The Gladiator GACP15XXMG Trash Compactor is a good model that manages to reduce the volume of your trash with a four-to-one compaction ratio, without putting a big dent in your wallet. While it’s missing some features desirable in more premium models, it’s a reliable model with some nifty touches, like a streamlined console with a removable key knob that can be kept out of reach of children’s hands.
If you’re looking to dip your toe into trash compactors or simply don’t want to splash the cash on trash compaction, then the Gladiator GACP15XXMG is a solid option. However, if you’re still weighing up what you want, check out our full guide to the best trash compactors to see if there’s a model that might suit you better.
Gladiator GACP15XXMG Trash Compactor: Pricing and value
At around the $730 mark, the Gladiator GACP15XXMG Trash Compactor definitely sits at the budget end of the market, with many other models, like the KitchenAid KTTS505ESS Trash Compactor, easily approaching the thousand dollar mark. But the reduction in price does mean it comes with fewer features, higher-end models often offer odor and noise reduction systems, which the Gladiator doesn’t benefit from.
When compared with slightly more expensive models, like the GE Trash Compactor, it holds up well, with a similar level of features and performance.
It’s still a solid option that very much does what it says on the tin, reliably too.
Gladiator GACP15XXMG Trash Compactor: Features
At a lower price point than competitors, it’s not surprising that features are a little thin on the ground. There’s no odor control, like in the KitchenAid Trash Compactor, or sound reduction systems like in the Whirlpool Trash Compactor, but those that are included are useful.
A convenient foot pedal means hands-free opening, ideal if your hands are full, and the bin glides up smoothly even when it contains a heavy load. A streamlined console makes for easy use and its removable key knob means you can keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental operation.
Anti-jam functionality makes this trash compactor even easier to use. If you accidentally open the door while the compactor is in use, the compression ram will automatically reverse, so there are no pesky jams to fix.
The Gladiator Trash Compactor is built for mobility. It’s freestanding and comes with swiveling rear casters and fixed front casters too, so it’s easy to move around and situate it just where you need it.
Gladiator GACP15XXMG Trash Compactor: User reviews
Overall, users rate the Gladiator Trash Compactor highly. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Home Depot, they comment that it met their expectations and did the job well. A number of users commented that the Gladiator Trash Compactor was easy to set up, install, and use.
A handful of users mentioned that the compactor wasn’t as powerful as expected and didn’t crush the trash enough. Some mentioned they wanted an HD crush mode that is sometimes found in other models and really felt that this model didn’t crush enough without it. A few mentioned that the crusher didn’t manage large plastic bottles well.
On the whole, users were pleased with the Gladiator Trash Compactor, saying that it did the job they wanted it to do and that they liked the extra mobility features that were hard to find in other models.
Should you buy a Gladiator GACP15XXMG Trash Compactor?
The Gladiator Trash Compactor may not have the power or advanced features of the KitchenAid, but for what you pay, it still holds up well against more expensive models like the GE Trash Compactor. While not quite outstanding, it’s a budget option that gets the job done with a few nice extra features and enhanced mobility.
