Cisco Cisco Ucs C220 M5 10 Sff Server Chassis — High-Density Server Chassis for Enterprise Use (Cisco)

How Much Does Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis Cost in 2026?

As of 2026, the Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis typically ranges from $250 to $250 in the used market, depending on condition and sourcing channel. Units in Grade B condition, which is common for this part, are most frequently listed in this range. Refurbished units from vendors like Axus Technology and Covalent Materials often fall within this bracket, offering buyers a 40–60% discount compared to new units, which can cost upwards of $600.

The cost of failure for a defective chassis can be significant. If a chassis fails in a live deployment, it can lead to extended downtime—often 4–8 hours—costing an enterprise between $1,500 and $3,000 in lost productivity. That’s why it’s critical to verify the condition and test logs before purchase.

Keep in mind that while the price is consistent, the actual condition can vary. A chassis with more than 10,000 hours of runtime may be more prone to failure, even if it appears functional. Always request detailed usage logs and test reports when sourcing from third-party vendors.

Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis Specifications and Compatible Tools

The Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis is a compact, high-density chassis designed to house up to 10 SFF blade servers. It supports dual power supplies and redundant cooling, making it suitable for mission-critical environments. The chassis typically has a maximum power draw of 1,200W and supports 10GbE uplinks via Cisco Nexus switches.

In terms of lifecycle, the chassis is typically rated for around 80,000 RF hours, though this can vary depending on environmental conditions and usage. Units produced between 2018 and 2020 are commonly found in the used market and are compatible with Cisco UCS 6454 Fabric Interconnects and Cisco Nexus 93180YC-FX2 switches.

However, it is not compatible with newer Cisco UCS B200 M6 blades due to form factor and power requirements. Attempting to install incompatible blades can result in a system failure, requiring at least $1,200 in parts and labor to resolve. Always verify compatibility before deployment.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis in 2026

1. Runtime Hours: Look for units with less than 10,000 hours of runtime. Chassis with more than 12,000 hours are at higher risk of failure and should be rejected outright.

2. Power Supply Health: Test both power supplies using a multimeter and a load tester. A failing power supply can cause a full chassis shutdown, costing $2,000–$4,000 in downtime and repairs.

3. Cooling System Inspection: Check for dust buildup and fan noise. Replace any fan with more than 15,000 hours of operation. A failed fan can lead to overheating and permanent component damage.

4. Firmware Version: Ensure the firmware is at least version 3.2(2b). Older versions may not support newer blade models and can cause incompatibility issues.

5. Physical Inspection: Look for signs of physical damage, especially around the blade slots and rear I/O. A bent chassis or damaged slots can prevent blade installation and must be rejected.

Units produced before 2018 are more likely to have outdated components and should be avoided unless you have a specific need for legacy compatibility.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis with Cisco Nexus 93180YC-FX2 switches?
A: Yes, the chassis is compatible with the Nexus 93180YC-FX2 switch, which was introduced in 2019. Ensure the switch firmware is at least version 9.3(7) for full compatibility.

Q: Should I buy a Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis with more than 12,000 runtime hours?
A: No. Units with more than 12,000 hours are at a high risk of failure. A failed chassis can cost $2,500–$5,000 in downtime and repairs. Stick to units with less than 10,000 hours.

Q: How long can I expect the chassis to last after purchase?
A: With proper maintenance, a chassis in good condition can last 3–5 years in a typical enterprise environment. Regular firmware updates and fan replacements are key to extending its lifespan.

Q: Is the Cisco UCS C220 M5 10 SFF Server Chassis better than the Cisco UCS C240 M5?
A: The C220 M5 is more compact and suitable for environments with space constraints. The C240 M5 offers more power and expansion options but is 20% more expensive to purchase used. Choose based on your physical and power requirements.

Q: What is the difference between Grade B and Grade A condition units?
A: Grade A units typically have less than 5,000 hours and full test logs, while Grade B units may have up to 10,000 hours and partial logs. Grade A units cost 10–15% more but offer a lower risk of failure.