Buying a prosthetic is a big decision. It’s not just about choosing the right hand, leg, or finger. It’s also about how to pay for it.
For many people, the full price of a prosthetic feels too high to pay all at once. That’s where new payment options are starting to make a big difference.
Today, more and more people are asking:
Can I rent a prosthetic for a few months?
Is there a way to lease it with a lower monthly cost?
What if I could subscribe, like a service?
These new ways to pay are changing how people think about prosthetics. They’re especially helpful for families with growing children, first-time users, and people trying to return to work after an accident.
In this blog, we’ll break down each model—renting, leasing, and subscribing—and help you understand what’s really worth it.
We’ll look at costs, flexibility, risks, and what fits your life best.
Let’s get started.
Understanding the Real Cost of Buying a Prosthetic
Why the Full Price Feels Heavy
Prosthetics—especially advanced ones like myoelectric hands—can cost anywhere from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
This includes the device, the socket, fittings, training, and follow-ups.
For many families, paying this all at once is hard. Even when they know it will improve life, the upfront amount can feel impossible.
And even when help is available, like government aid or insurance, it often doesn’t cover everything.
That’s why some people give up too early. They assume they can’t afford it—and stop looking for options.
But You Don’t Use It Forever
Here’s the truth many people don’t realise: prosthetics are not forever devices.
Children outgrow them. Adults upgrade as their jobs or lifestyles change. Even the best ones need servicing or replacement after a few years.
So why pay the full price for something you may need to change in a year or two?
That’s where alternative payment models like rent, lease, and subscription come in.
They offer smaller payments, more flexibility, and the freedom to switch devices when needed.
Let’s break down what each one means.
What Does It Mean to Rent a Prosthetic?
Renting: Like Trying Before You Buy
Renting a prosthetic means you use it for a short time—weeks or months—without buying it fully.
It’s great for people who are:
- Recovering from surgery and not ready for a permanent prosthetic
- Waiting for their custom device to be made
- Trying a prosthetic for the first time to see how it feels
- On a tight budget and need something urgently
You pay a fixed amount each month or week, and return the prosthetic after your use.
In some cases, you can later buy it with your rental payments counted toward the cost.
Who Offers Prosthetic Rentals?
Not all clinics or companies offer rentals—but some like RoboBionics are now introducing it.
We’ve seen that many users benefit from a trial phase before committing to a full device.
For example, if you’re unsure whether a mechanical or myoelectric hand fits your lifestyle, renting gives you time to decide.
Our team makes sure the rental is properly fitted, adjusted, and safe—even if it’s temporary.
You can also swap models easily during the rental period.
What It Costs to Rent
Rental costs depend on the type of device and duration.
For example:
- A basic mechanical hand might rent for ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 per month
- A myoelectric hand may cost ₹12,000 to ₹20,000 per month
- Finger or partial devices are often cheaper
These rates usually include support, minor adjustments, and training help.
While this may seem high, it’s often easier to manage than ₹2–4 lakh in one go.
And for short-term needs, it’s the smartest financial choice.
Leasing a Prosthetic: A Middle Path
What Is Leasing?
Leasing is different from renting.
Instead of borrowing the device for a short time, you commit to using it for 1 to 3 years, with monthly payments.
At the end of the lease, you can either:
- Buy the device by paying a final amount
- Return it
- Upgrade to a better one with a new lease
Leasing works best for people who know they’ll need the device long-term but can’t afford full payment upfront.
It also gives the option to change if your needs grow or your job demands more functionality.
How Lease-to-Own Works
Some lease plans include a “buy-out” clause.
This means, after paying for a certain number of months, you can own the device fully by paying a small remaining amount.
It works like a car loan or EMI plan—without needing to go through a bank or pay heavy interest.
RoboBionics is working to bring lease-to-own options, especially for bionic hands like Grippy™.
These allow working professionals or college students to access high-performance prosthetics without high barriers.
What It Costs to Lease
Lease plans are longer than rentals, so the monthly payments are often lower.
Typical costs may include:
- ₹3,500 to ₹7,000 per month for basic hands (over 2–3 years)
- ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per month for myoelectric or multi-grip hands
- A final buy-out amount (if applicable), usually ₹10,000–₹50,000
Leases often come with free service visits, training support, and minor repairs included.
This makes it easier to stay on track and avoid sudden expenses.
Leasing gives peace of mind: you know what you’re paying, and you know for how long.
Subscribing to a Prosthetic: The Newest Idea
Subscription Means Full Service, Not Just the Device
A subscription model is like a monthly plan that gives you everything—the prosthetic, fittings, checkups, upgrades, and even app-based support.
It’s like how we use Netflix or phone recharge plans. You pay a flat amount, and everything is covered.
This model is still new in India, but it’s growing fast.
At RoboBionics, we’re building subscription plans for our smart prosthetic users who want more than just the product—they want the full experience.
Why Subscriptions Make Sense
With a subscription, you don’t have to worry about:
- Paying extra for follow-up visits
- Sudden repair charges
- Device upgrades when your needs change
- Outdated technology after a year or two
Everything is planned. Everything is included.
If you’re someone who prefers convenience and long-term value, this is the most stress-free model.
Subscription Cost and Coverage
Subscription fees depend on the device and services included.
A simple plan might cost ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per month for basic prosthetics.
Advanced plans with training, upgrades, and tech support could range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per month.
Some plans may include:
- Free replacements after 2 years
- Access to a mobile rehab app
- Priority support for issues
- Emergency part delivery
- Training sessions at partner centers
Subscriptions are ideal for users who want freedom, flexibility, and full support—without thinking about every bill.
Comparing the Models Side by Side
Choosing Based on Your Life Situation
Each payment model works best in a different situation. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your age, goals, lifestyle, and finances.
If you’re a student or trying a prosthetic for the first time, renting may help you test what fits your routine. You won’t waste money on something you won’t use.
If you’re a working adult who needs a device for the long term but can’t pay a big amount right away, leasing gives you ownership over time without pressure.
If you’re someone who values peace of mind, subscription takes away the stress of surprise repairs, upgrades, or follow-ups.
Knowing your priorities—whether it’s flexibility, affordability, or long-term value—can guide your choice.
The Risk of Buying Too Soon
Many people rush into buying a prosthetic with borrowed money, loans, or even selling assets.
But if the device doesn’t fit well, or your job changes, or your child outgrows it—it becomes a regret.
Alternative payment models let you adjust as life changes. If your work shifts from heavy tools to office work, you can swap a rugged hand for a lighter, more precise one.
This flexibility avoids long-term waste and gives you the chance to upgrade as technology improves.
Buying may feel like the strongest choice—but only when you’re sure. If not, rent or lease options give you space to explore.
Emotional Benefits of Flexible Payments
Reduced Financial Stress
When you don’t have to pay everything upfront, you breathe easier. That stress relief matters, especially for families already dealing with medical or personal recovery.
A prosthetic should bring confidence, not anxiety. When your payments are spread out or simplified, you can focus on healing, adapting, and moving forward.
We’ve seen families who chose flexible models feel less burdened. They walk in lighter, and they leave stronger.
Confidence to Try Something New
Some people hesitate to try a more advanced device—like a bionic hand—because they’re afraid of wasting money if it doesn’t work for them.
But when you rent or subscribe, you give yourself permission to explore. You can return or upgrade if needed. That lowers the fear of failure.
We’ve had users say, “I never thought I could use a myoelectric hand. But when I tried it for a month, I realised I could.”
These small discoveries are only possible when the pressure to commit is removed.
What RoboBionics Offers Today
Our Current Payment Models
At RoboBionics, we’re working to make prosthetics accessible in more ways than one.
Right now, we offer:
- Short-term rentals for mechanical and myoelectric hands, ideal for short-term use or trial
- Lease plans for up to 36 months with low monthly payments and easy upgrades
- Early access to subscription pilots, especially for users of Grippy™ and our gamified rehab tools
These are designed to help people at every stage—new users, children, working professionals, and those recovering from trauma.
We listen to your story first. Then we guide you to the best plan based on your life, not just your limb.
How It Works in Real Life
When you come in for a consultation, we look at your physical needs—but also your financial comfort, daily routine, and support system.
We then help you choose between renting, leasing, or subscribing. Everything is transparent. No hidden fees. No pressure.
If you’re unsure, we start with a short rental. If you’re confident, we guide you into a lease. If you want all-in support, our subscription team steps in.
And if your situation changes? We change the plan with you.
Things to Check Before Choosing
What’s Included in the Plan?
Always ask what’s covered in your payment. Does it include:
- Fitting and socket adjustment?
- Servicing and repairs?
- Replacement parts?
- Training or therapy support?
- Upgrade or return options?
If these are not included, the plan may seem cheaper but cost more in the long run.
At RoboBionics, we build these things into our plans so you don’t have to think about them later.
Can You Pause or Exit?
Life is unpredictable. You may move to another city, change jobs, or face financial challenges.
Ask if your plan lets you pause, switch, or exit without big penalties.
Flexibility is the heart of these models—so make sure it’s actually there.
If you’re getting a prosthetic for a child, find out how easy it is to upgrade as they grow.
Is There Customer Support?
You’re not just buying a hand. You’re entering a relationship with a company.
Make sure they have a real support team. Can you call or message them? Will they respond if the device stops working?
At RoboBionics, we have a dedicated care team that helps with setup, questions, and quick fixes.
Whether you rent, lease, or subscribe—you always have someone to call.
Real-Life Scenarios That Show What Works
A Young College Student Trying a Bionic Hand
Ajay is a 21-year-old engineering student from Nashik. He lost his right hand in a bike accident and wanted to get back to writing notes, using his laptop, and attending labs.
He had heard about bionic hands but wasn’t sure if he could use one or afford it.
Instead of buying outright, Ajay chose a 3-month rental of the Grippy™ Myoelectric Hand.
During that time, he learned how to use the sensors, practiced with RoboBionics’ gamified training app, and gained confidence.
At the end of three months, he knew he was ready. But instead of buying in full, he switched to a lease-to-own plan. Now he pays a fixed amount each month while using the hand daily in class.
He says, “It’s like my fees—I pay for my education, and I pay for my independence. It feels worth it.”
A Working Father Who Needed Flexibility
Ravi, a 34-year-old mechanic in Gujarat, couldn’t afford to stop working after losing his arm in an accident.
His family depended on him. He couldn’t wait to save ₹2.5 lakh.
He opted for a mechanical hand on a rental basis for three months. It helped him get back to work.
Later, he signed up for a subscription plan that included regular maintenance, socket upgrades, and a grip enhancer for holding tools.
He didn’t just get a device—he got a full support system.
He says, “If I had to buy it all at once, I couldn’t. But renting gave me a start, and now I’m stable again.”
These are just two examples—but they reflect hundreds of people we’ve helped.
What matters most is not what you choose—it’s that you choose something that fits your life right now.
The Hidden Pros and Cons of Each Model
Renting
Pros:
- No large upfront cost
- Perfect for trials or temporary use
- Easy to return or swap
Cons:
- Payments don’t lead to ownership
- Higher monthly cost than a lease
- Limited customization options
Leasing
Pros:
- Structured payments over time
- You may own the device at the end
- Lower monthly cost than renting
- Customization is often included
Cons:
- Commitment for 1–3 years
- Early exit may involve charges
- May not include upgrades or full service unless stated
Subscription
Pros:
- Everything is included—device, service, upgrades
- Worry-free usage
- Flexibility to upgrade or switch
- Ideal for users with changing needs
Cons:
- You don’t own the device (unless there’s a buyout option)
- Requires long-term planning
- Fewer clinics offer it (still a new concept)
When choosing, don’t just look at cost. Look at control. Ask what gives you the power to move forward.
The Future of Prosthetic Ownership in India
India is changing. Technology is becoming smarter. But more importantly—people are becoming more open to smarter ways of paying.
Just like we moved from buying CDs to streaming music, we are now seeing a shift in how medical devices are accessed.
No longer is buying the only way.
People want flexibility. They want to try, adjust, and upgrade. They want support that lasts beyond the first fitting.
And most of all—they want freedom without financial fear.
At RoboBionics, we believe in this future. That’s why we’re building more than prosthetics—we’re building pathways.
We’re here for those who want to own. For those who want to rent. For those who want to feel supported without getting stuck.
Whether you’re a parent planning for your child, a student finding your way, or a worker rebuilding your life—you have choices now.
Final Thoughts: What Really Matters
This isn’t just about money. It’s about momentum.
About giving yourself or your loved one the chance to move, work, hug, write, and live with dignity.
Renting, leasing, or subscribing aren’t shortcuts. They’re smart, thoughtful ways to begin when life feels uncertain.
They give you the chance to try. To grow. To adapt.
Because no prosthetic is perfect for life. But the right payment model can make life feel more possible.
Choose what gives you room to breathe.
Choose what helps you act today—not “someday.”
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re still unsure which model is right for you, we’re here to help.
At RoboBionics, we don’t just ask what prosthetic you want. We ask how you live, what you need, and what you can manage.
Then we help you build a plan—financially and physically—that fits your goals.
You can:
- Try a device through our rental plans
- Start small with a lease-to-own model
- Go all-in with our full-service subscription
- Or simply talk to us and ask questions first
Book your free demo or consultation now:
robobionics.in/bookdemo
Let’s find the path that works best for you. Because you don’t need more pressure. You need possibilities.
And that’s what we’re here for.