What Is the Cost of an MRI Machine? Complete 2025 Price Guide
If you’ve ever wondered what is the cost of an MRI machine, you’re not alone. MRI machines are among the most vital and sophisticated diagnostic tools in modern healthcare. From hospitals to imaging centers, MRI scanners play a crucial role in detecting brain, spine, and musculoskeletal disorders with unmatched accuracy.
However, with advanced technology comes a high price tag — and that’s where this detailed guide helps. Below, we break down MRI machine costs, operational expenses, open MRI pricing, and even the most expensive MRI machine ever made.
Let’s dive in. 👇
💰 What Is the Cost of an MRI Machine?
The cost of an MRI machine depends on various factors — including brand, magnet strength, software configuration, and whether it’s new or refurbished.
Here’s a quick overview of average prices (as of 2025):
| Type of MRI Machine | Average Price Range (INR) | Approx. USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Refurbished 1.5T MRI | ₹1.5 crore – ₹3 crore | $180,000 – $360,000 |
| New 1.5T MRI | ₹4 crore – ₹8 crore | $480,000 – $950,000 |
| 3T MRI Machine | ₹6 crore – ₹12 crore | $720,000 – $1.4 million |
| High-End Research MRI (7T & Above) | ₹15 crore+ | $2 million+ |
Prices may vary depending on brand, warranty, and country of origin. Brands like Siemens, GE Healthcare, Philips, and Canon Medical are the most trusted and widely used in hospitals worldwide.
⚙️ How Much Does It Cost to Run an MRI Machine?
Buying the scanner is just one part of the investment. The next big question is: How much does it cost to run an MRI machine?
Running an MRI involves substantial ongoing costs, such as:
- Electricity consumption: MRI systems need constant power to cool superconducting magnets. Monthly power usage can cost ₹1.5–₹3 lakh ($1,800–$3,600).
- Helium refill: Helium cooling is critical for MRI magnets and must be maintained regularly, costing ₹5–₹15 lakh annually ($6,000–$18,000).
- Maintenance & service contracts: Annual maintenance contracts (AMCs) typically range between ₹15 lakh–₹40 lakh per year ($18,000–$50,000).
- Technical staff & radiologist costs: Skilled radiologists, technicians, and engineers add to operational budgets.
- Room shielding & infrastructure: Lead shielding, air conditioning, and safety compliance can cost ₹30–₹60 lakh ($36,000–$72,000) during setup.
👉 On average, running an MRI machine costs between ₹20–₹50 lakh annually, depending on usage and service quality.
🌀 How Much Does an Open MRI Machine Cost?
Open MRI machines are designed to make patients feel more comfortable — especially those with claustrophobia, obesity, or anxiety.
Unlike traditional closed MRIs, open MRI scanners have wider openings and less enclosure.
Here’s how much they typically cost:
| Type | Average Price (INR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Refurbished Open MRI (0.3T–0.5T) | ₹1 crore – ₹2.5 crore | Ideal for clinics & smaller diagnostic centers |
| New Open MRI (0.4T–1T) | ₹3 crore – ₹6 crore | Modern, patient-friendly systems |
| High-Performance Open MRI | ₹6 crore – ₹9 crore | Suitable for advanced orthopedic & neuro imaging |
While open MRIs are slightly less powerful than 1.5T or 3T machines, they remain a great choice for patient comfort and operational flexibility.
Hospitals aiming to expand diagnostic capacity with cost-effective investment often choose refurbished open MRI scanners — balancing comfort, image quality, and affordability.
💎 The Most Expensive MRI Machine in the World
When it comes to cutting-edge imaging, some MRI scanners redefine innovation and price.
The most expensive MRI machine ever developed is the Siemens Magnetom Terra 7T, a research-grade ultra-high-field MRI system.
- Price: Around ₹25–₹35 crore ($3–$4 million USD)
- Purpose: Used primarily for neuroscience and advanced research.
- Technology: 7 Tesla field strength, ultra-high resolution brain mapping.
- Users: Elite institutions like MIT, Mayo Clinic, and major research hospitals.
While not every healthcare center requires such advanced systems, the Terra 7T demonstrates how far MRI innovation has evolved — and how critical technology investment is in modern medicine.
⚖️ Factors That Influence MRI Machine Costs
MRI prices vary widely depending on several factors:
- Tesla Strength: 0.3T, 1.5T, 3T, or 7T — higher Tesla means better image quality and cost.
- Brand Reputation: Siemens, GE, Philips, and Canon are premium brands with proven reliability.
- System Age: Refurbished vs. new — refurbished can cut capital costs by 50%.
- Software Options: Newer systems with AI-enhanced imaging or cardiac packages cost more.
- Warranty & Service Contracts: Extended coverage adds value but increases initial cost.
- Installation Site: Shielding, cooling, and power requirements affect total investment.
Each hospital or clinic’s needs determine which configuration delivers the best return on investment.
🏥 New vs. Refurbished MRI Machines – Which Is Better?
New MRI machines offer the latest features, higher performance, and longer warranties — ideal for major hospitals with high patient volume.
However, refurbished MRI systems deliver exceptional value for growing diagnostic centers and startups.
Advantages of refurbished MRI scanners:
- 40–60% lower purchase cost
- Same diagnostic accuracy when refurbished by certified professionals
- Shorter installation time
- Warranty and service support included
Trusted companies like SASHA HealthCare specialize in sourcing and refurbishing top MRI models like:
- Siemens Magnetom Avanto 1.5T
- GE Signa HDXT 1.5T
- Philips Ingenia 1.5T and 3T
- Toshiba Vantage Titan 1.5T
📞 Looking to Buy an MRI Machine in India?
If you are planning to invest in a new or used MRI machine, the right supplier makes all the difference.
You need a partner that offers:
- Genuine equipment from global brands
- Installation and technical support
- Annual maintenance contracts
- Transparent pricing
- Financing and delivery assistance
Quick Summary
| MRI Type | Approximate Cost (INR) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Refurbished 1.5T MRI | ₹1.5–₹3 crore | Diagnostic centers |
| New 1.5T MRI | ₹4–₹8 crore | Multi-specialty hospitals |
| 3T MRI | ₹6–₹12 crore | Research & high-end diagnostics |
| Open MRI | ₹1–₹6 crore | Clinics & comfort-focused setups |
| 7T MRI | ₹25 crore+ | Research institutions |
🧾 FAQs
Q1. What is the average cost of an MRI machine?
The average cost ranges between ₹1.5 crore and ₹8 crore depending on brand, Tesla strength, and whether it’s new or refurbished
Running costs (power, helium, service, and staffing) typically range between ₹20–₹50 lakh annually.
Open MRI systems usually cost between ₹1 crore and ₹6 crore depending on specifications and brand.
The Siemens Magnetom Terra 7T is currently among the most expensive, priced at over ₹25 crore.
Yes. Trusted suppliers like SASHA HealthCare provide refurbished MRI scanners that deliver excellent image quality at significantly lower prices.
🏢 About SASHA Healthcare
SASHA Healthcare is a trusted supplier of refurbished and new diagnostic imaging systems — including MRI, CT scanners, X-ray, and Cath Lab machines.
With years of experience, we provide hospitals and diagnostic centers with high-quality, affordable medical imaging solutions across the UAE and India.
Our services include:
- Sales of new and pre-owned medical equipment
- Installation and de-installation
- Maintenance and AMC support
- Technical training and consultation
📞 Contact us today to get the best deal on MRI machines and other imaging equipment.
