Traditional high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, while offering unparalleled imaging capabilities, largely remain inaccessible to the developing world due to the substantial costs, size, and infrastructure requirements.  The recent advent of ultra-low-field portable MRI (ULF pMRI) technology brings new hope for expanding medical imaging access in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Compared to traditional MRIs, pMRI scanners eliminate resource-intensive requirements, like shielded rooms, promising expanded imaging access for a resource-limited settings as a result of its portability. However, the use of ULF pMRI has certain drawbacks to consider. The reduced field strength of the scanner compromises on the image resolution and lower signal to noise ratio (SNR). The trade-off with diagnostic accuracy often leads necessitate follow-up scans with a high-field MRI, This review examines pMRI technology and its implications for LMIC healthcare. We explore the range of pMRI technologies, applications, benefits, and limitations. pMRI shows particular promise for expanding life-saving neuroimaging for conditions like stroke. Experts estimate that pMRI could expand neuroimaging access to a vast majority of underserved people in LMICs. Realizing this potential requires overcoming challenges like lack of trained personnel, high costs, and unreliable power shortages. The regular servicing and maintenance of portable MRI machines are critical but can strain limited budgets in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to the cost of spare parts and repairs. Portable MRI machines have comparatively lower image quality, which can hinder the detection of smaller lesions and the accurate tracking of disease progression or treatment effectiveness. Operating and interpreting portable MRI scans require specialized expertise, and the scarcity of skilled technicians in resource-constrained regions poses a significant challenge. Ongoing research aims to address these barriers to integration into LMIC healthcare systems. In conclusion, while promising to improve equity, pMRI implementation faces obstacles. Focused efforts to advance scanner design alongside clinical expertise and infrastructure building could enable pMRI to transform diagnostic capabilities in LMICs. We aim to constructively inform the discourse on improving accessibility, underscoring the potential of pMRI to impact healthcare outcomes in LMICs.