Our take
Xerox's U.S. data sheet identifies the B205 as a monochrome multifunction device for print, copy and scan. It rates the printer up to 31 pages per minute on Letter and lists Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB. The same sheet explicitly describes single-sided printing for the B205; fax and two-sided output belong to the separate B215 configuration, not this model. Keep that distinction clear when a listing uses a family title or mixed product photos. Xerox does not state a recommended monthly range in the checked document. The B205 fits a small office seeking networked mono output and basic paper workflows, provided simplex printing and the lack of fax match the requirement.
A small office that wants networked mono printing plus copy and scan, and does not need fax or automatic two-sided output..
It is not for buyers who require fax, automatic two-sided printing, or a documented monthly recommendation for a heavier shared queue.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- Xerox documents print, copy and scan functions with a 31 ppm Letter rating.
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB give three connection choices for a small workspace.
- The U.S. specification clearly distinguishes B205 from the fax-capable B215.
What to weigh up
- The B205 is specified for single-sided printing, so it does not meet an automatic-duplex requirement.
- Fax is not listed for B205; do not infer it from the nearby B215 model.
- A recommended monthly page range is not provided in the reviewed data sheet.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | B205 |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Monochrome print, copy and scan; no fax documented |
| Print output | Up to 31 ppm Letter; single-sided printing |
| Two-sided printing | Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB interfaces |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 15, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
Full review: how the features affect your choice
What the features mean for you
B205 is the simpler MFP configuration
Xerox's manufacturer configuration table lists the VersaLink B205 with the NI label, while its U.S. sheet identifies B205 for monochrome printing, copying and scanning ([Xerox configuration listing](https://www.office.xerox.com/latest/REBFY-54C)). It is therefore more versatile than a print-only mono printer but does not cover the fax workflow documented for the B215 sibling. The B205 label matters because family pages can show multiple models with different functions. A small office that scans signed forms or makes occasional copies can use these integrated tasks without adding a separate desktop scanner. Buyers should still confirm that the specific unit includes the parts required for its paper path and that the scan connection works with their systems. ([Xerox B205/B215 data sheet](https://www.office.xerox.com/latest/B25BR-01E.PDF)).
Rated mono speed with a simplex limitation
Xerox rates the B205 up to 31 pages per minute on Letter paper and explicitly describes the model's print output as single-sided. That means automatic two-sided printing is not part of the documented B205 feature set. If an office routinely prints reports on both sides, the refeed process required for manual duplex may add handling and error risk; Xerox's specification does not establish a manual mode, so that profile remains unknown. The speed figure is a manufacturer rating and does not describe real-world performance for a particular host, page or used unit. Treat the duplex limitation as a primary selection factor.
Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB choices
Xerox lists wireless networking, wired Ethernet and USB for the B205. These routes give a workspace some placement flexibility: Wi-Fi can avoid a cable drop, Ethernet can support a shared office queue, and USB can serve a directly connected host. Confirm the intended network security and operating-system driver before relying on a printer that has been out of production for a while. The source lists those interfaces for the model, but it cannot establish that an individual used unit's radio or connector is functioning. A test print and scan from the intended computers is a useful acceptance check.
Keep the B205 separate from the B215
Xerox's comparison sheet separates the B205 from the B215, which has additional fax and two-sided functionality. Those features should not migrate to a B205 product record just because sellers group the family or show another model in a photo. Before selecting a listing, inspect the physical label and ask for a photo of the rear connections. The exact manufacturer datasheet is more useful than a broad retailer description when a suffix can change functions. If fax is a hard requirement, compare a confirmed B215 unit or another mono MFP with fax documented for the exact configuration.
Workload and condition still need separate evidence
The reviewed B205 data sheet does not state a recommended monthly page range. Do not convert the maximum duty figure into a routine workload recommendation. A 31 ppm rating also says nothing about the present condition of an individual device. Check the toner path, scanner glass, ADF if included, rollers, and supported drivers before returning a used printer to service. If expected volume is high or uptime matters, choose a model with a current published recommendation and a support plan. For lighter mixed print/copy/scan tasks, the B205's defined functions and network options are clearer evidence than an unsupported workload estimate.
Compare for your needs
Compare the B215 only when its exact model is verified and its duplex configuration suits the job; for duplex-first printing choose a B-series model that explicitly includes automatic duplex.
Find the undefined that fits you.
Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.
Before you buy
Does the B205 have a fax?
Xerox documents print, copy and scan for B205; fax is associated with the B215 sibling.
Does it automatically print on both sides?
No. Xerox's data sheet explicitly specifies single-sided B205 printing.
How fast is the B205 rated?
Xerox lists up to 31 pages per minute on Letter paper.
What connections are listed?
Xerox lists Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB for the B205.
Can it copy and scan?
Yes. Xerox identifies the B205 as a print, copy and scan multifunction device.
What monthly volume does Xerox recommend?
The reviewed U.S. sheet does not state a recommended monthly range.
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 and review basis
Sources & review basis
We use the linked product documentation for the features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- Xerox B205/B215 U.S. configuration data sheet ↗ — checked October 15, 2026.
- Xerox U.S. B205/B215 comparison, model functions, rated speed, interfaces and single-sided output ↗ — checked October 15, 2026.
- Xerox B205 exact-model product page ↗ — checked October 15, 2026.
- Xerox B205 NI configuration listing ↗ — checked October 15, 2026.
The decision
The B205 provides flexible networking and basic mono copy/scan functions at a strong rated speed, with its simplex-only output and lack of fax setting a clear boundary.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.