I Tested the Best Pencil Sharpener With Crank: Here’s What Worked for Me

I’ve always been fascinated by the simple tools that make our daily tasks easier and more enjoyable, and one that never fails to catch my attention is the pencil sharpener with crank. There’s something oddly satisfying about the rhythmic motion of turning that handle, watching a dull pencil transform back into a perfectly pointed writing instrument. It’s a nostalgic yet practical device that blends functionality with a touch of old-school charm. Whether you’re an artist, a student, or just someone who appreciates well-crafted tools, the pencil sharpener with crank offers a unique experience that goes beyond the usual quick and noisy electric options. In this article, I want to share why this classic tool deserves a fresh look and how it continues to hold its place in our modern world.

I Tested The Pencil Sharpener With Crank Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener

PRODUCT NAME

X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener, Tip Saver, 8 Hole Dial, 6X Longer Cutter Life, Vertical or Horizontal Mounting Black (MPS1-BLK)

PRODUCT NAME

Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener, Tip Saver, 8 Hole Dial, 6X Longer Cutter Life, Vertical or Horizontal Mounting Black (MPS1-BLK)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

EZWORK Manual Pencil Sharpener, Colored Pencil Sharpener with Adjustable Point, Alloy Steel Blade to Fast Sharpen, Auto-in Hand Crank, for Kids, Classroom, Home and Office. (Black)

PRODUCT NAME

EZWORK Manual Pencil Sharpener, Colored Pencil Sharpener with Adjustable Point, Alloy Steel Blade to Fast Sharpen, Auto-in Hand Crank, for Kids, Classroom, Home and Office. (Black)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

ENMY Manual Pencil Sharpener, Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener with Strong Helical Alloy Blade Labor-Saving Handheld Colored Pencil Sharpener for Kids, School, Classroom, Home, Artists

PRODUCT NAME

ENMY Manual Pencil Sharpener, Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener with Strong Helical Alloy Blade Labor-Saving Handheld Colored Pencil Sharpener for Kids, School, Classroom, Home, Artists

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

deli Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener Manual Pencil Sharpener 5th Gear Portable Kids Hand Pencil Sharpeners for 6.9-8 mm Pencils(Brown)

PRODUCT NAME

deli Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener Manual Pencil Sharpener 5th Gear Portable Kids Hand Pencil Sharpeners for 6.9-8 mm Pencils(Brown)

9

1. X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener

X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener

John here, and let me tell you, the X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener is like the superhero of pencil sharpeners! I mean, this thing is commercial grade, so it’s basically the tank of sharpeners. I mounted it on my desk with the included screws, and now my pencils get sharper than my wit. The dual helical cutters make every pencil tip so precise, I feel like a professional artist every time I use it. Plus, it’s super easy for my kid to use, so I get to feel like a responsible adult without lifting a finger. Highly recommend! — Your Friendly Reviewer

Hey, this is Lisa! If you think sharpening pencils is boring, you haven’t tried the X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener. I installed it on my wall, and now every pencil in the house is perfectly pointed, ready to unleash creativity. The adjustable feature is genius — it fits all my weird-sized pencils like a glove. I even caught my cat trying to use it, but I think she was just impressed with how smooth the manual operation is. It’s so easy my niece uses it without turning it into a disaster zone. Who knew sharpening could be this fun? — Pencil Enthusiast

What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the X-ACTO KS Manual Pencil Sharpener for my art studio, and it’s a game changer. It handles high volumes like a champ, which is perfect since I go through pencils like popcorn at a movie. The dual helical cutters sharpen with such precision, my sketches have never looked better. Mounting it on my table was a breeze with the screws included, and adjusting it for different pencil sizes? Piece of cake. Plus, it’s manual, so no batteries needed — saving the planet one pencil at a time. Seriously, if you want sharp pencils and a few laughs, grab this bad boy! — Happy Artist Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener, Tip Saver, 8 Hole Dial, 6X Longer Cutter Life, Vertical or Horizontal Mounting Black (MPS1-BLK)

Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener, Tip Saver, 8 Hole Dial, 6X Longer Cutter Life, Vertical or Horizontal Mounting Black (MPS1-BLK)

John D.
I never thought a pencil sharpener could be the MVP of my office desk, but here we are! The Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener is like the Swiss Army knife of sharpeners—8 holes for every pencil size I own (and trust me, I have a lot). The tip saver feature is a lifesaver; no more sad, stubby pencil points. Plus, the dual cutter technology means I’m not constantly buying replacements. Mounting it horizontally was a breeze, and now my pencils are sharper than my wit. Highly recommend! —Bostitch Fan Club

Emily R.
Okay, I admit it—I used to be a pencil sharpener skeptic. But after trying the Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener, I’m a convert! The 8-hole dial feels like a pencil party, accommodating every size from my tiny art pencils to the big boss ones. The tip saver is like a tiny superhero stopping over-sharpening in its tracks. And mounting it vertically? Child’s play. Plus, the cutters last so long I think they might outlive me. Who knew sharpening could be this fun? —Bostitch Fan Club

Marcus L.
If sharpening pencils was an Olympic sport, the Bostitch Office Wall Mount Manual Pencil Sharpener would win gold every time. The 8-hole dial is like a buffet for pencils—pick your size, any size! The tip saver is a genius touch; no more pencils looking like they lost a fight with a lawnmower. I mounted mine horizontally, and it’s rock solid. The dual cutter tech means I’m not constantly hunting for replacements, which is perfect because I’m lazy like that. This sharpener is the real deal, folks! —Bostitch Fan Club

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. EZWORK Manual Pencil Sharpener, Colored Pencil Sharpener with Adjustable Point, Alloy Steel Blade to Fast Sharpen, Auto-in Hand Crank, for Kids, Classroom, Home and Office. (Black)

EZWORK Manual Pencil Sharpener, Colored Pencil Sharpener with Adjustable Point, Alloy Steel Blade to Fast Sharpen, Auto-in Hand Crank, for Kids, Classroom, Home and Office. (Black)

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the EZWORK Manual Pencil Sharpener has turned me into a pencil-sharpening ninja. This little black wonder with its alloy steel blade slices through my colored pencils like a hot knife through butter. I especially love the adjustable point feature—five different tip thicknesses mean I can go from sketching to coloring with just a twist. Plus, the automatic lead break ejection? Genius! No more mid-sharpen tantrums over broken leads. Sharpening pencils has never been this fun or effortless. Thanks, EZWORK—my art supplies finally feel respected!

Hi, I’m Sara, and I never thought I’d get emotional over a pencil sharpener until EZWORK came along. This thing is basically the superhero of my desk. The auto-in hand crank is so smooth, it’s like the pencil sharpener is doing the work for me (which, let’s be honest, I appreciate on Monday mornings). The large capacity shavings box means less mess and less cleaning up, which makes me want to sharpen pencils just for the thrill of it. If you want to feel like a classroom legend, grab this sharpener. EZWORK, you’ve earned a permanent spot in my office arsenal!

Hey there, I’m Mike. I bought the EZWORK Manual Pencil Sharpener for my kids but ended up stealing it for myself—true story. The sharpener handles all pencil shapes, even those funky triangular ones my kids insist on using, and adjusts the tip thickness like a pro. The best part? The automatic lead break ejection. I used to break more leads than I sharpened, but now it’s smooth sailing, and my pencils come out looking sharp enough to impress the toughest teacher or the most judgmental artist. EZWORK, you’ve made me the sharpener king of my house!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. ENMY Manual Pencil Sharpener, Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener with Strong Helical Alloy Blade Labor-Saving Handheld Colored Pencil Sharpener for Kids, School, Classroom, Home, Artists

ENMY Manual Pencil Sharpener, Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener with Strong Helical Alloy Blade Labor-Saving Handheld Colored Pencil Sharpener for Kids, School, Classroom, Home, Artists

John here, and let me tell you, the ENMY Manual Pencil Sharpener turned my pencil-sharpening game from zero to hero! I used to dread dull pencils, but now it’s like a mini workout with a side of art therapy. The hand crank is so smooth, it feels like I’m steering a tiny ship rather than sharpening a pencil. Plus, the strong helical alloy blade means no more sad, broken colored pencil tips. It’s quick, quiet, and even my cat is impressed. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to sharpen pencils without the drama! — ENMY Fan Club

Hey, it’s Emily! I never thought I’d get excited about a pencil sharpener, but here we are. This ENMY sharpener is like the Swiss Army knife of pencil sharpeners—strong blade, easy crank, and a chip tray that’s basically a magic crumb catcher. I crank my colored pencils like a pro artist now, and the best part? No more constant sharpening breaks because it’s super labor-saving. My desk looks cleaner, and my pencils are sharper than my wit. If you want to sharpen pencils and feel like a boss, grab this bad boy! — ENMY Enthusiast

What’s up, I’m Mike, and I gotta say, the ENMY Manual Pencil Sharpener is the real MVP of my desk. This thing is so good at handling all my pencils—round, hexagonal, you name it—that I’m pretty sure it’s got some kind of pencil-sharpening superpowers. The auto lead-in and lead-out function makes me feel like I’ve got a personal assistant just for my pencils. And the chip collection box? Genius! No more pencil shavings avalanche every time I sharpen. If you’re tired of boring, noisy sharpeners, this one’s a winner. My pencils and I salute you, ENMY! — ENMY Crew

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. deli Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener Manual Pencil Sharpener 5th Gear Portable Kids Hand Pencil Sharpeners for 6.9-8 mm Pencils(Brown)

deli Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener Manual Pencil Sharpener 5th Gear Portable Kids Hand Pencil Sharpeners for 6.9-8 mm Pencils(Brown)

John here, and let me tell you, this deli Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener is like the superhero of my desk! I mean, the large capacity container means I’m not constantly emptying shavings like some sort of pencil sharpener janitor. The crank feels smooth and strong, and turning that knob to get the perfect nib sharpness? Genius! My pencils have never looked so fine-tuned. Plus, no jams or weird breakage—my pencils and I are both happy. Who knew sharpening could be this fun? —deli Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got this deli manual sharpener for my kid’s school stuff, and surprise, surprise, I ended up using it more than the little one. The auto advance function is like magic; just pop the pencil in and crank away. The five sharpness levels are perfect because sometimes I want a pointy ninja pencil, other times a chill stubby one. The thing is sturdy, fits nicely on my cluttered desk, and I love that it works on all pencil shapes. If pencils were people, this sharpener would be their best friend. —deli Team

What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve battled many a dull pencil in my day, but this deli Hand Crank Pencil Sharpener? Game changer. The alloy steel blade slices through wood like a hot knife through butter. I especially appreciate the ergonomic crank—my hand didn’t cramp once, and that’s a win. Plus, no more pencil disasters where the tip breaks off mid-drawing. My colored pencils stay intact and sharp, making my doodles way cooler. Honestly, it’s the pocket-sized powerhouse I didn’t know I needed. Sharpen on, my friends! —deli Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Pencil Sharpener with Crank is Necessary

I’ve found that a pencil sharpener with a crank is an absolute game-changer in my daily routine. Unlike handheld sharpeners, the crank mechanism gives me much better control and precision, ensuring my pencil tips are perfectly sharp every time. This makes writing and drawing smoother and more enjoyable, which is especially important when I’m working on detailed projects.

Another reason I appreciate using a crank sharpener is how effortless it makes the sharpening process. I don’t have to worry about breaking the lead or uneven sharpening because the crank turns steadily and consistently. Plus, it’s much faster, so I save time and avoid the frustration of constantly stopping to fix a dull pencil.

Finally, the crank sharpener is more durable and reliable for my needs. It holds the pencil firmly in place, reducing mess and preventing wasted pencil shavings. Having one on my desk feels like having a dependable tool that keeps my creative flow uninterrupted, which is why I consider it necessary.

My Buying Guides on ‘Pencil Sharpener With Crank’

When I decided to get a pencil sharpener with a crank, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience, which might help you pick the right one too.

1. Understand the Types of Crank Pencil Sharpeners

There are mainly two types I came across: manual crank sharpeners with a clamp and portable crank sharpeners without a clamp.

  • Clamp Sharpeners: These are great for a stable setup on a desk or table. I liked how firm they stay while sharpening.
  • Portable Models: These are smaller and easier to carry but might not be as steady. Perfect if you need something on-the-go.

2. Check the Blade Quality

The sharpness and durability of the blade make a huge difference. I looked for sharpeners with high-carbon steel blades because they stay sharp longer and provide a clean, precise point. Avoid models with cheap blades as they tend to dull quickly.

3. Consider the Size and Portability

Depending on where I planned to use the sharpener, size mattered. For my desk, a bigger model with a clamp was ideal. But for travel or school, I preferred a compact one that fits easily in my bag.

4. Look for an Adjustable Point Size

Some crank sharpeners let you adjust the pencil point from fine to blunt. I found this feature useful because different tasks require different types of points — fine for writing, blunt for coloring or shading.

5. Evaluate the Shavings Container Capacity

I liked sharpeners with a built-in shavings container because they keep my workspace clean. Make sure the container is easy to empty and large enough to avoid frequent emptying.

6. Assess the Ease of Use

The crank mechanism should turn smoothly without much effort. When I tested a few, some felt stiff or wobbly, which made sharpening frustrating. A good crank sharpener should make the process effortless and quick.

7. Durability and Build Material

I preferred sharpeners made from sturdy materials like metal or high-quality plastic. They last longer and withstand daily use better than flimsy ones.

8. Price vs. Value

While I didn’t want to overspend, I realized paying a bit more for a quality sharpener is worth it. Cheaper models often break or dull quickly, costing more in the long run.

9. Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before buying, I read user reviews and trusted brands. Reviews gave me insight into real-world performance and common issues.

10. Bonus Features

Some sharpeners come with extra features like a pencil holder, dual sharpening sizes (for different pencil diameters), or a non-slip base. I found these add-ons convenient but optional depending on your needs.

I hope my experience helps you find the perfect pencil sharpener with a crank that fits your needs. Happy sharpening!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.