Lease vs. Buy a Copier

One of the first questions every business asks AOM is whether to lease or buy a copier. There's no universal right answer — it comes down to cash flow, how long you'll keep the device, and how much you value predictability. Here's how to think it through.

Buying a copier

When you buy outright, you own the equipment and pay no financing cost over time.

• Pros: lowest total cost if you keep the device its full life; no contract; it's a fixed asset.
• Cons: a large up-front capital outlay; you carry the risk of obsolescence; and you're responsible for disposal at end of life. Service and supplies are usually a separate agreement.

Leasing a copier

A lease spreads the cost over (typically) 36–60 months, often bundling service and supplies into one payment.

• Pros: little to no money down; a predictable monthly cost that's easy to budget; a clear upgrade path when the term ends; payments are usually an operating expense.
• Cons: you'll pay more over the full term than buying; you're committed to the contract; and terms vary, so the fine print matters.

How to decide

• Cash flow: tight on capital? Leasing keeps cash in the business.
• How long you'll keep it: planning to run the same device 7+ years? Buying may win. Want to refresh every 3–5 years? Leasing fits.
• Changing volumes: growing or unsure? A lease (or even a rental) keeps you flexible.
• Taxes: talk to your accountant — purchases and leases are treated differently (e.g., Section 179 vs. an operating expense).

AOM does both — plus short- and long-term rentals — and we'll model the real numbers with you before you commit. Ask us for a side-by-side.