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Sharpening your pencil by hand can be time-consuming, frustrating, and bothersome - especially if you have plenty more to get through. But whether it's for a classroom setting, a work office, or home use, electric sharpeners can save you a great deal of trouble. That's why we took the time to research the best ones out there!
Take X-Acto's School Pro Electric Pencil Sharpener, for example, sharpens as if it has a brand new blade, even on the hundredth pencil. Plus, you can sharpen pencils continuously and the sharpener will do its job just as well! There are more great options where that came from. On top of the ten best electric pencil sharpeners you can buy right now, we've also included a buying guide to help you find the best fit for your needs.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
Table of Contents
We'll help you differentiate among the types of electric sharpeners, what they're capable of, and the essential features you should consider when making your pick.
Most electric pencil sharpeners accommodate #2 HB pencils or your regular thin ones with a diameter of 6-8mm. However, not everyone works with this size. Artists, for example, may require different pencil sizes.
In addition to the wood casing, the lead width and shape of the pencil may also vary. Some have thicker lead, such as an 8B pencil, while others are are shaped like triangles or hexagons. Fortunately, you can get an electric sharpener that can fit up to six pencil sizes for a wider variety.
These sharpeners can be adjusted to accommodate your pencil size, the lead size, the sharpness you need, and even your pencil shape. Some models come with a wheel that you can turn to get the right setting for sharpening, while others do the adjusting on the inside and work as a "one-size-fits-all" kind of machine for convenience.
The next thing to consider is where the electric sharpener will be used. Grab a heavy-duty one if it's going to be used frequently in a classroom or office. Depending on your usage, consider the power and heavy-duty capabilities of the pencil sharpener by their motors.
The product description will often indicate if the product is made for low, moderate, or high-volume usage. This means whether the machine can handle back-to-back sharpening throughout the day without a hitch. If you're looking for optimal efficiency, you can even get a sharpener with two pencil holes for double sharpening power!
Noise level is also another factor to consider when choosing an electric sharpener. With great motor power, you should expect a louder humming sound. You wouldn't want one that is too loud for office or classroom use because it could distract others in the room.
Not all electric pencil sharpeners are bulky tabletop types. You can get ones that look like your typical handheld manual sharpener but with a motor. The size of the sharpener greatly depends on your need for portability.
If you often use your pencils on the go - perhaps working on artwork at the coffee shop - then a sharpener that can fit in a pencil case is recommended.
If you wish to position the sharpener on your office desk or at a specific station at home or school, a tabletop will serve you well. These often come with suction soles to keep them from sliding across the surface as you sharpen.
You can also get an electric sharpener with a design similar to a washing machine with a front- or top-load design. Here, the pencil is inserted either at the front or the top of the device.
The variety is offered mainly for aesthetic purposes to suit different tastes, although some people find cylindrical sharpeners easier to navigate. By pushing the pencil down from the top, you won't risk the machine losing stability or requiring an extra hand to keep it in place.
Always check out the performance of the blade based on customer reviews. The blade quality is important for gauging how long your electric pencil sharpener will last. Heavy-duty sharpeners are expected to last at least three years. Some even come with a warranty.
Much like any tool with a blade, though, the more an electric pencil sharpener is used, the quicker it will go blunt. Sharpeners will eventually wear out or may need their blades replaced.
Make sure a blade replacement is easy to get. Check whether the same manufacturer offers them or if the product uses a more generic kind you can get online. This helps you prepare a backup when needed.
Most portable electric pencil sharpeners use four AA batteries. Some are equipped with lithium batteries that can be recharged. While this means heightened portability since you can position the sharpener anywhere or use it anytime, it's not a very eco-friendly option.
However, if you won't be using the machine in, say, a classroom where it may be used numerous times a day, a battery-operated one will suffice. Having a nearby battery recycling bin greatly helps in ensuring the batteries are properly recycled.
A battery-powered electric sharpener can last up to a few months or 3,000 uses before running out of power, depending on usage. Manufacturers often use "3,000 sharpenings" as a benchmark for this type of electric sharpener. One sharpen is said to take about ten seconds, with higher-end models cutting that time down to five seconds.
To get a quick look at how long a battery-powered sharpener lasts, head on over to the reviews made by those who've purchased the product to see if it lived up to their expectations.
You can also get electric sharpeners with cords that can be plugged into an electrical socket or via a USB cable. This way, you get continued use and don't have to worry about the sharpener turning off mid-sharpen. This option is also recommended for high-volume environments, so you don't end up wasting too many batteries.
With almost all aspects of technology continuously getting upgraded, electric sharpeners have also advanced quite a bit since they were first invented, making them an even more worthwhile purchase. Keep an eye out for these extra features that will serve you in the long run!
This consideration might not be at the top of your list, but having a large storage capacity for pencil shavings means fewer trips to the trash bin! Check to see if it's transparent, too, so you can easily know when it's time to empty out the tray.
Some sharpeners have an auto-stop feature when the tray is full, though. The feature ensures your machine won't continue operating when the blade is blocked to the rim with pencil shavings because this can cause uneven sharpening.
An electric pencil sharpener means two things: a blade for sharpening and a motor. To ensure user safety, you can get one that won't operate unless the tray is closed or the mechanism is properly set up. You can also get those that automatically stop when the pencil is sharp, making it safe and convenient to use.
Another automatic feature sharpeners may have is an auto-reset function where the motor will stop when it begins to overheat due to continuous sharpening. Some electric sharpeners also offer a "hands-free" experience where all you need to do is insert the pencil and the machine will pull it inwards, sharpen, and pop it back out for you.
These safety or automatic measures are especially important for kids handling the device on their own, whether at home or school. A kid-friendly electric sharpener means parents or teachers don't need to supervise when they operate the machine as it minimizes threats of injury.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | X-Acto School Pro Electric Pencil Sharpener | $34.99 High Mid | The Electric Sharpener Designed for Heavy-Duty Sharpening | ||
2 | AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener | $29.49 High Mid | An Industrial-Grade Electric Pencil Sharpener | ||
3 | Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener | $14.88 Low Mid | An Electric Sharpener With Extra-Thin Shavings | ||
4 | Jelly Comb Electric Pencil Sharpener | $14.99 Low Mid | The Versatile Electric #2 Pencil Sharpener | ||
5 | OfficeWorld Electric Pencil Sharpener | $32.99 High Mid | The Hands-Free Electric Sharpener | ||
6 | Bostitch QuietSharp 6 Electric Pencil Sharpener | $23.54 Mid | An Efficient and Versatile Electric Sharpener | ||
7 | Omitium Electric Pencil Sharpener | $16.99 Low Mid | An Electric Sharpener Plus Something Extra | ||
8 | Jarlink Electric Pencil Sharpener | $18.88 Mid | A Fast-Charging Sharpener With Multiple Power Options | ||
9 | X-Acto Electric Pencil Sharpener XLR | $19.99 Mid | A Sleek and Stylish Electric Pencil Sharpener | ||
10 | Powerme Electric Pencil Sharpener | $17.95 Low Mid | A Portable Sharpener With an Auto-Jam Release System |
This electric pencil sharpener is made specifically for classrooms or other areas where you expect a lot of sharpening to occur. It comes with six pencil holes to accommodate different sizes and suctioned feet to keep it in place. Furthermore, the motor auto-resets itself to prevent it from overheating with continued use!
The few that received defective models wherein the sharpener stopped working for no apparent reason could reach out to the hotline provided in the comments in case the manufacturer did not reply through e-mail.
Meanwhile, countless others were very satisfied with the trusted brand known to provide a wide array of pencil sharpeners. The reviewers especially liked the automatic stop-when-sharp feature of the device, which saved them time and pencils!
The features that make this sharpener a worthwhile purchase are the non-skid soles, its ability to sharpen colored pencils without jamming, and the bigger helical blade, which means stronger and long-lasting sharpening power. In fact, the manufacturer claims this industrial-grade sharpener can sharpen multiple pencils back-to-back with no problem.
While the sharpener is indeed powerful, a few reviewers found it to be too loud. On the other hand, those who got defective products were quickly accommodated by responsive customer support.
The device does a great job at sharpening pencils; it's heavy-duty and reliable, confirmed reviewers. They added that the machine could also sharpen quickly, around five seconds for each pencil, which is efficient.
Not only is this electric pencil sharpener lightweight and compact, but it also yields extra thin shavings, which means the shaving tray does not fill up too quickly. You get a convenient device with a powerful motor to keep on your desk or station for reliable sharpening.
A few reviewers commented that this is not a heavy-duty electric sharpener to be used continually, as it tends to break. It also requires manual stabilization meaning both hands are needed while operating the machine.
On a positive note, those who use it at their home office or classroom were very happy with their purchase. It sharpens quickly and easily, reviewers said. They also liked the sleek look of the machine.
Artists, students, and others who may use a mix of pencils can greatly benefit from this sharpener because it is one of the few ones that can handle different #2 size textures or lead types. What's more, it's portable, meaning you can get drawing and designing any time and anywhere! It's also kid-friendly, focusing on safe usage.
A few reviewers complained that the electric sharpener "eats" their pencils because it doesn't have the auto-stop-when-sharp feature. You need to check or gauge when to stop. Furthermore, there's a learning curve for inserting the pencil at the right pressure or angle before the machine begins sharpening.
For something small and travel-friendly, many reviewers thought the device could hold quite a lot of pencil shavings. It is also very durable and sharpens well in seconds.
This sharpener frees up your hands because all you have to do is insert the pencil, and the machine will do the rest. You can even choose the level of sharpness with the adjustable pencil nib mechanism. Once done, the device will stop on its own, and you have a perfectly sharp writing utensil.
There is no AC adaptor included, which a few reviewers missed. Also, those who had defective products and difficulty reaching out to customer service.
Many reviewers shared that this was the electric sharpener they were searching for. From the pencil insertion to the emptying of the bin, they noted how convenient and easy to use it was. As a result, they highly recommended this product.
Because this electric sharpener was designed for classrooms, you can expect heavy-duty capabilities. It fits six different pencil sizes and its auto-feature prevents it from overheating. You also get a suction-soled bottom to ensure the machine stays in place.
Despite its name, the sharpener is not really quiet, said a few reviewers who had expected minimal noise from the machine. Also, some weren't satisfied with the finished product, wherein their pencils came out sharpened unevenly or not sharp enough.
Recent reviews showed, however, that the machine was easy to operate, very kid-friendly, and did its job quickly. It's also large and sturdy, making it extra safe for use!
This electric pencil sharpener offers something a little more than others: you can easily store your pencils in the built-in compartment. It also comes with a cleaning brush for the machine. What's more, you can use it for many kinds of pencils without the risk of clogging or breaking.
A few reviewers noted it was challenging to remove the shavings tray or that the overall size was too small, meaning it couldn't handle a high volume of sharpening well.
Many reviewers commented that the product was a must-have for home classrooms or offices because it sharpens fast and sharp. They also liked that they could sharpen different pencils with no problems.
Versatility is what makes this electric sharpener stand above the rest. You can insert batteries, plug it into any USB port, or straight to a wall's power outlet. It has an automatic stop feature, kicking in when the lid is out of place or the pencil has reached ideal sharpness.
One critical comment on the product was that you have to take the entire thing apart when you need to remove a stuck particle. A few thought the overall design could be made with sturdier materials to ensure durability.
Many reviewers liked that the opening was at the top, which prevented the device from traveling across the desk when being used since the pressure is applied top-down. They added that it's easy to operate and found the multiple power options to be very convenient.
This electric sharpener has a sleek design that fits any surface it occupies. Its powerful motor promises to keep pencil waste to a minimum. The machine stops when the pencil is sharp and resets to prevent overheating and damage. These ensure you get the most out of your pencils and the sharpener.
A few reviewers commented that the machine was loud despite the product description stating it was the opposite. Some had issues with uneven sharpening or the blade clogging up.
Many reviewers thought the sharpener was a handy addition to their desk. It's great for moderate use and does its job efficiently. Those that upgraded their electric sharpeners to this one weren't disappointed. Even kids could use it on their own, added parents.
It may fit snugly in the palm of your hand, but this portable electric sharpener means business when it comes to dull pencils of many types. Plus, whenever your pencil gets stuck for any reason, its auto-jam release will allow you to push down on the pencil to release it.
A few reviewers commented that the sharpener would stop midway as the pencil was inserted further and some had to replace their batteries for it to work again. On a positive note, unsatisfied customers were able to get replacements from the manufacturer.
Reviewers noted that they had to get used to not pushing down too much on the sharpener because that was how it worked best. Those who got the hang of it were pleased with the portable yet efficient pencil sharpener. They had no issues sharpening different types of pencils.
Optimize your workspace even more with these tools of the trade! You'll have a clean and comfortable desk so you can get more work done.
No. 1: X-Acto|School Pro Electric Pencil Sharpener
No. 2: AFMAT|Electric Pencil Sharpener
No. 3: Bostitch Office|Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener
No. 4: Jelly Comb|Electric Pencil Sharpener
No. 5: OfficeWorld|Electric Pencil Sharpener
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Beauty
Health
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Shoes
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
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Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices