Three compact office shredders in a studio arc, one with its cutting cylinder exposed, one with paper fed into the throat, one with its bin pulled out

HSM Securio C-Series Compared: C14, C16 and C18

The HSM Securio C-Series is the compact end of the Securio range, built for individual desks and small offices. The three models - C14, C16 and C18 - differ principally in sheet capacity and bin volume, and the number in the model name corresponds to the working width of the cutting head rather than to sheet count. All three are available in several cut types, so the security level is a separate choice from the model.

Where the C-Series sits

HSM organises Securio into four lines, and knowing which one you want saves a great deal of comparison:

  • C-Series - compact, deskside, personal and small office
  • B-Series - larger office and departmental machines on castors
  • AF-Series - auto-feed, load a stack and walk away
  • P-Series - high capacity and high security

Our Securio model guide covers the full structure, and HSM model numbers decoded explains the naming.

How the three models differ

Within the C-Series the progression is straightforward. As the number rises, so does the working width of the throat, the sheet capacity at a given cut type, and the collection bin volume. The footprint grows modestly with it.

  • C14 - the smallest. Suits a single desk with light, intermittent shredding. Smallest bin, so most frequent emptying.
  • C16 - the middle option and the volume seller. A reasonable balance of capacity and footprint for a private office or a small shared area.
  • C18 - the largest C-Series machine. Suits a small team sharing one unit, with the largest bin in the line.

Published sheet figures assume 20 lb paper fed squarely. Stapled documents, folded sheets and heavier stock all reduce the real figure, so leave headroom rather than buying to the published number.

Three compact shredders on a studio sweep: one with the cutting cylinder exposed, one with blank sheets part-fed, one with the bin pulled out showing cross-cut particles
Cut type is chosen separately from model. The same C-Series body is available at several DIN 66399 security levels.

Choosing the cut type

This is the more consequential decision and it is independent of which C model you pick.

  • Strip cut - highest sheet capacity, lowest security. Appropriate only for non-sensitive material.
  • Cross cut - the general office standard, typically P-4. The right default for most buyers.
  • Micro cut - P-5, for regulated material such as patient or financial records.
  • Super micro cut - P-6 and above, for classified or highly sensitive work.

Each step up reduces sheet capacity and increases the load on the motor, so a C18 in super micro cut will take fewer sheets than a C14 in strip cut. Decide the DIN 66399 level you need first, then pick the model that gives acceptable capacity at that level. Our guide to P-4 versus P-5 covers where the line falls for most offices.

When to step up to the B-Series

The C-Series is designed for intermittent use. If any of these apply, look at the B-Series instead:

  • More than a few people share the machine regularly
  • Shredding happens in sustained sessions rather than a few sheets at a time
  • The bin needs emptying more than once or twice a week
  • You need a machine on castors that moves between locations

Buying a C-Series machine for departmental duty is the commonest sizing mistake in this part of the range. It will do the work, but it will spend time in thermal cutout and will not last.

Keeping it running

Oil the cutting head regularly using HSM shredder oil, and more often on micro-cut models, which generate more friction per sheet. Use correctly sized shredder bags rather than general refuse sacks. Our oiling guide covers frequency and method, and troubleshooting covers the warning indicators.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between HSM Securio C14, C16 and C18?

Working width of the cutting head, and with it sheet capacity and bin volume. C14 is the smallest and C18 the largest. All three are available in multiple cut types, so security level is a separate choice.

Which HSM C-Series model should I buy?

For a single desk with light use, C14. For a private office or small shared area, C16. For a small team sharing one machine, C18. If several people use it in sustained sessions, move up to the B-Series.

What security level do C-Series shredders reach?

Depending on the cut type selected, from strip cut at the low end through cross cut, micro cut and super micro cut. The model number does not determine the security level.

Is the HSM C16 good for an office?

For a private office or a small shared area with intermittent shredding, yes. For a department shredding in sustained sessions, it is undersized and the B-Series is the correct line.

How often do C-Series shredders need oiling?

When you empty the bin as a rule, and more frequently on micro-cut models because finer cutters generate more friction and heat per sheet.

Buying HSM in the US

HSM Machines carries the full Securio range including the compact office models, with oil, bags and parts. Tell us your headcount and security requirement and we will point you at the right model rather than the biggest one.

Back to blog