Best Electric Pencil Sharpener Buyers Guide

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Our Picks

We have had a chance to review various models, in our quest to find the best electric pencil sharpener and believe me, every user came up with different sharpeners as their needs were different.

There is no unit that is 100% perfect, but based on our experience and feedback from various users like us, here are the suggested top 3 sharpeners:

If you find yourself in an unexpected situation when your pencil is blunt, what kind of pencil sharpener would you want at your side?  Most people probably would be happy to have any pencil sharpener with them.

But your not most people since you are reading this, you are someone who plans ahead, and you don’t want just any old model, you want the best electric pencil sharpener possible.

In life we all have our personal preferences and there is no difference when you look at what makes a good pencil sharpener. So whatever you need the sharpener use at school for students, in the office or for an arts project. In each case you want the absolute best electric pencil sharpener, and so we’re here to help make that decision easier.

Save Time

In order to help you choose the right kind of unit we picked out the highest rated, best-selling, and altogether best models based on how consumers were rating them on Amazon.

Secondly we created a Comparison Table, this allows you to easily view and review each style and model and measure the pros and cons of each.

Most Popular Electric Pencil Sharpeners

Among the models that we have reviewed so far, the following have made into our top 3.

X-Acto Electric Pencil Sharpener (1818)

X-ACTO is considered by many as the #1 brand of pencil sharpener. The X-ACTO (1818) is the latest in the line of great models. It has been designed for frequent use at home or in small offices.

The model comes with unique Pencil Saver technology prevents over-sharpening and an auto reset/shutoff that prevents overheating.

Other features include a slick compact design and non-skid feet that ensure it won’t damage the desktop.

Key Features:

• Features a X-ACTO Hardened Steel Cutter
• Pencil Saver technology prevents over-sharpening.
• Comes with an auto reset/shutoff feature keeps the unit from overheating

Some customer comments:

“Works great. My daughter is very happy. She is sharpening everything now. I don’t hear any complaints about the pencil not being sharpen.”

Chequita Battle, Amazon Customer Review

The X-Acto SchoolPro (1670) from X-Acto is the ideal electric pencil sharpener for the classroom. It has been engineered for smooth, quiet operation making it perfect for classroom use.

The X-Acto SchoolPro (1670) features a unique cutting blade and patented fly-away cutter stops sharpening when pencil point reaches ideal sharpness.

For safer use the unit comes with a SafeStart that prevents that sharpeners cutters from operating when receptacle is removed.

Key Features:

• Sharpener produces a sharp, but slightly rounded point using a hardened helical cutter.
• Features a quiet, heavy duty motor.
• Comes with a large storage receptacle for storing the waste.

Some customer comments:

“I have gone through at least three electric sharpeners in the last two years. I am an artist and really put the sharpeners through their paces. It is exceptionally handy to be able to sharpen all diamenter-sized pencils–graphite, colored, charcoal, pastel, and watercolor.

So far, this sharpener is working like a trooper, and holds a lot of shavings before it needs emptying. I especially appreciate that replacement cutters can be purchased for it, rather than having to replace the whole unit.”

JCoop, Amazon Customer Review

“I am a first grade teacher. I have tried many electric sharpeners, but this one is the best I’ve used! So many of my sharpeners have broken in the past. This one is holding up great and sharpens really well, including the “fat” pencils.”

Heather, Amazon Customer Review

The X-Acto SchoolPro (1670) has been reviewed by over 2700 customers on Amazon and has been given a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5.0. Its safe, efficient and quiet operations makes the unit perfect for classroom use. Click here – See the Price on Amazon.

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Buyers Guide

Wit so many different models out there it can be difficult to firstly create a shortlist and then pick a sharpener you really want. To help we have come up with a list of the key features we think you will need to consider before buying a unit.

Cost

Before you make a shortlist of models you will need to have a rough idea of how much you want to spend on a suitable unit. You can pick up a budget prices model at around $10.00 whereas a more premium model could set you back over $50.00.

Speed

If speed is not you main concern then you can skip this feature, however this might be an issue to consider if you are planning on using the unit in an office or classroom where they may be many users.

Type of Use

If you rarely use pencils then you may opt for a more budget friendly unit. However if you intend on using the unit in a classroom or office the you may want to opt for a model that is faster, and includes safety feature such as an auto shut off.

Blade Replacement

With all sharpeners after extended use the blade will need to be replaced. It can be easier to change the blade in some units then in others. Before buying a unit you will need to find out if a replacement would be available.

Changing blades can be dangerous due to the risk of getting a cut, if you are concerned about replacing blades ensure you follow the manufacturers instructions.

Battery Operated or Mains powered

Battery operated units are more portable then there mains powered counterparts. Mains powered units tend to offer greater power and speed.

Noise

If you share a work space then the noise from a gadget such as a electric sharpener can be a concern. Some units are designed to operated with minimal noise by using an efficient motor and often non skid rubber feet.

Storage receptacle

Easy disposal of the waste if key for a quick and seamless sharpening process. The size of the storage receptacle can impact the number of times you will need to empty the receptacle before you can continue to sharpen pencils.

Over Sharpening

Some units such as the X-Acto (1818) come with in-built technology that helps to extend a pencil’s life by eliminating over sharpening. Over time this will help you to save some money by allowing you to use pencils for longer.

Warranty

If you expect to use the sharpener on a daily basis for extended periods its always worth finding out how long the warranty will last for, and what it covers. Keep this information is an easily accessible location.

Summary

Now that you have seen the options and our top picks for the best electric pencil sharpener on the market, its up to you to pick what meets your needs, is in your price range, and overall help you gear up for your next pencil sharpening adventure

As you know, new models are being created all the time by new and old manufacturers.  For that reason, the reviews on this site will be updated as new sharpeners need to be added to the list.  Or if you feel like we missed a superior sharpener that needs to be included on the list, let me know in the comments below!

References

We have used a number of sources to build this buyers guide:

• Wikipedia