The 5 Best CPAP Masks of 2023

By Ayla Girouard, LPN
Medically Reviewed by Elizabeth Lyda, RRT
Fact Checked

• A CPAP mask is required to use a CPAP machine.
• A variety of mask types are available that cover your mouth, nose, or both.
• A CPAP mask is not included with a CPAP machine purchase.

If you use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, you will need a CPAP mask. These masks come in nasal, full face, and nasal pillow styles. Different mask sizes are also available so you can find the right style for the comfortable fit.

A CPAP mask is a separate purchase from the CPAP device, but it is an essential part of your breathing therapy. The mask serves as the connection between your CPAP machine and your airways. It is connected to your CPAP machine by a tube and mild air pressure will travel through that tube to your mask, then into your nose, mouth, or both, depending on the mask you choose.

Nightly CPAP therapy is the best way to reduce the symptoms and complications of sleep apnea. If you’ve received a sleep apnea diagnosis and prescription from your doctor, read on for our Reviews Team’s top CPAP masks of 2023.

• Best for New Users: Fisher & Paykel Vitera full face CPAP mask
• Best for Comfort: ResMed Mirage Liberty full face CPAP mask
• Best for Active Sleepers: ResMed AirFit F30i full face CPAP mask
• Best for Side Sleepers: Philips Respironics DreamWear Silicone nasal pillow CPAP mask
• Best for Those with Facial Hair: Fisher & Paykel Opus 360 nasal pillow CPAP mask

Our Reviews Team recommends products and services that we feel strongly about, and that will truly benefit our readers. We’ve spent more than 25 hours conducting in-depth research on CPAP masks to give you the most accurate review of each model and brand that we feature. To make our selections, we:

• Interviewed three industry experts
• Consulted with one respiratory therapist to confirm the accuracy and integrity of our reviews
• Researched five brands and 15 different models across the category
• Read real reviews from verified customers on trusted third-party sites, including the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot
• Reviewed academic research to better understand the details and benefits of CPAP therapy

• Price: $149
• Pressure range: 4–30 centimeters of water (cmH20)
• Warranty: 90 days

The Fisher & Paykel Vitera CPAP full face mask is our Reviews Team’s choice for “Best for New Users” because it has multiple size options and five points of adjustment. This makes it easier for users to find the most comfortable fit. This mask can be purchased in small, medium, or large sizes for $149. You can also purchase the FitPack option for the same price to receive all three mask sizes to try them all. Each Vitera mask offers five points of adjustment on top of the head, at the sides of your head, and on the sides of the mask. You can make small adjustments in each spot until you find the most comfortable mask fit.

If you change sleep positions through the night, this mask is designed to stay in place. A stability bar over the mask and nose extends to the forehead so the cushion can adjust as you change positions and the mask will reseal around your face to prevent any air leakage. The swivel elbow (the attachment point for the tube) makes it easy for you to sleep in any position. It also includes the RollFit XT cushion, which reduces pressure on the bridge of your nose for a more comfortable night’s sleep.

The Vitera full face mask is made with breathable VentiCool fabric that is meant to keep your head cool underneath the straps to reduce sweating. Quick-release clips make it easy to remove your mask. The mask does not include tubing.

Customer service

You can contact RespShop customer service by phone, fax, online chat, and email.

• Phone (866-936-3754) with customer service available from:
  • 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, Saturday
• Fax (866-936-3730)
• Live chat on website
• Email (sales@respshop.com)

Fisher & Paykel customer reviews

Fisher & Paykel does not have reviews on the BBB website or TrustPilot, but its mask models, including the Vitera get excellent customer reviews on retailer sites. On Respshop.com the Vitera has 4.6 out of 5 stars from 20 customer reviews. Many of the reviews are from new CPAP users who mention the Vitera is comfortable and has a tight seal.

• Price: $213
• Pressure range: 4–20 centimeters of water (cmH20)
• Warranty: 90 days

Our Reviews Team selected the ResMed Mirage Liberty CPAP full face mask as “Best for Comfort” because of its nasal pillow design (plastic inserts that go directly into the nostrils) and cushioned walls that minimize pressure on your face. This offers more comfort since the design reduces the potential for pressure on and around the nose and reduces the overall size of the mask if you feel restricted or claustrophobic with a traditional full face mask.

The dual cushion walls on the seal surround your mouth and rest underneath your nose, letting the mask sit on your face so pressure is evenly distributed to eliminate sore points. The outer seal wall provides additional protection against air leaks, which can compromise the quality of your CPAP therapy. The placement of the air vents at this mask’s connection elbow releases air out and away from the mask, which reduces the noise the mask makes while in use.

Customer service

You can contact RespShop customer service by phone, fax, online chat, and email.

• Phone (866-936-3754) with customer service available from:
  • 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, Saturday
• Fax (866-936-3730)
• Live chat on website
• Email (sales@respshop.com)

You can reach ResMed customer service directly by phone or an online contact form.

• Phone (800-424-0737)
  • 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
• Contact form on website (https://www.resmed.com/en-us/contact-us/)

ResMed customer reviews

ResMed is listed on TrustPilot as ResMed Shop and has a 4.4 out of 5 star customer review rating from nearly 500 reviews. It’s listed as ResMed Corp on BBB and has an A- rating and 1.5 out of 5 star customer review average. This is based on only 10 customer reviews and may not represent an accurate summary of customer experiences. Positive reviews mention great customer service, including service agents calling to help customers fit their new CPAP masks. Customer complaints on both sites mention shipping issues and poor customer service experiences.

• Price: $159
• Pressure range: 4–30 centimeters of water (cmH20)
• Warranty: 90 days

The ResMed AirFit F30i full face CPAP mask is our Reviews Team’s pick for “Best for Active Sleepers,” meaning that it works well for those who move or change positions through the night. The tube connection on the AirFit F30i sits at the top of the head and includes a 360-degree swivel. This lets you change positions as you sleep without pulling or tangling the tube.The full face design rests underneath your nose instead of across the bridge of your nose, which also makes it more comfortable than other full face masks.

Magnetic clips offer quick and easy mask removal, and four adjustment points allow for a customized fit. The tubing connection features a quick release latch, which makes disconnecting the tube simple. Our Reviews Team also likes that this model has a soft, compressible silicone frame that is lightweight and flexible on your head and face.

Customer service

You can contact RespShop customer service by phone, fax, online chat, and email.

• Phone (866-936-3754) with customer service available from:
  • 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, Saturday
• Fax (866-936-3730)
• Live chat on website
• Email (sales@respshop.com)

You can reach ResMed customer service directly by phone or an online contact form.

• Phone (800-424-0737)
  • 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
• Contact form on website (https://www.resmed.com/en-us/contact-us/)

ResMed customer reviews

As cited above, ResMed Corp has a 4.4 out of 5 star customer review rating from nearly 500 reviews on TrustPilot. The company has an A- rating and 1.5 out of 5 star customer review average on the BBB website, but this is based on 10 customer reviews.

• Price: $89.99
• Pressure range: 4–30 centimeters of water (cmH20)
• Warranty: 90 days

The small size and top-of-head tube attachment make the Respironics DreamWear nasal pillow CPAP mask our Reviews Team’s choice for “Best for Side Sleepers.” The connection at the top of the head keeps the tube from getting tangled or compressed during sleep, which also reduces the chance of the mask sliding off your face as you sleep.

The mask frame has arms, similar to eyeglasses, that extend along the sides of your head and above your ears to a strap behind your head. These arms hold your mask in place for added security. The small size of the mask frame and nasal pillow are less bulky on your face, which is more comfortable if you sleep on your side or roll onto your stomach during the night.

This model is available in three frame sizes and four pillow sizes, so you can mix and match the sizes to find your most secure and comfortable fit. The frame is interchangeable with other DreamWear mask attachments, which is convenient if you need to switch between the nasal pillow, nasal mask, or full face mask styles. The small size of this mask also makes it easy to see if you like to read or watch TV in bed.

The Philips DreamStation CPAP devices have been the subject of a recent recall, but that recall does not extend to the DreamWear mask line.¹

Customer service

You can contact RespShop customer service by phone, fax, online chat, and email.

• Phone (866-936-3754) with customer service available from:
  • 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, Saturday
• Fax (866-936-3730)
• Live chat on website
• Email (sales@respshop.com)

You can contact Philips support by phone or email.

• Phone (844-537-2403)
  • 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
  • Excludes major holidays
• Email (pcms.support@philips.com)

Philips Respironics customer reviews

Philips Respironics is listed as Philips RS North America, LLC, on the BBB website. The company is not accredited by the BBB and has a 1 out of 5 star customer review average with an F rating. Philips Respironics does not have a TrustPilot profile. Although customer ratings with the BBB are poor, the majority of negative reviews are due to the recall and relate to frustration and difficulty with returning recalled devices. The Respironics DreamWear masks still have positive ratings on retailer websites, and we still recommend this mask because it is not affected by the recall.

• Price: $115
• Pressure range: 4–20 centimeters of water (cmH20)
• Warranty: 90 days

Our Reviews Team selected the Fisher & Paykel Opus 360 nasal pillow CPAP mask as the “Best for Facial Hair” due to its unique design. The nasal pillow rests above the upper lip and just underneath the nose, meaning this mask sits above any facial hair that could compromise the seal of the mask. This model has small holes strategically placed in the connection elbow to divert released air away from the mask. This design reduces the chances of air disturbing you or a partner during sleep. The Opus 360 mask includes three nasal pillow sizes (small, medium, and large), so you can try each size and find your best fit.

This mask also features a tube connection at the front of the nasal pillow and it has three options for anchoring the tube to the mask straps. You can anchor the tube at the top of the head, the side of the face, or leave it unanchored. Anchoring at the top of the head or side of the face keeps the tube in place and out of the way if you change positions as you sleep. If you leave the tube unanchored it’s more susceptible to tugging or compression if you’re an active sleeper. In the unanchored position though, the tube will stay off of your head and face as you sleep, which can feel more comfortable and less restrictive.

Customer service

You can contact RespShop customer service by phone, fax, online chat, and email.

• Phone (866-936-3754) with customer service available from:
  • 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, Saturday
• Fax (866-936-3730)
• Live chat on website
• Email (sales@respshop.com)

Fisher & Paykel customer reviews

As cited above, Fisher & Paykel has no ratings or reviews on the BBB or TrustPilot, but the Opus 360 has excellent customer reviews on retailer websites. The Opus 360 has an average 4.7 out of 5 from 11 reviews on Respshop.com.

There are three CPAP mask types, including full face masks, nasal masks, and nasal pillow masks.² It’s important to find one that works well with your face size, shape, and sleep style. Comfort is also an important factor, and you may prefer the feel of some masks more than others.

Full face mask

A full face mask covers both your nose and mouth. This type of mask is a good option if you have chronic or frequent nasal congestion or obstruction, which might make breathing through your nose difficult and cause you to breathe through your mouth.

Nasal masks

A nasal mask completely covers your nose, but leaves your mouth uncovered. Nasal masks are the most widely tolerated mask style, and you may also prefer a nasal mask if you sleep on your side or stomach. You might also choose a nasal mask if you move a lot in your sleep. Nasal masks are smaller and it’s less likely for your pillow to push the mask out of place if you change sleep positions.

Nasal pillow masks

Nasal pillow masks rest underneath your nose, and have “pillows” (plastic, gel, or silicone cushions) that rest in each nostril to deliver air pressure. This mask type offers the least amount of coverage, so it may be a good choice if you are bothered by the feeling of a mask on your face as you sleep. A nasal pillow mask is also the best option if you have facial hair because the seal is created in the nostrils, instead of anywhere around the face.

In order to order a CPAP mask, you will first need to complete a sleep study and receive a sleep apnea diagnosis from your doctor. You will then need a prescription to be able to purchase a CPAP machine and mask. The prescription will state that you need CPAP therapy and it will define your treatment pressure. After being diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor will likely perform a second sleep study to help determine what type of mask and pressure level is best suited for your CPAP treatment.

You will need to purchase a CPAP mask with your CPAP machine if you are starting CPAP therapy for the first time.

Besides cash or personal credit cards, there are a few ways you may be able to get coverage, reimbursement, or assistance in paying for a CPAP mask.

Health insurance: Coverage for CPAP equipment varies by insurance plan, but most insurance plans that offer coverage for the device will also offer coverage for the mask and any other required components.³ Mask coverage often includes a mask replacement schedule, which means after a certain period of time your insurance will cover a new mask to replace your old mask. To maintain insurance coverage for CPAP equipment, most insurance providers will require proof that you are using CPAP therapy nightly as prescribed.

Medicare: Like private insurance, Medicare includes CPAP masks in its CPAP coverage terms because a mask is a necessary component for CPAP therapy.⁴ Medicare CPAP coverage starts with a three month rental, which is considered a trial period. To proceed with coverage after the trial period, Medicare requires confirmation from your doctor that you have used the equipment as prescribed. Medicare will also require confirmation from your doctor that CPAP therapy is helping your condition and that continued CPAP therapy is medically necessary.

Retailer financing: Retailers that offer financing for CPAP devices often extend this option to CPAP masks as well. Oxygen Concentrator Store and the CPAP shop offer financing through Affirm and Bread Pay, third-party financing companies that offer monthly plans for repayment with varying terms and interest rates and are subject to credit approval. Respshop offers in-house financing.

Health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA): An HSA is an account for pre-tax money to be set aside for eligible health expenses.⁵ An FSA is an employer-maintained account that also acts as a pre-tax savings account for reimbursement of certain health-related expenses.⁶ These accounts are slightly different. FSA funds expire each year and HSA funds have no expiration date. CPAP equipment is considered an eligible purchase for both account types.

CareCredit: CareCredit is a credit card for health care expenses and can only be used at participating retailers. CPAP masks are qualifying purchases with CareCredit.

Price

A mask is required for CPAP therapy, but CPAP machines do not include a mask. You will need to consider the cost of a mask in your overall CPAP budget. Masks pricing varies, but our Reviews Team saw mask prices between $50–$300, which significantly adds to the overall cost to set up your CPAP therapy.

Return Policy

Retailers like Respshop have return policies that often give users a 30-day return window. During that time, you can try out the mask and return it for a store credit, if it is opened and used, or full refund, if it is unopened and unused. Check with your CPAP retailer to find out about its return policy before purchasing a mask, especially if you are a new CPAP user.

Connection

Most CPAP masks connect to the tube at the top of the head or the front of the mask. You will likely have to try masks with different connection locations to find what is best for you. Connection preference typically relates to your sleep behavior and preferred sleep position. A tube connection on top of your head may be best if you’re a side sleeper or move around a lot because the tube won’t get in the way. Connecting the tube to the front of your mask may be best if you’re a back sleeper or if you sleep on one side with limited movement throughout the night.

Size options and adjustability

Mask fit is important for both comfort and function. A mask that is too tight can create uncomfortable pressure on your face. Movement and a poor or loose fit can also affect the seal of your mask, which can cause air leaks that compromise the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy. Masks that include a variety of mask, frame, or nasal pillow size options can help you find the best fit for your face. Most masks also have a variety of adjustment points (places around your mask where you can set the tension), which further customizes the way your mask fits on your face.

Our Reviews Team consulted with three industry experts and one respiratory therapist to better understand the purpose and function of CPAP machines, and how different CPAP masks work for different people. Based on our expert consultations and research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a CPAP mask:

• Cost
• Comfort
• Size options
• Connection type
• Return policy
• Warranty
• Customer service

We had all of our selections medically reviewed by an expert in the field to ensure that each brand and model is appropriate for our readers’ needs.

A CPAP mask is a necessary part of CPAP therapy. Sleeping with a mask can be uncomfortable at first, and many people try a few different masks before finding one that is right for them.

Our Reviews Team selected the Fisher & Paykel Vitera CPAP full face mask as the “Best for New Users” due the FitPack option that includes all three mask sizes for the price of one. The most affordable CPAP mask on our list is the Philips Respironics DreamWear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP mask, which our Reviews Team selected as “Best for Side Sleepers.” We chose the Resmed Mirage Liberty as “Best for Comfort,” and the ResMed AirFit F30i as the “Best for Active Sleepers.” The Fisher & Paykel Opus 360 is our choice for “Best for Facial Hair” thanks to its above-the-mouth nasal pillow design. The right CPAP mask will be one that fits comfortably and securely, falls within your budget, and delivers your CPAP therapy as prescribed by your doctor.

Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

1. Philips. Voluntary recall information. Found on the internet at https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update
2. Mayo Clinic. Which CPAP masks are best for you? Found on the internet at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/multimedia/cpap-masks/sls-20076986
3. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Does insurance cover my CPAP machine? Found on the internet at https://sleepeducation.org/does-insurance-cover-my-cpap-machine/
4. Medicare.gov. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, accessories, & therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/continuous-positive-airway-pressure-devices
5. Healthcare.gov. Health Savings Account (HSA). Found on the internet at https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/health-savings-account-hsa/
6. Healthcare.gov. Using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Found on the internet at https://www.healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/flexible-spending-accounts/