Having access to reliable office equipment backed by world-class service and support is essential for keeping your business efficient and productive. For many New Jersey offices, one of the biggest decisions comes down to this: should you lease your next copier or purchase it outright?
Each option comes with clear advantages and trade-offs depending on your organization’s goals, budget, and long-term plans. Below, we break down the pros and cons of copier leasing versus purchasing so you can make the smartest decision for your office.
Copier Leasing: Predictability and Access to the Latest Technology
Leasing a copier or multifunction printer (MFP) is often the preferred choice for growing businesses that need flexibility and predictable monthly expenses.
Pros of Leasing
- Lower upfront costs – Leasing a device such as the Konica Minolta bizhub C301i or Kyocera TASKalfa 4054ci avoids a large upfront capital expense, freeing up cash flow for other business priorities.
- Predictable monthly payments – Budgeting is easier when service, supplies, and maintenance are included in your lease.
- Access to upgrades – At the end of your 3-, 4-, or 5-year lease term, you can easily upgrade to the newest models with better features, speed, and security.
- Less maintenance responsibility – Most leases include service agreements, reducing downtime and eliminating the headache of unexpected repair costs.
Cons of Leasing
- Ongoing commitment – A lease is a contractual obligation, and ending early can come with penalties.
- Higher long-term cost – While leasing is budget-friendly upfront, it may cost more than purchasing if you keep the equipment for the full term or beyond.
Best for: Businesses that want predictable expenses, regularly updated technology, and minimal maintenance responsibility.
Purchasing a Copier: Control and Long-Term Value
Purchasing your copier outright is a better fit for companies with stable printing needs and available capital.
Pros of Purchasing
- Pay one price for ownership – You decide how long to keep the equipment. Multi-function units like the Konica Minolta C3351i and the Kyocera Ecosys MA4500ifx and many other models offer this option.
- Flexibility – No restrictions from leasing terms, return conditions, or penalties.
Cons of Purchasing
- Higher upfront investment – Buying ties up capital that could be used for other areas of your business.
- Maintenance responsibility – Unless you purchase a support contract, you are responsible for repairs and service.
- Risk of obsolescence – Copier technology evolves quickly, and owning means you may get stuck with outdated equipment sooner than expected.
Best for: Organizations with strong cash flow, predictable printing volumes, and the resources to manage service contracts or maintenance.
How to Decide: Lease vs. Buy a Copier
The right choice depends on your priorities:
– If you value predictable monthly expenses, easy upgrades, and minimal maintenance responsibility, leasing is often the smarter choice.
– If you prefer long-term savings, full ownership, and flexibility, purchasing may be the better option.
Many businesses are also rethinking their current copier strategy. For example, if you’re still using an older Xerox copier that no longer meets your needs, this may be the perfect time to trade it in for a new, more efficient device that supports your business today and in the future.
Talk to Document Solutions About Copier Leasing and Purchasing
📞 Call us today at (888) 880-3377 or contact us here to explore whether leasing or purchasing is the better fit for your business!
📍 Document Solutions
151 Sumner Avenue
Kenilworth, NJ 07033
