Non-controlling interest (restated) (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net loss attributable to MGT Capital Investments, Inc.	$ (3,604)	$ (4,549)
Transfers (to) from the non-controlling interest:
Increase in MGT's paid in capital from sale and assignment of Medicsight stock	0	21
Increase in MGT's paid-in capital from acquisition of Medicsight Ltd stock	8,018	0
Changes from the net loss attributable to MGT and transfers to the non-controlling interest	$ 4,414	$ (4,528)