AirSense 11 Review: How Does the AirSense 11 Compare to the AirSense 10?

ResMed has released the AirSense™ 11 AutoSet, and today we’re taking a look at how it compares to previous ResMed models like the AirSense 10, as well as competitors such as the Dreamstation 2, and the Luna II.

In this AirSense 11 review, we’ll share with you what’s changed, examine new and existing features, and take a look at why upgrading may take your sleep apnea therapy experience to the next level. We’ll also explore some feedback from the CPAP community as well as answer some frequently asked questions about the AirSense 11 that we have been receiving from our customers.

If you’re new to sleep apnea therapy, the AirSense 11 may be the best choice for a comfortable therapy experience. It has new features like Personal Therapy Assistant and Care Check-In functions, which are designed to help you start your therapy and improve overall CPAP compliance long-term. This leads to a better therapy outcome over time.

If you’ve been on the lookout for a new CPAP machine or have been affected by the Philips recall, the AirSense 11 should be at the top of your list. With the current shortage in CPAP machines, we are happy to say that the AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine is in-stock and ready to ship.  

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea or are looking to upgrade and replace your existing machine with one of the best new CPAP machines on the market, then we have you covered! Keep reading to dive into our AirSense 11 review and comparison below.

ResMed AirSense 11 vs 10: How Do These ResMed Machines Compare?

The main differences between the AirSense 10 and 11 are the new and improved software, data capturing capabilities, built-in AutoSet For Her algorithm, higher max operating altitude, different AC power levels, and reduced sound, weight, and size.

Here’s a quick comparison table of the ResMed AirSense 10 vs AirSense 11:

New Features in the AirSense 11

Here’s a breakdown of the new features and key differences between the AirSense 11 and AirSense 10 models:

Size, Weight, and Power Output: One of the first things you’ll notice about the design of the AirSense 11 is that it’s quite similar in size, sound level output, and weight to the AirSense 10. In comparison to the AirSense 10’s 90-watt AC power supply, the AirSense 11 runs on a 65-watt AC power supply, which is a good thing for travelers as it’s more energy-efficient. Your AirSense 11 can run on max settings and humidity, using less overall power than the AirSense 10 and helping you get more life out of your CPAP battery. The AirSense 11 is smaller than the AirSense 10 in both height and width, making it more compact and easier to take with you wherever life brings you. Weighing in at 0.25 lbs lighter, the new AirSense 11 is also more portable than the AirSense 10.

Sound Output: If you’re a light sleeper, then the sound level will be an important feature for you in a CPAP machine. The AirSense 11 is slightly louder than the AirSense 10, however, both machines are quieter than a soft whisper and are among the quietest CPAP machines you can buy.

Design: The AirSense 11 has a cleaner, sleeker design than the AirSense 10, which is perfect for those who want an aesthetically-pleasing machine on their nightstand to not distract from their bedroom decor. It’s shorter than its predecessor, doesn’t feature a physical dial anymore, and the menu system has also been redesigned for a better user experience.

Start/Stop Feature and Touch Screen: The AirSense 11 features a new color touch screen with auto-dimming lights, which makes it a great choice for light sleepers that are affected by the amount of light present in their bedroom. The click wheel that the AirSense 10 has was replaced with one button at the top of the AirSense 11 to make it easy to turn your therapy on or off with a single tap. The AirSense 11 has a horizontal touchscreen in comparison to the vertical screen on the AirSense 10 and features a redesigned menu that’s easier to use and navigate.

Humidification: The capacity of the humidification chamber is virtually unchanged on the AirSense 11, but the humidifier chamber shape has changed from the AirSense 10, so you won’t be able to interchange previous water chambers. It still holds the same amount of water volume, has a flip-top lid, and slides in from the side. Early adopters have pointed out that the humidifier chamber can be easier to spill and can’t be filled as much as the AirSense 10’s chamber due to the design differences. It also doesn’t include the hose elbow that comes with the AirSense 10, so your hose will come straight out of the back of the AirSense 11 machine by default, which may not be ideal for some. The heated hose design has also changed so that it no longer has a 90-degree turn

Integrated “For Her” Version: With the AirSense 11, there’s no longer a “For Her” or “For Him” version as with the previous line of machines. There’s now an exclusive AutoSet For Her therapy mode built into the machine’s algorithm, which can be set in the menu settings, making it a two-in-one machine.

Test-Drive Feature: There’s also a new test drive feature that’s aimed at helping beginners, which can be accessed in the new menu as well. The test drive feature allows you to get used to your CPAP therapy and acclimate at your own pace. The AirSense 11 will introduce you to your therapy at a pressure of 4 cm H2O and then move you up to a higher pressure of 7 or 10 cm H2O while also checking for mask leaks. To use the test drive feature, make sure your AirSense 11 is connected to Bluetooth, and your mask information is uploaded, so the device can personalize your therapy to you.

Software Updates and Data Sharing: One of the biggest improvements with the AirSense 11 is ResMed’s decision to encourage further integration into their myAir app (available for Android and iOS). First, the Personal Therapy Assistant offers guidance to those new to sleep apnea therapy with interactive instruction videos.

Secondly, the Care Check-In feature is part of the new therapy assistance that’s built-in for new users. The Care Check-In feature asks questions during your first month of therapy to provide tailored coaching, support, and troubleshooting to improve overall therapy success and compliance.

The AirSense 11 also uses the same cellular modem feature as the previous original AirSense 10 model (not applicable to the AirSense 10 Card-to-Cloud) with an added Bluetooth integration. When using the app, you can access your nightly therapy data and troubleshoot remotely using the Remote Assist feature, which will help you and your doctor to have a better understanding of your therapy progress. With the new Bluetooth-enabled connectivity, ResMed offers Over-the-Air Software upgrade capability that provides you with a quick way to receive software updates to maintain your machine’s success over time. ResMed is continually improving the myAir app technology, and it’s great to see that they’ve made it easier to push upgrades and bug fixes wirelessly.

Battery Backup: The best CPAP batteries for the AirSense 11 are the Portable Outlet UPS Battery and the Zopec Power Outlet 2. Both batteries feature a standard AC power outlet, but the Portable Outlet Battery is the only one that can be used as an automatic battery backup in the event of a power outage. Once ResMed releases a DC power adapter for the AirSense 11, it should also be compatible with the EXP48 and EXP96 Lithium Ion Batteries.

ResMed has made software and app integrations a focal point with this release to provide improved reporting and troubleshooting. The AirSense 11’s built-in “Test Drive” feature is designed to help those with sleep apnea get acclimated faster to their therapy and reduce mask refitting and troubleshooting. The Personal Therapy Assistant via myAir, the Care Check-in, and the ability to send data over-the-air to upgrade the machine’s algorithm will work to improve the communication between you and your medical professional, which ultimately helps your therapy compliance.

Should You Upgrade to the AirSense 11 if You Already Have the AirSense 10?

While this isn’t a revolutionary re-design, ResMed has taken the best features of the AirSense 10 and improved upon them. If this is your first time purchasing a CPAP device, the AirSense 11 is definitely worth considering as it is designed with new users in mind.

However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, ResMed has released the well-loved AirSense 10 in a Card-to-Cloud version that is the same as the original AirSense 10, just without the modem.

The AirSense 11 VS the DreamStation 2

In terms of dimensions, these two devices are actually quite similar, though the DreamStation 2 is the lighter of the two and has shed about two pounds from the first generation DreamStation. The DreamStation 2 is slightly shorter than the AirSense 11 but is also nearly an inch wider. Both machines feature a single button for beginning or ending therapy as well as a color touchscreen.

Both machines operate at essentially the same volume of 27 decibels, so neither really wins out in terms of noise. Many reviewers have noted that the AirSense 11’s construction feels much sturdier overall whereas the DreamStation 2 may feel a bit more cheaply made to the touch. The AirSense 11 has some software features that are more geared towards acclimating those new to CPAP therapy, such as the Personal Therapy Assistant and Care Check-In features.

Both machines have a Ramp feature but each one works a bit differently. The DreamStation 2 features Ramp Plus, which lets you directly choose a low pressure to start at while falling asleep. After a set interval (30 minutes by default) or when the machine detects that more pressure is needed, the machine will resume to your prescribed pressure. With the AirSense 11, you can set the ramp timer manually or set it to Auto, which enables the machine to ramp up to your prescribed pressure when it detects that you’ve fallen asleep.

Both of these machines are the flagship model of the biggest brands in CPAP, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and availability. Philips is not expected to resume regular production of the DreamStation 2 until 2023, but the AirSense is in-stock and ready to ship today!

The AirSense 11 VS the Luna II

The AirSense 11 is a much more compact and travel-friendly machine than the Luna II Auto but that doesn’t mean that the Luna II isn’t also a worthy contender. The Luna II Auto has many of the same comfort features you would expect from an industry leader such as Ramp technology, RESlex Expiratory Pressure Relief, Auto Start, and a Color LCD navigation screen. It also features up to a 60-minute ramp timer where most other machines top out at 45 minutes.

At 28 decibels, the Luna II, like the AirSense 11, is one of the quietest CPAP machines available. The Luna II features an alert mute button, a ramp enabling button, and a push dial for navigating menus. If you prefer touchscreen controls, the AirSense 11 is the better choice. The humidifier chamber on the Luna II holds 360 mL while the AirSense 11’s holds 380 mL; both need to be removed from the machine to fill or clean. The Luna II features a washable, reusable foam filter in place of the AirSense 11’s disposable filter, so it does deserve some credit there.

The Luna II allows you to easily access therapy data by scanning the personalized QR code via the onboard menu. While this is an interesting feature, ResMed’s MyAir app is easier, more informative, and far better reviewed than the Luna II’s companion app, so ResMed certainly wins out in terms of software and therapy tracking.

Overall, the Luna II has been praised for its robust features, good build quality, and ability to keep pace with leading CPAPs while being a bit more affordable than machines from the other leading brands. That said, if you’re looking for an all-around premium experience, the AirSense 11 may be the better option.

Where To Buy the AirSense 11

The ResMed AirSense 11 is currently available to purchase on cpap.com. Visit our ResMed CPAP Machine page to compare ResMed Machines.

Feedback and Frequently Asked Customer Questions

To better address questions, comments, and concerns about the AirSense 11, we’ve collected feedback from our Facebook page as well as from others in the CPAP community. Here’s what people have been saying and asking so far:

Can I Use AirSense 11 Without a Humidifier?

You can use your AirSense 11 without a humidifier by navigating to your Humidity Level settings and turning it to “Off”. The chamber or optional side cover must be installed for the device to function, so be sure to also empty any water from the tub as well.

How Loud Is the ResMed AirSense 11?

The ResMed AirSense 11 registers at just 27 decibels during operation, making it one of the quietest CPAP machines available. 

Can AirSense 11 Connect to WiFi?

No. The AirSense 11 features Bluetooth compatibility to connect to the mobile MyAir smartphone app, but utilizes cellular data for Over-the-Air Software Updates and therapy data uploads to ResMed’s AirView Cloud service. 

Can I Use My ResMed AirSense 11 Without Water?

You can use your AirSense 11 without water by emptying your humidifier chamber, navigating to your Humidity Level settings, and turning your humidifier to the “Off” setting. The humidifier chamber or optional side cover accessory must be connected for the device to work properly. For more information, read our AirSense 11 Troubleshooting article.

Does AirSense 11 Have Smart Start?

Yes, the AirSense 11 features SmartStart technology which automatically detects breathing and begins therapy when you put your mask on. 

Does the AirSense 11 Turn Off Automatically?

Yes, the AirSense 11 features SmartStop technology which will automatically stop delivering therapy a few seconds after you remove or disconnect from your mask.

Does AirSense 11 Have Airplane Mode?

Yes, the AirSense 11’s Airplane Mode feature allows you to conveniently disable and re-enable data transfers after therapy or during travel. Simply tap “MORE” from the home screen, then swipe through the menu to find and enable or disable Airplane Mode. 

Does ResMed AirSense 11 Have an SD Card?

The ResMed AirSense 11 features an SD card slot for convenient data tracking on your device. It also wirelessly transmits data via cellular data to ResMed’s AirView Cloud service for viewing on your MyAir companion app. 

Does ResMed AirSense 11 Have a Battery?

Battery options are somewhat limited for the AirSense 11 until ResMed releases a DC power adapter, but CPAP batteries with standard AC outlets will power the AirSense 11. The Zopec Power Outlet 2 is a good choice for powering the AirSense 11 on the go, but the Portable Outlet UPS Battery is ideal because it can be used as a backup battery in the event of a power outage. When connected between your CPAP machine and a wall outlet, a backup battery will automatically switch to battery power when the power goes out, ensuring you don’t miss a beat of your CPAP therapy.

Is There a Replacement Hose for the AirSense 11?

Many standard hose replacements are available on our site, and ResMed’s ClimateLineAir™ 11 Heated Tube is available to be purchased separately. When you connect a ClimateLineAir Heated Tube to your AirSense 11, your machine will then be able to access the Automatic Climate Control Function, which will ensure you always have the perfect temperature and humidification with no rainout.

Can I Use the AirSense 10 Water Chamber, or Is There a New One Available for the AirSense 11?

The AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 water reservoirs are not interchangeable. With a replacement schedule of every 6 to 12 months or when it starts to show signs of wear and tear, ResMed’s Standard Water Chamber for AirSense™ 11 Humidair™ Heated Humidifier is available to be purchased separately if the included water chamber becomes damaged or needs to be replaced.

Are There Replacement Filters Available for the New AirSense 11 Machine?

For the air quality you’ve come to know and love, you can purchase replacement filters for the AirSense 11 on our website, including Disposable Hypoallergenic Filters and Disposable Standard Filters.

Does the AirSense 11 Support a Two-Filter Setup?

While the AirSense 11 only uses a single disposable filter, a hypoallergenic filter option is available for more protection from small airborne allergens for those who have frequent allergies, including those who are sensitive to polyester.

Final Thoughts

ResMed’s rollout of the AirSense 11 machine builds off the success of the much loved AirSense 10 while taking into account new users and customer feedback, excelling the AirSense 11 to the next level. With the added software improvements, integrated For Her version, and therapy tracking innovations, the ResMed AirSense 11 can take your therapy up a notch for your best night of rest.