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What Are P-Levels?
The security level of a shredder is measured according to the DIN standard P-scale, ranging from P-1 to P-7. Simply put: the higher the P-level, the smaller the paper particles and the harder it becomes to reconstruct the information.
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Strip-cut:
Machines with a low level (P-1 to P-3) cut paper into long strips.
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Cross-cut:
From level P-4 and up, the paper is cut both lengthwise and crosswise. This turns the document into “confetti,” making it nearly impossible to piece back together.
Quick Guide: Which Level Do You Need?
| Level / Class | Usage & Security |
|---|---|
| Basic Level P-1 & P-2 |
For “junk mail” Flyers and general notes. Security: Low (Long strips) |
| GDPR Standard Recommended P-3 & P-4 |
For office use (Recommended) Invoices, personal data, payslips, and contracts. Security: High (Cross-cut/Confetti). |
| High Security P-5 to P-7 |
For confidential information Research results, patents, or highly sensitive strategies. Security: Maximum (Microscopic particles) |
In-Depth – Recommended Uses per P-Level
| Class | Recommended Uses |
|---|---|
| P-1 | Public documents Campaign flyers, brochures, and general paper waste. |
| P-2 | Internal information Internal communication, forms, and manuals without sensitive content. |
| P-3 | Sensitive data Address lists, sales reports, order details, and tax documents. |
| P-4 GDPR |
Personal data & Confidential (Recommended) Meets GDPR requirements. Examples: Contracts, payment details, medical records, personal data, and payslips. |
| P-5 | Highly sensitive data Patents, strategic information, blueprints, and critical business analysis. |
| P-6 | Extremely high security Highly protected information with strict confidentiality requirements. |
| P-7 | Top secret Documents with the highest security requirements, such as defense and government materials. |
3 Tips Before Buying
Capacity
Need to shred large volumes of paper? A shredder that handles 15–20 sheets at a time saves time in environments where many documents are destroyed daily.
Run Time
Basic models often need a break after a few minutes of use. For offices with multiple users, long or continuous run time (Continuous Run) is preferable.
Don’t Forget the Oil!
To keep the blades sharp, the machine needs regular lubrication. Oil sheets are an easy way to extend the shredder’s lifespan and ensure consistent performance over time.
Find Your New Shredder
Now that you know the security levels, it’s time to choose a model. Explore our range of powerful machines from Rexel and Leitz – always at great business prices.
Author: Tingstad
Last Updated: 2026-01-14
