A CT scanner is a diagnostic imaging system that uses rotating X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
CT scanner cost ranges from roughly $85,000 for a refurbished 16-slice system to nearly $3 million for a new high-end 128-slice or larger scanner, depending on slice count, condition, and configuration.
A CT scanner is one of the largest capital purchases an imaging facility makes, and the right choice depends on your case mix, throughput, and budget. This guide breaks down what a CT scanner costs, how slice count affects price, the leading brands, and how to decide between new and refurbished.
A CT (computed tomography) scanner, sometimes called a CAT scan machine, combines a rotating X-ray source and detectors inside a ring-shaped gantry. As the patient passes through the gantry on a motorized table, the system captures hundreds of images and reconstructs them into detailed cross-sectional slices. CT scanners are essential for diagnosing trauma, cancer, vascular disease, and many other conditions, and are a core piece of equipment in hospitals, imaging centers, and surgical facilities.
CT scanners support a wide range of clinical work, including:
- Trauma and emergency imaging: rapid full-body assessment
- Oncology: tumor detection, staging, and treatment planning
- Cardiac and vascular: coronary CT angiography and calcium scoring
- Neurology: stroke, hemorrhage, and head injury evaluation
- Orthopedics: complex fracture and joint assessment
Slice count is the single most important spec when buying a CT scanner. It refers to how many image slices the scanner captures per rotation, which affects speed, image detail, and which procedures the system can perform.
Cost-effective and reliable for routine head, body, and extremity imaging. Ideal for clinics and lower-volume facilities.
The versatile workhorse for most hospitals and imaging centers, capable of cardiac and vascular studies.
High throughput and advanced cardiac, vascular, and low-dose imaging for busy or specialized facilities.
CT scanner cost is driven mainly by slice count and condition (new vs. refurbished). Typical price ranges are:
| Slice Count | Refurbished | New |
|---|---|---|
| 16-slice | $85,000 – $185,000 | $350,000 – $525,000 |
| 64-slice | $175,000 – $375,000 | $625,000 – $975,000 |
| 128-slice | $350,000 – $625,000 | $1,050,000 – $1,650,000 |
| 256-slice and higher | $625,000+ | $1,750,000 – $2,900,000+ |
A certified refurbished CT scanner typically saves 40–60% versus new while delivering comparable image quality. See current CT scanner pricing and availability »
Medical Outfitters carries a range of diagnostic and specialty CT scanners:
- Fujifilm Scenaria View: a premium 64 to 128-slice diagnostic CT platform (Scenaria View and the Scenaria View Focus Edition)
- Fujifilm Supria: efficient whole-body CT in the Supria 128 and Supria 32 configurations
- Fujifilm 128: a high-throughput 128-slice system
- Planmed Verity: a cone beam extremity CT for orthopedic and weight-bearing imaging
You may also encounter GE, Siemens, Philips, Canon (Toshiba), and Hitachi CT scanners on the used market. Our team can help you compare those against the systems we carry. For dental and ENT imaging, see our cone beam CT options.
CT and MRI are both cross-sectional imaging methods, but they work differently. A CT scanner uses X-rays and is fast, making it ideal for trauma, lung, and bone imaging. An MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves, with no ionizing radiation, and excels at soft tissue, brain, and joint detail. Many facilities operate both. If you are also evaluating MRI, see our MRI machine cost guide.
A new CT scanner offers the latest detector and dose-reduction technology with a full manufacturer warranty, but at a premium. A certified refurbished CT scanner from a trusted supplier delivers proven clinical performance for far less, with parts and labor warranties included. For many facilities, a refurbished higher-slice system delivers more capability per dollar than a new entry-level one, provided it is fully tested and backed by service.
A CT scanner needs a properly prepared room: adequate floor space and load capacity, lead shielding for radiation safety, climate control, and sufficient electrical power. Planning for delivery, rigging, and installation early prevents costly delays. Medical Outfitters manages delivery, rigging, and installation as part of every CT purchase. Learn about installation and rigging »
CT scanners require regular preventive maintenance and tube monitoring to stay compliant and minimize downtime. Medical Outfitters provides CT service, repair, and replacement parts. Learn about our service and repair options »
Match the scanner to your case mix and patient volume, then weigh new vs. refurbished against your budget. Key takeaways:
- 16-slice for routine imaging in clinics and lower-volume sites
- 64-slice for the typical hospital or imaging center workload
- 128-slice and higher for high throughput and advanced cardiac imaging
- Refurbished for 40–60% savings with comparable image quality
- Plan the room and installation early to avoid delays
- How much does a CT scanner cost?
- A CT scanner costs about $85,000 for a refurbished 16-slice system and up to $2.9 million or more for a new high-slice scanner. A refurbished 64-slice CT typically runs $175,000 to $375,000.
- What is a CT scanner used for?
- A CT scanner produces detailed cross-sectional images used for trauma, oncology, cardiac, vascular, neurological, and orthopedic diagnosis.
- What does slice count mean on a CT scanner?
- Slice count is the number of image slices captured per rotation. Higher slice counts (64, 128, or more) mean faster scans, finer detail, and the ability to perform cardiac and vascular studies.
- What is the difference between a CT scan and an MRI?
- A CT scanner uses X-rays and is fast and excellent for trauma, lung, and bone imaging, while an MRI uses magnetic fields with no radiation and excels at soft tissue and brain detail.
- Is a refurbished CT scanner worth it?
- Yes. A certified refurbished CT scanner saves 40 to 60 percent versus new with comparable image quality, provided it is fully tested and backed by a warranty.
From 16-slice to 128-slice systems, Medical Outfitters helps you spec, buy, or lease the right CT scanner, new or certified refurbished. Serving the US, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean.
