Paper shredder vs. inkjet printer: running cost
A paper shredder is cheaper to run: about $1 a year versus $2 for an inkjet printer at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $1 difference.
| Paper shredder | Inkjet printer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 200 W | 15 W |
| Watt range | 100–500 W | 10–30 W |
| Typical use | 6 minutes a day, 2 days a week | 6 minutes a day, 3 days a week |
| Energy per year | 6 kWh | 13 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 3.6¢ | 0.3¢ |
| Cost per day | 0.3¢ | 0.7¢ |
| Cost per month | $0.10 | $0.20 |
| Cost per year | $1 | $2 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $3 | $6 |
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What drives the difference
- Paper shredder: Home shredders draw 150-300 W while running but are used minutes a week, so they cost well under $5 a year.
- Inkjet printer: Inkjets draw only 10-25 W printing; standby at 1-3 W is most of their energy use.
Ways to cut either cost
Keeps blades lubricated so the motor draws less and lasts longer.
See options on AmazonCuts ink cost per page by 80-90%, which outweighs its electricity cost.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a paper shredder or an inkjet printer?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an inkjet printer costs about $2 a year versus $1 for a paper shredder. That's $1 more, or 2.1× as much.
How many watts do paper shredder and inkjet printer use?
A paper shredder typically draws 200 W (range 100–500 W). An inkjet printer draws 15 W (range 10–30 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.