How to Compare Computer Leasing Companies

Leasing computers can be cost-effective.

If you own a business, leasing computers instead of buying them can make a lot of sense. Computer technology becomes obsolete at an alarming rate, and purchasing new computers for your business can leave you with hundreds of nearly worthless units just a few years down the road. Leasing computers allows you to update your technology as needed, without a large up-front capital expenditure. But not all computer leases are the same, and it pays to evaluate a number of factors, including the support you can expect and how often you can upgrade your technology.

Instructions

1. Compare the cost of leasing computers with each company you are considering. Review the specifications of the computers themselves, and the cost per unit or per employee.

2. Determine whether or not the software is included as well, and if so which titles are included. The cost of software can be as much as, or even more than, the cost of the hardware. A company that is willing to provide you with all the software you need might be offering the best deal in the long run, even if the lease cost per PC is higher.

3. Ask about any additional equipment included in the lease. If you need to lease servers and storage equipment as well as PCs, make sure that cost is included in the lease price. You can choose to lease your servers and your computers from separate companies, but it is often simpler to lease all of your needed equipment from the same firm. If you choose to lease printers as well, be sure to compare the cost of each printer and the toner and accessories necessary to keep it running.

4. Review the terms of your support agreement and compare what each company has to offer. Prompt service is essential, since every minute your computer network is down is costing you money. Check the promised response time in the lease contract and ask questions about the response time of each company you are considering.

5. Ask about the costs to upgrade your technology in the future. Part of the value of leasing computers is that it gives you greater flexibility when it comes time to upgrade. Comparing the costs of those upgrades within the lease agreement is essential. Also be sure to ask about any additional costs involved in a technology upgrade, including a higher monthly lease cost and any costs associated with moving your files and applications to the new hardware.

References

• Forbes: Buying vs. Leasing Business Equpment
• DePaul University: Computer Buying and Leasing