Swingline EX12-05 Paper Shredder Review: Is it the Right Choice for You?

You’ve probably been in that situation – a stack of sensitive documents piling up on your desk, and you’re worried about keeping them secure. You’ve likely considered a shredder before, and you’re not alone. Many people feel the same way, and a shredder can provide peace of mind. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you?

Our Pick
GBC Paper Shredder, 12 Sheet Capacity, Super Cross-Cut, 1 User, Personal, EX12-05 (1757390)
  • SUPER CROSS-CUT SHREDDER – Eliminate mess and clutter with a super cross-cut shredder. With P-4...
  • 5-GALLON BIN – The convenient, 5-gallon pull-out waste bin gives you plenty of shred capacity and...
  • 12-SHEET CAPACITY – Shreds up to 12 sheets at a time. Hardworking shredder gives you 20 minute...
  • VERSATILE SHREDDING – While primarily intended for paper, this machine also shreds DVDs, CDs,...

Choosing the Right Paper Shredder

Paper shredders are designed to help you securely dispose of sensitive documents. They’re particularly important for individuals and businesses dealing with confidential information, such as financial records, personal details, and legal documents. The right shredder depends on your needs, including the volume of documents you shred, the level of security required, and your budget.

If you only shred a small amount of paper occasionally, a basic model might suffice. However, if you shred large amounts of paper frequently, you’ll need a more powerful and durable shredder. The level of security you need also matters. Some shredders offer basic security, while others offer higher levels of security, which is crucial for sensitive documents.

Introducing the Swingline EX12-05

The Swingline EX12-05 is a personal shredder designed for individual users who need a reliable and secure way to dispose of documents. It boasts a 12-sheet capacity, a 5-gallon pull-out waste bin, and a cross-cut shred style that provides P-4 level security, making it suitable for everyday security needs, including shredding sensitive documents.

It’s also capable of shredding a variety of materials, including DVDs, CDs, credit cards, staples, and paper clips. The separate cutter for discs ensures that the main cutters are not damaged.

Pros:

* Shreds up to 12 sheets at a time
* P-4 Level Security
* Large 5-gallon waste bin
* Separate slot for CDs and credit cards
* Automatic power save feature
* 2-year limited warranty and 7-year limited warranty on cutters

Cons:

* Not the quietest shredder on the market
* Can overheat if used for extended periods
* The bin can fill up quickly if you shred a large volume of documents

Features & Benefits of the Swingline EX12-05

Security & Convenience

One of the standout features of the Swingline EX12-05 is its P-4 level security. This means that it cross-cuts paper into tiny pieces, making it difficult for anyone to reassemble the documents. This is a crucial feature for anyone concerned about privacy and security, especially when shredding sensitive documents like financial records, medical records, or legal documents.

The 5-gallon pull-out waste bin provides ample capacity, allowing you to shred a decent amount of paper before needing to empty it. The bin full indicator conveniently alerts you when it’s time to empty the bin, preventing the shredder from jamming.

The automatic power save feature helps to conserve energy and extends the life of the shredder. It automatically shuts off the shredder after a period of inactivity, reducing energy consumption and wear and tear on the motor.

Ease of Use

The Swingline EX12-05 is surprisingly easy to use. Its intuitive design and straightforward controls make it simple to operate. The separate slots for CDs and credit cards ensure that you don’t have to worry about damaging the main cutters.

This shredder is also relatively quiet compared to some other shredders on the market. This is particularly beneficial if you work in a small office or at home, where noise can be a distraction.

Longevity

Swingline stands behind its products with a 2-year limited warranty on the shredder and a 7-year limited warranty on the cutters. This provides peace of mind knowing that your shredder is covered in case of any manufacturing defects.

Extra Features

The Swingline EX12-05 boasts some extra features that enhance its functionality and convenience. The separate slot for CDs and credit cards is a useful addition, allowing you to shred these materials without worrying about damaging the main cutters. The automatic power save feature is another welcome addition, helping to conserve energy and extend the life of the shredder.

User Reviews of the Swingline EX12-05

The Swingline EX12-05 has garnered positive reviews from users. Many users praise its reliability, ease of use, and its ability to shred a variety of materials. Some users have commented that the shredder is a bit noisy, but overall, the feedback has been positive.

Conclusion: Is The Swingline EX12-05 The Right Choice For You?

The Swingline EX12-05 is a solid choice for personal use. It offers a good balance of features, security, and value. With its 12-sheet capacity, cross-cut shred style, large waste bin, and automatic power save feature, it provides an efficient and convenient way to securely dispose of documents. While it may not be the absolute quietest shredder on the market, it still delivers a reliable and convenient shredding experience.

If you’re looking for a durable, secure, and user-friendly shredder for personal use, Click here to check out the Swingline EX12-05.