Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

l have to admit that I didn't expect this budget-priced shredder to be nearly so impressive. I do want to be clear that I am happy with my other shredder but I'm even happier with the Amazon Basics one. Here's how it compares to my Fellowes: 1. The micro-cut pieces are more secure than the crosscut ones. Admittedly, in both cases (at least for the average user), each should offer acceptable security. But even the most ambitious individuals who pose security risks are likely to be discouraged by the Amazon Basics shredder. They'll look for easier opportunities. 2. CDs, DVDs, and credit cards are truly shredded. This is absolutely not the case with my Fellowes! In fact, when I removed the pieces of a supposedly destroyed credit card from my Fellowes shredder, it was easy to line up the pieces and read my name, card number, etc. So I stopped using that feature. But the Amazon Basics does a great job with both sheets of paper as well as the plastic pieces from cards a d CDs.. 3. It is quieter. Yes, you'll still hear some noise (I haven't found a perfect machine yet when it comes to noise) but it is totally acceptable to me. 4. It holds more paper before the bin needs to be emptied. There IS one area where the Fellowes surpassed the Amazon shredder - child-proofing. But there are clear warnings included in the Amazon Basics manual about this potential risk. Anyone who purchases a shredder should be (hopefully) wise enough to read the manual before using it, especially since there is an equal risk for adults who aren't careful and don't use common sense when inserting items into the machine. I wouldn't hesitate to use this shredder in a work environment or home office where children won't be present.