The 6205 bearing dimensions are 25 mm inner diameter, 52 mm outer diameter and 15 mm width, usually written as 25x52x15. In inches, that’s about 0.984 x 2.047 x 0.591 in. Every 6205 shares this size, whether it’s open, 2RS, ZZ or C3.
That’s the quick answer. But the letters after “6205” change speed, sealing and clearance, and the wrong pick can fail early even when it fits perfectly. This guide covers the full size chart, load ratings, clearance, fits, equivalents and the replacement mistakes that cost people time.
The 6205 is part of the wider family of deep groove ball bearings, the most common bearing type in industry.
Quick 6205 Specs at a Glance
- Size: 25 x 52 x 15 mm
- Type: single row deep groove ball bearing, 62 light series
- Dynamic load rating: 14.8 kN (SKF)
- Static load rating: 7.8 kN (SKF)
- Limiting speed: 18,000 r/min open (SKF)
- Weight: about 0.13 kg
- Common uses: electric motors, pumps, fans and gearboxes
What Are the 6205 Bearing Dimensions in mm and Inches?
A 6205 deep groove ball bearing has a 25 mm bore, a 52 mm outside diameter and a 15 mm width. That’s 0.984 in, 2.047 in and 0.591 in. It holds 9 steel balls of 7.938 mm (5/16 in) and weighs about 0.13 kg. These sizes follow ISO 15, so every brand matches.
| Measurement | Symbol | mm | Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bore (inner diameter) | d | 25 | 0.984 |
| Outside diameter | D | 52 | 2.047 |
| Width (thickness) | B | 15 | 0.591 |
| Minimum chamfer | r | 1 | 0.039 |
| Balls | Z x Dw | 9 x 7.938 | 9 x 5/16 |
| Weight (approx.) | m | 0.13 kg | 0.29 lb |
These figures come from NSK and SKF product data, checked in November 2026. ISO 15 sets the boundary sizes for radial bearings worldwide. Think of it like a USB port: any brand’s plug fits the same socket.
One inch trap: a 1 inch shaft is 25.4 mm, so a standard 25 mm bore won’t slide onto it. You’d need an inch bore version.
How Do You Read the 6205 Bearing Part Number?
The first digit, 6, means a deep groove ball bearing. The 2 marks the light 62 series. The last two digits, 05, are the bore code: multiply by 5 to get 25 mm. That shortcut works from code 04 upward.
Codes 00 to 03 are exceptions (10, 12, 15 and 17 mm), so a 6203 has a 17 mm bore. Once you know the code, you can read the 6205 bearing size straight off the box.
You’ll find this design in our single row deep groove ball bearings range.
Are 6205 2RS, ZZ, 2Z and C3 Bearings the Same Size?
Yes. A 6205 2RS, 6205 ZZ, 6205 2Z and 6205 C3 all measure 25x52x15 mm. The suffix only changes seals, shields, clearance or a snap ring groove. It doesn’t change the 6205 bearing dimensions, so any of them fits the same shaft and housing.
They don’t behave the same, though. Here’s how SKF rates its versions:
| Designation | What the suffix means | SKF limiting speed (r/min) |
|---|---|---|
| 6205 | Open, no seals or shields | 18,000 |
| 6205 2Z (ZZ) | Metal shields on both sides | 14,000 |
| 6205 2RSL | Low friction rubber seals | 14,000 |
| 6205 2RSH | Contact rubber seals | 8,500 |
ZZ is the label NSK, NTN and many Asian makers use. SKF writes 2Z. Sealed versions are called 2RS1, 2RSH or 2RSL at SKF, DDU at NSK and 2RSR at Schaeffler (FAG).
A 6205 N has a groove cut into the outer ring. A 6205 NR comes with the ring fitted, and it sticks out to 57.9 mm, so the housing needs a recess. For that layout, see our snap ring groove ball bearings.
What Is the 6205 Bearing Load Capacity and RPM?
SKF rates the open 6205 at 14.8 kN dynamic and 7.8 kN static load, with a 28,000 r/min reference speed and an 18,000 r/min limiting speed. NSK lists 15.4 kN and 7.85 kN. The small gaps come from each maker’s steel and internal design.
Here’s the catch: the dynamic rating isn’t a load you should run at. It’s a figure for life calculation under ISO 281, a bit like a car’s top speed on a spec sheet. Real machines run far below it.
Seals work like brakes too. Contact seals rub the inner ring and add heat, so a 6205 2RSH is rated at less than half the open version’s RPM.
What Does C3 Mean on a 6205 Bearing?
C3 means more radial internal clearance than normal. For a 25 mm bore, ISO 5753 (Part 1) sets C3 at 13 to 28 µm, compared with 5 to 20 µm for normal (CN). Electric motors often use C3 because heat and tight shaft fits shrink that gap while running.
For scale, 28 µm is less than half the thickness of a human hair. A plain 6205 with no suffix is CN.
If your motor runs on a variable frequency drive, stray current can pit the raceways. In that case, look at TFL electrically insulated deep groove ball bearings.
What Tolerances and Fits Matter for a 6205?
Under the normal tolerance class in ISO 492 (P0), the bore can be up to 10 µm under 25 mm and the outer ring up to 13 µm under 52 mm. Neither is ever oversize. Higher precision classes such as P6 and P5 tighten those limits further.
Knowing the 6205 bearing dimensions is only half of a good fit. NSK lists a shaft shoulder of 30 to 32 mm diameter and a housing shoulder no larger than 47 mm. Get those wrong and the shoulder rubs a seal or leaves the ring unsupported.
What Materials Are 6205 Bearings Made From?
Most 6205 bearings use chrome steel (AISI 52100, called GCr15 in China). Stainless versions suit wet areas and food plants but usually carry lower load ratings, so check the datasheet. Hybrid versions use ceramic balls for electrical insulation and higher speed.
For washdown or corrosive spots, see our stainless steel deep groove ball bearings.
Can a 6205 Handle Axial Load?
Yes, a moderate amount. Its deep raceway grooves carry radial load plus some axial load in both directions. That’s why it suits motors, pumps and fans. For heavy, constant thrust, a bearing built for axial load does the job better.
In that case, compare single row angular contact ball bearings, which are designed to carry combined radial and axial loads.
Which Bearing Is Equivalent to 6205?
The equivalent of a 6205 is simply a 6205 from another maker. SKF, NSK, NTN, FAG and Timken all share the same 6205 bearing dimensions. Older US numbers include MRC 205S and New Departure 3205. For sealed units, you’ll also see Fafnir 205PP and NSK 6205DDU.
Nearby sizes share the 25 mm bore, which causes mix ups:
| Bearing | ID x OD x Width (mm) | Series |
|---|---|---|
| 16005 | 25 x 47 x 8 | Extra light, thin |
| 6005 | 25 x 47 x 12 | Extra light |
| 6205 | 25 x 52 x 15 | Light |
| 6305 | 25 x 62 x 17 | Medium |
To match an old or unusual brand code, use our bearing cross reference tool.
How Do You Measure a Bearing to Confirm It’s a 6205?
- Clean the bearing and read the code on the ring face. That’s your best evidence.
- Measure the bore, outside diameter and width with digital calipers.
- Compare your readings with the chart above.
- Check for shields, seals or a snap ring groove.
If you measure smaller parts often, our 608 bearing dimensions guide uses the same method.
Common Replacement Mistakes to Avoid
- Matching the bore only. A 6005 or 6305 fits a 25 mm shaft, but not your housing.
- Dropping C3. A motor designed for C3 can run hot with a CN bearing.
- Assuming sealed means faster. Contact seals lower the speed limit.
- Measuring a worn part. A spun ring or worn housing gives false readings.
- Ignoring the snap ring. An NR bearing won’t seat in a plain bore.
Not sure which suffix fits your machine? Our bearing selection guide walks you through load, speed and environment.
One limit of this guide: load and speed values vary slightly by brand, cage and grease. Always confirm against the maker’s current datasheet before you finalize a design.
Conclusion
The 6205 bearing dimensions are 25 x 52 x 15 mm (0.984 x 2.047 x 0.591 in) for every brand and suffix. Pick the suffix for your speed, sealing and heat, then check your shaft and housing fits. Your next step: send your part number through our contact us page, and TFL Bearings will help you match the right 6205.
FAQs
Is a 6205 bearing metric or imperial?
It’s metric. All three main sizes are whole millimetres, so measure inch shafts carefully before ordering.
Do sealed 6205 bearings need grease?
No. 2RS and ZZ versions come greased for life. Open 6205 bearings need grease or oil from your machine.
How long does a 6205 bearing last?
There’s no fixed number of hours. Life depends on load, speed, lubrication and cleanliness. Engineers estimate it with the ISO 281 rating life formula.
Can I reuse a 6205 after removing it?
It’s best not to. Pressing a bearing off through the balls can dent the raceways and shorten its life, even if it still feels smooth.
Where can I get TFL Bearings catalogs and specs?
Visit our Download Center for catalogs and product information. For bulk orders, our team can help with stock and pricing.
