The Amazon Basics Portable Electric Pencil Sharpener is a compact tool designed for users with limited desk space. With a footprint of only 2.87 inches, it fits easily into small workstations or can be moved around the home as needed. The unit is housed in an ABS polymer shell and uses an SK5 alloy steel helical blade. This sharpening mechanism is focused on providing a "long-point" finish, and the unit includes an "Auto-Stop" feature to help prevent core breakage and pencil wastage.
This sharpener features a dual-power circuit that allows it to be powered by a USB cord or four AA batteries. It is important to note that the USB cord provides bypass power only and does not charge the unit. For the best performance, especially with denser wood pencils, the USB connection is recommended as battery power may result in slower motor speeds. The shavings reservoir has a capacity of approximately 50ml, which is suitable for light personal use but will require regular emptying to ensure the motor does not jam.
Practical realities of the motor design suggest it is best suited for standard graphite pencils. While the SK5 blade is durable, it can be sensitive to waxy buildup from colored pencils. Users should ensure the reservoir latch is handled with care during maintenance to maintain a secure fit. This model is a straightforward solution for those needing a simple, space-efficient sharpening tool for standard 6-8mm pencils.
For a portable model that provides a more specialized "Robot" automatic entry and exit feature, you might look at the AFMAT Automatic Sharpener.
To see a full range of portable and high-capacity options, explore our electric pencil sharpeners section.
