Finding the right CPAP mask will make all the difference in your sleep apnea treatment. Nasal CPAP masks, which create an airtight seal under or around the nose, are among the most popular mask styles thanks to their reduced footprint and versatility.

Traditional nasal masks are often ideal for active sleepers, those who primarily breathe through their nose, and people who cannot tolerate a nasal pillow mask. Here are some factors to consider as you read about our top picks for the best nasal CPAP mask:

• Sleeping Position
• Pressure Settings
• Activity Levels
• Feature Preferences

With over 200 CPAP mask options in our product catalog, we know a thing or two about choosing the right nasal CPAP mask. Below, we’re sharing our picks for top seven best nasal masks, starting with the AirFit N20 from ResMed, which features a comfortable nasal cradle design and easy-to-use headgear!

ResMed AirFit N20 Full Face Mask Details

Designed to fit 99% of CPAP users, the ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Mask recognizes every face is unique. By conforming to your face, the innovative InfinitySeal helps you get a just-right fit while reducing mask leaks. This mask is a win-win as it fits almost everyone and can accommodate almost any sleeping position!

Why We Chose This Mask

• InfinitySeal Cushion: The infinity seal is designed to comfortably sit along the contours of any face shape while creating a comfortable, secure seal around the nose.
• Flexible Frame: The AirFit N20 frame is designed to fit virtually any size head, and moves with you no matter what position you sleep in.
• Padded Headgear: The headgear is lined with soft padding that provides a gentle touch along the cheeks and head.
• Low-Profile Design: Unlike most traditional CPAP masks, the AirFit series is designed without forehead support, leaving your line of sight wide open.
• Adjustable Fit: This mask features four adjustable velcro straps just above the ears and along the jaw.
• Set-It-and-Forget-It Magnetic Clips: AirFit masks feature magnetic clips at the base of the mask, which allow you to easily take your mask off without undoing your mask fit.
• Quick-Release Elbow: The easy-to-use quick-release elbow makes it easy to detach from your CPAP hose for middle-of-the-night bathroom trips.
• Flexi-Tube: The included short hose makes it easy to turn over in bed without pulling your mask off and makes it easier to find a comfortable sleeping position.
• Swivel Connection: The swivel connection moves with you and reduces dragging. This makes it easier to get comfortable while falling asleep in almost any position.
• Interchangeable Cushion: The AirFit N20 cushion is interchangeable with the AirTouch N20 cushion and is made of soft memory foam , perfect for sensitive skin.

This Mask is Ideal For:

• Active Sleepers: The short tube and swivel connection make this mask a great option for anyone who moves around in their sleep.
• Side Sleepers: This mask is ideal for anyone who sleeps on their side, thanks to its secure straps, strong seal, and swivel-style hose connection.
• Watching TV or Reading: The open line of sight makes it easy to enjoy reading a book or watching TV in bed.
• Bathroom Trips: The easy-on-and-off magnetic clips and quick-release elbow make it easy to make quick trips out of bed, even in the dark.

Read our AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP mask review for more details 

ResMed AirFit N30 Nasal Mask Details

Featuring a minimalistic nasal cradle design and slip-on headgear, the AirFit N30 Nasal Mask is the definition of simple! It is incredibly quiet, producing only 18 decibels of sound. Plus, it can be assembled and disassembled in under a minute. The adjustable head strap pulls tight, creating a secure fit without velcro or clasps.

Why We Chose This Mask

• Quiet Technology: The AirFit N30 is one of the quietest CPAP masks on the market, producing only 18 decibels of sound.
• Nasal Cradle Design: The curved nasal cradle sits securely along the base of the nose and causes far fewer pressure points. Most reviewers find this far more comfortable than a traditional nasal mask.
• Contoured Shape: This mask has a very narrow profile, meaning it doesn’t stick out past the contours of the nose like a traditional mask. This design makes it much easier to wear while side or belly sleeping.
• Single Strap Headgear: The head strap is very comfortable, simple, and easy to use. This design causes fewer red marks and pressure points.
• Split-Strap Design: The AirFit N30 features a patented dove-tail design, in which the back of the head strap splits into two sections for additional support.
• Adjustable Fit: The head strap features an adjustable fit, which you pull to tighten.
• Flexi-Tube: This mask includes a short tube, which provides added flexibility when moving around and reduces pulling and dragging.
• Easy Assembly: The AirFit N30 is easy to assemble and take apart for cleaning. It features only three parts– a one-piece frame, the contoured cushion, and the elastic head strap.

This Mask Is Ideal For

• Active Sleepers: The nasal cradle design and flexi-tube make this mask perfect for anyone who moves around in bed.
• Any Sleeping Position: This mask is ideal for anyone who sleeps on their side or belly, thanks to the curved nasal cradle.
• Watching TV or Reading: Watching TV or reading a book is easy due to the open line of sight.
• Bathroom Trips: The easy-on-and-off elastic head strap makes bathroom trips a breeze.
• Nasal Pillow Alternative: The nasal cradle design is a great alternative for anyone who has struggled with discomfort while wearing a nasal pillow mask.

ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask Details

Registering at only 24 decibels, the ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask is considered quieter than a whisper. The AirFit N30i stays in place with even the most active sleepers while maintaining a secure seal thanks to comfortable hollow-frame tubing with a top-mounted hose connection to deliver your therapy air.

Why We Chose This Mask

• Quiet Technology: The AirFit N30i produces only 24 decibels of sound, which is said to be about the noise level of a whisper.
• Nasal Cradle Design: Many believe nasal cradles are more comfortable than traditional nasal masks because they are less bulky and cause fewer pressure points.
• Contoured Shape: Nasal cradles are contoured so that they do not stick out too far past the nose, unlike a traditional CPAP mask. This makes it easier to wear them in any sleeping position.
• Accordion-Style Hollow Frame: The hollow frame directs airflow from the top of the head to your mask. The unique accordion-style design allows your headgear to move with you, providing more flexibility than masks with similar frames.
• Top-of-the-Head Hose Connection: Top-of-the-head hose connections make it easier to move around in bed without pulling or getting tangled in your CPAP hose.
• Swivel Hose Connection: This mask features a 360° swivel hose connection, letting you turn over without getting caught in your tubing.
• Adjustable Velcro Straps: The AirFit N30i is adjustable with Velcro straps at the back of the head.
• Soft-Silicone Headgear: The soft silicone headgear is gentle on your skin and places less pressure on your cheeks.
• Interchangeable Headgear: The hollow frame headgear is interchangeable with ResMed’s AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask .

This Mask Is Ideal For

• Active Sleepers: The top of the head hose connection makes it much easier to move around in bed.
• Any Sleeping Position: Side or even belly sleeping is no problem, thanks to the unique hose connection, soft silicone headgear, and low-profile nasal cradle design.
• CPAP Claustrophobia: The AirFit N30i is perfect for people who struggle with feeling claustrophobic, thanks to its low-profile nasal cradle design.
• Watching TV or Reading: This mask offers an open line of sight that makes it easy to watch TV or read a book in bed.
• Nasal Pillow Alternative: A nasal cradle mask is a good solution for anyone who struggles with wearing a nasal pillow mask because of rubbing and nose sensitivity.

Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal Mask Details

The Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask is the OG top-of-the-head CPAP mask. Along with a contoured nasal cradle, this innovative design allows you to sleep in almost any position at night. Meanwhile, the hollow-frame headgear limits pressure points and prevents red marks.

Why We Chose This Mask

• Quiet Technology: The DreamWear Nasal Mask produces 25 decibels of sound, which is said to be just above a whisper.
• Nasal Cradle Design: Nasal cradle masks are often preferred over traditional masks because they are far less bulky and cause fewer pressure points.
• Contoured Shape: Contoured nasal cradles have a narrow profile, which allows them to sit against the base of the nose without extending too far past your facial profile. This allows you to sleep on your side without pushing your mask off your face.
• Lightweight Hollow Frame: This mask features a lightweight hollow frame, which directs airflow from your hose connection to your mask.
• Top-of-the-Head Hose Connection: A top-of-the-head hose connection lets you get comfortable without pulling your mask off.
• Swivel Hose Connection: The 360° swivel makes it easy to move around without getting tangled in your CPAP hose.
• Adjustable Velcro Straps: The DreamWear Nasal Mask is adjustable with Velcro straps at the back of the head.
• Soft-Silicone Headgear: Soft silicone headgear puts less pressure on your face and head.
• Interchangeable Headgear: The hollow frame headgear can be interchanged with ResMed’s DreamWear Nasal Pillow Masks .

This Mask Is Ideal For

• Active Sleepers: The top of the head hose connection makes it easy to move around in bed without getting tangled.
• Any Sleeping Position: The nasal cradle design and top-of-the-head hose connection make finding a comfortable sleep position easy.
• CPAP Claustrophobia: Due to its low-profile design, the DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask is perfect for people who feel claustrophobia while wearing other CPAP masks.
• Watching TV or Reading: This mask offers an open line of sight to watch TV or read a book in bed.
• Nasal Pillow Alternative: Nasal cradle masks are perfect for people who like the design of a nasal pillow mask but can’t tolerate having nasal pillows inserted into their nostrils.

Circadience SleepWeaver Advance Cloth Nasal Mask Details

Different than any other traditional nasal mask on the market, the SleepWeaver Nasal CPAP Mask is crafted with your comfort in mind and is ideal for those who have sensitive skin. This plastic-free mask features a balloon-style interface made with a soft cloth material to help alleviate skin irritation.

Why We Chose This Mask

• Made of Breathable Fabric: This fabric mask is gentle on the skin and won’t cause pressure points or red marks. It also eliminates sweat and excess moisture.
• Lightweight: This mask is much more lightweight than other over-the-nose masks.
• Zzzephyr Seal: The new and improved Zzzephyr seal fits more face shapes and provides a strong, secure seal all night. Zzzephyr minimizes leaks and makes it easier to sleep in any position.
• Adjustable Velcro Straps: The SleepWeaver features adjustable Velcro straps on either side of the mask and at the top of the forehead.
• Additional Extender Strap: This mask includes an extra extender strap for larger faces and heads.

This Mask is Ideal For

• Any Sleeping Position: The soft-shell mask lets you sleep comfortably in any position.
• Watching TV or Reading: This mask offers an open line of sight for watching TV or reading a book in bed.
• Sensitive Skin: This soft mask is perfect for anyone who struggles with skin irritation or red marks.

Read our SleepWeaver Nasal CPAP Mask Review for more details 

Philips Respironics ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask Details

With a flexible gel cushion, the ComfortGel Blue Nasal CPAP Mask is as comfortable as it is secure. This mask conforms to the exact shape of your face while the newly designed exhalation ports reduce noise, letting you get a good night’s sleep!

Why We Chose This Mask

• ComfortGel Cushion: The ComfortGel cushion sits securely along the contours of your face, minimizing the risk of mask leaks.
• Silicone Forehead Support: The forehead support helps to create a strong seal with forehead support. The silicone padding reduces pressure on the forehead.
• Fabric Headgear: The soft fabric headgear puts less pressure on your head and cheeks.
• Extended Sizing: Multiple sizes are available, including extra small and large.
• Adjustable Fit: This mask features four adjustable velcro straps just above the ears and along the jaw.

This Mask is Ideal For

• High-Pressure Settings: This mask is perfect for anyone needing a secure seal that stays in place even at high-pressure settings.
• Preventing Airleaks When Other Masks Don’t Work: Many people who struggle with air leaks tend to prefer the ComfortGel Blue because of its secure seal and adjustable headgear.

Fisher & Paykel Evora Nasal Mask Details

The  Fisher & Paykel Evora Nasal Mask  is no doubt the easiest-to-use nose mask on the market. Its sleek nasal cradle allows it to rest comfortably under your nose, no matter your sleeping position. Evora’s standout feature is its cap-fit headgear, which is worn similarly to a baseball cap and provides more support than similar models.

Why We Chose This Mask

• Quiet Technology: The F&P Evora mask produces less than 25 decibels of sound, similar to a whisper.
• Nasal Cradle Design: The nasal cradle sits under the nose, rather than putting pressure on the sides and bridge of the nose.
• Contoured Shape: Nasal cradle masks have a shallow profile, meaning they don’t stick out nearly as far as a traditional over-the-nose mask. This makes it easier to sleep on your side or belly.
• Stong Seal: The floating cushion ensures a strong seal that fits your face perfectly and stays in place no matter how much you move.
• Soft Straps: Soft-to-the-touch head straps run along the cheeks and across the back of your head for additional support that moves with you.
• Cap-Fit Headgear: The Evora offers a unique cap-fit design, which allows you to adjust your headgear for a more secure fit. Simply put the mask on and tighten the top belt.
• Set-It-and-Forget-It Adjustments: The cap-fit design lets you put your mask on and remove it without readjusting your headgear settings.
• Adjustable Backstrap: This nasal CPAP mask features an adjustable velcro strap at the back of the head.
• Short-Tube: This mask comes with F&P’s short tube, allowing you to move more freely.
• Easy Assembly: The F&P Evora is very easy to assemble, with only a few parts.

This Mask is Ideal For

• Active Sleepers: The Evora Nose Mask is an excellent option for active sleepers due to its unique seal design, short tube, and nasal cradle.
• Any Sleeping Position: Nasal cradle masks are highly recommended to anyone who sleeps on their belly or stomach.
• CPAP Claustrophobia: This mask is perfect for anyone with CPAP claustrophobia, thanks to its low profile and minimalistic design.
• Watching TV or Reading: A nasal cradle mask allows for an open line of sight and makes it easy to watch TV or read a book before bed.
• Nasal Pillow Alternative: Nasal cradle masks are often described as the alternative to nasal pillows due to the similar mask shells and minimalist headgear.

Read our Evora Nasal CPAP Mask Review for more details

Nasal CPAP masks are often considered the happy medium between full face masks and nasal pillows. They are specifically designed for those who breathe through their nose . Many people say they cause less irritation compared to nasal pillows.

There are two main types of nasal CPAP masks:

• Traditional-Style Masks: These masks fit over the entire nose, extending from the bridge of the nose down to the upper lip. They are better suited for people who need higher-pressure CPAP therapy.
• Nasal Cradles: These are a great alternative to nasal pillow masks. They sit just under the nose and are held in place with minimal headgear. These masks are great for stomach or side sleepers because they are less likely to be pushed aside by your pillow.

Benefits of a Nasal CPAP Mask

Nose-only masks are ideal for active sleepers and people who breathe through their nose or require higher pressure settings. Nasal CPAP masks enhance comfort and often make it easy to remain CPAP therapy-compliant . The benefits of choosing a nasal mask include:

• A more gentle flow of air compared to nasal pillows
• Multiple style options for every facial feature and head shape
• Fewer facial touch points for less irritation
• Options for back, stomach, and side sleepers
• Styles that can accommodate higher pressure settings

Drawbacks of a Nasal CPAP Mask

There are some drawbacks to nasal masks. They aren’t suitable for everyone. You should not choose a nose-only CPAP mask if you:

• Frequently experience chronic sinus blockages or irritation
• Have a deviated septum or other condition that prevents you from nose breathing
• Some people experience mask leaks at very high-pressure settings

Considerations When Choosing the Right Nasal Mask for You

There are several things you should take into account when deciding whether or not a nose CPAP mask is right for you, including breathing style, sleeping position, and CPAP pressure setting.

• Price: The best nasal CPAP masks don’t have to be expensive! CPAP masks usually range between $50 and $170.
• Breathing Style: People who breathe through their mouth may not be able to use a nose-only CPAP mask without a chinstrap or mouth tape .
• Facial Features: If you have trouble getting your mask to seal correctly due to your face shape or facial hair, look for a mask with contoured mask cushions or nasal cradles .
• Cushion Type: Most masks are made of silicone. However, if you have sensitive skin, you can also look for a gentle cushion made with memory foam, fabric, or gel.
• Headgear Support: Some traditional-style masks require forehead support, which can block your line of site. However, that extra support can help reduce air leaks and mask slipping.
• Pressure Settings: Traditional-style CPAP masks often work better for higher CPAP pressure settings than nasal cradle masks.
• Dexterity: If you struggle with dexterity issues, such as arthritis, look for a mask that is easy to tighten, put on, and take off. Try to avoid CPAP headgear that adjusts at the back of the head. Masks with magnetic clasps are an excellent solution.
• Sleeping Position: Nasal cradles are often considered the better option for people who sleep on their belly or side.
• Device Compatibility: Most popular CPAP masks are compatible with all the major CPAP machines (except some travel machines). Still, it’s good to double-check that your mask pairs with your CPAP machine.

What Is the Difference Between the AirFit N20, N30, and N30i Masks?

What Are the Best CPAP Masks for Nose Breathers?

The best CPAP mask depends on the person. A nasal pillow or cradle mask may be ideal if your CPAP air pressure isn’t too high. However, a traditional over-the-nose CPAP mask may be better if your CPAP pressure is higher.

Can a Mouthbreather Use a Nasal CPAP Mask?

It depends on the reason why you are breathing through your mouth. If you’re doing it out of habit, you can practice breathing through your nose, use a chinstrap, or try CPAP mouth taping.

What Is the Difference Between the AirFit N30i and the DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask?

The DreamWear series was the first ever top-of-the-head CPAP mask, but the design hasn’t changed much since then. ResMed’s AirFit N30i has two main improvements– an accordion-style frame for better flexibility and a soft-touch wrap along the lower half of the frame. 

The AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP Mask from ResMed checks a lot of boxes for active sleepers who need a mask that can handle high-pressure settings. Still, it’s important to consider all of your personal needs and sleeping habits before selecting the best nasal CPAP mask for you!