Whether it’s client information, sensitive financial records, or internal communications, destroying your office data securely will prevent unwanted breaches. Disposing of these documents requires a paper shredder that will effectively shred vital information beyond reconstruction.
If you’re looking to upgrade to either a high-security shredder or a disintegrator, find out the difference between these two devices to determine which one works best for your office space.
Level of Security
High-security shredders offer exceptional document destruction by cutting paper into tiny particles. Because many of these shredders meet or exceed NSA standards, they are well-suited for sensitive and confidential documents.
By comparison, disintegrators offer greater security by reducing materials into even smaller dust-like particles. For the smallest paper scraps that are far beyond recognition and reconstruction, disintegrators will provide the highest form of security for your business.
Capacity and Efficiency
High-security shredders handle fewer sheets of paper simultaneously to prevent paper jams or other technical errors. They work well in office settings with moderate, routine shredding needs. Although some models quickly shred paper, staples, and paper clips, they are not suitable for any other materials, as these could damage the system.
Disintegrators, however, can process higher volumes of paper, CDs, DVDs, and even electronics. For businesses that store their data on mediums beside paper, these devices will quickly destroy such items before unauthorized users attempt to breach your data.
Maintenance and Costs
High-security shredders are typically more affordable than disintegrators and require less maintenance, with costs mainly centered around occasional blade replacement and oiling. Disintegrators tend to be more expensive, both in upfront costs and ongoing maintenance. Before you choose between high-security shreddersversusdisintegrators, determine how much of your funds you’re willing to allocate for this equipment.
Noise Levels
Shredders are generally quieter than disintegrators during operation, which makes them an excellent choice for smaller offices where such noise can be disruptive. Comparatively, disintegrators tend to be louder because of their heavy-duty processing capabilities.
While it may seem like a minor hindrance, the volume of machinery can quickly become distracting to workers, especially if there is other equipment in the area. Assess your workspace and determine if you’ll be placing your paper shredder in a contained or open location where noise levels could be an issue.
Environmental Impact
Both high-security shredders and disintegrators can contribute to eco-friendly business practices, but shredders generally produce paper shreds better suited for recycling. Because disintegrators create dust-like particles, they may require more specialized disposal measures. If your company complies with strict sustainability practices, a high-security shredder could fit better with your initiatives.
Choosing between high-security shredders and disintegrators ultimately depends on your office’s unique needs, budget, and data protection goals. Evaluate your data security priorities carefully to make the right investment.
Regardless of whether you choose a disintegrator or a high-security shredder, you can find the best options at Capital Shredder. Our systems will provide the security essentials you’ll need for your business.