If you’re looking for a quiet and flexible mask, then the AirFit N30i Nasal CPAP Mask has your name written all over it. However, if you’re questioning how it stacks up against the Respironics DreamWear Nasal, then we have you covered!
And with the two masks looking and working so similar, it’s definitely an expected comparison. Choosing a CPAP mask can be a tough task between masks that are vastly different so how can users decide between two that are so similar in design? By comparing the two masks, we will show you where the N30i may have a leg up on the DreamWear and vice versa so you can pick the right mask for you.
Let’s dig into our ResMed AirFit N30i vs Respironics DeamWear review.
ResMed AirFit N30i vs. Respironics DreamWear
The key difference between the ResMed AirFit N30i and Respironics DreamWear is in the frame. The N30i frame has notching to allow the mask to expand. Unlike the DreamWear which has the traditional frame sizes of small, medium, and large, the N30i only has two sizes of standard and small due to the flexibility to adapt with your facial shape.
Both the N30i and DreamWear are CPAP nasal masks, meaning they cover the nostrils to provide therapy air, and they both do so by using a nasal cradle style cushion. The cushion “cradles” the bottom of the nose as opposed to more traditional nasal masks that cover part or all of your nose.
Let’s explore some differences between the AirFit N30i and the DreamWear:
| ResMed AirFit N30i | Respironics DreamWear | |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping Position | Side and Active Sleepers | Side and Active Sleepers |
| Open Line of Sight? | √ | √ |
| Hollow Frame Design? | √ | √ |
| 360 Degree Swivel? | √ | √ |
| Cost Range | Less Than $100 | Around $100 |
| Average Customer Rating | 4.4 Out of 5 | 4.6 Out of 5 |
Is the N30i Easy To Use?
The N30i matches the DreamWear in the ease of use category with the only adjustment required done via the velcro tabs on the headgear. The velcro tabs allow for the tightening or loosening of the mask as needed. The AirFit N30i is easily put on by loosening the headgear, slipping the mask over your face, and then tightening the headgear appropriately before use.
Is the N30i Easy to Maintain?
With just four main parts (cushion, frame, headgear, and elbow), the N30i is easy to use and maintain. However, like the Dreamwear, the hollow frame can require more attention when cleaning. There is one area where the N30i does better in this category: the detachable elbow. While both masks have elbows that detach, the N30i uses a clicking tab system that is easier to use than the DreamWear’s elbow which requires insertion into the frame.
How Quiet Is the N30i?
ResMed states that the N30i has a sound level rating of 24 decibels, making it one of the quietest masks on the market. With venting at both the nose cushion and at the elbow on top, it helps to disperse exhaled air for a quieter experience.
Is the N30i Active Sleeper Friendly?
Calling all active sleepers—we have great news! Both the DreamWear and the N30i offer a top-notch experience for active sleepers. The hollow frames paired with the hose connection at the top of the frame allow for sleeping in almost any position.
Does the N30i Have an Open Line of Sight?
If you enjoying reading or watching television before bed, you can’t go wrong with either mask. The hollow frame design allows for a clear field of vision. Other masks require stabilization pieces that obstruct the user’s eyesight. However, the N30i, along with the DreamWear, utilize a unique design to avoid any part of the mask touching or interfering with the area around your eyes, which allows for an improved bedtime experience.
How Comfortable Is the N30i Cushion?
The N30i has a nasal cradle cushion, meaning it helps increase comfort and reduce irritation by cradling the bottom of your nose. The mask has two slots for the cushion to seal with both nostrils. This design keeps the touchpoints minimal and the overall design lightweight and user-friendly. The DreamWear also has a nasal cradle cushion.
How Comfortable Is the N30i Headgear?
With the AirFit N30i using the frame as the major component of the mask, the headgear becomes less involved and instrumental to the fit and comfort. The headgear only tightens and loosens the mask on the face using the two velcro connections on either side of the back of the frame, making adjustments minimal and easy to accomplish. This also means the headgear is a single size, making ordering and replacing parts even easier. The DreamWear evenly matches the N30i in this category.
What Is the Cost Difference Between the N30i and the DreamWear?
Though it’s on the higher-end of nasal masks, the price point (which is the same as the DreamWear) comes in around the middle of the pack for masks. Overall, when you consider the higher-priced full face masks, these two masks are reasonably priced. The N30i delivers several innovative improvements over other nasal masks, making it fairly priced.
Is the N30i Unique Compared to the DreamWear?
This category is one where the N30i wins. The N30i frame, unlike the DreamWear, has integrated notching which allows for expansion of the frame material. This feature is what allows ResMed to offer just two frame sizes: standard, which fits most users and small for those with smaller faces and features. The DreamWear has a traditional three size approach: small, medium, and large. While both frames have a unique hollow design, the N30i edges out the DreamWear with its additional innovations.
Sizing Variety of the N30i
The AirFit N30i nasal mask is available in two frame sizes: small and standard. In addition, there are four cushion sizes: small, small wide, medium, and wide. The four cushion sizes match the number found on the DreamWear. The DreamWear comes in small, medium, and large.
Other Possible Considerations
Although the N30i was compared directly to the DreamWear Nasal Mask in our review, another factor to consider is that the DreamWear is now a family of masks, including the nasal, nasal pillow, and full face mask versions. If you are one who enjoys easily switching between different mask versions if one doesn’t work out or due to varying circumstances, the DreamWear may be the mask for you.
Both masks are currently compatible with almost all CPAP machines with the exception of the ResMed Airmini Travel CPAP Machine, which has its own unique mask offerings.
Which Is the Winner? Which Is Better for You?
The truth is—it will all depend on what you’re looking for. Pick the categories above that matters the most to you and choose based upon the features available. We do have a free 30-day return policy so you can try them out with confidence that if it doesn’t work out, it can be returned for a refund or exchanged during that trial period.
Based upon our ResMed AirFit N30i review, the N30i slightly edges out the DreamWear nasal mask head-to-head. The N30i is a quiet and innovative mask that offers immense flexibility. However, if you’re looking for the versatility to switch between other masks in the DreamWear family, then that may be the mask for you.
When compared to the DreamWear, one of the key differences between the N30i and the DreamWear is the overall quietness of the N30i, which is only 24 decibels. The N30i has a SpringFit frame to allow the mask to mold to your unique facial shape, giving you an added level of flexibility.
Our customers are loving the N30i thanks to the improved cushion stability and note that it is great for side sleepers. When compared to the DreamWear, our customers prefer the headgear fit on the N30i since it provides a secure seal. However, your CPAP mask fit is personal—if you are struggling with the DreamWear, then the N30i may be a good choice for you!
Chris has been involved in the CPAP world since 2012 and has immersed himself in learning about Sleep Apnea and the CPAP options available for users. Chris has become knowledgeable about machines, masks, and accessories and keeps up to date with new, innovative products.
28 thoughts on “ResMed AirFit N30i Review: Is It Better Than the Respironics DreamWear?”
Hi
Any idea if the ResMed AirFit N30i can be use in the ResMed Airmini Travel CPAP Machine in the future?
Hi Angel, I am not sure. There is a possibility, but as of now ResMed has not informed us of any changes to expect that will allow the AirFit F30 to be used with the AirMini. We can remain hopeful!
Please feel free to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221, with further questions, or concerns.
Have a great weekend!
No it can’t be used with the ResMed Airmini Travel CPAP Machine. I just purchased the ResMed AirFit N30i yesterday and was told it is not compatible with the airmini.
Hey Joyce, that is correct! Hopefully, at some point ResMed will produce an adapter that will allow more masks to be used with the AirMini. As of now the mask options for the AirMini are: AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow, AirFit N20 Nasal, Airfit F20 Full Face, AirTouch F20 Full Face and AirFit F30 Full Face.
Have a wonderful day!
Angel,
You have probably worked it out.by now.
I used the N20 starter pack with air mini standard hosing.
I then obtained standard 22 mm hose with rubber ends, cut the connector off above the humidification cylinder. The air mini tubing is then inserted into the larger tubing and sealed on the outside with silicone tape. It works fine , no leaks and you can still use humid X if you need.
Hope this helps while Res Med actually mama a connector for the N30 and P30. (it with be the same).
Alan.
I user the Resmed P10 and it was much quiet than the new one that I just bought the N30i, It’s so noisy and very hard for me to sleep with that noise, it feels very well on face and comfortable and no air leak. but the noise makes me crazy and hard to fall a sleep…
Hello,
I am very sorry to hear that your N30i is giving you some noise concerns. This mask is ordinarily considered to be whisper quiet. Since you are having noise concerns, please double-check your mask to make certain that it is connected properly. Also, please be sure that you are using the correct size. If the mask is the wrong size, it will have leaks and in turn you will hear noise.
If you would like to go through some troubleshooting steps over the phone to see if we are able to determine where the sound is coming from, please feel to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221.
We wish you the best!
The N30i is the loudest mask I have used. All the air rushing noise is generated at the top elbow. The noise is not dissimilar to when the main hose is disconnected and the air rushes out. The other loud noise is generated when the top exhaust port touches the pillow, which is bound to happen.
My wife has also complained about the noise this mask generates. She also complains about the exhaust air from the nasal pillow exhaust, which is not diffused that well.
My P10 is many times quieter than the N30i. I so wish I did not buy this mask.
Hi Steve, i’m very sorry that the N30i, did not work out for you. We understand that every individual person is different and a mask that works perfect for one, may make someone else miserable. This is why CPAP.com has a wide variety of masks to choose from and we offer free 30 day returns on all complete masks sold.
The Airfit P10, is an excellent mask, so I can see why you’d consider it better than the N30i. If you would like to speak with us further regarding the N30i, or anything else, please feel free to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221, or you may e-mail cpap@cpap.com.
We wish you the best!
Have used a lot of different masks. N30i is by the best I have used. Hose does not get tangled up. Quiet with one annoying problem. Occasionally during the night there is a high pitched “squeal” which waked me up. Adjust the mask and go back to sleep. Can’t figure out where it is coming from. Love it, other than this.
Hi Jim, we are glad to hear that the N30i seems to be working pretty well for you. The high pitched squeal that you are hearing may be a mask leak. If you would like to go through some troubleshooting, please feel free to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221.
Enjoy your week!
I previously used the Dreamwear nasal, with my only complaint being frequent skin irritation on my nasal septum. Switched over to the N30i a few months ago, and it has been amazing! Hoping my insurance will cover the next one.
Hey Ron, that is wonderful! I’m glad to hear that you have found a mask that is seemingly working well for you.
Please feel free to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221, with any question, or concerns.
Have a great day!
I purchased the N30i and love it. The straps are very comfortable and the mask is very quiet.
My husband says it is too quiet because he is used to the noise of my old masks and it helps him go to sleep. Guess I’ll have to get him a white noise machine!
Hey Joyce, Lol! Too quiet is a good problem to have in most cases. We are happy to hear that your N30i is working out so well for you! Yes, get your husband the White Noise Machine and continue enjoying your mask!
We wish you continued success, have a great day!
There is another benefit to the N30i that wasn’t mentioned in this review, that I don’t believe the DreamWear has. I am ASSUMING it doesn’t have it anyway, since I just tried the very new DreamWisp (full nasal mask but uses the same frame system as the N30i/DreamWear uses) and it doesn’t have the benefit. IF the Dreamwear has it, then one would think ALL the new top of head connecting frames would also have it going forward.
The benefit…..The N30i has a quick connect coupling where the hose connects to the mask. So if you need to get up in the night, you simply press in two tabs (one on either side) and the hose coupling comes off the frame and remains with the hose. No need to pull the hose end off the coupling. It works great and is easier to reattach the hose to the mask again! Surprised this wasn’t mentioned under the UNIQUENESS category.
Hey Jeff, thank you for your feedback regarding the quick release benefit for the N30i. The DreamWear Nasal Mask uses a quick-release swivel to allow users to easily and rapidly remove the mask from the hose when needed. This is the same feature that the N30i has. However, you are correct in stating that the DreamWisp, does not have this feature, it uses magnetic clips in an effort to make it easy to take off and put on the mask.
Please feel free to reach us with further questions, or concerns at: 1-800-356-5221.
Enjoy your day!
I tried the N30i and most of it is great except the pillows. The small wide and wide pillows are way to flat and only sit at the bottom of your nose. They don’t keep position if you move around while sleeping. DreamWear pillows come up some on the sides of your nose enough to keep it in place. Wish you had more pillow designs..
Hi Pasco, thank you for your feedback! Hopefully, the manufacturer will add some additional size pillows at some point. Please be sure to sign-up for our newsletter by visiting cpap.com. If other sizes become available, you will receive an e-mail advising.
Please feel free to reach us with any further questions, or concerns at: 1-800-356-5221, or you may e-mail us at: cpap@cpap.com.
Enjoy your day!
When will Res Med release an adapter/ connection to enable N 30i to be used with the Air Mini?
Hi Alan, my apologies, but we haven’t received any updates from ResMed as to when, or even if at some point the N30i could be used with the AirMini.
I would encourage you to sign up for our Newsletter on CPAP.com, if you haven’t already. If there are any new, or updated products, we usually announce them in our Newsletter.
For further questions, or concerns, please feel free to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221.
Have a great day!
I have been using CPAP since the 1990’s. I have had many different masks. The N30i is the best mask I have ever used. It took a little to fit me. I settled on the small head unit, which surprised me, but it does fit. I tried medium nose but it didn’t fit my nostrils correctly. I went to the standard small. It fits perfectly. I am not a small person but heck if this fits and works great I will take it. No leaks. Low noise. I can sleep in any position except standing on my head. The mask stays where it set when I went to sleep. Very easy to remove. On my other masks I had air constantly leaking and getting into my eyes. Not with the N30i. My other masks put a lot of pressure on my face and on my top teeth, but not the N30i. It just lightly rests under the nose and stays there. If I wake up at night I can put my glasses on if I choose and no issues or I can remove the mask by grasping the nose piece and lightly lifting it off my nose and I can put it back on by reversing the process. I don’t think this could be made more convenient or comfortable. Thanks.
Hi James, that is wonderful! We are so happy for you that you have found a mask that seems to really work for you.
We wish you continued success with your CPAP therapy, have a great day!
Switched from the nose pillows that sit just inside your nostrils, wish this did. I love the head gear but cannot get it to stop leaking. I’ve tried different size pillows, adjusting the straps, all to no use. If I get lucky and stop the leak, better not blink too hard because it starts leaking again. Plus the noise is awful. I’ve had it for four days now and have had a red face on the machine every time. Going to give it a few more try’s before I switch back.
Hey Mike, i’m sorry to hear that your N30i mask isn’t working out for you. Unfortunately, not all masks will be a good fit for everyone. Please keep in mind that if you purchased your mask from us (CPAP.com), it was sold with free 30 day returns. You may return the mask for a refund, or a different mask.
Also, we have a new mask that you may be able to get a better seal with. Please see the link below for detailed information on the N30 Mask.
https://www.cpap.com/productpage/resmed-airfit-n30-nasal-cpap-mask-with-headgear
For further questions, or concerns, please feel free to reach us at: 1-800-356-5221, or you may e-mail us at: cpap@cpap.com.
Have a great day!
I have used both and feel the Respironics dreamwear cushion more comfortable.
Nikt nie pisze że pduszki N30i są słabej jakości ,używam cpap od 5 miesięcy po 2 miesiącach rozkleiła mi się przy plastiku m którą zareklamowalem,i zacząłem używać rozmiar s i dziś ponownie ten sam problem .
Hey Mariusz, i’m sorry that your mask isn’t working out for you. The experience you’re having with the mask isn’t the experience of most users for that mask. Please keep in mind that each person is different, you may need to select a different mask for your comfort.
Please feel free to contact us at: 1-800-356-5221 for assistance in selecting a different mask that may fit you better. Also, if you purchased your N30i from CPAP.com, please keep in mind that the mask was sold with free 30 day returns.
We hope to hear from you soon!