CPAP Review Methodology
How we research and review CPAP machines
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are medical devices that provide pressurized air to your lungs while sleeping. Untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can have many long-term impacts on health, and our Reviews Team recognizes the importance of providing our readers with the best information to start their therapy.
[1] 1. Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Dangers of Uncontrolled Sleep Apnea. Found on the internet at https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-dangers-of-uncontrolled-sleep-apneaWe conducted in-depth research on CPAP machines, masks, accessories, and other positive airway pressure (PAP) devices to provide reviews and recommendations you can trust. As of this writing, we’ve spent over 250 hours researching more than 15 CPAP manufacturers and 45 models.
Our research process starts with examining popular CPAP manufacturers and their different models. We compare the costs, specifications, features, and compatibility of each model to determine the best options in the market. We also consult medical experts in the industry—including Elizabeth Lyda, a registered respiratory therapist in Rochester, New York —to better understand the experiences of people with sleep apnea. In addition, we review current academic research about how CPAP machines work and the side effects people may experience with CPAP therapy.
While we research CPAP machines, masks, and accessories, we also learn about the brand reputation of CPAP manufacturers. We take into account user ratings and real-customer experiences on verified third-party review sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.
Our Reviews Team also surveyed 600 people who use a CPAP machine about their experience purchasing and utilizing their CPAP devices. We asked questions about the machine’s features, experience with customer service, and whether CPAP users experienced any side effects, to name a few.
CPAP supply retailers require a prescription from a respiratory therapy provider in order to provide the right recommendations on products and accessories. Our Reviews Team mystery shops online CPAP supply sites to understand the customer experience. We contact the suppliers directly to gauge customer service responsiveness.
Finally, we stay up-to-date with the latest news and current events surrounding CPAP therapy to curate a list of safe and available product recommendations. For example, we always mention any product recalls or supply chain shortages that occur.
How we evaluate CPAP machines
After researching CPAP machines, masks, and accessories, we evaluate them based on several criteria in order to determine the best products to recommend.
Here’s what we considered to find the best products for CPAP therapy:
- Cost: We prioritized devices with valuable features for their price. For example, features such as automatic pressure adjustment can mean more comfortable therapy, but these devices tend to cost more than basic CPAP machines with less control over air pressure. PAP machines can cost between $400 to $2,700 depending on the type of machine. As of this writing, the average cost of the CPAP machines we researched was $1,057.
- Noise level: We considered models that operate quietly. Almost 2 in 3 respondents (61%) in our survey of CPAP buyers indicated that the noise level of the machine was one of the most important features they considered before buying their CPAP machine. Machines that are whisper quiet (30 dB or lower) minimize sleep disturbance for sound-sensitive sleepers or their partners.
- Weight and size dimensions: CPAP therapy means more equipment at your bedside. We took note of each machine’s size and weight to make recommendations for those best for travel or that take up less room on a nightstand.
- Mask compatibility and comfort: We recommend CPAP machines that are compatible with all or most mask types so CPAP users are not limited in their choice of masks. Mask comfort and fit are extremely important for CPAP use. Similarly, we recommended masks that were compatible with most types of CPAP machines and tubing.
- Humidification: Dry air can cause irritation and discomfort during therapy. These common side effects of CPAP therapy can be prevented using humidification systems. We looked for CPAP machines with humidification systems, either integrated or external, that can make therapy more comfortable. We also recommended machines with detachable water chambers for easier cleaning.
Our Reviews Team also considered the following factors specific to customer satisfaction: warranty period, customer service responsiveness of both the manufacturer and retailer, manufacturer reputation, history of recalls, ease of use, and usage reporting.
To find the best CPAP machines, we prioritized cost, features, ease of use, and size.
For our recommendations of the best CPAP masks, we considered mask compatibility with machines and tubing, as well as the variety of sizes available. We looked for mask designs that kept tubing out of the way or had features to fine-tune the fit.
We also prioritized the size and weight of models in our recommendations for the best travel CPAP machines. We made sure each model we recommended was Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved and mentioned the tradeoffs to using travel CPAP machines over standard CPAP machines. For example, most travel CPAP machines don’t have integrated humidification, which can increase the risk of airway irritation.
We ask practicing medical experts to review each of our recommendations and fact-check each article to ensure we have the most appropriate and accurate information for our readers.
Sources
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Dangers of Uncontrolled Sleep Apnea. Found on the internet at https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-dangers-of-uncontrolled-sleep-apnea
- Centers for Disease Control. What Noises Cause Hearing Loss? Found on the internet at https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hearing_loss/what_noises_cause_hearing_loss.html