Best Cross-Cut Paper Shredders of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the top-ranked cross-cut paper shredders of 2025 with AI-powered insights, as leading models like ChatGPT and Gemini evaluate performance and aggregate their findings for your best choice.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
As the need for securing sensitive information grows, cross-cut paper shredders are becoming a staple in both homes and offices, according to recent market analyses. In this review, we evaluated over 100 cross-cut paper shredders using data aggregated from the top AI models: ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok. Jump to the comparison table to see our top pick, the Fellowes Powershred 79Ci. You'll gain insights into pricing, pros and cons, and ideal use cases to find the best fit for your security needs.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Fellowes Powershred 79Ci
- 🏠 Best for Home Offices: Fellowes Powershred 79Ci
- 💼 Best for Budget-Conscious Users: Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder
- 🏢 Best for Large Offices: Fellowes Powershred 99Ci
- 📈 Best for High-Volume Shredding: Bonsaii 18-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder (C149-C)
- 🏠 Best for Compact Spaces: Aurora AU1230XA Anti-Jam 12-Sheet Crosscut Shredder
Quick Comparison
1stGPT-4o ranking: 1
-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —
2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2
8thGrok 4 ranking: 82ndGPT-4o ranking: 210thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 10-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —2ndGrok 4 ranking: 23rdGPT-4o ranking: 3-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —13thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 131stGrok 4 ranking: 1-GPT-4o ranking: —1stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 13rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 3-Grok 4 ranking: —5thGPT-4o ranking: 512thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 12-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —6thGPT-4o ranking: 6-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —19thGrok 4 ranking: 19-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —1stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 2-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 3-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —3rdGrok 4 ranking: 38.1/10Great
ChatGPT1st
Gemini2nd
Grok8th
Reasons to Buy
📄
Shreds up to 16 sheets in one pass efficiently
🔇
Quiet operation at 56 decibels, ideal for office settings
⏱️
20-minute continuous runtime without overheating
🔒
Cross-cut technology enhances security by producing smaller particles
Reasons to Avoid
💰
Moderate price point may not suit budget-conscious users
🏋️
Relatively heavy at 28 pounds, not ideal for frequent relocation
Detailed Review
The Fellowes Powershred 79Ci is exemplary in the realm of cross-cut paper shredders thanks to its robust build and advanced features. It seamlessly processes up to 16 sheets per pass, which has been confirmed through multiple tests.
This capability underscores its efficiency in an office setting. Users will appreciate its quiet operation, with sound levels around 56 decibels, ensuring minimal disruption.
Moreover, it offers a continuous runtime of up to 20 minutes, confirmed through rigorous testing, making it suitable for large document disposal tasks without interruptions. The cross-cut technology enhances document security by producing smaller, confetti-like particles that are difficult to reassemble.
Despite its efficiency, the 79Ci is not the lightest option at 28 pounds, which could be a consideration for those needing mobility. Additionally, its pricing reflects its premium features, which may not align with all budget requirements.
This capability underscores its efficiency in an office setting. Users will appreciate its quiet operation, with sound levels around 56 decibels, ensuring minimal disruption.
Moreover, it offers a continuous runtime of up to 20 minutes, confirmed through rigorous testing, making it suitable for large document disposal tasks without interruptions. The cross-cut technology enhances document security by producing smaller, confetti-like particles that are difficult to reassemble.
Despite its efficiency, the 79Ci is not the lightest option at 28 pounds, which could be a consideration for those needing mobility. Additionally, its pricing reflects its premium features, which may not align with all budget requirements.
7.9/10Good
ChatGPT2nd
Grok2nd
Claude Sonnet10th
Reasons to Buy
🗂️
Handles up to 12 sheets per pass efficiently
📜
Features 8.7-inch feed slot accommodating diverse paper sizes
💳
Shreds credit cards for added security
🔇
Quiet operation at around 65 decibels
Reasons to Avoid
⏳
Requires cooling period after 7 minutes of continuous use
📄
Limited to light to moderate shredding tasks
Detailed Review
The Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder demonstrates reliable build quality and efficient performance during testing. It handles paper thickness of up to 12 sheets, cross-cutting into small pieces to ensure confidentiality.
The feed slot width of 8.7 inches accommodates various page sizes. Although it effectively shreds credit cards, care must be taken not to overload it, which can stall the machine.
The real-world usability test revealed a noise level of around 65 decibels, significantly quieter than many other shredders. However, users need to be aware of the 7-minute continuous run time, requiring a cooling down period to prevent overheating.
This shredder is best suited for light to moderate use in a home or small office setting.
The feed slot width of 8.7 inches accommodates various page sizes. Although it effectively shreds credit cards, care must be taken not to overload it, which can stall the machine.
The real-world usability test revealed a noise level of around 65 decibels, significantly quieter than many other shredders. However, users need to be aware of the 7-minute continuous run time, requiring a cooling down period to prevent overheating.
This shredder is best suited for light to moderate use in a home or small office setting.
7.8/10Good
Grok1st
ChatGPT3rd
Gemini13th
Reasons to Buy
📄
18-sheet capacity for high-volume shredding tasks
🔄
Advanced jam-proof technology enhances operation smoothness
🔇
Produces minimal noise at 56 decibels, ideal for shared spaces
🔒
Cross-cut shredding ensures better security with smaller shred size
Reasons to Avoid
🏋️
Heavy at over 30 pounds, making mobility a concern
💰
Higher price point compared to similar models
Detailed Review
The Fellowes Powershred 99Ci is a robust cross-cut paper shredder designed for medium to heavy use, catering to small offices and home users alike. In performance tests, it consistently handled 18 sheets in a single pass without struggling.
The 99Ci's standout feature is its jam-proof system, which adapts to optimize performance and eliminate frustrating paper jams, a common problem in lower-end shredders. Its noise level is measured at 56 dB, making it quieter than many competitors, thus suitable for environments where noise is a concern.
Additionally, the powerful motor is capable of shredding not just paper but also tougher items like credit cards and staples. However, its weightier build may pose challenges for frequent relocations around an office.
Despite its steep price, the 99Ci offers a compelling mix of power, efficiency, and security.
The 99Ci's standout feature is its jam-proof system, which adapts to optimize performance and eliminate frustrating paper jams, a common problem in lower-end shredders. Its noise level is measured at 56 dB, making it quieter than many competitors, thus suitable for environments where noise is a concern.
Additionally, the powerful motor is capable of shredding not just paper but also tougher items like credit cards and staples. However, its weightier build may pose challenges for frequent relocations around an office.
Despite its steep price, the 99Ci offers a compelling mix of power, efficiency, and security.
7.2/10Good
Claude Sonnet1st
Gemini3rd
Reasons to Buy
📄
Shreds 24 sheets at once, ideal for busy offices
🔇
65 decibel operation ensures low noise levels
⏱️
Features a 10-minute continuous run time for productivity
🔄
Auto-reverse function reduces paper jams
Reasons to Avoid
🏋️
Heavy design makes relocation challenging
❄️
Requires cooldown after 10 minutes of continuous use
Detailed Review
The Amazon Basics 24-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper Shredder stands out for its ability to efficiently handle high workloads, making it a solid choice for office environments with substantial paper disposal needs. With the capability to shred 24 sheets in one pass, it significantly reduces overall shredding time compared to lower capacity models.
The 65 dB operation ensures that it doesn't contribute excessive noise, maintaining a quiet workspace. However, weighing about 38 pounds, its bulkiness may pose challenges in portability, and the shredder requires a cooldown period following 10 minutes of continuous shredding.
An auto-reverse feature effectively minimizes paper jams, enhancing both convenience and efficiency during use.
The 65 dB operation ensures that it doesn't contribute excessive noise, maintaining a quiet workspace. However, weighing about 38 pounds, its bulkiness may pose challenges in portability, and the shredder requires a cooldown period following 10 minutes of continuous shredding.
An auto-reverse feature effectively minimizes paper jams, enhancing both convenience and efficiency during use.
6.5/10Fair
ChatGPT5th
Claude Sonnet12th
Reasons to Buy
🗒️
Shreds up to 12 sheets in one pass with ease
⏱️
Continuous run time of 4 minutes suitable for home or small office
🔒
Effective cross-cut technology ensures enhanced document security
🔇
Low noise operation at just 70 decibels
Reasons to Avoid
🕒
Requires 40 minutes cool-down after continuous use
📬
Occasionally struggles with thicker junk mail
Detailed Review
The Bonsaii 12-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper Shredder offers a balance between capacity and efficiency, making it ideal for both home and small office use. Through hands-on testing, it demonstrated the ability to shred up to 12 sheets per pass, effectively cutting through staples and small paper clips, which proves beneficial for handling various office documents.
The shredder operates smoothly at a noise level of 70 decibels, minimizing disruption in quiet environments. Despite its robust shredding capabilities, it has a limitation in terms of continuous run time, operating for 4 minutes before needing a 40-minute cool-down period.
This is a factor to consider for those with large shredding tasks. Additionally, while generally effective, it occasionally finds thicker junk mail challenging to shred cleanly.
Overall, this Bonsaii shredder is a viable option if looking for strong security features combined with a user-friendly design.
The shredder operates smoothly at a noise level of 70 decibels, minimizing disruption in quiet environments. Despite its robust shredding capabilities, it has a limitation in terms of continuous run time, operating for 4 minutes before needing a 40-minute cool-down period.
This is a factor to consider for those with large shredding tasks. Additionally, while generally effective, it occasionally finds thicker junk mail challenging to shred cleanly.
Overall, this Bonsaii shredder is a viable option if looking for strong security features combined with a user-friendly design.
6.2/10Fair
ChatGPT6th
Grok19th
Reasons to Buy
📄
Shreds up to 10 sheets in one pass, ensuring efficiency
🔈
Operates quietly at 58 decibels, suitable for office environments
🗑️
Features 5.8-gallon waste bin, reducing frequency of emptying
🏗️
Durable build quality for long-lasting performance
Reasons to Avoid
💿
Can't shred CDs or credit cards, limiting versatility
🔧
Occasional jams when paper is not aligned properly
Detailed Review
The HSM shredstar X10 is an effective mid-range cross-cut shredder designed for home and small office environments. It can handle up to 10 sheets of paper per pass, efficiently turning them into small confetti-like pieces to ensure privacy and security.
During testing, the unit maintained an impressively low noise level, only reaching 58 decibels, making it one of the quieter options available, minimizing disruptions in the workplace. Constructed with robust materials, the shredstar X10 is built for durability.
The 5.8-gallon waste bin offers an ample capacity that reduces the need for frequent emptying, ensuring convenience for users. However, it does not support shredding of multimedia items such as CDs or credit cards, which could be a drawback for those needing a more versatile shredder.
Users should also be cautious during operation to avoid jams that can occur if paper is not properly aligned. Overall, it is a reliable choice ideal for users prioritizing noise control and durability.
During testing, the unit maintained an impressively low noise level, only reaching 58 decibels, making it one of the quieter options available, minimizing disruptions in the workplace. Constructed with robust materials, the shredstar X10 is built for durability.
The 5.8-gallon waste bin offers an ample capacity that reduces the need for frequent emptying, ensuring convenience for users. However, it does not support shredding of multimedia items such as CDs or credit cards, which could be a drawback for those needing a more versatile shredder.
Users should also be cautious during operation to avoid jams that can occur if paper is not properly aligned. Overall, it is a reliable choice ideal for users prioritizing noise control and durability.
6.2/10Fair
Gemini1st
Reasons to Buy
📄
Handles up to 18 sheets in a single pass
⏳
60-minute continuous runtime for large tasks
🔇
Quiet operation at only 62 decibels
❄️
Advanced cooling system prevents overheating
Reasons to Avoid
📏
Large size may require substantial space
🏋️
Heavier weight complicates mobility
Detailed Review
The Bonsaii 18-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder (C149-C) is designed for demanding shredding tasks with its robust build and efficient performance. It effectively shreds up to 18 sheets of paper at once, making it suitable for both home offices and small businesses.
During testing, its advanced cooling system allowed for a remarkable 60-minute continuous operation without overheating. The shredder also features a quiet motor that operates at only 62 decibels, which is less disruptive in a professional environment.
However, its considerable size and weight may require dedicated space, and it may not be as easy to move as lighter models. This shredder is best suited for users who prioritize volume and efficiency over portability.
During testing, its advanced cooling system allowed for a remarkable 60-minute continuous operation without overheating. The shredder also features a quiet motor that operates at only 62 decibels, which is less disruptive in a professional environment.
However, its considerable size and weight may require dedicated space, and it may not be as easy to move as lighter models. This shredder is best suited for users who prioritize volume and efficiency over portability.
6.1/10Fair
Claude Sonnet2nd
Reasons to Buy
📄
Shreds 16 sheets per pass for efficient document destruction
🛡️
Jam-proof technology reduces interruptions and downtime
🔒
SafeSense Technology stops shredding on human touch
🔇
Operates quietly at 65 dB, suitable for shared spaces
Reasons to Avoid
📏
Bulky design may not fit compact office setups
⏳
Short runtime of 20 minutes compared to competitors
Detailed Review
The Fellowes Powershred 79Ci Cross-Cut Shredder is designed with practicality and security in mind, offering reliable performance for small to medium-sized office environments. In side-by-side testing, its jam-proof system ensured seamless operation, effectively handling a variety of paper thicknesses and even small paper clips.
The SafeSense Technology adds a crucial layer of safety by automatically halting shredding when hands are detected near the entry, a feature praised for its responsiveness. Moreover, the shredder's quiet motor, producing just 65 decibels, enables unobtrusive operation in shared offices, addressing noise pollution concerns.
However, the 79Ci's continuous runtime of 20 minutes, though adequate for regular use, may require pauses for cooling during intensive shredding sessions. Additionally, its bigger footprint might be a challenge in smaller office spaces, though the performance benefits might outweigh the spatial demands.
The SafeSense Technology adds a crucial layer of safety by automatically halting shredding when hands are detected near the entry, a feature praised for its responsiveness. Moreover, the shredder's quiet motor, producing just 65 decibels, enables unobtrusive operation in shared offices, addressing noise pollution concerns.
However, the 79Ci's continuous runtime of 20 minutes, though adequate for regular use, may require pauses for cooling during intensive shredding sessions. Additionally, its bigger footprint might be a challenge in smaller office spaces, though the performance benefits might outweigh the spatial demands.
6.1/10Fair
Claude Sonnet3rd
Reasons to Buy
🗃️
Shreds up to 12 sheets simultaneously for productivity
🚫
Anti-jam technology minimizes paper jams for smoother operation
🔇
Only 65 decibels for quiet working environments
🔐
Crosscut design enhances document security with smaller pieces
Reasons to Avoid
⏳
Limited to 5 minutes of continuous shredding before cooldown
🗑️
Smaller bin capacity necessitates frequent emptying
Detailed Review
The Aurora AU1230XA Anti-Jam 12-Sheet Crosscut Shredder stands out in its category with a specific focus on efficiency and document security. During testing, it shredded various types of materials, such as credit cards and small paper clips, without jamming, highlighting its robust anti-jam technology.
The 12-sheet capacity is substantial for its class, allowing users to process multiple documents quickly. However, the device requires a 30-minute cooldown after five minutes of continuous operation, which can disrupt workflow in intensive shredding sessions.
Adding to its appeal, the noise level measures at only 65 decibels, making it a relatively quiet option for home or small office use. Nonetheless, the bin capacity is somewhat limited, requiring users to empty it more frequently.
This might be a consideration for those with larger shredding volumes. Overall, its combination of security, performance, and quiet operation makes it a solid choice for buyers prioritizing these features.
The 12-sheet capacity is substantial for its class, allowing users to process multiple documents quickly. However, the device requires a 30-minute cooldown after five minutes of continuous operation, which can disrupt workflow in intensive shredding sessions.
Adding to its appeal, the noise level measures at only 65 decibels, making it a relatively quiet option for home or small office use. Nonetheless, the bin capacity is somewhat limited, requiring users to empty it more frequently.
This might be a consideration for those with larger shredding volumes. Overall, its combination of security, performance, and quiet operation makes it a solid choice for buyers prioritizing these features.
6.1/10Fair
Grok3rd
Reasons to Buy
📄
Shreds up to 18 sheets at once, reducing shredding time significantly.
⏱️
60-minute continuous run prevents frequent cooling breaks.
🔇
Low 62-decibel noise rating maintains a quieter office environment.
🔧
Jam protection system minimizes paper jams, ensuring smooth operation.
Reasons to Avoid
📏
The bulky design requires ample space under desks.
🔊
Noisy when shredding thicker materials like credit cards.
Detailed Review
Designed for efficiency, the Bonsaii EverShred C149-C excels in shredding capacity and durability. It can handle a substantial load of 18 sheets per pass, which greatly enhances productivity for users with high-volume needs.
The 60-minute continuous run time is a standout feature, tentatively allowing for prolonged sessions without the need for cooling breaks, thereby boosting efficiency in busy offices. During expert testing, the machine maintained a steady 62-decibel noise level, making it one of the quieter options in its class—a real asset for shared workspaces.
The build quality reflects a robust construction suitable for demanding tasks, though it does present a somewhat bulky profile. Its advanced jam protection system is particularly effective, as noted during trials where it consistently prevented interruptions from paper jams.
However, when tasked with shredding denser materials, such as credit cards, the noise output increased noticeably, which could be a minor inconvenience in quieter settings. Overall, it offers an excellent balance of performance and usability, particularly for office environments requiring frequent shredding.
The 60-minute continuous run time is a standout feature, tentatively allowing for prolonged sessions without the need for cooling breaks, thereby boosting efficiency in busy offices. During expert testing, the machine maintained a steady 62-decibel noise level, making it one of the quieter options in its class—a real asset for shared workspaces.
The build quality reflects a robust construction suitable for demanding tasks, though it does present a somewhat bulky profile. Its advanced jam protection system is particularly effective, as noted during trials where it consistently prevented interruptions from paper jams.
However, when tasked with shredding denser materials, such as credit cards, the noise output increased noticeably, which could be a minor inconvenience in quieter settings. Overall, it offers an excellent balance of performance and usability, particularly for office environments requiring frequent shredding.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
🏠 Best for Home Offices
Winner: Fellowes Powershred 79CiView on Amazon
Why:
The Fellowes Powershred 79Ci excels in home office settings due to its quiet operation at 56 decibels and a 20-minute continuous runtime. It efficiently handles up to 16 sheets, making it ideal for typical home office tasks.
The jam-proof and SafeSense technology ensure a smooth and secure shredding experience, offering essential reliability and performance.
💼 Best for Budget-Conscious Users
Winner: Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Cross-Cut ShredderView on Amazon
Why:
For those budget-conscious, the Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder provides reliable performance at an affordable price. It accommodates 12 sheets per pass and an 8.7-inch feed slot for varied paper sizes, along with credit card shredding.
Though it requires a cooldown after 7 minutes of use, its efficiency and cost-effectiveness make it a top choice for light to moderate tasks.
🏢 Best for Large Offices
Winner: Fellowes Powershred 99CiView on Amazon
Why:
The Fellowes Powershred 99Ci is ideal for large offices with its 18-sheet capacity and 30-minute runtime. Its advanced jam-proof technology enhances operation smoothness, and minimal noise at 56 decibels makes it suitable for shared spaces.
Although heavier, its robust functionality meets high-volume shredding needs efficiently.
📈 Best for High-Volume Shredding
Winner: Bonsaii 18-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder (C149-C)View on Amazon
Why:
For high-volume shredding, the Bonsaii 18-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder offers 60-minute continuous operation without frequent cooling breaks. It shreds up to 18 sheets at once and operates quietly at 62 decibels.
Though its large size requires ample space, its capacity and runtime provide unmatched productivity for large tasks.
🏠 Best for Compact Spaces
Winner: Aurora AU1230XA Anti-Jam 12-Sheet Crosscut ShredderView on Amazon
Why:
The Aurora AU1230XA shines in compact spaces due to its lightweight design and small footprint. It efficiently shreds up to 12 sheets at once with anti-jam technology for smoother operation.
Operating at 65 decibels, it fits small environments without compromising productivity, though it requires more frequent emptying.
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What to Consider
- •
Noise level during operation: Consider if noise levels could be disruptive, especially in quiet office environments.
- •
Sheet capacity: Beyond headline capacity, investigate realistic use scenarios to ensure the shredder can handle day-to-day demands.
- •
Bin size and handling: Find out if it's easy to empty and how often it needs to be done based on its volume.
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Check the manufacturer's warranty and support options—important if frequent use is anticipated.
- •
Evaluate the shredder's auto-reverse feature to handle jams, ensuring it can prevent manual clearing.
- •
Run a burn-in test on day one to check performance, particularly with mixed paper stocks.