Leasing vs. Buying a Copier: What’s the Best Option for Your Business?

The Skinny

When your business needs a new copier or multifunction printer (MFP), the big question is: should you lease or buy? Both options come with their perks and potential drawbacks. This guide breaks it all down—costs, flexibility, taxes, and service—so you can make the best call for your office and budget. And since we’re focused on Colorado businesses, you’ll get tips specific to our region, too.

Leasing a Copier: Why It Works for Many Teams

• Lower upfront costs — You don’t need a big chunk of cash to get started. Leasing keeps things predictable with monthly payments.
• Technology stays current — Leases typically run 36–60 months. When it’s up, you can upgrade to the latest model with new features and better efficiency—no hassle.
• Service is often bundled in — Most leases include regular maintenance, toner delivery, and emergency tech visits, so you’re never scrambling to fix issues.
• Easier budgeting — With set monthly costs, there are fewer surprises. It’s easy to plan and expense the lease just like any other utility.
• Tax benefits — Copier lease payments are often 100% tax deductible as a business operating expense. Check with your CPA, but this can mean big savings over time.
• Less risk of obsolescence — Copiers and printers age fast. Leasing means you’re not stuck with outdated equipment you can’t resell.
• Better for growing companies — As your business expands, leasing allows you to scale up without the financial burden of buying new devices each time.
• No resale headaches — When the lease is over, just return the equipment or renew. No need to figure out how to sell or dispose of old machines.

Buying a Copier: When It Makes Sense

• Long-term savings — If you plan to use the same machine for 5–7 years, buying can be cheaper over the full lifespan.
• Ownership perks — Once it’s paid off, it’s yours. No monthly payments, no end-of-term negotiations.
• More flexibility — You can upgrade or modify the equipment anytime. No lease agreements locking you in.
• Depreciation tax benefits — If your company prefers capital expenditures, owning lets you depreciate the asset over time. Take a moment to investigate Sect 179 any time of year.

Leasing vs. Buying: Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Is Right for Your Colorado Business?

If cash flow is tight, you want up-to-date tech, or you’d prefer not to deal with copier maintenance, leasing probably fits you better. But if you’re looking for long-term value, have a reliable IT team, and don’t mind the upfront investment, buying might be your move.

ABT’s Take

At ABT, we help you weigh both options based on your actual usage, growth plans, compliance needs, and budget. We offer flexible leasing and purchasing solutions—so whether you’re in Denver, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, or anywhere in between, you’ll get tech that works the way you do.

Let’s Make This Easy

📞 Curious what a copier lease looks like for your office? Want help planning for a new device purchase?

Get a free contract review and a clear comparison from the ABT team. No pressure—just helpful answers from local experts who get what Colorado businesses really need.