Myths About Buying New vs. Used Office Technology

Contrary to popular belief, used copiers are not necessarily sold after years of use. In fact, many of the used copiers available for sale have recently been returned from a lease before the lease termination date. This is because numerous businesses, particularly those managing short-term projects, prefer to lease office equipment instead of purchasing it outright. Once the lease period comes to an end, these copiers are then resold at significant discounts. It's worth noting that in many instances, a used copier may actually be a new model with less than a year of use. So, if you're in the market for a copier, keep in mind that you can find high-quality, nearly-new options at a fraction of the cost.

Indeed, it is a known fact that certain pre-owned copiers may require some repairs before they can be resold. A reliable indicator of the repair quality is to inquire with the seller about the presence of OEM, or original equipment manufacturer, parts in the copier. If such parts are present, it signifies that the seller has made diligent efforts to maintain the copier's authenticity and original functionality to the best extent possible.

The lifespan of a copier greatly depends on its usage. For businesses that have a high copy volume, it is crucial to select a copier that can handle that workload, regardless of whether it is new or used. With that said, you can still expect  up to 90 percent of a copier's lifespan when dealing with high-quality lease returns.

When leasing or purchasing any office technology, you should ask when the model was introduced and if it's been discontinued. Copier and printer models don't change every year. In fact, the same model will continue to be manufactured and sold for 4 to 5 years. Most office copiers these days are built with the ability to be upgraded with firmware to add new features or fix software bugs which means that even a recently used model would likely have all the bells and whistles your office needs.

Whether you decide to invest in a new or used copier, it is essential to ensure that the machine aligns perfectly with your office IT infrastructure. Don't hesitate to reach out to your trusted dealer who will gladly confirm the compatibility for you.

Many used copiers can actually be newer models compared to the current models of different manufacturers if they haven't been upgraded in 4 or 5 years. They may seem old, but they have been refurbished using genuine components and the latest software upgrades from the manufacturer.

However, even recently purchased copiers require regular maintenance. It is advisable to inquire with the dealer about the level of warranty they can provide for a lease-return copier, ensuring it matches that of a brand new machine. By doing so, you can eliminate the primary source of risk and potentially secure an exceptional deal!