Types of MRI Machines: How to Choose the Right System for Your Facility

Choosing an MRI machine is one of those decisions that looks straightforward on paper and becomes far more complex in practice.

Between clinical demands, patient comfort, infrastructure limitations, and long-term costs, the wrong MRI system can quietly strain workflows, budgets, and patient experience for years. The right one supports diagnostic confidence, operational efficiency, and sustainable care delivery.

Most healthcare facilities select MRI systems based on a few core factors: clinical use, patient population, facility readiness, and lifecycle cost. For many hospitals and imaging centers, this means choosing between 1.5T and 3T MRI systems, while open or standing MRI machines are used to support specific patient or specialty needs. Planning for installation, replacement, and equipment transitions is just as important as selecting the system itself.

This guide explains the different types of MRI machines and how hospitals and imaging centers can choose the right system without overspending, overbuilding, or disrupting patient care.

Types of MRI Machines Used in Healthcare

MRI systems are commonly categorized by magnetic field strength and physical design, including closed-bore, open, and standing configurations, each supporting different clinical and patient-access needs. An overview of these configurations is provided in the Illinois Bone & Joint Institute's guide to MRI machine types, which includes open, closed, and standing systems.

MRI machines are commonly classified by magnetic field strength and system design. Each type serves different clinical, operational, and patient care requirements.

Low-Field MRI Systems (Below 1.0 Tesla)

Low-field MRI systems operate at lower magnetic strength and typically require less power and infrastructure.

They may be considered for:

• Limited or niche diagnostic use cases

• Facilities with significant space or infrastructure constraints

However, lower field strength often results in reduced image detail and longer scan times, making these systems less suitable for high-volume or advanced diagnostic environments.

Mid-Field MRI Systems (1.5 Tesla)

1.5T MRI systems are the most widely deployed MRI machines in healthcare.

They offer:

• Strong image quality for most clinical applications

• Broad compatibility with coils and imaging protocols

• Manageable installation and operating costs

For many hospitals and imaging centers, 1.5T systems provide the most practical balance between diagnostic capability, efficiency, and long-term value.

High-Field MRI Systems (3.0 Tesla)

3T MRI machines deliver higher signal strength and increased image resolution, supporting advanced imaging needs.

They are commonly used for:

• Neurological and brain imaging

• Advanced musculoskeletal studies

• Specialized diagnostic and research applications

Facilities considering 3T systems must carefully evaluate shielding, power requirements, patient screening protocols, and long-term service considerations.

Closed MRI Systems

Among MRI machine types, closed MRI is the most common configuration in both hospital and outpatient settings.

They feature:

• A cylindrical bore design

• Higher magnetic field strength options

• Broad diagnostic capabilities

While closed MRI systems provide strong image quality, patient comfort, and claustrophobia management must be factored into scheduling and workflow decisions.

Open MRI Systems

Open MRI machines are designed to reduce feelings of confinement and improve patient accessibility.

They are often used for:

• Claustrophobic patients

• Bariatric imaging

• Patients with mobility limitations

Open MRI systems typically operate at lower field strengths and may offer reduced image resolution, but they play an important role in improving scan completion and patient compliance.

Standing or Upright MRI Systems

Standing MRI systems allow patients to be scanned in weight-bearing positions such as standing or seated.

They are commonly used for:

• Spine and joint evaluations

• Musculoskeletal imaging under load

• Functional and positional assessments
  

While not widely used as primary diagnostic systems in hospitals, standing MRI machines may support specialized orthopedic or spine-focused practices.

How to Choose the Right MRI System for Your Facility

Choosing an MRI system is both a clinical and operational decision that affects patient care, staffing, and long-term planning.

Clinical Use and Diagnostic Demand

Facilities should assess:

• The most frequently performed exams

• Specialty imaging requirements

• Referring physician expectations

Imaging strategy decisions often involve evaluating how MRI compares with other modalities, particularly CT, depending on clinical pathways and urgency.

Patient Experience and Throughput

MRI systems that reduce scan times and improve patient tolerance can:

• Increase daily scan capacity

• Reduce repeat exams

• Improve overall patient satisfaction

Patient experience directly influences scheduling efficiency and operational performance.

Space, Infrastructure, and Facilities Readiness

MRI installation and replacement require planning around:

• Room size and shielding requirements

• Electrical and cooling capacity

• Physical access for delivery and future removal

This is especially important when replacing older MRI systems, where professional deinstallation helps prevent delays, facility damage, and extended downtime.

Total Lifecycle Cost

The true cost of an MRI system extends beyond the purchase price.

Facilities should consider:

• Service and maintenance expenses

• Downtime risk

• Upgrade flexibility

• End-of-life removal or trade-in value

Lifecycle planning allows facilities to make financially responsible decisions without compromising care.

Planning for MRI Replacement and Equipment Transitions

MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of internal structures without ionizing radiation, as explained by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering in its overview of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

MRI planning should include a clear strategy for the existing system.

Many healthcare facilities are unaware that older MRI machines may still retain resale or trade-in value, even if they no longer meet current clinical needs.

Professional removal and coordinated transition planning can:

• Minimize operational disruption

• Protect facility infrastructure

• Support continuity of patient care

A smooth transition is just as important as selecting the right new system.

Frequently Asked Questions About MRI Machines

• What are the main types of MRI machines?

The main types of MRI machines include low-field MRI, 1.5 Tesla MRI, 3 Tesla MRI, open MRI, and standing or upright MRI systems. Each type serves different clinical and operational needs.

• Which MRI machine is best for hospitals?

Most hospitals rely on 1.5T or 3T MRI systems due to their diagnostic versatility and image quality. The best option depends on patient volume, clinical focus, and infrastructure capacity.

• Are older MRI machines still valuable?

Yes. Many older MRI systems retain trade-in or resale value when properly maintained and professionally deinstalled, even if they are no longer used for active diagnostics.

• What should facilities consider before replacing an MRI system?

Facilities should evaluate diagnostic demand, patient throughput, infrastructure readiness, lifecycle costs, and plans for professional removal of the existing system.

• How does MRI compare to CT when planning imaging upgrades?

MRI and CT serve different diagnostic purposes. MRI is often used for soft tissue and neurological imaging, while CT is preferred for speed, trauma assessment, and bone imaging. Facilities often evaluate both modalities together when planning imaging investments. A deeper comparison is covered in MRI vs CT Scan: Understanding the Differences That Shape Patient Care.

Making an Informed MRI Decision

Choosing the right MRI system is about aligning clinical needs, operational realities, and long-term sustainability, not simply selecting the newest technology.

For facilities planning an upgrade, replacement, or equipment transition, having experienced support can make the process clearer and less disruptive. Olive Branch Medical works with hospitals and imaging centers nationwide to help evaluate existing MRI systems, coordinate professional removal, and support smooth transitions that protect patient care.

If your facility is exploring next steps for an MRI system, learn more about how Olive Branch Medical can help here or start a conversation focused on your needs.