Are you searching for a powerful machine? The Xerox AltaLink B8255 might be the perfect choice for you.
We understand how challenging it can be to determine whether a machine is right for your needs. Selecting the right printer is essential to ensure that it can reliably and seamlessly integrate into your workspace.
That’s why we’ve written this review. With close to four decades of experience in the print industry, specializing in Xerox products, we’ve encountered it all. We know exactly what it takes to find the ideal fit for your office, and we're eager to share our insights with you. We've assisted numerous businesses like yours in making informed decisions, guiding them away from expensive mistakes and toward the right solutions.
In this review, we'll delve into everything you need to know—covering specifications, features, pros, cons, and costs. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of whether this machine is the best choice for your workplace.
Stick with us, and we'll wrap up with a summary of who would and wouldn't benefit from this machine.
Xerox AltaLink B8255 Basics
Here are some general statistics and information about the AltaLink B8255 to help you understand print speed, volume, resolution, and cost:
- Print Speed: Up to 55 pages per minute (ppm) in black-and-white only
- Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 250,000 pages per month
- Recommended Monthly Print Volume: Up to 75,000 pages
- Print Resolution: 1200 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch)
- Copy Resolution: 600 x 600 dpi
- First-Print-Out-Time: 3.2 seconds black-and-white
- First-Copy-Out-Time: 3.6 seconds black-and-white
- Base Model Weight: 286 pounds
- Cost: Starting at around $14,765
See the picture below for a look at the AltaLink B8255’s base dimensions:
Xerox AltaLink B8255 Key Features
Here are some of the key features that come with this machine:
Touchscreen Interface and App Gallery
The Xerox AltaLink B8255 has a customizable 10.1-inch tablet-like color touchscreen, making printing tasks easy and efficient.
You can tailor the user interface to your business’s goals by choosing from the many applications on theXerox App Gallery. The B8255 (along with all other Xerox AltaLink 8200 MFPs) comes with three embedded AI apps (with included credits) for your convenience:
- Xerox Auto-Redaction App: This app automatically redacts, highlights, or underlines personally identifiable information (PII) using set words or phrases. You can scan 2,000 pages for $76, 7,500 pages for $219, or 25,000 pages for $549.
- Xerox Summarizer App: An app that uses AI to generate summaries of lengthy documents like news articles and blog posts. Credit packages start at 250 credits for $49, 1,000 credits for $159, and 5,000 for $659.
- Xerox Note Converter App: This app uses Google’s AI technology to convert handwritten notes into a Microsoft Word document. It costs $5 a month, $49 a year, and $119 for three years.
Example of the Xerox Summarizer app, courtesy of Xerox:
These three apps come with free credit allowances: 750 credits for the Auto-Redaction app, 325 credits for the Summarizer app, and 300 credits for the Note Converter app. If you need additional credits or want to learn more about how they work, contact us, and we’ll be glad to help you.
The Xerox App Gallery has several industry-specific apps to boost office productivity. For more information on Xerox’s app offerings, read the following blogs:
- Pros and Cons of Printer Apps: Should You Invest?
- Top 10 Apps in the Xerox App Gallery
- Top 5 Printer Productivity Apps in Xerox App Gallery
Xerox's ConnectKey technology adds mobile and cloud capabilities to your MFP. With this technology, you can convert physical documents into cloud-based files and manage your printer from your smartphone using mobile connectivity features.
AltaLink machines also have unique features like a smart proximity sensor and multi-destination scanning, which are not available in other Xerox machines. Check out our blog on the Xerox AltaLink family for more information.
Advanced User Experience
The Xerox AltaLink B8255 enhances productivity with its advanced user experience, designed to minimize busywork and streamline daily tasks. Here's how it helps you work smarter:
► Adaptive Learning and Automation: Leveraging AI algorithms, the AltaLink family learns and recognizes your frequently performed or complex tasks. It then suggests and creates 1-Touch shortcuts for your routine copy, scan, and email jobs, allowing you to complete these tasks in seconds.
► Smart Reminders: If you’ve previously set up a 1-Touch shortcut but forget to use it, the AltaLink family will remind you while you're setting up your job.
►Personalized Interface: The AltaLink family automatically reorganizes and prioritizes features based on your usage patterns. It presents the default screen for the most frequently used job apps—whether it's copying, scanning, or emailing—making the most relevant options readily accessible.
With these features, the AltaLink models saves time and effort, helping you focus on the work that truly matters. Check out our blog on the five new AltaLink C8200 & B8200 features to learn more.
Printer Security
The AltaLink B8255 uses a four-point security approach that helps prevent, detect, and protect against cyberattacks at all points of vulnerability. Additionally, Xerox collaborates with McAfee/Trellix and Cisco to further enhance security. This collaboration includes the use of Trellix’s Whitelisting technology and Cisco's Identity Services Engine (ISE).
According to Xerox’s website, their security measures include:
- Network intrusion and data transmission
- Protection from unauthorized access
- Stringent data encryption and secure overwrite.
- Added security to individual documents
AltaLink printers undergo a comprehensive firmware verification test during the setup process. Xerox has gone the extra mile by incorporating default security templates into this product series, allowing you to effortlessly set up a security level that suits your needs.
In a recent study by Quocirca, 67% of respondents reported data loss due to unsecured printing practices, making printer security an increasing concern among buyers.
It’s important to educate yourself on a company’s security measures before making a purchase decision. Learn more about Xerox’s approach to security here.
Interested in the Xerox AltaLink B8255? You can customize it in our product configurator to fit your needs, or simply request a quote for pricing details.
Xerox AltaLink B8255 Accessories and Upgrades
Let's take a look at the standard accessories, configuration options, and finishing choices that will help you customize your machine to better fit your business needs.
Configurations and Accessories
Here are some of the configurations that are available for the AltaLink B8255:
- Single-Pass Duplex Automatic Document Feeder (DADF)
- Two 520-sheet Adjustable Trays
- High-Capacity Tandem Tray Configuration (Holds up to 3,140 sheets of paper)
- Bypass Tray (Handles up to 100 sheets)
Optional Accessories
You also have the option to add extra accessories when you purchase the machine. Some examples include:
- RFID Card Reader Kit
- Envelope Tray (Replaces the first tray and provides feeding of up to 60 envelopes)
- USB Keyboard/Shelf Kit
Print Finishing Options
Lastly, here are the finishing options you can include with the AltaLink B8255:
- Dual Offset Catch Tray (Available when no finishers are installed)
- Office Finisher (With 2-position stapling, optional hole-punch and optional booklet maker)
- Business Ready Finisher (With staple and hole-punching capabilities)
- C-Fold/Z-Fold Unit
- BR Booklet Maker Finisher (Can saddle-stitch from 2 to 16 sheets)
- Integrated Office Finisher (Provides 500-sheet stacking and 50-sheet, 2-position stapling.
- Convenience Stapler (Staples up to 50 sheets of 20 lb. / 75 gsm (Grams per Square Meter)
When you choose additional accessories or finishing options, the price of the machine will increase. This decision will also lead to an increase in the printer's size, which we will discuss further in the "Cons" section of this review.
For a look at how the AltaLink B8255 could look with additional upgrades, see the picture below:
2 Pros of the Xerox AltaLink B8255
Now, let’s look at two pros for this machine:
1. All-In-One Printing Solution
The AltaLink B8255 is a multifunction printer that can print, scan, and copy like a pro. If you need to fax, you can simply add a faxing kit accessory.
With a multifunction device, you get all essential office functions in one machine, eliminating the need for separate scanners, copiers, or fax machines.
For more information on multifunction printers, read the following blogs:
- All-in-One Printer: How Is it Different From a Regular Printer?
- 9 Multifunction Printer Myths Explained & Debunked
2. Built For High-Volume Printing
In addition to being an all-in-one print solution, the AltaLink B8255 excels in high-volume environments.
With a recommended monthly print volume of up to 75,000 pages, it is a powerful machine capable of handling demanding print volumes effortlessly.
When it comes to printers, it's important to know the difference between the monthly duty cycle and the recommended monthly print volume.
The duty cycle is the maximum amount a printer can handle in a month, but it's better to stick to the recommended print volume. This can help you avoid an increase in service issues and ensure a longer lifespan for your printer.
If you want to dive deeper into this topic, check out our blog on the differences between duty cycle and recommended monthly print volume for more details!
2 Cons of the Xerox AltaLink B8255
Let's discuss two main drawbacks of this machine:
1. Size of the Printer
One of the main downsides of the AltaLink B8255 is its large size, which requires ample space to accommodate it.
This model weighs 286 pounds and has a base configuration width of 24.4 inches, a depth of 28.5 inches, and a height of 44.5 inches.
The AltaLink B8255 is a large machine meant for high-volume environments. It may not be suitable for small businesses lacking sufficient space or the need fo an advanced multifunction printer.
Don't forget to consider the size and space requirements of a machine before making a purchase. To learn more, check out our blog on understanding the differences between printer dimensions and space requirements.
2. No Color Printing Capability
Another drawback to the AltaLink B8255 is that it's limited to printing and copying in black-and-white, so it can't handle color printing needs. However, the AltaLink B8200 Series models can still scan in color.
If you want a similar multifunctional option that can print in color, you might want to consider the AltaLink C8255.
Xerox AltaLink B8255 Cost
As previously mentioned, this model currently sells for approximately $14,765. However, this price does not cover optional upgrades or maintenance plans that you may want to include with your purchase.
For example, the AltaLink comes with a network connection (RJ45) included. However, if you want to print wirelessly, you must purchase a separate Wireless Connectivity Kit to set up WIFI on the machine. You can purchase the WIFI accessory for around $139.
Keep in mind that all-in-one printers are generally more expensive than single-function printers. So, choosing which type of printer to purchase requires careful consideration.
Some vendors may provide trade-in options, and you also have the choice to lease the printer instead of buying it outright. Leasing a printer breaks down the total price into more affordable monthly payments. Learn more about the cost of printers with these blogs:
- How Much Does a Printer/Copier Cost?
- Leasing vs Purchasing a Printer: Which Is Right for You?
- How Trading In Your Current Copier/Printer Could Benefit Your Organization
Who Is the Xerox AltaLink B8255 a Good Fit for?
This machine is a good fit for:
- Medium- to large-sized businesses that need an all-in-one, monochrome, high-volume (75,000 pages per month) printing solution.
- Those who want a printer with advanced technological features and industry-specific applications that help automate workflows.
- Those who require advanced finishing options on a multifunction machine.
- Those looking to make a long-term printing investment.
If you fit into any of these categories, you're a perfect candidate for the AltaLink B8255. Before making a purchase, it's best to discuss your specific printing goals with a business consultant to ensure the perfect fit.
Who Is the Xerox AltaLink B8255 Not a Good Fit For?
This machine is not a good fit for:
- Those searching for a single-function (print-only) printer for personal use.
- Small-to-medium-sized businesses that don’t print at a high volume.
- Businesses that need to print in color.
- Those who don’t have the space requirements and electrical capacity to house the machine.
If you fall into one of these categories, then this model is not for you. To help you choose the right model, read our blog on how to choose a printer for your budget and business needs.
What Are the Other Models in the Xerox AltaLink B8200 Series?
The AltaLink B8255 is one of five printers in the AltaLink B8200 Series, which also includes the B8245 and B8270 models.
They all contain the same basic technological features and accessories but differ in function efficiency. The more advanced the model gets in the series, the more efficient it will be.
The print speeds in the B8200 series increase as follows: the AltaLink B8245 has a print speed of up to 45 ppm, the B8255 has a print speed of up to 55 ppm, and the B8270 has a print speed of up to 72 ppm.
The same can be said for the machines' monthly duty cycles. The B8245 has a duty cycle of up to 200,000 pages, the B8255 has a duty cycle of up to 250,000 pages, and the B8270 has a duty cycle of up to 300,000 pages.
Think the Xerox AltaLink B8255 Is Right for You?
The AltaLink B8255 is an excellent choice if you need a multifunction printer that can reliably handle up to 75,000 pages per month and serve as your primary office machine in the long term.
However, this model isn't the best choice for small workgroups with low printing needs or limited space. If you're looking for a personal desktop printer or a color printer, this isn't the one for you.
At STPT, we understand the importance of smooth business operations. That's why we believe your focus should be on your business, not on office printing equipment. We're here to ensure you have the right machines to keep your business running smoothly.
If you’ve read through this and think the AltaLink B8255 is right for you, or if you need help finding the right print solution, feel free to contact us. We will guide you toward your ideal machine.
You can find this model and explore more printers using our product configurator tool. Search for a specific model, fine-tune your search with filters for specifications like print speed, and customize with optional accessories.
