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If you’re looking for a production printer, you understand how challenging the search can be. With so many options available, choosing the wrong printer can seriously impact your business if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
For nearly 40 years as a local print vendor, we’ve witnessed too many people make poor purchasing decisions. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the options without breaking the bank.
We focus exclusively on Xerox machines, which means we know their products inside and out. Our mission is to provide you with honest reviews, helping you make the best choices.
You might be wondering, “If you only sell Xerox, how can I trust your reviews?” That’s a completely valid question! We’re here to give you a clear and unbiased look at these products, even if it means pointing out their downsides.
Today, we’ll dive into the new Xerox PrimeLink C9281 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 C9281 isn’t for everyone, and we’re here to give you the scoop you need before you make that final decision!
Xerox PrimeLink C9281 Basics
Here are some general statistics and information for PrimeLink C9281 to help you understand print speed, volume, resolution, and cost:
- Print Speed: Up to 81 ppm (pages per minute) in color and in black-and-white
- Auto Duplex Speed: Up to 81 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
- Cost: Starting at around $35,995
A look at the Xerox PrimeLink C9281:
Xerox PrimeLink C9281 Key Features
The new PrimeLink C9200 Series comes with several new features. 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.
- Expanded 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.
- Newly designed, higher-yield toner cartridges offer 20–25% more output per bottle, reducing downtime and improving overall productivity
- Tight 0.5 mm registration
Now, let’s look at these key features in more detail:
Image Quality Enhancements
The PrimeLink C9200 Series features a new HD LED print engine that replaces older laser technology, resulting in quieter operation and improved energy efficiency. Boasting a 10-bit 2400 x 2400 dpi resolution, it guarantees accuracy for every print job, solidifying its status as a trustworthy option for photos and vital documents.
The PrimeLink C9281 includes an Integrated Color Server by default, but you can opt for the new EFI servers (Fiery Print Servers). These external, stand-alone print servers enhance job processing speeds, color precision, and production automation. Furthermore, they support Pantone colors.
Equipped with cutting-edge High-Definition Emulsion Aggregate (HD EA) Toner, the PrimeLink C9281 sets a new benchmark for print quality. This toner uses very small 4-micron particles and low melting point technology, similar to what's found in Iridesse models, resulting in bright, sharp prints that look like they were produced with offset printing. As a result, even the smallest details and color transitions appear very professional and appealing.
Additionally, the newly designed high-yield toner cartridges offer an increase of 20–25% in output per bottle, reducing downtime and boosting overall productivity.
Media Latitude and Print Finishing Options
The PrimeLink C9281 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 C9281 prints wrinkle-free envelopes, including A7 sizes, which is important for maintaining a professional appearance. Its specialized auto-adjusting modes provide a consistent finish without the need for extra hardware.
Plus, the model features a precise 0.5 mm front-back registration, ensuring business cards are aligned correctly for easier trimming and improved presentation.
Touchscreen Interface and App Gallery
The Xerox PrimeLink C9281 features a 10-inch customizable touchscreen user interface for easy and efficient printing. It integrates with the Xerox App Gallery, which offers various apps to streamline your workflow.
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 printer apps, read our blog on the Pros and Cons of Printer Apps to discover if you should invest.
Printer Accessories for Xerox PrimeLink C9281
The PrimeLink C9281 offers various configuration and print finishing options to customize and enhance your machine to meet your business needs. 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 buying any extra accessories for your machine, it’s best to discuss all your printing goals with a print vendor to ensure the upgrades are a valuable investment for your business.
Here’s a look at the PrimeLink C9281 with some optional upgrades.
3 Pros of the Xerox PrimeLink C9281
To better understand what you’re getting with the PrimeLink C9281, let’s look at some of the main pros of the device.
1. All-In-One Printing Solution
The PrimeLink C9281 is a production color multifunction printer capable of printing, copying, faxing, and scanning in both color and black-and-white. It offers advanced scanning options such as Scan to PC, USB, or Email, and supports mobile printing for authorized devices.
To learn more about multifunction printers, read these blogs:
- What is a Multifunction Printer and Why is it Different from a Regular Printer?
- The Nine Hidden Costs of Owning a Multifunction Printer
2. Pristine Resolution and Advanced Color Technology
With a print resolution of 2400 x 2400 dpi 10-bit, the PrimeLink C9281 can produce quality production prints with fine-line detail and smooth color transitions at speeds of up to 81 ppm.
3. Stringent Security Measures
The PrimeLink C9281 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 C9281
Now that we’ve covered some of the pros of the PrimeLink C9281, 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 C9281 is a large machine, measuring 30.7” x 31.2” x 45.4”. With upgrades and print finishers, its size and weight can significantly increase.
Due to its size, it may be challenging for businesses with smaller workspaces to adequately fit the printer into their environment. It’s important to consider a machine's size and space requirements before buying it. To learn more, check out our blog on understanding the differences between printer dimensions and space requirements.
Ensure you have an electrical outlet that can support the PrimeLink C9281’s electrical capacity. The electrical requirements for the PrimeLink C9281 are as follows:
- 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 C9281 serves as a production printer, tailored for larger modern office workgroups and in-plant print shops.
This model addresses specific requirements and may not be suitable for businesses or individuals looking for a simple multifunction or single-function printer.
Xerox PrimeLink C9281 Cost
The base cost of the PrimeLink C9281 is around $35,995 and 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.
Investing in a production printer is significant and should not be taken lightly. Nevertheless, the PrimeLink C9281 is designed as an entry-level production printer and is competitively priced compared 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:
- Leasing vs. Purchasing a Copier/Printer
- How Much Does A Copier/Printer Cost?
- How Trading in Your Current Printer Could Benefit Your Organization
Who Is the Xerox PrimeLink C9281 a Good Fit for?
Let’s summarize and go over who the PrimeLink C9281 is best suited 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 belong to any of these groups, PrimeLink C9281 is right for you. However, due to the machine's cost, it's essential to thoroughly assess your unique printing goals with a business consultant prior to making a purchase.
Who Is the Xerox PrimeLink C9281 Not a Good Fit for?
Now, let’s go over who wouldn’t be a fit for the PrimeLink C9281:
- 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.
Need help deciding? If you're uncertain whether the Xerox PrimeLink C9281 is the right fit for your business, contact our experts for personalized guidance tailored to your printing needs.
What Are the Other Models in the Xerox PrimeLink C9200 Series?
The PrimeLink C9281 is one of 3 printers in the PrimeLink C9200 Series, which also includes the C9265 and C9275 models.
All these models share the same basic features and accessories, but their efficiency increases as you progress 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 C9281 Is Right for You?
The PrimeLink C9281 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 C9281 would 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 C9281 or have any additional questions about the model, reach out to us and we’ll be there to assist you.
