Buying Guide

First time buying a CPAP machine? No problem. Here’s a handy guide to help you decide which machine is right for you.

1. Types of CPAP Machines

  • Standard CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): Delivers a fixed pressure throughout the night to hold your airway open, preventing sleep apnea events. 

  • APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure): APAP machines adjust pressure automatically based on your breathing patterns to only deliver the lowest pressure required to treat your sleep apnea. Most modern machines are APAPs now, but they typically offer a CPAP mode as well. 

  • BiPAP (Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure): Provides two different pressures for inhalation and exhalation rather than one continuous inhalation pressure. BiPAP machines are typically prescribed for people with Central Sleep Apnea, COPD, neurological diseases, or other conditions that significantly affect breathing.

The good news? Your prescription will dictate which type of machine you need. It’s good to be aware of what your options are, but when it comes to choosing, this part is decided by your healthcare provider.

2. Consider Your Lifestyle Needs

  • Travel-Friendly Options: If you travel frequently, it may be better to choose a portable CPAP machine. These are lightweight, compact, and often come with a carrying case. They’re also robust enough to be used at home full time, but are typically not as quiet as their full-sized counterparts.  

  • Noise Levels: If you’re more interested in something you’ll mostly be using at home, a full-sized machine is likely a better choice. These machines are quieter than their travel-sized counterparts and will typically still include a travel case.

There are no travel-sized BiPAP machines, but most travel devices offer both APAP and CPAP modes.

3. Comfort Features

  • Humidification: A built-in humidifier can prevent dryness and irritation. Most modern machines include an integrated heated humidifier, but you can still use them even without humidification. Modern travel machines typically offer some form of waterless humidification as well. 

  • Ramp Feature: This feature starts the machine at a lower pressure and gradually increases to the prescribed pressure, making it easier to fall asleep​. Most modern machines have this feature.

  • Pressure Relief: Pressure relief reduces incoming pressure while you are exhaling for a more comfortable and natural breathing experience. Also known as EPR, FLEX, AirRelief, Z-Breathe, EZEX, RESlex, IPR, or SensAwake.

    When it comes to comfort features, most modern machines will offer the same assortment. So, if your most important consideration is cost, rest assured that there isn't really a wrong choice here. 

    4. Data Tracking and Connectivity

    Modern CPAP machines often come with smart data tracking capabilities. These features can provide insights into your sleep patterns, monitor apnea events, and help you and your healthcare provider optimize your therapy.

    Some machines sync data to companion apps via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, while others use memory cards and are not connected to the internet.

    If you're just starting CPAP therapy, a smart machine is better. They'll allow your healthcare provider to follow your progress more closely and recommend changes to your therapy, helping you quickly figure out what works for you. 

    5. Budget Considerations

    While renting a CPAP machine might have lower initial costs, buying a machine usually saves money in the long run since these machines are designed to run for 5-10 years.

    Owning your CPAP machine empowers you to manage therapy on your own terms, without the constraints and anxiety that come with proving compliance to your insurance provider.

    6. Additional Considerations

    Virtually every machine, with the exception of ResMed’s AirMini, will allow you to use almost any CPAP mask since most masks use a standardized connection. There is no such thing as a "BiPAP" mask; you can choose from the same selection of masks whether you use an APAP, CPAP, or BiPAP.

    By taking the time to assess your unique needs and preferences, we hope that you’ll be more confident in choosing the right machine and feel more empowered to take control of your sleep health.

    For further details, find in-depth guides and reviews on our blog or connect with our CPAP Guides for personalized advice.