Some pencil sharpeners are better than others, and finding a good quality option that is able to handle your requirements can be a great addition to your drawing or writing process. Below are reviews of the best pencil sharpeners available and a buyers guide to make sure the sharpener you choose suits your requirements.
Here are the best pencil sharpeners in Australia:
1. Best Electric Pencil Sharpener: AFMAT Professional Sketch Electric Pencil Sharpener (Top Pick)
Our pick for the best electric pencil sharpener is the AFMAT Professional Sketch Sharpener. This product has been designed for artists and is perfect for giving pencils a super long point. If you’re looking for an easy to use, convenient sharpener for your sketching and drawing pencils, this could be the best one for you.
There are multiple lengths and sharpness options, you can decide the pencil nib length from 8mm to 25mm. The sharpener will automatically stop when the pencil is sharpened well and if the lead breaks it will be ejected automatically making sharpening quick and mess-free.
This electric sharpener is powered with a built-in 2000 mAh Lithium Battery so is rechargeable. After just 1 hour of charging via USB cable or power plug, it can be used 300 times. As the battery is rechargeable the sharpener is portable and can be used anywhere. The large capacity shavings box catches the shavings to keep the desk or floor clean.
What We Like:
- Adjustable length options
- Ideal for art pencils
- Portable
What We Don’t Like:
- Does not handle bigger pencils only 6-8mm
2. Runner Up Electric Pencil Sharpener: SMARTRO Electric Pencil Sharpener
The runner up is this SMARTRO Electric Pencil Sharpener, this is ideal for sharpening coloured and graphite pencils.
This sharpener has two holes for different diameter pencils (6-8mm and 9-12mm) and will sharpen a pencil in just a few seconds. The design is kid-friendly as the sharpener will not operate if the cover is removed or not installed correctly, making this a good choice for a classroom setting.
As this model is compact and portable it is very easy to transport. It can be powered by USB, a power adapter or 4 AA batteries. A USB cable is included in this set.
What We Like:
- Two holes to sharpen pencils of different diameters
- Child-friendly
- Battery, USB or plug powered
What We Don’t Like:
- Some users may find the sharpener gets clogged easily if the pencil lead breaks
3. Best Manual Pencil Sharpener: Faber-Castell Triple Hole Pencil Sharpener
The Faber-Castell Triple Hole Pencil Sharpener is the best manual sharpener as it is so versatile and convenient. The sharpener can be used for graphite and colour pencils and can handle both regular-sized and jumbo-sized pencils.
The triangular shape is ergonomic and compact. This high-quality sharpener is comfortable to use and has plenty of space for collecting pencil shavings.
This sharpener is made from strong, lightweight plastic making it perfect for taking with you on the go as well as for use in studios and at desks.
What We Like:
- Can handle a range of pencil types and sizes
- Ergonomic shape
- Lightweight and compact
What We Don’t Like:
- The hinge that holds the two halves together could be more robust
4. Runner Up Manual Pencil Sharpener: CARL Angel-5 Pencil Sharpener
The CARL Angel 5 is a high-quality, retro-looking pencil sharpener with a crank mechanism. This option is quiet to use making it studio and classroom friendly.
The mechanism automatically draws the pencil into the chamber and does not over sharpen the pencil tip. The materials are high-quality and the blade can be detached for cleaning or replacing which will extend the life of your Angel-5 sharpener.
This sharpener is available in 3 colours and features a large translucent shaving bin so you can easily see when it needs emptying. There is a desk clamp if you want to attach the unit to a desk which is great for use in schools or you can choose not to use the clamp and keep it portable.
What We Like:
- Long-lasting
- Retro style
- Excellent value for money
What We Don’t Like:
- The auto-feed mechanism can leave grip marks on your pencil
5. Also Great: Staedtler Double-hole Tub Pencil Sharpener
The Staedtler sharpeners for pencils are basic but effective. The design makes sure the shavings are caught and kept contained making this ideal for carrying in your bag and using on the go.
There are two holes to accommodate two pencil sizes meaning this sharpener can handle coloured pencils and graphite pencils. This tub features a lid that neatly clips into place and covers the holes when not in use, this helps prevent shavings from spilling out.
The Staedtler collects a lot of shavings before it needs emptying and there is a slide button mechanism to make sure the shavings bin does not open accidentally.
What We Like:
- Simple design
- Compact
- Inexpensive
What We Don’t Like:
- Some users may find it difficult to remove broken lead from the sharpener
Pencil Sharpener Buyer’s Guide
A high-quality pencil sharpener can make a pencil a dream to write and draw with. When choosing an option for your needs, consider the following:
Key Considerations
Size
Some pencil sharpeners offer more than one sharpening hole to accommodate different sized pencils. If you always use standard 8mm size pencils then a single sharpener of this diameter should be fine but if you switch between pencil sizes and pencil types it may be a good idea to consider a sharpener that offers multiple size options.
Sharpening Angle
Different sharpeners offer varying sharpening angles. A smaller angle provides a sturdier tip with less breakage while a larger angle shows more lead and allows you to use the pencil for longer before needing to sharpen it again.
Overall Finish
A sharpener can be too harsh on a pencil leaving dents in the wood which can impact the integrity and strength of the pencil. The best pencil sharpeners need to be both gentle and effective.
Shavings Bin
Good sharpeners have a shavings bin that catches all the mess and keeps it contained until you can empty it into a waste bin. This is a great feature that ensures your bag or pencil case stays clean and means you don’t have to find a bin or worry about cleaning off your work area every time you want to sharpen a pencil. The size of the shavings bin varies between products so consider your use and how often you’ll need to empty it. As an example, classrooms would benefit from a larger bin.
Electric or Manual?
Electric pencil sharpeners can help streamline the sharpening process and get you back to work in next to no time. They tend to be a good option for schools as a classroom electric sharpener can ensure children don’t waste their time borrowing and using each other’s manual sharpeners or stationery. The downside to electric sharpeners is the battery power and the need to replace AA batteries or have it plugged in.
Manual sharpeners are inexpensive, lightweight and can be used anywhere. They involve slightly more effort by the user but can give you control over how sharp you want the pencil. Manual options can also be crank operated.
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Blade Cutters or Helical Cutters
A blade cutter is when the pencil is moved against the blade, it is very common and is often seen in small handheld sharpeners.
A helical blade is seen in crank-operated or wall mounted sharpeners. The pencil stays still and the blades rotate around the pencil. This tends to be a good option for children as the blades are not exposed making them safe to use. This cutter will create a fine point on most pencils.
Additional Considerations
- Auto-stop feature: This feature stops sharpening when the pencil tips are well-sharpened.
- Safety Features: a common safety feature included on electric options is that the motor will not operate if the lid is not properly on. If the sharpener will be used by children consider sharpeners with additional safety features such as this.
- Noise Level: if you are looking at electric pencil sharpeners for your office supplies you may want to consider how loud or quiet the motor is when in use.
