Rent vs Buy Calculator
Should you rent or buy your child's instrument? Enter your details below for a personalized recommendation with cost comparison.
Our Recommendation: Rent
Break-Even Analysis
6 months
12 months
18 months
24 months
Cost Comparison
| Option | Upfront | Monthly | 1 Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $0 | $25 | $300 |
| Buy | $200 | $0 | $200 |
Other Considerations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I rent an instrument instead of buying?
Rent when: Your child is young and will outgrow the instrument quickly (especially violin/cello), you're unsure about their commitment, you want to test an instrument before investing, or you're joining school band and want to see if they stick with it. Most rental programs apply rent toward purchase if you decide to buy later.
When is it better to buy?
Buy when: Your child has shown sustained interest (6+ months), monthly rental would exceed purchase cost within 6-12 months, the instrument doesn't come in sizes (keyboard, drums), you've found a great deal on used equipment, or you want ownership to sell later if needed.
What about rent-to-own programs?
Rent-to-own can be a good middle ground. Many music stores offer programs where rental payments apply toward purchase. This lets you test commitment while building equity. Check if payments apply 100% toward purchase and compare the total cost vs buying outright.
How much does instrument rental typically cost?
Monthly rental costs vary by instrument: Violin: $20-35/month, Cello: $35-60/month, Clarinet/Flute: $25-40/month, Trumpet: $25-40/month, Saxophone: $35-50/month. Most rentals include maintenance and insurance.
Does rental include maintenance?
Most rental programs include maintenance and basic repairs, which is a significant benefit. If you buy, you're responsible for maintenance costs. String replacements, pad adjustments, and other upkeep can add $50-200/year depending on the instrument.