Aims This research paper aims to check the effectiveness of a variety of machine learning models in classifying esophageal cancer through MRI scans. The current study encompasses Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), and Visual Geometry Group 16 (VGG16), among others which are elaborated in this paper. This paper aims to identify the most accurate model to facilitate increased, improved diagnostic accuracy to revolutionize early detection methods for this dreadful disease. The ultimate goal is, therefore, to improve the clinical practice performance and its results with advanced machine learning techniques in medical diagnosis. Background Esophageal cancer poses a critical problem for medical oncologists since its pathology is quite complex, and the death rate is exceptionally high. Proper early detection is essential for effective treatment and improved survival. The results are positive, but the conventional diagnostic methods are not sensitive and have low specificity. Recent progress in machine learning methods brings a new possibility to high sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis. This paper explores the potentiality of different machine-learning models in classifying esophageal cancer through MRI scans to complement the constraints of the traditional diagnostics approach. Objective This study is aimed at verifying whether CNN, KNN, RNN, and VGG16, amongst other advanced machine learning models, are effective in correctly classifying esophageal cancer from MRI scans. This review aims at establishing the diagnostic accuracy of all these models, with the best among all. It plays a role in developing early detection mechanisms that increase patient outcome confidence in the clinical setting. Methods This study applies the approach of comparative analysis by using four unique machine learning models to classify esophageal cancer from MRI scans. This was made possible through the intensive training and validation of the model using a standardized set of MRI data. The model’s effectiveness was assessed using performance evaluation metrics, which included accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Results In classifying esophageal cancers from MRI scans, the current study found VGG16 to be an adequate model, with a high accuracy of 96.66%. CNN took the second position, with an accuracy of 94.5%, showing efficient results for spatial pattern recognition. The model of KNN and RNN also showed commendable performance, with accuracies of 91.44% and 88.97%, respectively, portraying their strengths in proximity-based learning and handling sequential data. These findings underline the potential to add significant value to the processes of esophageal cancer diagnosis using machine learning models. Conclusion The study concluded that machine learning techniques, mainly VGG16 and CNN, had a high potential for escalated diagnostic precision in classifying esophageal cancer from MRI imaging. VGG16 showed great accuracy, while CNN displayed advanced spatial detection, followed by KNN and RNN. Thus, the results set new opportunities for introducing advanced computational models to the clinics, which might transform strategies for early detection to improve patient-centered outcomes in oncology.