Lease, rent or buy? Choosing the right copier for your office

A copier or multi-function printer is one of the hardest-working machines in any office. When it’s time to replace one, the first question usually isn’t which model to choose. It’s how to pay for it. Leasing, short-term rental and buying outright each have a place, and the right choice depends on how your office works.

Buying outright

Buying makes sense when you know your print volume, plan to keep the machine for years, and would rather not have a monthly payment. You own the equipment from day one and you’re free to service it however you like.

• Best for: steady print volumes and offices that keep equipment for the long run
• Lowest total cost over the life of the machine
• A refurbished machine can cut the upfront price considerably

Leasing

A lease spreads the cost over a fixed term with predictable monthly payments, which helps with cash flow and budgeting. At the end of the term you can usually upgrade, renew or buy out the machine.

• Best for: growing offices and businesses that want newer technology on a schedule
• No large upfront payment
• Read the term carefully, especially early-cancellation and end-of-lease conditions

Short-term rental

Rentals cover a gap: a busy season, a temporary project office, an event, or a stand-in while you decide what to buy. You pay only for the months you need.

• Best for: temporary or seasonal needs
• Flexible and quick to set up
• Costs more per month than a lease, so it isn’t a long-term answer

Questions to ask before you decide

1. How many pages do you print and copy each month, and how much of it is colour?
2. Do you need scanning to email or shared folders, faxing, stapling or large paper sizes?
3. How long do you expect to keep the machine?
4. Would a reliable refurbished model do the job for less?
5. Who will service it, and do you want to be tied to a service contract?

We’ll help you find the right fit

Whether you need a lease or a short-term rental, or want to buy new or refurbished, we’ll help you choose a machine that is cost-effective and can handle your workload. Our repairs come with no term service contract. Call us at 905-304-6340 or send us a request.