders

• Offer a basic level of security.
• Shred paper into full-length strips

Cross-cut shredders

• Offer an enhanced level of security.
• Shred documents into smaller, unreadable pieces of various sizes.

Micro-cut shredders

• Provide the maximum level of security.
• Shred documents into tiny pieces that are nearly impossible to piece back together.

Capacity

Sheet capacity — the maximum number of paper sheets that can be fed into the shredder throat at one time.

Bin capacity — the number of gallons of space that's available in the shredder bin.

• As a general rule, strip-cut pieces take up more space than micro-cut pieces.
• Bags are recommended for easy cleanup of smaller cut types.

Shred Time

The amount of time the shredder can continuously shred before it shuts down.

• After the allotted time, the shredder requires a specified amount of cooldown time.
• Example: A certain shredder can run for 6 minutes continuously, then requires 20 minutes of inactivity before it can shred again.

Performance

Cutting blades

Shredder blades come in a variety of types.

• V-Track™ advanced blade technology features a V-shaped cutter to maximize performance.
• Titanium cutters, found in select Staples® brand shredders, are durable and sharp.
• Use oils or lubricant sheets to lengthen the life of your blades.

Safety

Some shredders have advanced safety features to prevent accidents or misuse.

• Lockout key, found in select Staples® brand shredders, prevents unauthorized shredder use.
• SafeSense™ technology, found in select Fellowes® shredders, automatically disables the shredder when hands get too close.

Noise Level

A quieter shredder is better in a shared office environment.

• Shredder noise levels are measured in decibels (db).
• They range from whisper quiet, around 60 db, to the loudness of a busy street, around 80 db.

Jam Resistance

Shredders with enhanced jam resistance stop jams before they start.

• AntiJam Smart-Sense™ technology, found in select Staples® brand shredders, features a sensor that helps prevent jams.
• Jam-Proof system, found in select Fellowes shredders, alerts users when too much paper is being inserted.
• Reverse functions help clear jams after they occur.