Leasing vs Buying IT Equipment: Which Is Right for Your Business?
Every business reaches the point where its laptops, desktops and servers need replacing. Before you choose the kit, it's worth deciding how you'll pay for it. Buying outright, leasing and short-term rental each suit different situations.
Buying outright
Buying gives you full ownership from day one. It can work well if you have the capital available and expect to keep the equipment for its whole working life. The trade-off is a large upfront cost, and responsibility for disposing of the equipment when it reaches the end of its life.
Leasing
Leasing spreads the cost of equipment over a fixed term, so you can get the technology you need without a large upfront outlay. It makes budgeting more predictable and makes it easier to plan regular refreshes, so your team isn't left working on ageing hardware.
Short-term rental
For projects, events, seasonal peaks or temporary staff, short-term rental avoids committing to equipment you'll only need for a while.
Questions to ask before you decide
- How much capital do you want to tie up in equipment?
- How often do you want to refresh your devices?
- Is your headcount stable, or likely to grow or change?
- What happens to the equipment at the end of its life?
Consider refurbished too
Whichever way you pay, you don't have to start with brand-new equipment. Business-grade refurbished devices are fully tested, upgraded and backed by warranty, and our 2nd Life IT Flexilease combines refurbished equipment with the flexibility of leasing.
Find out more about leasing IT equipment and short-term rental, or contact us to discuss the best option for your business.