Did you know the average American office worker uses 10,000 sheets of copy paper annually? That doesn't count any specialty papers used for presentations or posters either.
If you need to trim those sheets for any reason, you could end up doing a lot of chopping. What's the best tool for the job?
It could be a paper trimmer. Or maybe it's what they call a sliding paper cutter. There are so many different terms, it can be hard to tell what you need.
We're here to explain the differences so you can make the right choice for your business.
What Do Paper Trimmers Do?
You might hear a paper trimmer called several different things:
- rotary trimmer
- rotary paper cutter
- sliding paper cutter
- photo trimmer
- photo paper cutter
These terms describe similar devices. Most of them function the same way, with a round cutting blade sliding up and down a metal guide bar.
A sliding paper cutter is great if you work with single sheets or small batches of paper. They also work well for thinner paper stocks.
Defining Paper Cutters
Paper trimmers are sometimes called cutters, but this isn't always accurate. A paper cutter is usually a guillotine device. It uses a chopping action. You lift the arm and then press down to lower the blade through the paper.
You may also encounter the terms hydraulic paper cutter and stack paper cutter. A stack paper cutter is a heavy-duty model designed to handle very thick stacks of paper. A hydraulic cutter is a guillotine cutter powered by a hydraulic arm.
Paper cutters are ideal for large stacks of paper and thicker paper stocks. They're also great if you have many paper-cutting projects.
Technologically Advanced Cutters for the Modern Business
You might want to consider some models that are a step up from the usual guillotine and rotary blade cutters.
Today's advanced paper cutters have precision tools blade guides, making for cleaner cuts. Many also include touchscreens and automatic clamps. These tools help make your paper cutting more professional.
Some models are automatic. This saves time if you cut huge stacks of paper on a regular basis. Some cutters are even programmable.
Most models also include upgraded safety features. You and your employees can stay safe as you cut paper.
Is a Sliding Paper Cutter Right for Your Business?
Before you buy a sliding paper cutter, consider your needs. If you're going to cut large stacks of paper regularly, a different paper cutter might be the right option. If you're hoping to trim up the edges on a few photos, a trimmer might work best.
You may also want to consider some of the more advanced models. This is especially true if you handle high volumes of paper.
If you cut large size paper or heavy stocks, you might want to consider a special model.
If you have questions about paper trimmers and cutters, help is close at hand. Ask us about the right cutter or trimmer for your business.