If your office needs new printing equipment, you might be deciding between leasing a printer or leasing a copier. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the right choice depends on your business needs, budget, and workflow.

This guide compares printers and copiers, breaks down leasing costs, and helps you decide which option makes the most sense for your business.

Printer Leasing – Best for Everyday Document Needs

Printers are ideal for offices that primarily handle:

• Standard document printing (letters, invoices, reports)

• Low to medium print volumes

• Occasional scanning or copying via multifunction printers (MFPs)

Pros:

• Lower monthly lease costs (as low as $30/month)

• Smaller footprint for limited office space

• Energy efficient and easy to maintain

Cons:

• Limited high-volume capacity

• May not handle oversized formats or heavy-duty jobs
  

Copier Leasing – Best for High-Volume & Multi-Function Workflows

Copiers excel in offices that need:

• Large-scale document production

• Fast, multi-page scanning and copying

• Advanced finishing options (stapling, binding, hole punching)

• Support for larger paper sizes and specialty media

Pros:

• Handles thousands of pages per month with ease

• Faster speeds and more features for busy teams

• Suitable for centralized office printing hubs

Cons:

• Higher monthly lease cost ($60–$500+)

• Larger space requirement

• More complex to operate for basic needs

Cost Comparison – Average Lease Prices

Average monthly equipment costs range from $30–$60 for basic printers ideal for small offices, $60–$150 for multifunction printers handling mixed printing and scanning, $100–$300 for office copiers suited for high-volume needs, and $300–$500+ for production copiers used by print shops and marketing agencies.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing

1. Monthly Print Volume – More pages require more robust equipment

2. Document Types – Standard text vs. color graphics or large formats

3. Budget – Include lease, maintenance, and supply costs in your calculation

4. Space Availability – Copiers require more floor space

5. Growth Plans – Choose equipment that can scale with your business

FAQs – Printer vs Copier Leasing

• Can I lease both printers and copiers?
  Yes. Many businesses lease a mix to handle different tasks.

• Does a copier also print?
  Yes, most modern copiers are multifunction devices that can print, scan, and fax.

• Which is cheaper to lease long-term?
  Printers are generally cheaper, but copiers may offer a better cost-per-page for high-volume use.

Which Is Right for Your Business?

• Choose a Printer if you have light to moderate printing needs and limited space.

• Choose a Copier if you need high-speed, high-volume production with advanced finishing.
  

📞 Need help deciding? Call (385) 281-8441 or request a free consultation from Elevated Group. Our team can assess your workflow and recommend the right lease option for your business.