Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, is a kind of positive airway pressure (PAP) ventilation that applies pressure higher than that of the atmosphere to the upper airway. CPAP machines are currently most used for acute decompensated heart failure and obstructive sleep apnea.
The latter is a medical condition that affects nearly 22 million Americans. When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to many problems—from high blood pressure to cardiovascular problems, chronic heart failure, and even stroke.
With that in mind, finding the best CPAP machine for your needs should be taken seriously.
To be more precise, you need a device that:
To help you find a perfect match, we’ve compiled a list of the best devices on the market. Please follow through to find an ideal unit for you.
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Now, it’s high time we dived into the fascinating world of CPAP machines. It’s an immense pleasure to start off with a CPAP machine that managed to garner a lot of attention.
If you’re looking for the best auto CPAP device, chances are you’ve already come across the DreamStation Auto CPAP from Philips Respironics. The brand’s flagship auto-machine provides the best of what years of experience and digital advancements have to offer.
With an intuitive menu and a front-facing display, DreamStation is easy to use both when lying down and sitting up in the bed.
Then, prominent features, like SmartRamp, A-Flex Pressure Relief, and Mask Fit Check, help users adjust the machine to their needs.
What’s more, backed by the built-in Bluetooth connectivity, the device monitors and summarizes the effectiveness of an overnight session and allows the data to be further analyzed through the app.
As the best-rated CPAP machine, DreamStation boasts an optional heating humidifier and heated tube. Both are easily connected to the machine and can be adjusted through the display.
The heated tube also prevents a rainout and offers much greater humidity levels, especially when compared with other non-heated tubes. Please note that these attachments are to be purchased additionally.
On the other hand, some users have stated that the device can become noisy over time and that it’s prone to a few minor software bugs. Some of those can be easily fixed, while others may require reaching out to customer support.
All in all, we suggest going through the CPAP machine’s reviews for a more informed decision.
Weighing only 0.65 lbs, HDM’s Z2 Auto Travel CPAP is hands down the best travel CPAP machine for those on the go.
While Z2 comes with a 4-foot long Slim Style tubing, you can always opt for other options. Namely, you can choose from a 6-foot long Slim Style tubing or any standard tubing.
When it comes to masks, Z2 offers the freedom of choice as the machine can connect to any standard CPAP mask.
As an auto CPAP, the machine monitors and adjusts the therapy. There is also a Ramp feature and a Z-Breathe algorithm. When Ramp is on, the pressure starts low and then increases over the preset time.
Now, Z-Breathe is just as helpful as it smoothes pressure spikes with each exhale. You can also choose between three pressure relief settings—mild, moderate, and aggressive.
The Z2 CPAP machine’s comparison with its predecessor, Z1, shows that Z2 is a much quieter machine as the added Qtube inline reduces dynamic and static noise in both the mask and the machine.
To top it all off, you can connect the unit to the NiteLog app to track all the important data.
Lastly, most users were satisfied with the size of this machine. However, the 4-foot long tubing is deemed somewhat short in several reviews. A few users also pointed out insufficient air volume.
When it comes to the quality cutting-edge tech, the AirCurve 10 VPAP is probably the best CPAP machine on the market right now. This sophisticated unit minimizes discomfort in all crucial areas while treating the symptoms of sleep apnea.
The machine features three different operational modes—CPAP, bi-level, and spontaneous (S). The first mode offers access to conventional CPAP therapy. The bi-level setting adjusts to the patient’s breathing pattern and ensures that adequate pressure is being deployed throughout therapy. Finally, the spontaneous mode lets users fine-tune the maximum and minimum respiration time limits.
These features, coupled with Easy-Breathe Waveform tech, let patients calibrate highly personalized therapy. The said technology detects and mimics individual breathing patterns. In addition, it’s complete with Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR), which provides constant relief by reducing pressure for each exhale and building pressure back up during inhalation.
So, is the AirWave 10 the best CPAP machine for severe sleep apnea? You could give this machine a try, for sure. This machine offers a fairly effortless CPAP experience with convenient auto start/stop features, Ramp function, and intricate functionality.
Speaking of the latter, the machine offers complex algorithms and special mechanisms, namely, Vsync Leak Management and TiControl. Vsync Leak Management recognizes the instances of leakage and compensates for its occurrence.
TiControl, the before-mentioned feature’s counterpart, allows users to set time limits for spontaneous flow cycling, which helps tackle the problems that might arise, such as insufficient breathing.
That being said, most people with lighter symptoms don’t really need such a complex device at such a high price. In other words, there are more affordable options out there that will do the job, not breaking one’s bank.
Who says that the top CPAP machines have to come with a high price tag? XT Fit from Apex Medical is a light, intuitive device at an attractive price for a CPAP machine.
The petite dimensions make this machine ideal for those who need an in-home CPAP machine or a CPAP machine to travel with.
Even with an integrated humidifier, the unit is remarkably compact and comes with a built-in power supply, making many users cite it as the best CPAP machine. That’s because most CPAP devices need an external supply—one more item to carry and pay for.
To top it all off, the device is FAA-approved, meaning you can take it on commercial flights.
To our delight, XT Fit also comes with some advanced features. These include Ramp function, a built-in heated humidifier, and a LED-lit screen, to name a few.
XT Fit might not be the smallest CPAP machine on the list, but it still makes traveling convenient, and it has all the features most people would expect from such a device.
That being said, it might not be a go-to for those who want more special mechanisms and complex algorithms that are becoming commonplace even in smaller, travel-sized devices.
Marketed as one of the quietest CPAP machines, the F&P SleepStyle was designed with ease of use in mind. This simplicity is also backed up by the Arthritis Foundation, which also nominated this machine as the easiest device to use.
SleepStyle is also small, making it ideal for travel or for bedroom use as it doesn’t take up much space. Under only 4 lbs, it’s also pretty light, even though there are some lighter machines on this list.
Larger buttons, a simple interface, and intuitive controls place SleepStyle among the top-rated CPAP machines. The machine’s quality hardware enables a patient to make full use of the controls and settings.
SenseAwake feature, for instance, notices when you wake up and automatically reduces the pressure levels. This feature makes the device a great option for those who frequently wake up at night and find sudden pressure spikes inconvenient. Finally, Ramp and Expiratory Relief make the experience complete.
That being said, the sleep apnea machine’s reviews pointed to the Bluetooth connectivity issues and occasional software problems along with possible mask leakage. Also, a handful of users mentioned they had less than satisfactory experiences with the manufacturer’s customer support.
The best travel CPAP machines nowadays are great for home use too, and IntelliPAP AutoAdjust from Devilbiss is no different in that regard. At just 4.45 lbs, this device (plus a humidifier) is an excellent choice for both home use and travel.
What’s more, the machine boasts a great build that keeps humidifiers from leaking, giving you peace of mind on the road. Automatically adjusting to altitude changes, IntelliPAP is a great travel companion, as well as one of the quietest machines at just 26 dBA.
In addition, the unit automatically alters pressure to ensure good sleep with the help of Ramp and Exhalation Relief features. The latter offers three levels of adjustable pressure reduction. Another great feature of the machine is the apnea and hypopnea detection that tailors therapy to your needs.
As far as the CPAP machine’s pricing goes, IntelliPAP is among the more affordable devices, making it a go-to for those shopping on a tight budget. Rightfully so, may we add, as the machine’s heated humidifier can be easily used with other DeVilbiss’ CPAP devices.
As far as the reviews go, users pointed out that, at times, the machine couldn’t determine the ideal pressure. Several users also noted that some units were somewhat noisy. To top it all off, filling the humidifier reservoir was found to be a bothersome task by some.
All in all, deemed the best by many, this cheap CPAP machine is totally worth looking into if you’re short on money, yet you want to get the best out of a machine of this price range.
Is AirMini the best mini CPAP machine? Well, since it’s a travel-friendly, quiet machine with several powering options, it certainly qualifies as one of the top contenders.
Compatible with different masks, this light model (at just 0.66 lbs) packs a punch as it boasts multiple comfort settings.
It comes out of the box with either ResMed Airfit N20 or P10 CPAP masks. The latter has a built-in waterless HumidX, making traveling with the unit even more simple.
Airmini might also be the best CPAP machine for camping since you can plug the device into a car cigarette lighter, or you can use a battery paired with an inverter.
The device also comes with a Ramp feature and an automatic start/stop option that can make a huge difference not just at home but during traveling as well.
The data tracking options are—typically for Resmed products—great, reliable, and insightful, helping patients to track their therapy.
With these features, Airmini is clearly a great and versatile product. However, if you are only looking for a simple no-thrills travel machine, this device might be on the pricier side. Also, the CPAP machine’s reviews pointed to the noisiness of the mask.
Cited as the best sleep apnea machine by its satisfied users, Breas’ Vivo 40 BiPAP is an expertly designed, high-quality device that produces above-average results.
This small machine sports flexible power options, an array of comfort settings, an easy-to-read LCD system, and even a built-in alarm clock.
The device works with the manufacturer’s Target Volume technology, which allows automatic pressure adjustments and fine-tunes the amount of needed expiratory pressure relief.
What’s more, the device features the so-called eSync Technology, which synchronizes with the breathing effort to deliver just the right amount of pressure for each breath.
Breas’ Vivo 40 BiPap is its best CPAP device that’s equally reliable for hospital and home use. Backed by the exceptional craftsmanship, advanced technology features, and overall integrated design, it’s no wonder that this machine has made it to our list of the best devices.
By and large, it’s a multifunctional machine, with its biggest downside being the price. Most users simply don’t need CPAP, PSV, and PCV modes all in one unit, especially at the given price.
There are many things that contribute to sound sleep. One might need to look up a mattress that meets their particular needs or scour the Internet for the best anti-snoring device. At times, however, ensuring one gets good-quality sleep requires tackling a serious issue—obstructive sleep apnea.
Since CPAP machines are medical devices, there are quite a few aspects you are to consider. In this section, we took the liberty of going over some of the most important things you need to look for when shopping for a CPAP machine.
A CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure machine, is a device that provides a steady oxygen flow during your sleep. It’s the most commonly prescribed treatment for obstructive sleep apnea since it keeps airways open and doesn’t let them collapse. The best CPAP machines will push through airpath blockages enabling the lungs to take in the optimal amounts of oxygen.
Most commonly, there are a few features that are really handy and necessary, especially for newcomers who only just started using these devices and need some time to adjust. Below are the most common features that might make the transition easier.
To ensure that you’re getting quality sleep, we also suggest that you look into our comprehensive guide of the best mattresses.
This part of the selection process will mostly depend on your personal preferences, the condition you are aiming to treat, and your breathing habits.
Apart from your basic CPAP models, there are also BiPAP and APAP devices. Here are the main differences between them:
Here are some of the benefits that come with the use of a CPAP machine:
Like with any type of treatment, even the best sleep apnea machines can come with a few drawbacks as they might:
All in all, this comprehensive review is everything you might need to know about getting the best CPAP machine for your needs. Hopefully, these expert reviews helped you find the perfect unit. Also, we hope that our buyer’s guide managed to help you learn more about these devices.
While at it, we also suggest that you check our extensive review of the best medical alert systems that can add to the already taken safety measures.
Answering this question is a bit different for every user since everyone’s needs are different. If you’re just getting started, you may want a Ramp feature in your machine to get used to the added pressure. If the dry air causes too much discomfort, a humidifier can be a handy feature for you. The same goes for pressure relief features. Lastly, if you’re constantly on the go, your best bet might be a mini machine that you can travel with easily.
Generally, CPAP machines cost anywhere from $500.00 to as much as $3000.00. However, on average, you can get a reliable device with solid features for around $850.00. For this price, you will get all the needed supplies and parts, like tubing, filters, masks, and hoses. Also, the majority of insurance companies will cover the costs of getting either a CPAP machine.
Since most professionals and insurance companies consider CPAP machines to be durable medical equipment, policies generally cover their costs. However, the coverage may vary from insurer to insurer, so getting in touch with yours and going over copayments and deductibles might be a good idea.
Your device’s life expectancy will depend on a few factors; however, most machines will generally last from three to five years. Supplies and some other parts, on the other hand, are much less durable and need replacements more frequently.
Parts such as the mask and the gear associated with it can wear out faster—the cushions and pillows might wear out by overstretching; tubing might develop cracks and tears; air filters are likely to wear out as well.
Cleaning your machine regularly and replacing worn out parts will not only help you increase the life expectancy of your device but will also improve the effectiveness of your therapy.
New machine users may encounter a few negative effects of the CPAP machine use, and here are the most commonly reported problems:
As already mentioned above, even in the best cases, you will need to replace your device after five years of use. That said, the parts and supplies like masks, cushions, and filters should be changed more frequently.
Luckily, most insurers out there will help you with the coverage. Replacing the machine whenever you’re eligible for a new one is always a good idea since you want to get your hands on the best CPAP machine to ensure the continuous efficiency of your treatment.