Xerox PrimeLink C9265 Printer Review: Pros, Cons, and Cost

Submitted by Karla Metzler on Fri, 02/14/2025 - 15:56

Looking for a new production printer can be tough, right? With all the options out there, making the wrong choice can really cost your business if the printer doesn’t live up to your expectations.

After nearly 40 years as a local print vendor, we’ve seen too many folks make that mistake. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the choices without burning a hole in your wallet.

We specialize in Xerox machines, which means we know their products inside and out. We’re passionate about sharing honest reviews so you can make informed decisions.

You might be wondering, “If you only sell Xerox, how can I trust your reviews?” Totally valid question! We promise to keep it real—our goal is to give you an honest and unbiased look at the products, even if that means pointing out some drawbacks.

Today, let's dive into the Xerox PrimeLink C9265 production printer. We’ll cover its specs, features, and the pros and cons to help you figure out if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Remember, the PrimeLink C9265 isn’t for everyone, and we’re here to give you the scoop you need before you make that final decision!

Learn about the Xerox PrimeLink printer family here.

Xerox PrimeLink C9265 Basics   

Here are some general statistics and information for the PrimeLink C9265 to help you get a feel for print speed, volume, resolution and cost:    

Print Speed: Up to 65 ppm (pages per minute) in color and in black-and-white 
Auto Duplex Speed: Up to 65 ppm two-sided in color and in black-and-white  
Recommended Monthly Print Volume: 10,000 to 60,000 pages per month  
Duty Cycle: Up to 300,000 pages/month  
Print Resolution 2400 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch) 10-bit
Base Model Dimensions (WxDxH): 30.7” x 31.2” x 45.4”
Base Model Weight: 542 pounds

A look at the PrimeLink C9265:

PrimeLink C9265

Xerox PrimeLink C9265 Key Features 

The new PrimeLink C9200 Series comes with several improvements. Here is a quick overview of some improvements.

HD EA Toner for offset-like finish
Advanced HD LED Technology provides quieter operation, better energy efficiency, and precise image quality.
Media support up to 400 gsm and 51” XLS printing
Preloaded Connect for XMPie app for easy personalization templates
Optional Xerox EX/EX-i Print Servers powered by Fiery for advanced color management and automated workflows.
High-yield toner cartridges offer 20–25% more output per bottle
Tight 0.5 mm registration

Now, let’s look at these key features in more detail:

Image Quality Enhancements  

The PrimeLink C9200 Series introduces a new HD LED print engine that replaces older laser technology, resulting in quieter operation and improved energy efficiency. With a 10-bit 2400 x 2400 dpi resolution, it ensures precision for all print jobs, making it a reliable choice for photos and important documents.

While the PrimeLink C9265 comes standard with an Integrated Color Server, you can opt for the new EFI servers (Fiery Print Servers), which are stand-alone external print servers that offer improved job processing speeds, color accuracy, and production automation. These servers are also Pantone color enabled.

In addition to the embedded Pantone technologies, the PrimeLink C9265 uses Xerox’s High Definition Emulsion Aggregate (HD EA) Toner. Featuring a 4-micron particle size and ultra-low melt technology, the same class used in Iridesse models, this toner produces vibrant, sharp prints with an offset-like finish. Such advanced toner technology ensures that even the smallest details and color gradients appear professional.

Not to mention, newly designed, higher-yield toner cartridges offer 20–25% more output per bottle, reducing downtime and improving overall productivity.

Media Latitude and Print Finishing Options

The PrimeLink C9265 comes with the capability to print on specialty and heavyweight stocks up to 400 gsm single-sided and 350 gsm double-sided.

It also allows for Extra-Long Sheet (XLS) printing up to 51 inches (1,300 mm), making it ideal for banners, signage, and specialty print applications.

Additionally, this model has a wide range of print finishing options. These include the Xerox SquareFold Trimmer and the Xerox’s Production-Ready Finisher, which you can add upon purchase of your machine. Learn more about Xerox PrimeLink C9200 compatible print finishers and what they do here.

The PrimeLink C9265 effortlessly prints envelopes, including A7 sizes, without wrinkles. Its specialized modes adjust automatically for smooth output, eliminating the need for extra hardware.

Another highlight of the C9265 is its accurate 0.5 mm front-back production-grade registration, which simplifies the production of business cards and ensures they are ready for trimming.

Touchscreen Interface and App Gallery   

The Xerox PrimeLink C9265 features a customizable user interface that allows you to complete printing tasks simply and effectively.

The printer’s 10-inch touchscreen is designed for ease of use. It’s responsive, customizable, and integrates with the Xerox App Gallery, which offers a variety of apps to streamline your workflow.

Plus, all models in the PrimeLink C9200 Series come pre-loaded with the Connect for XMPie app. This app lets you create personalized marketing materials easily with ready-to-use templates—perfect for print shops and marketing teams.

The Xerox App Gallery contains several industry-based and general applications that can aid in office productivity. For more information on the different kinds of apps, read the following blogs:   

Printer Accessories for Xerox PrimeLink C9265  

The PrimeLink C9265 includes multiple configuration and print finishing options that will allow you to customize and upgrade your machine in ways that best optimize your business needs. Some of the options include:

Standard Printer Accessories

Standard Trays 1-5
10-inch User Interface (with Remote UI capability)
Integrated Scanner
Xerox Intelligent/Advanced Decurler

Optional Printer Accessories

Banner Feed Guide for Extra Long Sheet (XLS)
One-Tray High-Capacity Feeder
One-Tray Oversized High-Capacity Feeder
Two-Tray Oversized High-Capacity Feeder
Xerox Inserter
Offset Catch Tray

Print Finishing Options

GBC AdvancedPunch Pro
Xerox Crease and Two-sided Trimmer
Xerox C/Z Folder
Xerox Production Ready Finisher
Xerox Production Ready Booklet Maker Finisher
Xerox SquareFold Trimmer Module   
Xerox Business Ready Finisher 2.0 (with hole punch)
Xerox Business Ready Booklet Maker Finisher 2.0 (with hole punch)
Convenience Stapler

Before purchasing any additional accessories for your machine, it’s best to go over all your printing goals with a print vendor, to make sure the upgrades are a worthwhile purchase for your business.

Here’s a look at the PrimeLink C9265 with some added finishing options.

Xerox PrimeLink C9265 with some added finishing options

3 Pros of the Xerox PrimeLink C9265  

To get a better feel for what you’re getting with the PrimeLink C9265, let’s look at some of the main pros associated with the device.   

1. All-In-One Printing Solution  

The PrimeLink C9265 is a production color multifunction printer, which means it can print, copy, fax and scan in both color and black-and-white. The printer also has further scan capabilities like Scan to PC, USB or Email and allows for mobile printing for authorized devices.

To learn more about multifunction printers, read these blogs:

2. Pristine Resolution and Advanced Color Technology

With a print resolution of 10-bit 2400 x 2400 dpi, the PrimeLink C9265 can produce quality production prints with fine-line detail and smooth color transitions at speeds of up to 65 ppm.

3. Stringent Security Measures

The PrimeLink C9265 comes with strict security features that, according to Xerox’s website, include:

Multiple layers of security, from data encryption, access controls, disk overwrite and industry certifications.
Audit Log, which ensures an audit trail of operators’ key events.
Secure Print and Secure Scanning, which helps protect document security for the print and scanning functions.

Read our blog about Xerox’s approach to cybersecurity to learn more about the company’s security initiatives.   

2 Cons of the Xerox PrimeLink C9265  

Now that we’ve covered some of the pros of the PrimeLink C9265, let’s go over some of the cons that you need to consider before making a final purchasing decision:  

1. Not Ideal for Small Workspaces

The PrimeLink C9265 is a large machine (30.7” x 31.2” x 45.4”) and with added accessories and print finishing options, can get much bigger and heavier.

Because of its size, it might be difficult for businesses with compacted workplaces to adequately fit the printer into their workspace.

You will also need to make sure you have an electrical outlet that can accommodate the PrimeLink C9265’s electrical capacity. The PrimeLink C9265’s electrical requirements are below:

Voltage: 110 to 127V
Frequency:50/60Hz+/-10V,16A

Read our blog on a printer’s space and electrical requirements to learn more.

2. Not a General Printer Option

The PrimeLink C9265 is a production printer, which means it’s primarily for larger modern office workgroups and in-plant print shops.

The PrimeLink C9265 fits very specific needs and will not be a viable option for businesses or individuals who seek a basic multifunction or single-function printer.

Xerox PrimeLink C9265 Cost   

The base cost of the PrimeLink C9265 can vary depending on the finisher option you choose, which is required as part of the purchase of this production printer.

This also doesn’t include the Fiery Print Servers, which will most likely be necessary to execute production features.

Any additional accessories or upgrades you want will also add to the total cost of the printer.

Buying a production printer is a big investment that should not be taken lightly. That being said, the PrimeLink C9265 is built as an entry-level production printer and is affordable relative to other, more advanced options, such as the Xerox Iridesse Production Press.  

Some vendors may offer trade-ins and there’s also the option to lease your printer, which will break the total amount into more affordable monthly payments. For more printer cost information, read these blogs:  

Who Is the Xerox PrimeLink C9265 a Good Fit for?    

Let’s summarize and go over who the PrimeLink C9265 is a good fit for.    

The PrimeLink C9265 is a good fit for: 

Businesses or organizations who are interested in an entry-level production-style printer with good quality at an affordable price.
Businesses or organizations that routinely print manuals, pamphlets, bulletins, and other marketing material in both color and black-and-white.
Businesses or organizations who require print finishing options such as binder, booklet making, cutting, slitting, folding, hole punch and stapler, among others.
Businesses or organizations that need advanced color printing options.

If you fall into one of these categories, then you are a candidate for the PrimeLink C9265. However, because of the price of the machine, you would want to extensively evaluate your specific printing goals with a business consultant before purchasing.  

Who Is the Xerox PrimeLink C9265 Not a Good Fit for?   

Now, let’s go over who wouldn’t be a fit for the PrimeLink C9265.

The PrimeLink C9265 is not a good fit for:  

Businesses that don’t have adequate space to accommodate the machine’s size.
Businesses that don’t have a large office equipment budget.
Businesses or individuals who need a basic multifunction printer or single-function printer.
Businesses that don’t require the ability to make special prints, such as booklets and manuals.

If you fall into one of these categories, then this is not the model for you. Read our blog over how to choose a printer for your budget and business needs to help with choosing the model that most aligns with your goals.  

What Are the Other Models in the Xerox PrimeLink C9200 Series?   

The PrimeLink C9265 is one of 3 printers in the PrimeLink C9200 Series, which also includes the C9275 and C9281 models.        

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 PrimeLink 9200 series increase as follows: the PrimeLink C9265 has a print speed of up to 65 ppm, the C9275 has a print speed of up to 75 ppm, and the C9281 has a print speed of up to 81 ppm.

When it comes to the machines' monthly duty cycles, all models have a duty cycle of up to 300,000 pages.             

Think the Xerox PrimeLink C9265 Is Right for You?  

The PrimeLink C9265 is a quality option for those who need an entry-level production printer with advanced color image enhancements and multiple configuration options.

It should be restated, however, that production-style printers meet very specific printing needs. If you’re looking for a basic multifunction or single-function printer, then the PrimeLink C9265 will not be a good fit for you.

Our foremost goal as a company is to find the option that is right for you by giving you the unfiltered information you need to come to a final purchasing decision.  

If you’re interested in the PrimeLink C9265 or have any additional questions about the model, reach out to us and we’ll be there to assist you.  