What this calculator does
This calculator shows the total cost of a rent-to-own contract. It also compares that total to the cash retail price and shows the implied markup.
The math
Total cost = weekly payment × number of weeks. Markup = total cost − retail price. Implied premium = markup ÷ retail price × 100.
Worked example
A $35 weekly payment for 78 weeks costs $2,730. If the retail price is $800, you pay over $1,900 in extra markup.
Why this matters
High-fee products are designed to look small per week and huge in total. This calculator exposes the full cost so you can compare it to real alternatives.
Methodology and transparency
This page publishes the exact formula used to compute the result, so you can verify it in a spreadsheet or check the assumptions against your own situation. The worked example uses the tool default inputs; change any number and the result updates live in your browser. No data is sent or stored.
Common questions
Is rent-to-own ever cheaper than buying?
Almost never. The total weekly payments usually exceed the retail price by a large margin.
What is the implied APR?
Rent-to-own contracts often have effective APRs in the triple digits compared to buying the same item outright.
What are better alternatives?
Save the weekly payment in a savings account, buy used, or use a low-interest installment loan.