A simple tool to see how the three common equipment finance structures compare conceptually for a given asset price and term. This does not calculate repayments, interest, or any real finance terms — it illustrates ownership timing and balance sheet treatment only.
How long do you expect to keep this equipment?
Ownership from: Day one
Balance sheet: Yes, immediately
End of term: Already owned — nothing further required
Typically suits: Equipment kept long-term, where early ownership matters
Ownership from: End of term
Balance sheet: Generally yes, with a corresponding liability
End of term: Ownership transfers after final payment
Typically suits: Businesses wanting predictable fixed payments
Ownership from: Not included
Balance sheet: Generally no — treated as a usage expense
End of term: Return, upgrade, or sometimes purchase, per agreement
Typically suits: Equipment likely to be upgraded or replaced regularly
Based on an illustrative asset price of $50,000 over 48 months. No interest, fees or repayment figures are calculated or implied.
Real equipment finance figures depend on the lender, the applicant's financial position, the asset's age and type, and current market rates — none of which a general tool like this can know. Rather than show indicative numbers that might not reflect what's actually available, this tool focuses on the part that's genuinely consistent across lenders: how ownership and balance sheet treatment differ by structure.