Sharp UXB20 Inkjet Fax Machine
Quick take
The Sharp UXB20 is a compact inkjet fax machine built for small office and home office use, especially when you have a dedicated fax line and need occasional sending and receiving. It combines a 9,600 bps modem, a 100-sheet tray, and 30 speed dial presets, but buyers should factor in ink expense over time and possible compatibility quirks with certain digital phone setups.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 9,600 bps modem speed for faster page transmission (listed as about 15 seconds per page)
- Good paper capacity for regular use, including a 100-sheet tray and memory for up to 24 incoming pages
- Easy dialing for common numbers, with 30 speed dial presets
- Includes copying features (multi-copy up to 99)
Cons
- Inkjet faxing can mean higher ongoing ink costs compared with roll-based or laser options
- Fax performance may be less reliable on some “digital world” phone setups, so line compatibility matters
- Automatic document feeder limitations and paper handling concerns show up in some reports
- Caller ring control may not meet everyone’s preference (lowest ring setting is 2 rings)
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed, but there are a couple of recurring themes that matter for purchasing decisions. Many buyers highlight that the UXB20 is straightforward to set up and use, and that it fits well when the fax is used occasionally for home office needs or personal faxing. Several reviews also praise the small footprint and overall print quality for plain fax documents.
At the same time, concerns show up around ink cost and longevity for heavier use. Some buyers report that ink consumption feels high, and that replacing ink can get expensive if you receive faxes regularly. A separate thread of feedback points to potential reliability issues when the machine is used with certain digital phone services, suggesting buyers should pay close attention to whether their setup supports traditional fax communication. Finally, a smaller number of reports mention paper intake trouble, so if you plan to fax multiple pages frequently, it is worth verifying that the device’s feeder and paper handling match your workflow.
Features that help for home and small office faxing
Transmission speed and fax memory
The UXB20 is designed to move documents efficiently for an inkjet class machine, with a listed 9,600 bps modem speed and about a 15-second transmission time per page. It also includes a memory buffer for incoming faxes, rated for holding up to 24 pages if the paper runs out. That can help reduce missed faxes when you are away from the desk or during a brief paper reload.
Paper capacity and multi-page sending
You get a 100-sheet paper tray for receiving faxes and a 10-page automatic document feeder for multi-page sending. There is also a multi-copy feature (up to 99 copies) if you need basic duplication. This feature set is typically a good match when you occasionally send documents, not when you run high-volume scans and copies all day.
Phone conveniences: caller ID and speed dial
The unit supports caller ID and distinctive ring detection, plus it includes an EZ-NAV style menu navigation approach. For speed and convenience, you can store up to 30 speed dial entries, which is useful if you regularly fax the same contacts (for example, family, a provider, or a recurring business contact).
Document handling and resolution
The maximum fax resolution is listed as 392 lines per inch vertical and 203 lines per inch horizontal. For copying, it supports up to 600 dpi. It also accepts documents up to 8.5 inches wide, which fits standard letter-size use for most home and small office scenarios.
Inkjet tradeoffs buyers should consider
The biggest practical variable for this model category is ongoing ink cost. Because the UXB20 uses an inkjet approach rather than a roll-based method, some buyers report that ink runs through faster than expected under regular incoming fax volume. If you anticipate frequent fax reception or long stretches between maintenance, plan on budgeting for ink replacements and test your real-world usage early.
On the upside, buyers who use the machine for occasional personal or light-duty office faxing tend to describe it as easy and good value, especially when they compare it to older fax machines that used different consumables.
Is it reliable on your phone line?
Fax machines can be sensitive to the phone environment. Some reviews point to inconsistent results when used with certain digital phone services, where tech support indicated it may work intermittently. If you rely on a VoIP or digital calling system, it is smart to confirm fax compatibility before committing, and consider using a setup that supports traditional fax signaling (for many homes, that means a dedicated fax-capable line).
Pros and cons summary
- Best for: home offices and small workplaces that send and receive faxes occasionally, want straightforward setup, and benefit from speed dial, caller ID-ready hardware, and decent paper and memory capacity.
- Who should buy: buyers replacing an older fax they find difficult to use, or anyone needing a compact, feature-complete option for standard letter-size faxing.
- Who should avoid: heavy fax users who expect low ongoing costs, buyers who cannot confirm ink affordability, and shoppers on digital phone setups where fax reliability is uncertain.
Price and availability
At the time of writing, the Sharp UXB20 is positioned as a budget-friendly fax option for home office use, with limited-stock messaging sometimes appearing on retail pages. For the most current pricing and inventory status, check the link below.
FAQ
How fast is the Sharp UXB20 for fax transmission?
It is rated with a 9,600 bps modem speed, with a listed transmission time of about 15 seconds per page.
Does the Sharp UXB20 have fax memory?
Yes. It includes memory rated for holding up to 24 incoming pages if the paper runs out.
What paper capacity does it support?
It uses a 100-sheet paper tray for receiving faxes, and it supports a 10-page automatic document feeder for multi-page sending.
Is the Sharp UXB20 a good fit for VoIP or digital phone service?
Buyer feedback indicates fax reliability can vary with some digital phone setups. If you are using VoIP, confirm fax compatibility and consider a fax-capable line to reduce the risk of intermittent performance.
What are the main downsides of an inkjet fax machine like this?
The most common concern is ongoing ink cost, especially if you receive faxes regularly. There are also occasional reports of paper intake or feeder handling issues, which can matter if you plan to send multi-page documents often.
What resolution does it reach for faxing and copying?
Fax resolution is listed as 392 lines per inch vertical (203 lines per inch horizontal). For copying, it supports up to 600 dpi.
Specifications
| Product Title | Sharp UXB20 Inkjet Fax Machine |
|---|---|
| Category | Office Products > Office Electronics > Fax Machines |
| Manufacturer | Sharp |
| Item Weight | 8 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 15.8 x 12.8 x 9.4 inches |
| Item model number | UXB20 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
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