New Copiers vs. Used Copiers

The battle is on! New? Used? Which offers more value in the long run? Is it the same as purchasing a car?

When shopping for a new multi function copier for your office, you will certainly come across the idea of investing into a refurbished copier instead of a brand new one. Choosing used over new has both of its advantages and disadvantages. This article is going to clearly lay out both so that you can make an informed decision on your own.

New Copiers

New copiers are, in many ways, like new cars: they have brand-new technology, are compatible with the latest accessories, and have not been exposed to wear and tear from use. However, also like new cars, new copiers are rather spend and often lose part of their value once taken home from the store.

Used Copiers

There are three basic types of used copiers: lease returns, refurbished, and discontinued showroom models.

Lease Return: To continue with the car analogy, buying one of these copiers would be like buying a two or three year old car that has just been returned after its’ lease ran out. The vehicle would have some mileage on it and be a few years old, but overall it would be in very good shape. Lease return copiers are typically a few years old but have been under a maintenance contract, so they have been well taken care of. They may not have all of the latest bells and whistles, but come with a much more affordable price tag.

Refurbished: In the broadest sense of the term, a refurbished copier is one that has been taken back from a customer, stripped of all of its parts, cleaned thoroughly, and rebuilt using a mix of new and reconditioned parts. Sometimes refurbished machines get a technology update in the process, and sometimes they do not.

Discontinued Showroom Models: These copiers are just what their name implies: machines that have been replaced with newer models by the manufacturer. Often these discontinued copiers are given substantial markdowns to help make room for the new models from the manufacturer. Another nice thing about these copiers is that they are usually relatively new and have very little wear and tear. Unfortunately, though, discontinued showroom copiers are the hardest type of used copiers to find.

New vs. Used

Purchasing new copiers ensures the latest technology and compatibility with other drivers and accessories. Companies that need technologically up-to-date equipment should probably consider getting new equipment. Scanning and electronic document management are advancing especially rapidly right now, so if your company uses either of those heavily new copiers might be best.

Used copiers are great for companies looking for a machine that isn’t as up to date, but still does basic copying and printing. Used copiers are also great as a backup copier or printer, or to take print volume from the main copier so that it does not get overloaded. Some people claim that used copiers are more environmentally friendly, as they extend the life of a machine that may have ended up in the landfill otherwise.

Buying used copiers

The used copier market has a somewhat shady reputation, but nevertheless you can get a good machine that works well and will still meet your needs. It does require caution on the part of the buyer, though. Before purchasing used copiers, you should:

-Check to see if the seller has a re-manufactured model warranty and/or a refund policy. Many remanufactured machines come with refund policies, so that if a customer is unhappy with their copier, they can exchange it. Some companies also have a “no lemon” policy so that if something goes wrong the customer is protected.

-Consider signing a maintenance contract with the copier company. With a maintenance agreement, you would generally not have to pay for labor costs if the copier needs maintenance. Many used 

copier owners look at maintenance contracts like an insurance policy in case the machine turns out to have some problems.

Most importantly, do research! Know if your salesperson is selling new copiers or used copiers. Be prepared and ask questions until you know for sure that you are getting the machine you need. Be aware of the reputation of the copier company you buy from, and enter the purchasing process with your eyes open. It is also a good idea to find someone you trust to give you good, impartial advice throughout the process.

Advantage #1 – Lower Priced Technology

Because they are used, a refurbished copier is obviously going to cost less than a comparable new model. Used copiers can cost as much as 50% or less than a factory new model. This gives you a lot more flexibility with your budget. You can either save monthly on new or upgrade to a better quality device.

Advantage #2 – More Negotiation Firepower

Because used copiers are sitting in a warehouse, they are not restricted to “limited time only” discounts or rebates offered by the manufacturer. This gives you the ability to negotiate a good price without feeling the pressure to buy now.

Advantage #3 – High Quality and Reliability

Imaging technology has improved in small increments during the past 5 years. This means that you are gaining very small feature and quality upgrades with a new model compared to a used model. If properly serviced, a refurbished copier can last just as long as a new one.

Disadvantage #1 – Higher Cost Per Print

The cost of parts and supplies is higher priced for older technology. This means that your cost per print will be slightly higher than a new model. If you are printing enough volumes each month, it may be worthwhile to choose a new model with a lower cost per print.

Disadvantage #2 – Greater Frequency of Service Calls

Used copiers will break down more often than a new model, just as a used car requires more servicing than a new one. Your service provider will do everything to ensure maximum up-time and reliability. Be aware that anything used will have less performance than new.

Disadvantage #3 – No Equipment Rebates

Quarterly incentives or end-of-year specials are sometimes available for certain new copier models that customers can take advantage of. In some cases, the rebates offered by the manufacturer can make the cost of a new model very close to the cost of used.