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Looking for a robust and reliable printer that can keep up with your office's demands? The Xerox AltaLink B8270 could be just what you need.
We know firsthand how tricky it can be to pick the right machine—one that fits seamlessly into your workspace and supports your team without a hitch. With so many options out there, making the wrong choice can lead to frustration and wasted resources.
That’s why we’ve put together this review. With nearly 40 years of experience in the print industry and a deep focus on Xerox products, we've seen it all. Our expertise helps us guide businesses like yours to the perfect printing solutions, saving them from costly mistakes and steering them toward success.
In this review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the AltaLink B8270—its specifications, standout features, pros and cons, and overall value. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to decide if this machine is the right fit for your office needs.
Stick with us, and we'll wrap up with a clear rundown of who will benefit most from this model and who might be better off looking at other options.
Xerox AltaLink B8270 Basics
Here is some general information and statistics about the AltaLink B8270 to help you understand its print speed, volume, resolution, and cost:
- Print Speed: Up to 72 pages per minute (ppm) in black-and-white only
- Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 300,000 pages per month
- Recommended Monthly Print Volume: Up to 100,000 pages
- Print Resolution: 1200 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch)
- Copy Resolution: 600 x 600 dpi
- First-Print-Out-Time: 3 seconds black-and-white
- First-Copy-Out-Time: 3 seconds black-and-white
- Base Model Weight: 319 pounds
- Cost: Starting at around $18,295
See the picture below for a look at the AltaLink B8270’s base dimensions:
Xerox AltaLink B8270 Key Features
Here are some of the standout features of the AltaLink B8270 multifunction (MFP) printer:
Touchscreen Interface and App Gallery
This printer is equipped with a customizable 10.1-inch tablet-like color touchscreen that simplifies printing tasks.
You can tailor the user interface to your business’s needs by choosing from the many applications on the Xerox App Gallery. The B8270 (along with all other Xerox AltaLink 8200 MFPs) comes with three pre-embedded AI apps (with included credits):
- 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 Auto-Redaction 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. For more information, check out our blog on the Xerox AltaLink family.
Advanced User Experience
The Xerox AltaLink B8200 and C8200 Series models enhance productivity with their advanced user experience, designed to minimize busy work and streamline daily tasks. Here's how it helps you work smarter:
► Adaptive Learning and Automation: Leveraging AI algorithms, the new AltaLink models learn and recognize your frequently performed or complex tasks. They then suggest and create 1-Touch shortcuts for your routine copy, scan, and email jobs, allowing you to complete these jobs in seconds.
► Smart Reminders: If you’ve previously set up a 1-Touch shortcut but forget to use it, the AltaLink models will remind you while you're setting up your job.
► Personalized Interface: These models automatically reorganize and prioritize features based on your usage patterns. They present 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 new AltaLink family 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 B8270 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
When setting up the AltaLink, it undergoes a thorough Firmware Verification test as part of the security measures. Xerox has also designed this series of products with default security templates to make it easy to implement a level of security that you feel comfortable with.
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 crucial to familiarize yourself with a company’s security measures before finalizing any purchase. Learn more about Xerox’s approach to security here.
Interested in the Xerox AltaLink B8270? You can customize it in our product configurator to fit your needs, or simply request a quote for pricing details.
Xerox AltaLink B8270 Accessories and Upgrades
Let’s explore the various standard accessories, configuration options, and finishing choices that allow you to tailor and enhance your machine to better suit your business needs.
Configurations and Accessories
Here are some of the standard configurations that are available for the AltaLink B8270:
- 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 can also choose to include additional accessories upon your machine purchase:
- Faxing Kits
- Envelope Tray (Replaces the first tray and provides feeding of up to 60 envelopes)
- High-Capacity Feeder (Holds 3,000 sheets of letter/A4 paper, increasing maximum paper capacity to 6,140 sheets)
- Long Sheet Feed Kit (Can print up to 12.6” x 52” prints)
- Multi-Feed Detection Kit (only available for B8270)
Print Finishing Options
Lastly, here are the finishing options you can include with the AltaLink B8270:
- 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)
- Dual Offset Catch Tray (Available when no finishers are installed)
- Convenience Stapler (Staples up to 50 sheets of 20 lb. / 75 gsm (Grams per Square Meter)
Adding optional accessories or finishing options will make the machine more costly and will also increase the size of the printer. We will discuss this in more detail in the "Cons" section of this review.
For a look at how the AltaLink B8270 could look with additional upgrades, see the picture below:
2 Pros of the Xerox AltaLink B8270
Now, let’s look at two pros for this machine:
1. All-In-One Printing Solution
The AltaLink B8270 is a multifunction printer capable of printing, scanning, and copying. Adding a faxing kit accessory allows you to fax.
With a multifunction device, you get all these basic office functions in one machine without needing a separate scanner, copier, or fax machine.
For more information about multifunction printers, read these 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 B8270 excels in high-volume environments.
With a high stock rated speed of 72 ppm and a recommended monthly print volume of up to 100,000 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 B8270
Now, let’s review two of the main cons of this machine:
1. Size of the Printer
Arguably, the main downside of the AltaLink B8270 is its large size, which requires ample space to accommodate it.
This model weighs 319 pounds and has a base configuration width of 24.4 inches, a depth of 31.2 inches, and a height of 46 inches.
The AltaLink is a large machine meant for high-volume environments. It may not be suitable for small businesses that lack sufficient space or the need for an advanced multifunction printer.
Remember, it's important to consider a machine's size and space requirements before purchasing it. 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 B8270 is that it can only print and copy in black-and-white. However, this model, along with all other 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 C8270.
Xerox AltaLink B8270 Cost
As stated previously, the AltaLink B8270's initial cost is around $18,295. However, this doesn’t include optional upgrades or maintenance plans that you may want to include when you purchase the machine.
This printer comes with a network connection (RJ45). 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.
Remember, all-in-one printers usually cost more than single-function printers, so choosing the right one requires some careful thought.
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. Discover more about the cost of printers by exploring 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 B8270 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 (100,000 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 fall into any of these categories, you are an excellent candidate for the AltaLink B8270. However, we highly recommend talking with a business consultant regarding your specific printing needs before making a purchase.
Who Is the Xerox AltaLink B8270 Not a Good Fit For?
This model 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 a color printer.
- 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 B8270 is the last of five printers in the AltaLink B8200 Series, which also includes the B8245 and B8255.
These models all have the same basic features and accessories, but their efficiency improves as you move up to more advanced models.
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 B8270 Is Right for You?
The AltaLink B8270 is a great option if you’re looking for a multifunction printer that can safely print up to 100,000 pages per month and serve as a long term primary office machine.
However, this model isn't the best choice for small workgroups with low printing needs or limited space. If you need a personal desktop or black-and-white printer, you should explore other options.
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 in place to keep your business running smoothly.
If you’ve read through this and think the AltaLink B8270 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.
