Our top picks: researched and expert-approved
If your doctor has prescribed supplemental oxygen, you may choose a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) or a home oxygen concentrator (HOC), depending on your doctor’s recommendation. A POC, also called a portable oxygen machine, provides safe, effective delivery of oxygen to people with low oxygen levels while they are away from home, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). You may use a POC while running errands, traveling, or doing other activities outside the house.
Finding the best portable oxygen concentrator for your needs can be confusing—especially if you’re buying one for the first time. Our Reviews Team researched the best POCs on the market to help you choose. We dug into information on pricing, features, battery life, and more to help you find the best model for you.
A quick look at the best portable oxygen concentrators in 2023
- Most Discreet: Inogen One G5
- Best Battery Life: CAIRE Freestyle Comfort
- Best Continuous and Pulse Flow: Respironics SimplyGo
- Most Portable: Inogen One G4
- Highest Oxygen Output: CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
- Easiest to Use: Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini
- Best Warranty: Precision Medical EasyPulse 5-Liter
- Most Durable: Invacare Platinum Mobile
- Most Comfortable to Carry: Precision Medical Live Active Five
- Most Versatile: GCE Zen-O
Best portable oxygen concentrators in 2023
Table 1, Respironics SimplyGo vs. SimplyGo Mini
Model |
Weight (pounds, with single battery) |
Size (inches wide x deep x high) |
Maximum oxygen output (LPM) |
Battery life (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Respironics SimplyGo Mini |
5 |
8.3 x 3.6 x 9.4 |
1 |
4.5–9 |
Respironics SimplyGo |
10 |
11.5 x 6 x 10 |
2 |
3 |
Oxygen Concentrator Store customer service
Some of the oxygen concentrators in this review are available through the online retailer Oxygen Concentrator Store. Pricing estimates are subject to change. You can contact the customer service department in the following ways:
- Phone: (844-885-9530), available 365 days a year on the following schedule:
- 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. MT Monday through Friday
- 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. MT Saturday
- 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. MT Sunday
- Email: (service@amsrco.com)
- Online chat: On the OCS support page
- Contact form: Submit an online ticket on the contact form, and a representative will respond within one business day.
The Oxygen Concentrator Store website also has a detailed product support page with information on cleaning, maintenance, and use of portable oxygen concentrators.
Our Reviews Team’s customer service experience
A member of our Reviews Team called the Oxygen Concentrator Store to learn more about the brands and models in this list. It took less than 30 seconds to get a representative on the line. He was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about every model we asked about.
He informed us all portable oxygen machines sold through the Oxygen Concentrator Store come with a free seven-day trial period. If you find the unit you’ve purchased has mechanical problems, is hard to use, or just isn’t a good fit for you, simply call the store to receive a shipping label. Then, you can send the unit back (at your own cost) and exchange it for a different one.
Shipping takes about three to five business days, but Oxygen Concentrator Store also offers two-day and overnight shipping for an additional cost.
After sharing details of the various models over the phone, the representative offered to email us the information and gave us his direct phone number for any future questions. He also said even if we didn’t buy a unit from the Oxygen Concentrator Store, he would be happy to answer questions and provide help in the future. We were very pleased with the customer service experience; it felt like we were learning about portable oxygen concentrators rather than enduring a high-pressure sales call.
How does a portable oxygen concentrator work?
Oxygen concentrators take in air from the environment, filter out nitrogen, and deliver oxygen to the person using the device. [1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Pulse oximeters and oxygen concentrators: What to know about at-home oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/pulse-oximeters-and-oxygen-concentrators-what-know-about-home-oxygen-therapy The oxygen is usually delivered through a cannula sitting beneath the nose. These devices are different from oxygen tanks because oxygen concentrators use electrical pumps to concentrate oxygen from outside, according to an article in the journal Breathe. In contrast, oxygen tanks have a set amount of oxygen stored inside the container requiring the tanks to be replaced with another filled container when empty. [3] Hardavella G, et al. Breathe. September 2019. Oxygen Devices and Delivery Systems. Found on the internet at https://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/15/3/e108
For more information on POCs, the American Lung Association has a webpage with helpful videos showing how to use your device. [4] American Lung Association. Getting started with a portable oxygen concentrator. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/getting-started-portable-oxygen-concentrator
Oxygen flow types
Portable oxygen concentrators deliver either a continuous flow of oxygen, measured in liters per minute, or a pulse flow (also called intermittent flow). Pulse flow delivery systems give a puff of oxygen every time you breathe.
Some concentrators can deliver oxygen by both pulse or continuous flow, depending on the setting your doctor prescribes. Other devices only provide one type of flow. Most portable concentrators offer only pulse flow settings.
When buying a portable oxygen machine, it’s important to know which type of flow you need and the amount of oxygen (in LPM) you’re prescribed. If you’re unsure of these details, check with your health care provider.
Who should use a portable oxygen concentrator?
If you need supplemental oxygen—also known as oxygen therapy—you’re not alone. The American Thoracic Society estimates 1.5 million adults in the United States use oxygen therapy. [5] Jacobs SS, et al. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. December 2018. Optimizing Home Oxygen Therapy: An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report. Found on the internet at https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/AnnalsATS.201809-627WS
People with a variety of conditions may benefit from supplemental oxygen. According to the American Lung Association, these conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and sleep apnea. [6] American Lung Association. Oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy
If you need extra oxygen, you may enjoy the freedom a portable unit can give you. Being able to go out with friends and family, travel, and enjoy activities outside of the house are all possible with POCs.
Staying active and connecting with people is important for our health and well-being. According to a study published in the Journal of Gerontology, socially active older adults have better physical health and emotional well-being. [7] Fingerman KL, et al. The Journals of Gerontology. Jan. 18, 2019. Variety is the Spice of Late Life: Social Integration and Daily Activity. Found on the internet at https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/75/2/377/5292329 A portable oxygen concentrator can help you keep in touch with friends and family by allowing you to leave the house and socialize.
POCs may not suit every person’s oxygen needs. Before you purchase an oxygen machine, talk to your health care provider. They will tell you what type of machine you need and what to look for.
Things to consider before you purchase
Before you purchase a POC, you should consider different factors to decide which model is the best for your needs.
- Your current and future oxygen needs: Check your prescription to see what your doctor has written for oxygen amount and flow type. You may also want a machine with an adjustable oxygen output in case your oxygen needs change.
- Battery life: Consider how long you’ll need to use your POC when you leave the house or if you plan to go on long trips.
- Warranty length and type of coverage: Warranties vary among manufacturers of portable oxygen concentrators, both in terms of length and what they cover. Make sure you find out specific information on the warranty before you purchase.
- Size and weight: You may need a small, lightweight machine if you can only carry a few pounds at a time. While most machines come with a carry bag or rolling cart, you may need to move it without the bag or cart from time to time.
If you see over-the-counter oxygen concentrators in your search, the American Lung Association warns these machines may not meet your oxygen needs. They are not FDA-approved, don’t require a prescription, and may not fit your specific prescription. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure if the oxygen machine is right for you. [4] American Lung Association. Getting started with a portable oxygen concentrator. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/getting-started-portable-oxygen-concentrator
How much do portable oxygen concentrators cost?
In this review, the portable oxygen concentrators range in cost from $2,125 to $3,200. This is about the average price range you can expect when purchasing a new POC.
Online retailers, like the Oxygen Concentrator Store, may have financing and “buy now, pay later” options through services like CareCredit, PayPal, or Affirm, allowing you to pay off your purchase over time. Oxygen Concentrator Store pricing estimates shared in this article are subject to change.
You can also reduce the cost by purchasing a used oxygen machine through the Oxygen Concentrator Store. Speak with a customer service representative to find out what used machines are available.
Are portable oxygen concentrators covered by insurance?
Some private insurance companies will pay for part or all of the costs of oxygen concentrators, but plans vary quite a bit. Contact your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers.
Are portable oxygen concentrators covered by Medicare?
Oxygen concentrators are considered , and a rental device may be partially covered under Medicare Part B. Medicare will cover part of the cost of renting in-home oxygen equipment and accessories if you have a prescription from a doctor, a diagnosis of low blood oxygen levels, and other measures to raise your blood oxygen levels were unsuccessful. [8] Medicare.gov. Oxygen equipment and accessories. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories
If you do purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, Medicare will help pay for certain oxygen-related supplies and services such as tubing, masks, nasal cannulas, maintenance, and repairs. See Medicare.gov for more information. [8] Medicare.gov. Oxygen equipment and accessories. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories
Traveling with portable oxygen machines
Traveling with an oxygen machine requires careful preparation for your health and safety. Below are some tips to keep in mind before you go.
Table 2, Comparison of the best portable oxygen concentrators
| Product Image | Best For | Cost | Max oxygen output | Battery Life | Weight | Link | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inogen One G5 | 
| Most Discreet | $2,882 | 1.3 | 6.5–13.0 | 4.7 | Visit Site |
| CAIRE Freestyle Comfort | 
| Best Battery Life | $2,995 | 1.1 | 8.0–16.0 | 5.0 | Visit Site |
| Respironics SimplyGo | 
| Best Continuous and Pulse Flow | $2,500 | 2 | 3 | 10 | Visit Site |
| Inogen One G4 | 
| Most Portable | $2,650 | 0.6 | 2.5–5.0 | 2.8 | Visit Site |
| CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 | 
| Highest Oxygen Output | $3,200 | 3.0 | 3.7 (continuous), 5.4 (pulse) | 18.4 | Visit Site |
| Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini | 
| Easiest to Use | $2,595 | 1.0 | 4.5–9.0 | 5.0 | Visit Site |
| Precision Medical EasyPulse 5-Liter | 
| Most Affordable | $2,081.52–$2,333.52 | 0.8 | 4.7 | 6.6 | Visit Site |
| Invacare Platinum Mobile | 
| Most Durable | $2,495 | 1.0 | 4.0–8.0 | 5.0 | Visit Site |
| Precision Medical Live Active Five | 
| Easiest to Carry | $2,125 | 1.0 | 6.5 | 6.6 | Visit Site |
| GCE Zen-O | 
| Most Settings | $3,145 | 2.0 | 4.0 | 10.0 | Visit Site |
| Inogen One G5 | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Most Discreet |
| Cost | $2,882 |
| Max oxygen output | 1.3 |
| Battery Life | 6.5–13.0 |
| Weight | 4.7 |
| CAIRE Freestyle Comfort | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Best Battery Life |
| Cost | $2,995 |
| Max oxygen output | 1.1 |
| Battery Life | 8.0–16.0 |
| Weight | 5.0 |
| Respironics SimplyGo | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Best Continuous and Pulse Flow |
| Cost | $2,500 |
| Max oxygen output | 2 |
| Battery Life | 3 |
| Weight | 10 |
| Inogen One G4 | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Most Portable |
| Cost | $2,650 |
| Max oxygen output | 0.6 |
| Battery Life | 2.5–5.0 |
| Weight | 2.8 |
| CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Highest Oxygen Output |
| Cost | $3,200 |
| Max oxygen output | 3.0 |
| Battery Life | 3.7 (continuous), 5.4 (pulse) |
| Weight | 18.4 |
| Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Easiest to Use |
| Cost | $2,595 |
| Max oxygen output | 1.0 |
| Battery Life | 4.5–9.0 |
| Weight | 5.0 |
| Precision Medical EasyPulse 5-Liter | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Most Affordable |
| Cost | $2,081.52–$2,333.52 |
| Max oxygen output | 0.8 |
| Battery Life | 4.7 |
| Weight | 6.6 |
| Invacare Platinum Mobile | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Most Durable |
| Cost | $2,495 |
| Max oxygen output | 1.0 |
| Battery Life | 4.0–8.0 |
| Weight | 5.0 |
| Precision Medical Live Active Five | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Easiest to Carry |
| Cost | $2,125 |
| Max oxygen output | 1.0 |
| Battery Life | 6.5 |
| Weight | 6.6 |
| GCE Zen-O | |
|---|---|
| Product Image |
|
| Best For | Most Settings |
| Cost | $3,145 |
| Max oxygen output | 2.0 |
| Battery Life | 4.0 |
| Weight | 10.0 |
*Accurate as of publish date
**Can vary depending on flow setting and use of single- or double-battery
How we chose the best oxygen concentrators
Our Reviews Team consulted with geriatric care experts to learn more about portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) and how they can enhance users’ quality of life. Based on our expert consultations, user survey, and own research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a POC unit:
- Cost
- Ease of use
- Oxygen delivery method
- Number of settings
- Weight
- Battery life
- Time to recharge battery
- Warranty
- Availability (all devices available online or in brick-and-mortar stores)
We had all of our selections medically reviewed by an expert in the field to ensure each brand and model is appropriate for our readers’ needs.
Bottom line
Supplemental oxygen is sometimes necessary to relieve respiratory or cardiac disease symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life. If you need oxygen therapy, it doesn’t mean your normal activities have to end. A portable oxygen concentrator can allow you to move freely around your house, visit friends and family, travel, run errands, or do any other activity you normally do.
If you love traveling and need a device with decent battery life, you may opt for the Inogen One G5 or the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort. If you are looking for a device with both continuous and pulse flow, the GCE Zen-O suits various oxygen needs.
POCs can go a long way in helping you continue to enjoy outings with your family and friends. Ultimately, the best portable oxygen concentrator for you depends on your preferences, price point, and specific oxygen needs.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Pulse oximeters and oxygen concentrators: What to know about at-home oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/pulse-oximeters-and-oxygen-concentrators-what-know-about-home-oxygen-therapy
- International Noise Awareness Day. Common noise levels – how loud is too loud? Found on the internet at https://noiseawareness.org/info-center/common-noise-levels/
- Hardavella G, et al. Breathe. September 2019. Oxygen Devices and Delivery Systems. Found on the internet at https://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/15/3/e108
- American Lung Association. Getting started with a portable oxygen concentrator. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/getting-started-portable-oxygen-concentrator
- Jacobs SS, et al. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. December 2018. Optimizing Home Oxygen Therapy: An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report. Found on the internet at https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/AnnalsATS.201809-627WS
- American Lung Association. Oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy
- Fingerman KL, et al. The Journals of Gerontology. Jan. 18, 2019. Variety is the Spice of Late Life: Social Integration and Daily Activity. Found on the internet at https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/75/2/377/5292329
- Medicare.gov. Oxygen equipment and accessories. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories
