Here is the bigger question, if you have the 1.5 T and it doesnt show convincing evidence, are you gonna then be tormented by doubt going forward? Seems to me that while MRIs can difficult, doubt consuming your mind can be much worse. Than you are still in the same position. Id go for the 3T for sure.

I only get 3T. Ask them for some headphones and listen to music. I tell them to turn the music up as loud as they can. Iusually fall asleep during the whole thing. Its all a state of mind. Keep in mind it does not last forever. Ive nad at least 10 of them done so far. Theyget easier. Like i said i fall asleep.

I’m also undiagnosed but I will share my thoughts with you.
I recently chose to pay out of pocket for an MRI on a 3-T machine and it was money well spent regardless of what the diagnosis turns out to be.
I showed 2 brain lesions and 0 spinal (cervical and thoracic) on a 1.5T machine. 5 months later, with no new symptoms to account for this, I showed numerous brain lesions on the 3-T machine that were missed on the 1.5T. I haven’t had my spine rescanned on a 3-T but it’s the next step for me. My lesions weren’t quantified on the new report which is annoying but I counted as many as 12 and there appears to be one in my brainstem that was overlooked that I’ll go over with my neuro at my next appointment.
Studies have shown that an MRI on a 3-T with thinner slices and fewer skips is superior to a scan done on a 1.5T - especially in the spinal cord.
My mantra is, “Do it right, do it once.” Both Neuros I talked to expressed the importance of higher quality scans and I took that advice and ran with it.
I understand you’re terribly claustrophobic but ask yourself: Are you willing to sacrifice an hour in a closed MRI for a potential diagnosis? Or are you willing to spend another decade or two not knowing?

I've had both. If you're still looking for a diagnosis I'd go for 3T. I'm also very claustrophobic so my doctor prescribes a valium to take before the mri. Also my husband is allowed to be in the room of the mri with me. It really helps knowing he's right there.

Thanks for the advice, Njdank and Mo74- 3T MRI it is one way or another!
Happy New Year to All!