Aurora High-Security 8-Sheet Micro-Cut Paper Credit Card Shredder

In this review of the Aurora AU870MZ shredder, the bottom line is simple: this is a compact, high-security option for home users and small offices that need to destroy sensitive documents and credit cards without a lot of fuss. The shredder's defining strength is its micro-cut P-4 security, which turns up to eight sheets or a credit card into very small pieces, making it a solid choice for anyone worried about identity theft but who does not need an industrial machine.

Key Features

• High-security micro-cut: Shreds paper and credit cards into 5/32 by 15/32 in pieces for strong protection of personal information.
• 8-sheet capacity: Accepts up to eight sheets at once to handle small batches of mail, bank statements, and receipts quickly.
• Credit card capable: The cutter accepts and destroys credit cards so plastic with account data is rendered unreadable.
• Continuous 5 minute run time: The throat allows up to five minutes of continuous use before a cool-down, useful for regular household or small office tasks.
• Auto start and manual reverse: Automatic feeding with a reverse function helps clear jams without tools.
• Thermal protection: Built-in overheat sensor with auto shut-off and indicator LED protects the motor during heavier use.

Who It's For

This shredder is best for homeowners, small office users, and anyone who needs reliable disposal of bank statements, bills, and expired credit cards. Its compact size and modest wastebasket make it suitable for apartments, home offices, dorms, or under-desk storage where space is limited.

It is not aimed at busy corporate departments or heavy-duty shredding centers that require continuous operation for long periods; users with large daily shredding volumes should consider a larger, higher-duty machine with longer run times and a bigger bin.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Delivers true micro-cut security that produces very small pieces, increasing privacy protection.
• Compact footprint and 3.9 gallon wastebasket fit easily in small workspaces.
• Accepts credit cards and up to eight sheets, making it versatile for home needs.
• Quiet operation noted by many users, so it does not disrupt a small office or living area.

Cons

• Five minute continuous run time is adequate for light use but can be limiting for heavier shredding sessions.
• Some customers report mixed experiences with speed and occasional jamming under heavier loads.

Specifications

Model	AU870MZ
Security level	P-4 micro-cut (5/32 x 15/32 in pieces)
Sheet capacity	Up to 8 sheets
Throat width	8.7 in
Continuous run time	5 minutes
Wastebasket	3.9 gallon
Dimensions & weight	11.81 x 7.13 x 17.44 in, 11.7 lb

Our Verdict

The Aurora AU870MZ is a practical, good-value micro-cut shredder for home and small office users who need dependable destruction of paper and credit cards. Its compact size, quiet operation, and genuine micro-cut security make it a smart pick for protecting personal information, provided your shredding needs are light to moderate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can it shred credit cards?
Yes - the AU870MZ is designed to shred credit cards as well as paper into small micro-cut pieces.

How long can it run continuously?
The shredder supports about five minutes of continuous operation before requiring a cool-down period and has thermal protection with an overheat LED.

How large is the wastebasket?
The unit includes a 3.9 gallon wastebasket, which is sized for small to moderate home or office use.