Buy vs Lease: Cost of Digital X-Ray Setup in India 2026

In 2026, setting up a digital X-ray unit in India is more accessible due to the shift toward Direct Radiography (DR) systems over older Computed Radiography (CR) technology.

A standard setup for a small-to-medium clinic typically ranges between ₹12 Lakhs and ₹25 Lakhs, while high-end hospital-grade installations can exceed ₹40 Lakhs.

1. Equipment Costs (The Major Investment)

The cost varies significantly based on whether you choose a fixed or mobile unit and the “mA” (milliampere) capacity of the machine.¹

• CR (Computed Radiography): Uses cassettes and a reader unit.² Lower upfront cost but slower workflow.

• DR (Direct Radiography): Uses a digital detector panel for instant images.³ It is the modern standard for high-volume centers.⁴

2. Infrastructure & Radiation Safety (Mandatory)

Setting up an X-ray room is not just about the machine; you must follow AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board) guidelines for room design.

• Lead Lining (Doors & Windows): Essential to prevent radiation leakage. A lead-lined door costs between ₹30,000 and ₹60,000. Lead glass for the operator booth costs roughly ₹15,000–₹25,000.

• Wall Thickness: Walls must be at least 9 inches of solid brick or have lead sheet/barium plaster coating. Barium plastering adds ₹50,000–₹80,000 to civil costs.

• Protective Gear: Lead aprons, thyroid shields, and TLD badges (for staff monitoring) will cost approximately ₹20,000–₹35,000.

3. Regulatory & Licensing Fees

You cannot operate an X-ray unit in India without AERB approval via the e-LORA portal.⁵

• AERB Registration/License: The government fee is nominal, but consultants who manage the paperwork and layout approval typically charge ₹15,000–₹30,000.

• Site Layout Approval: Must be done before construction begins.

4. IT & Soft Costs

• PACS/DICOM Software: To store and share images digitally. Basic versions are often bundled with the machine, but cloud-based PACS for remote reporting costs ₹5,000–₹15,000/month.

• Medical Grade Monitor: For the radiologist’s workstation, costing ₹50,000–₹1.5 Lakhs.

• AMC/CMC: Annual Maintenance Contracts usually cost 5% to 10% of the machine value per year after the warranty expires.

Total Estimated Project Cost (Small Setup)

In 2026, the decision to Rent (Lease) versus Buy (Own) your digital X-ray equipment and clinical space is the most critical financial crossroads for a diagnostic center.

With the 2026 interest rate environment stabilizing around 9.5%–11% for medical equipment loans, here is a detailed breakdown of both models to help you decide which fits your top10doc.in practice.

1. Equipment: Buy vs. Lease (Direct Radiography System)

Option A: Buying (Ownership Model)

• Upfront Cost: ₹15 Lakh – ₹25 Lakh (DR System).

• EMI: Approximately ₹32,000 – ₹45,000 per month for 5 years (with a 20% down payment).

• Pros: * Equity: You own the asset once the loan is paid.

  • Tax Benefits: You can claim Depreciation (currently 15–40% on medical equipment), significantly reducing your taxable income.

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  • Residual Value: After 7–8 years, the machine can be sold or traded in for an upgrade.

• Cons: Higher initial capital outflow and you bear all maintenance costs (AMC/CMC) post-warranty.

Option B: Leasing (Subscription Model)

• Upfront Cost: Minimal (Security deposit of 2–3 months).

• Monthly Lease: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 per month.

• Pros: * Cash Flow: Keeps your capital free for other expenses like marketing your profile on top10doc.in.

  • Obsolescence Protection: Easier to upgrade to newer AI-integrated X-ray tech in 3–4 years.

  • Maintenance Included: Most 2026 leases include AMC, saving you ₹50k–₹80k annually.

• Cons: You never own the asset; total payments over 5 years will exceed the purchase price.

2. Space: Renting for an X-Ray Unit

An X-ray unit typically requires 250 to 400 sq. ft. (including the reporting area, changing room, and the lead-lined OT).

• Security Deposit: Usually 3 to 6 months’ rent.

• Lease Term: For diagnostic centers, a 9-year lease (with a 3-year lock-in) is standard to ensure the expensive lead-shielding and civil works aren’t wasted by frequent moves.

3. The “Hybrid” ROI Analysis (2026 Estimates)

If you perform an average of 15 X-rays per day at ₹600 each:

• Daily Revenue: ₹9,000

• Monthly Revenue (25 days): ₹2,25,000

• Fixed Costs (Rent + EMI/Lease + Staff): Approx. ₹1,10,000

• Variable Costs (Electricity + Films/Digital): Approx. ₹30,000

• Net Profit: ₹85,000 per month.

4. Financial Checklist: Do’s & Don’ts

• Do Check for “Retrofit” Options: If buying a new DR system is too expensive, you can buy a high-quality analog machine (₹3–5 Lakh) and “Retrofit” it with a DR Panel (₹6–9 Lakh). It gives the same digital output at 40% less cost.

• Do Claim Section 179 (Equivalent): In 2026, ensure your CA applies for the latest investment allowance for medical infrastructure.

• Don’t Sign a Short Lease: Radiation-proofing walls (Barium plastering/lead lining) is a sunk cost. Never rent a space for less than 5 years.

• Don’t Forget the “Load Sanction”: X-ray machines require high-peak voltage. Ensure your rented space has the sanctioned electrical load before signing the agreement.