Leasing a printer is usually better for businesses that print regularly and want predictable monthly costs with service, toner and upgrades included. Buying is usually better for low-volume offices that have cash on hand and plan to keep the printer for many years. The right answer depends on your print volume, budget, how much downtime you can tolerate, and how long you’ll keep the equipment. This guide compares the costs, pros and cons of each, and shows you how to decide.
Printer leasing vs. buying at a glance
| Lease | Buy | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Little or none | Full purchase price |
| Monthly cost | Fixed payment, usually with service included | None, but service and supplies are extra |
| Commitment | Usually 36 to 60 months | None |
| Service and repairs | Usually bundled | Separate contract or pay per repair |
| Upgrades | New model at the end of the term (FMV lease) | Buy a new machine |
| Ownership | Return, upgrade or buy at the end; own it with a $1-out lease | You own it from day one |
| Total cost over time | Usually higher if kept many years, but predictable | Usually lower for light use, less predictable |
When leasing makes more sense
- You print or copy thousands of pages a month.
- You want one predictable bill covering equipment, service and toner.
- You need a full-size multifunction copier with finishing, which is expensive to buy.
- You’d rather keep cash for hiring, inventory or growth.
- You want newer technology every few years.
- Downtime is costly, so a guaranteed service response matters.
When buying makes more sense
- You print only a few hundred pages a month.
- A desktop printer or small multifunction printer meets your needs.
- You plan to keep the printer for five years or more.
- You have the cash and don’t want a contract.
- You’re comfortable handling supplies and repairs yourself.
Comparing the real costs
To compare fairly, add up everything over the same period, such as five years:
| Lease: add up | Buy: add up |
|---|---|
| Monthly lease payments | Purchase price |
| Service agreement or cost per page | Service contract or per-call repairs |
| Expected overages | Toner and parts |
| End-of-lease fees | Disposal or replacement at end of life |
See typical numbers in printer leasing costs and how much a copy machine costs.
Lease types: FMV vs. $1-out
- Fair market value (FMV) lease: the lowest monthly payment. At the end you return, upgrade or buy the printer at its market value.
- $1-out lease: a higher payment, but you own the printer for $1 at the end. It works like financing a purchase.
What about renting?
Renting is a short-term option for events, temporary offices or seasonal peaks. It costs more per month than leasing but has no long commitment. See business printer rental.
Tax considerations
Lease payments are often deductible as a business expense, while purchased equipment may be depreciated or expensed under Section 179. Rules depend on your situation and lease type, so check with your accountant before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to lease or buy a printer?
Buying is usually cheaper over a long life for low-volume printing. For busy offices, leasing often costs about the same or less once service, supplies and downtime are included.
Can I buy my printer at the end of the lease?
Yes. A $1-out lease ends with ownership, and an FMV lease usually lets you buy at market value.
Can I get out of a printer lease early?
Leases are hard to cancel, but many dealers offer a lease buyout when you switch to them.
Get a side-by-side comparison
Titan Office Solutions both leases and sells copiers and printers, so we’ll show you a lease and a purchase side by side with total costs, free, within 24 hours. Serving North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Explore leasing, compare buying or get a free quote.