Use the same ownership period
Compare each offer over the same number of months and vehicles. Total cost = hardware + cables + setup + subscriptions + mobile data + required services + replacement and exit costs. Include taxes and shipping consistently.
Example with stated assumptions
Illustrative offers, not Factor or competitor prices: Offer A has $300 hardware and no subscription. Offer B has $100 hardware and a $15 monthly charge. Ignoring other costs, they are equal after $200 ÷ $15 = 13⅓ months. At 24 months A totals $300 and B totals $460.
If A requires additional paid storage or more administration, that changes the result. A one-time purchase is not automatically the lower-cost or better-supported choice.
Check what survives cancellation
- Access to existing logs and usable exports.
- Who maintains backup copies and for how long.
- App and firmware updates, supported phones and replacement hardware.
- Support charges and any termination obligations.
Check current device registration separately from the billing model. Continue with the no-monthly-fee evaluation guide.