Our take
Lexmark positions the MS817n for a large workgroup. The exact U.S. record lists up to 55 pages per minute, 650 sheets of standard input, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3,000–50,000-page recommended monthly range. It explicitly says duplex printing is not available.
A wired department that values output pace and paper capacity, and can accept one-sided printing or a separate manual workflow..
Do not choose it for routine automatic duplex, color, scanning, fax, or a personal desk that needs built-in Wi-Fi.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- A 55 ppm Letter rating supports a faster shared print queue on paper.
- Standard 650-sheet input and a 100-sheet multipurpose feeder reduce reloads for varied jobs.
- The maker publishes a broad recommended monthly range instead of only a maximum duty cycle.
What to weigh up
- Lexmark marks duplex printing unavailable on the MS817n.
- Wireless is an optional internal card, not a standard built-in connection.
- The discontinued workgroup machine is large and heavy, so its condition and transport need care.
The key details
| Model covered | MS817n |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Monochrome print only |
| Print output | Up to 55 ppm Letter; 650-sheet standard input |
| Two-sided printing | No integrated automatic duplex |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 8, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
This is a workgroup engine, not a small desktop printer
Lexmark classifies the MS817n as a large-workgroup monochrome laser printer and documents up to 55 pages per minute on Letter. That profile suits teams that send repeated text-heavy jobs and share a central machine. It is print-only: copy, scan, and fax are not functions to expect from this model. The standard input totals 650 sheets, divided between a 550-sheet drawer and a 100-sheet multipurpose feeder, while the standard output bin is rated at 550 sheets. This hardware can reduce interruptions in a busy queue, but it also makes location and service access part of the buying decision.
A high recommendation is not a speed guarantee
Lexmark recommends 3,000 to 50,000 pages per month for the MS817n. That is unusually broad guidance and helps distinguish it from personal-use machines, but it is not a promise of a particular turnaround time or a measurement of a specific used printer. The 55 ppm rating is separate from monthly guidance, and the 250,000-page maximum duty cycle is not a recommended target. Compare the expected average month with the 3,000-page lower end, and make sure a large-volume unit is actually appropriate for the team. Unknown life, toner remaining, and maintenance condition need inspection independently.
Plan around the missing duplexer
The product record says two-sided printing is not available for this model. That is a decisive limit for offices producing many duplex packets: staff would need another process or printer, and manual page refeeding can add time and handling. Lexmark's model suffix legend identifies duplex models with a d; this exact n configuration does not include that capability. Do not buy it based on family photos or an adjacent MS-series suffix. If duplex is occasional, check whether a supported manual method is documented for the actual driver; the reviewed exact-model record does not establish one.
Ethernet is standard and wireless is optional
The MS817n has Gigabit Ethernet and USB ports as standard. Lexmark lists wireless only as an optional internal MarkNet card, so an offer described as wireless should be checked for that installed accessory rather than assumed to be ready on arrival. A wired connection is a practical fit for a fixed workgroup station. The printer also has a front USB port for direct access. Confirm the intended connection, network policy, power, and driver support before setting it up; a product page's historical operating-system list may not answer today's environment needs.
Paper capacity and physical condition matter together
The MS817n weighs more than 52 pounds before packaging and measures about 16.5 by 16.7 by 20.1 inches. The combination of a substantial chassis and 650-sheet standard input is aimed at a stationary office position rather than a portable desk. Lexmark advertises optional finishers and added trays, but those are not included merely because the model supports them. Confirm the exact installed drawers, output hardware, service state, imaging unit, and supply region on a specific unit. Its high workload class only helps if the printer can be placed, networked, and maintained for that role.
What else to compare
Compare a duplex-equipped model such as the released Lexmark MS621dn if two-sided output is a routine requirement.
Before you buy
Does the MS817n include automatic duplex?
No. Lexmark's exact-model record says duplex printing is not available.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
Wireless is an optional internal card; Gigabit Ethernet and USB are standard.
What monthly volume does Lexmark recommend?
The published range is 3,000 to 50,000 pages per month; maximum duty cycle is a separate metric.
Where can I check the current price?
Use the Amazon link for current offers. Check the exact model, seller, product condition, delivery, and return terms. This page does not display a live price or confirm stock.
Sources & review basis
We use the following manufacturer documentation for the product features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- Lexmark U.S. MS817n exact-model product record ↗ — checked October 8, 2026.
- Lexmark U.S. MS817n specifications: part, standard ports, input, speed, duplex and recommended volume ↗ — checked October 8, 2026.
The decision
The MS817n is a fast, wired, high-volume print-only device whose missing duplex is a core trade-off. Match both its paper capacity and 3,000–50,000-page guidance to the actual office.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.