Compare lease terms, SLA, and costs
Customization and maintenance are fully controlled
Lease term length - usually 3-5 years, but can be shorter.
Acquiring Copiers & Multifunction Printers: Leasing, Rentals, or Buying
Tax Treatment - Lease payments are a deductible operating expense; purchased assets can be depreciated
Benefits of buying copiers and printers include:
Use recommended maintenance and duty cycle schedules
Maintenance/service charges over the term
Lease vs. Buy Copier Cost Analysis
Compare the cost of leasing vs.
Response time and uptime service guarantees
Compare warranties between models and makes
The ideal lease fits your current and projected usage levels while providing the services and capabilities needed by your business. Work with a knowledgeable authorized dealer to structure the right lease agreement for your environment.
Schedule delivery and installation
Current and future business printing needs
Keep firmware and drivers updated
For businesses with established ongoing printing demands, buying equipment may offer advantages in terms of long-term costs and control. However, it requires having the capital available upfront.
Assess your printing and copying requirements
When purchasing copiers, printers, and MFPs, it helps to:
Ability to upgrade models during the term
If applicable, buyout options are available at the end of the lease term.
If you analyze these differences in relation to the specific circumstances of your situation, it will be easier for you to determine whether leasing or purchasing makes more sense financially and operationally.
Ongoing maintenance and supply expenses
Upfront purchase costs - From $200 to $20,000+
Printing needs for the future and current business
Service and maintenance coverage
Upfront Costs - Leasing has lower upfront costs; buying requires entire purchase price paid upfront
Leases are not recurring.
Taxes, insurance and other costs
Rental terms for copier/MFPs:
Leasing, renting and purchasing are all viable options when it comes to acquiring new multifunction printers or photocopiers. The best decision is based on factors such as costs, equipment requirements, usage levels and ownership goals. Asking the right questions and conducting thorough research will help you choose the best route to acquire the technology that you need.
Buy a MFP or a Copier: Tips and Tricks
By defining clearly the terms, costs and conditions of the lease, a tight contract protects both parties. Negotiate as much as possible to get the best price.
Add up all the costs for buying and leasing over a period of 3-5 years to determine total ownership cost. This allows you to compare the two options over a similar term.
Evaluate different models prior to longer term acquisition
Upfront purchase or down payment costs
Search for leasing companies and vendors
For sporadic needs, short-term rentals provide access to equipment without a major investment. Rental costs are generally deductible as a business operating expense as well.
Get quotes from 2-3 authorized dealers at minimum
The Differences between Leasing and Buying
ENERGY STAR ratings can help you reduce your costs.
Compare lease offers from different providers, negotiate terms, and consider refurbished or lower-volume models for affordability.
Opt for a fair market value lease, consider energy-efficient models, negotiate service agreements, and assess your true copier needs to save costs.
Leasing provides budget flexibility, access to advanced technology, tax advantages, and eliminates the hassle of equipment disposal.