Well know brand Sentinel has released one of the cheapest shredder to the market. The Sentinel FX61B comes with 6 sheet shredding power and basic functions. The model is priced very low by the company which its rivals could find hard to match. The model is available in Amazon to buy online and has got mixed response from its users in Amazon review section. Despite its low cost, we were keen to know whether this shredder is worth buying. Here we try to answer this question in Sentinel FX61B Review.
Pros & Cons:
This shredder can trash up to 6 sheets in one shot. Secure level-3 cross cut feature. Trash credit cards securely. Easy to clean 2.4 gallon basket. Auto start and stop sensor. Over heat indicator. Doesn’t look strong and durable.
This model comes with basic functions and medium power. This shredder is designed to trash up to 6 sheets per pass, but we felt the device works very well with 3-4 sheet per pass. It cross-cuts the papers with security of level-3. We also tried with old credit cards and thick papers, this device trashes them well but again, not up to the mark compared to other medium duty shredders. It takes considerable time to shred cards and 6-sheets at a time. The company claims this model is ultra-quiet, we could say it works quiet when not overloaded.
Coming to the built-quality and design, the Sentinel FX61B is simple, light weight box with one basic functional switch. With one switch the shredder can be set to Auto, manual reverse mode and power off. Two small LEDs are provided to indicate power and overload. The design doesn’t look premium and plastic used for this model doesn’t inspire confidence. The easily cleanable basket can collect good amount of waste. There is also a see-through window to check the waste level.
The specifications claims this model can cut paper clips and staples also, we never attempted to try it. We were skeptical about the blades strength and didn’t test it to fail. The model has manual reverse function in case the paper jams, though we didn’t face the situation, we tested this feature. The company provides one year limited warranty for this model.
Overall, we were not very impressed with Sentinel FX61B shredder’s performance as medium duty device. Considering the price, it is one of the cheapest shredder available in market with decent light duty operation. This model is a suitable for 3-4 sheets per pass and light duty operation, say for home use or small office with 2-3 users. Should you buy this model? It completely depends on how you’re going to use it. We recommend to add Sentinel FM81B in your cart till you save another $20-$25.
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