Fellowes AutoMax 150C Cross-Cut Shredder Review Image

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Cross-Cut Paper Shredder Review

  • Security Level
  • Sheet Capacity
  • Run Time and Cooling Period
  • Jam Protection and Ease of Use
  • Wastebasket Capacity and Maintenance
4.6/5Overall Score

Quick Summary

The Fellowes AutoMax 150C Cross-Cut Paper Shredder offers secure and efficient document destruction with its advanced auto-feed technology, capable of shredding up to 150 sheets at once. Designed for commercial use, it features SilentShred™ for quiet operation and a 12-minute continuous runtime, ideal for tackling large shredding tasks. Additional highlights include safety features such as reverse mode for clearing jams and energy-saving Sleep Mode. Its cross-cut shredding capability ensures sensitive information is thoroughly destroyed, making it an essential tool for maintaining data privacy.

Specs
  • Model: : Fellowes AutoMax 150C
  • Shred Type:: Cross-cut (4 mm x 38 mm)
  • Auto-feed:: Up to 150 sheets
  • Manual feed:: 8 sheets
  • Continuous Runtime:: 12 minutes
  • Cooldown Time:: 25 minutes
  • Shreds:: Staples, paper clips, credit cards, and junk mail
  • Noise Level: : SilentShred™ technology for reduced disruption
  • Advanced Features:: Auto reverse, Sleep Mode
  • Warranty: : 2 years for machine, 5 years for cutting blades
Pros
  • High sheet capacity with automatic feeding.
  • Quiet operation thanks to SilentShred™ technology.
  • Energy-saving Sleep Mode.
  • Reliable shredding of staples, clips, and cards.
  • Safety features to prevent jams and overheating.
Cons
  • Limited to 12-minute continuous operation.
  • 25-minute cooldown period after maximum runtime.
  • Cannot shred items like adhesive labels or bound documents.
Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Image

Shredding sensitive documents isn’t just a business necessity; it’s a critical part of protecting your information. The Fellowes AutoMax 150C cross-cut paper shredder takes efficiency and security to the next level. This shredder is purpose-built for commercial environments but remains user-friendly and effective for home offices, offering seamless shredding capabilities with minimal effort.

Let’s delve into what makes this device a top contender in the world of document destruction.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder: Key Features

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Cross-Cut Shredder Features and Controls Image

High-Capacity Auto-Feed System

One of the standout features of the Fellowes AutoMax 150C is its auto-feed capability. Designed to save time and effort, the shredder allows you to load up to 150 sheets of paper into the auto-feed tray. Once loaded, you can walk away and let the machine handle the shredding for you.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Auto Feed Feature How it Works

This feature is especially useful for busy offices where multitasking is essential. For smaller tasks, the manual feed slot lets you shred up to 8 sheets at a time, giving you flexibility for quick jobs without needing to rely on the auto-feed system.

Powerful Cross-Cut Shredding

Security is a top priority when it comes to document destruction, and the 150C delivers with its cross-cut shredding capability. This shredder reduces paper into small 4 mm x 38 mm pieces, meeting P-4 security level standards.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Cross-Cut Technology

This level of shredding ensures that sensitive documents, including financial records and confidential information, are rendered unreadable and secure. With this feature, you can confidently dispose of personal or business documents without fear of information theft.

SilentShred™ Technology

Silent-shred-technology-feature

Noise can be a major disruption in shared or quiet workspaces, but the 150C addresses this issue with SilentShred™ technology. This advanced feature significantly reduces operational noise, allowing the shredder to operate quietly in the background. Whether in a busy office or a home workspace, this feature ensures a noise-free environment, boosting productivity without causing distractions.

Built-in Safety Features

shredder-Auto-Reverse-feature

Paper jams are a common annoyance with shredders, but the Fellowes 150C combats this with an auto-reverse function. If a jam occurs, the machine automatically stops and reverses the paper to prevent damage or delays.

Additionally, the shredder includes a heat indicator that alerts you when the machine is overheating, helping you maintain safe operation and avoid unnecessary wear and tear. The combination of these safety features ensures smooth, trouble-free operation.

Energy-Efficient Operation

Energy efficiency is a growing concern, and the Fellowes 150C addresses it with its Sleep Mode feature. After 2 minutes of inactivity, the shredder automatically powers down to conserve energy.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Sleep Mode Feature How it Works

This not only reduces electricity usage but also enhances the overall lifespan of the machine by preventing unnecessary wear. For environmentally conscious users or those looking to lower their utility bills, this energy-saving function is a valuable addition.

Versatility in Shredding

The Fellowes AutoMax 150C isn’t limited to just plain paper. It can shred a variety of materials, including staples, paper clips, credit cards, and junk mail. This versatility eliminates the need to remove staples or clips before shredding, saving you time and effort.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Compatible Materials

Additionally, it can handle multiple types of office debris, making it a convenient, all-in-one solution for document and material disposal.

Compact and User-Friendly Design

Despite its advanced capabilities, the Fellowes 150C features a sleek, compact design that fits well in any workspace. The pull-out bin allows for easy waste disposal, while its intuitive control panel makes operation straightforward.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Cross-Cut Shredder Control Panel Image

LED indicators for bin status, overheating, and jam removal provide real-time updates, so you’re always aware of the shredder’s status. Combined, these features make the shredder simple to use and maintain, even for first-time users.

How It Performs

The Fellowes 150C delivers impressive performance with its continuous 12-minute runtime. Though it requires a 25-minute cooldown period, the machine compensates with its convenience and ease of use. It’s well-suited for medium-scale shredding needs, combining security, efficiency, and durability.

Maintenance Tips

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Oiling Guide
  • Regular Oiling: To maintain peak performance, oil the shredder every time you empty the bin. Use a non-aerosol vegetable-based oil, such as Fellowes 35250.
  • Sensor Cleaning: Occasionally clean the auto-start sensors using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to prevent false triggering or continuous operation.
Fellowes AutoMax 150C Shredder Cleaning the Sensors Guide

Comparison with Other Shredders

FeatureFellowes AutoMax 150CFellowes AutoMax 200CFellowes AutoMax 100MFellowes AutoMax 80M
Shred TypeCross-CutCross-CutMicro-CutMicro-Cut
Sheet Capacity (Auto/Manual)150 / 8200 / 10100 / 1080 / 10
Shred Size4 x 38 mm4 x 38 mm4 x 10 mm4 x 12 mm
Security Level (DIN P-*)P-4P-4P-4P-4
Continuous Runtime12 minutes12 minutes15 minutes10 minutes
Cooldown Time25 minutes25 minutes25 minutes30 minutes
Bin Capacity32 liters32 liters23 liters23 liters
Noise ReductionSilentShred™SilentShred™SilentShred™SilentShred™
Energy SavingSleep ModeSleep ModeSleep ModeSleep Mode
Warranty2-year machine, 5-year cutter2-year machine, 5-year cutter2-year machine, 5-year cutter2-year machine, 5-year cutter

Notes:

  • Fellowes AutoMax 200C: Offers a higher auto-feed capacity of up to 200 sheets, suitable for larger office environments requiring frequent high-volume shredding.
  • Fellowes AutoMax 100M: Features micro-cut shredding, providing smaller particle sizes (4 x 10 mm) for enhanced security, ideal for highly confidential documents.
  • Fellowes AutoMax 80M: A more compact option with an 80-sheet auto-feed capacity and micro-cut shredding, suitable for small offices or personal use where space and security are considerations.

Each of these models incorporates Fellowes’ SilentShred™ technology for quiet operation and Sleep Mode for energy efficiency. The choice among them depends on your specific shredding volume, security requirements, and workspace considerations.

FAQs

Can the Fellowes AutoMax 150C shred glossy or coated paper?

No, the shredder is not designed to handle glossy or coated paper. These materials may cause jams or damage the shredder’s internal components. For best results, stick to standard office paper and avoid materials that can create residue on the blades.

How does the shredder handle multiple materials at once?

The 150C is designed to handle staples, paper clips, and even credit cards along with paper. However, it’s important to ensure materials like credit cards are fed through the manual slot rather than the auto-feed tray for optimal performance. Be sure to follow the recommended guidelines for maximum sheet capacity when shredding mixed materials.

What is the bin capacity of the Fellowes AutoMax 150C?

The shredder features a pull-out waste bin with a generous capacity of 8.5 gallons, reducing the frequency of emptying during heavy use. The bin also includes a “bin full” indicator to let you know when it needs to be emptied.

Can I shred envelopes containing sensitive documents?

Yes, the shredder can handle sealed envelopes, including those with staples or paper clips. However, make sure the envelope isn’t overly thick or stuffed with non-paper materials, as these could exceed the shredder’s capacity.

Is it safe to leave the shredder plugged in all the time?

Absolutely. The shredder is equipped with an energy-saving Sleep Mode that automatically powers it down after two minutes of inactivity, minimizing energy usage even if left plugged in.

How often should I oil the shredder blades?

To keep the shredder running smoothly, it is recommended to oil the blades after each bin is emptied or at least once every two weeks if used frequently. Use a non-aerosol vegetable-based oil, like Fellowes 35250, for best results.

Does the Fellowes 150C have wheels for mobility?

No, the 150C does not have casters. It is designed for stationary use, but its compact size and relatively lightweight build make it easy to move manually if needed.

Can I shred continuous feed paper from dot matrix printers?

No, the Fellowes 150C is not designed to handle continuous feed paper or any type of bound document. Make sure to separate pages before shredding to avoid jams.

How long does it take to cool down after reaching its maximum runtime?

The shredder has a cooldown period of approximately 25 minutes after 12 minutes of continuous use. During this time, the shredder will not operate and the overheat indicator light will remain illuminated.

Is the shredder suitable for home use, or is it strictly for office environments?

While the Fellowes AutoMax 150C is designed for commercial use, its compact size, quiet operation, and user-friendly features make it a great choice for home offices as well. It’s particularly useful for households that regularly handle sensitive information.

Can this shredder handle items like DVDs or CDs?

No, the Fellowes 150C is not designed to shred CDs or DVDs. For such materials, consider using a shredder specifically built to handle discs.

Does the shredder emit any unpleasant smells during operation?

Not typically. If you notice any burning or chemical odors, stop using the shredder immediately and check for issues such as overheating or the use of improper lubricants. Always use vegetable-based oils specifically designed for shredders.

How do I clean the shredder’s auto-feed sensors?

Cleaning the sensors is straightforward. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently remove any dust or debris from the sensors, located near the paper entry slot. This should help maintain accurate paper detection.

Can I use regular trash bags in the pull-out bin?

Yes, you can use regular trash bags, but Fellowes recommends using their own brand of waste bags (e.g., Fellowes 36053) for a perfect fit and easy disposal.

What happens if I open the lid during the shredding process?

For safety reasons, the shredder will stop operation immediately if the lid is opened. Once the lid is securely closed, you can resume shredding.

Is there a way to pause the shredding process mid-cycle?

Yes, the shredder includes an on/off control button that allows you to pause shredding at any point. Additionally, you can activate the reverse function to stop and reverse paper jams during operation.

Fellowes AutoMax 150C Paper Shredder Manual PDF – Free Download

Final Thoughts

The Fellowes AutoMax 150C Cross-Cut Paper Shredder stands out for its combination of high-capacity shredding, quiet performance, and robust safety features. Whether for a bustling office or a private workspace, it simplifies secure document disposal while ensuring reliability and ease of use. For those prioritizing security and convenience, this shredder is a smart investment.

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