Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Anti-Jam Crosscut Paper Shredder

Last updated: July 9, 2024


All you need to do to use this crosscut paper shredder is plug it in and choose between the "auto," "forward" or "reverse" functions. The unit can handle up to 12 sheets of paper at a time, while the attached basket has a 4.8-gallon capacity. As an added bonus, this unit is outfitted with LED lights to let you know if the unit is overloaded or overheating.

We looked at the top Paper Shredders and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Paper Shredder you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: In the front of this crosscut paper shredder is a handy slot for destroying old credit cards.

In our analysis of 45 expert reviews, the Amazon Basics 12-Sheet Anti-Jam Crosscut Paper Shredder placed 3rd when we looked at the top 17 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

Cross-cut shredder turns paper into confetti-like pieces measuring 3/16 by 1-9/16 inches (5 by 40 mm); meets security level P-3 standards. Shreds up to 12 sheets of 20-pound bond paper at a time; also destroys credit cards (one at a time, through dedicated slot), staples or small paper clips. 7 minutes on / 30 minutes off; if shredder runs continuously beyond the max run time, it will automatically shut off to protect the motor from overheating. 4-mode power switch (auto, off, reverse, forward); auto start and anti-jam auto reverse to minimize/clear paper jams; LED indicators (power on, overload, overheat, misaligned); 8.7-inch paper-entry width; lift handle; easy-to-empty 4.8-gallon bin. Quality tested: as part of Amazon Basics quality inspections, we test every shredder before shipping it, which means you may see some paper shreds from the testing. Important Note: Do not spray or keep any aerosol products in or around the shredder and do not shred items like metallic credit cards.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

Cross-shredding for effective and secure destruction of documents. Anti-jam auto-reverse to clear paper jams. Auto-on sensor.
The cutting mechanism stays sharp during the whole time of use, so you won't have to change it. The construction features a viewing window that allows checking how full the bin is.
Comes with amazing and powerful cross-cut blades. Has a thermal protection feature that helps the motor from overheating if it runs beyond its maximum run time. Is also equipped with a 4 mode power switch which is used for auto, off, reverse, and forward the papers from the shredder. Comes with a P-3 security level which secures your documents from an unwanted person.

What reviewers didn't like

Ran for only five minutes before jamming on a stack of 13 sheets of paper. Although that’s a good reminder to obey the manufacturer’s recommended page capacity, we still think shredders should make jams easy for you to resolve by using the reverse or forward mechanisms. In this case, the jam was impossible for us to fix, and the shredder was kaput.
Noisy despite its size. Bucket isn’t as durable. Gets warm quickly.
It is a bit loud.
View our Paper Shredder buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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