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Understanding the Different Types of Paper Cutters and Trimmers

Understanding the Different Types of Paper Cutters and Trimmers

If your business is printing and cutting paper then you need a reliable paper cutter or trimmer. There's no doubt that you use this equipment several times in a day if not several times in an hour and you need to know it will work efficiently. But there are different types of paper cutters and trimmers for different jobs and it's important to know which ones do what and why.

Do you do all the cutting yourself? Perhaps you own a print shop where customers use the equipment and you're wondering which cutters are best. Some equipment is better suited for an in-house print shop while others serve customers well.

In this article, we're discussing the different types of paper cutters and trimmers and which one will serve your needs best. Keep reading to learn more.

Different Types of Paper Cutters and Trimmers

There are actually several options for paper cutters available depending on what exactly you want or need. One type of cutter is not necessarily better than the other when it comes to efficiency, but keep in mind what you'll be using it for.

Here are the five different types of paper cutters and trimmers that you can use in your home or office.

 

Rotary Trimmer

 

Triumph Kutrimmer 0155 Paper Trimmer

If you're looking for the most precise cut on up to thirty sheets of paper, a rotary trimmer is a must-have.

A rotary trimmer sits on a tabletop so it's important to have a sturdy, secure surface to place it on. It's a handy and inexpensive tool that can be used in the home office or print shop. These cutters are great for cutting straight edges quickly.

Many people find this type of cutter an excellent device to cut and trim photos, posters, drawings, and even blueprints. A rotary trimmer is safe to use and requires little maintenance with self-sharpening features.

A good rotary trimmer can trim more than paper including plastic films, vinyl, and PVC. Little to no skill is required to operate this essential piece of office or print shop equipment.

 

Guillotine Paper Cutter

 

Triumph Cutter 4705 guillotine cutter

This more traditional paper cutter is generally found in offices because it can cut through multiple sheets of paper at one time. Today's Guillotine cutters are also more safe and accurate.

This is a reliable office or print shop tool for anybody that has quick jobs they need to have done, precisely. Some Guillotine cutters can cut up to 360 sheets of paper in a single stroke. They will have a handle-weighted clamp that holds the paper firmly in place while you make your cut.

If you're looking for basic paper cutters to fill the needs of your busy office or print shop, a Guillotine paper cutter will get the job done. It requires virtually no skill to operate and it could even make your life easier.

 

Hydraulic Paper Cutter

 

Triumph Cutter Ideal 5255 Hydraulic Cutter

Larger jobs call for larger paper cutters and if you're cutting a lot of paper at once, a Hydraulic or Electric paper cutter is what you need.

This modern technology is automated and programmable for multiple and various cuts that can fit the needs of any customer. These products are built to prevent injuries. And, maintenance is relatively easy and hassle-free.

You can find a Hydraulic cutter with a digital display that allows for precise back gauge positioning. Some have bright, LED optical cutting lines and all metal construction. Each is designed a little differently but will come with a stand and storage shelf.

 

Cutter, Slitter, Creaser

Duplo DC-646 Slitter, Cutter, Creaser

Sometimes what you need is an all in one device that takes care of any job you can think up. In that case, you might consider an all in one cutter, slitter, and creaser.

Many print shops find that these machines make their lives easier with preprogramming and multiple presets available. Cut business cards, flyers, and brochures, all with one machine.

These products require little to no supervision delivering finished projects in no time. They are a bit more expensive than a traditional paper cutter but remember what they're capable of. An all in one cutter, slitter, and creaser can handle any project you bring to it, safely and efficiently.

 

Business Card Cutter

 

Formax FD 120 Business Card Cutter

Depending on the needs of your business or shop may depend on the type of business card cutters you use. Some are fine for small jobs but larger projects might require a more elaborate machine.

You can find manual and automatic business card cutters. The manual cutters are more efficient for the smaller projects. Some automatic cutters are programmable to run presets and finish large quantities at once.

This is an affordable and essential product to have in any print shop. Even small business owners can benefit from keeping a business card cutter in their office.

Purchasing Your Paper Cutters

Besides making sure your paper cutters are getting the job done right, you need to know that they will last. You don't want to be halfway through a project when your paper cutter quits working properly. Take quality into consideration when making your next paper cutter/trimmer purchase.

Selecting the right paper cutters for your home or business doesn't have to be overwhelming and stressful. Just keep these tips in mind the next time you have a paper cutting job. It really boils down to your preference in the end.

When you're ready to purchase your next paper cutter or trimmer, contact us! We're the paper cutter specialists.