This lightweight machine includes a range of automatic features and touchscreen operation for ease of use. It can function as a CPAP machine or an auto-CPAP (APAP) machine and has Bluetooth and cellular connectivity.
5 Best CPAP Machines of 2024: Our Expert Picks
In order to purchase and use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, you need a medical diagnosis of sleep apnea and a prescription from your health care provider. If you suspect that you may have sleep apnea, Sleep Doctor offers an FDA-cleared, disposable test that can be administered at home. The device includes finger, wrist, and chest sensors designed to monitor specific metrics associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is thought to affect up to 30 million adults in the United States, and this condition increases the risk of developing heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and even depression.1 During sleep, people with obstructive sleep apnea may experience snoring, gasping, or even pauses in their breathing. Quality sleep is important for overall health and well-being, and these disruptive breathing patterns can leave people feeling tired and irritable, even right after waking up for the day.2
Our Reviews Team surveyed 600 CPAP users and found that 44% of respondents’ sleep quality improved a lot after using a CPAP, while 33% saw a little improvement, and 19% of respondents’ sleep neither improved nor worsened. Only 4% said it worsened the quality of their sleep.
Many CPAP machines are available on the market, and our Reviews Team thoroughly researched the top brands and models to help you understand the various features and costs. ResMed, OxyGo, React, and Transcend topped our list of recommendations, but keep in mind that the respiratory therapist who made the diagnosis of sleep apnea will often have suggestions for CPAP machines. According to our Reviews Team’s CPAP survey, 53% of CPAP users chose a specific machine based on a doctor’s or respiratory therapist’s recommendation.
This article serves as a guide for understanding the features of different sleep apnea machines and making a decision based on your needs. See “How to get a CPAP machine” below.
What is a CPAP machine?
CPAP machines are used in the treatment of sleep apnea. These devices draw air into the machine, filter it, and deliver it through a mask on your nose, mouth, or both, in a continuous flow to keep your airways open.3 The air you breathe in from a CPAP machine is the same as the air around you, while an oxygen concentrator reduces nitrogen and other components to provide 90 to 95% pure oxygen at your prescribed dose for oxygen therapy.4
A CPAP machine for sleep apnea can be used with a wide variety of CPAP mask types, and it’s important to find a mask you can comfortably sleep in while using your CPAP machine. To help treat and manage symptoms, sleep apnea machines keep the airway open by delivering pressurized air.
A quick look at the best CPAP machines of 2024
- ResMed AirSense Auto 11: Editor’s Pick
- OxyGo ResPlus Auto CPAP: Best Value
- ResMed AirSense 10: Best Screen
- React Health Luna G3: Best for Home
- Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP: Best for Travel
Comparing the best CPAP machines
Best CPAP machines comparison, as of 2024
Provider | Price | Weight (pounds) | Dimensions in inches (L x W x H) | Noise level (dBA) | Warranty | FAA Compliant | Visit Site |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$989.00 | 2.3 | 10.71 x 5.45 x 3.72 | 27 | 2 | Yes | Visit Site | |
$649.00 | 4.8 | 7.87 x 11.02 x 4.41 | 30 | 2 | Yes | Visit Site | |
$590.00 | 2.7 | 10 x 4.6 x 5.9 | 26 | 2 | Yes | Visit Site | |
N/A | N/A | 10.4 x 5.7 x 4.5 | N/A | N/A | Yes | Visit Site | |
$860.00 | 0.5 | 3.6 x 3.6 x 2.4 | 27 | 2 | Yes | Visit Site |
*A-weighted decibels (dBA) are a measure of how our ears perceive the relative loudness of sounds in the air. All machines listed run at about the volume of a whisper.
Best CPAP machines of 2024
Editor’s Pick: ResMed AirSense Auto 11
Best Value: OxyGo ResPlus Auto CPAP
Best Screen: Resmed AirSense 10
Best for Home: React Health Luna G3
Best for Travel: Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP
CPAP machine types for sleep apnea
Positive airway pressure (PAP) is a type of breathing treatment where a machine uses mild pressure to push air through the airway to keep it open and clear while the user is sleeping. The sleeper receives air through a mask that’s connected to the machine by a flexible tube. The maximum and minimum pressure settings for your PAP unit are set by the prescriber based on the severity of your sleep apnea. Since the precise treatment and pressure the sleeper needs varies, there are four different types of machines your specialist can prescribe.
CPAP
A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine disperses air at a consistent and fixed pressure throughout the night. CPAP is the most common type of PAP therapy device because it can be used for a variety of sleepers. This device is best for those with severe obstructive sleep apnea who need constant high pressure to keep their airway open while sleeping.
APAP
An automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) machine automatically adjusts the level of pressure according to the sleeper’s needs throughout the night. The machine monitors breathing patterns and adjusts the pressure as needed. Breathing patterns can change throughout the night (for example, depending on the user’s sleeping position), or over time (for example, if the sleeper’s weight fluctuates). APAP machines are prescribed to sleepers with moderate to severe sleep apnea, who have tried a CPAP and prefer a more natural breathing pattern while sleeping.
BiPAP
A bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine delivers air at two pressure levels, a higher level while you are inhaling and a lower level while exhaling. This device is best for users with severe sleep apnea who have trouble exhaling against the CPAP machine’s constant pressure level.
Travel
Travel PAP machines weigh less than a traditional PAP unit, are compact in size, and should easily fit in luggage or carry-on bags. They also come equipped with rechargeable batteries, which is ideal when traveling. If you want to use your travel unit while flying, you should check with the airline’s PED (portable electronic device) policy before booking your flight.
How to get a CPAP machine
Before shopping for a sleep apnea machine, you will need a diagnosis and prescription from your doctor. “To diagnose sleep apnea, an overnight sleep study called Nocturnal Polysomnogram must be done,” said Elizabeth Lyda, registered respiratory therapist and research quality improvement specialist at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, New York. She adds that you shouldn’t “obtain a CPAP machine without completing this test and getting a prescription from your doctor. The risks of applying CPAP to someone without knowing if they definitely have sleep apnea outweighs the benefits if something goes wrong.”
This overnight sleep study is followed by a second study to determine the appropriate pressure for your CPAP therapy to treat and improve your condition. These devices require a prescription to purchase since they are class II devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).6 This classification means that even though CPAP machines are effective therapeutic devices, they can pose risks to the user if used incorrectly or when they are used without medical recommendation and oversight. These risks include adverse tissue reactions in the airway, infection, and interference with other medical treatments or devices.
Sleep Doctor offers an at-home sleep apnea test designed to determine whether you might qualify for a diagnosis. It can be a convenient way to measure specific sleep metrics associated with sleep apnea from the comfort of your own home before speaking with a doctor.
Once you have a prescription, CPAP machines can be purchased through online retailers, like CPAPSupplies.com, the CPAP shop, Respshop, the Oxygen Concentrator Store, or local distributors of durable medical equipment (DME).
To purchase a CPAP machine in-store, you will need your prescription on-hand or your doctor must submit it to the retailer. To purchase a CPAP device online, you must provide proof of your prescription during checkout.
Customer service
You can reach CPAPSupplies.com customer service by phone, fax, online chat, and email.
- Phone (866-298-6482) with customer service available from:
- 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday
- Fax (877-881-1291)
- Live chat on website available during regular business hours
- Email (info@cpapsupplies.com)
How to choose the best CPAP Machine
Since different CPAP machines are designed for different scenarios, it can be difficult to decide which machine will best meet your needs, preferences, and budget. Here’s what to keep in mind as you shop:
- Your doctor’s recommendations regarding machine type and pressure range
- Sound level
- Included accessories
- Differentiating features, such as data-tracking, climate control, and auto-ramp options
- Price
- Warranty
What accessories do I need with a CPAP machine?
Accessory | Description | Cost* | Do I need this accessory? |
---|---|---|---|
Masks | CPAP masks deliver air from the machine to your nose and mouth. They come in different styles, so it’s important to find an option that’s both comfortable and effective. Masks should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. | $50–$175 | Yes |
Headgear | Headgear holds the mask in place on your face. Headgear requirements vary depending on the type of mask you have. This part of the mask should be replaced about every 6 months. | $20–$100 | Yes |
Hose | Pressurized air from the machine moves through a plastic hose to the mask. While hoses generally come with CPAP machines, you may want a hose with special features or a different length or shape. | $10–$50 | Yes |
Humidifer | This accessory adds moisture to the pressurized air to boost comfort and minimize side effects like dry mouth and throat irritation. | $100–$250 | Yes |
Filters | Filters help minimize exposure to dust, pet dander, pollen, and other particles that can clog the machine or irritate your airways. They should be replaced every 30 days. | $4–$20 | No |
Cleaners | CPAP machines and accessories can be hand-washed with gentle soap. While there are also water-free CPAP sanitizers available, they aren’t approved by the FDA. | $3–$230 | Yes |
CPAP pillows | CPAP pillows come in different options to accommodate different mask types and preferred sleep positions. Most are made with memory foam or polyfoam. | $30–$200 | No |
Chin straps | Chin straps hold the mouth closed to reduce air leakage and improve CPAP effectiveness. | $10–$30 | No |
What to consider when buying a CPAP machine
A CPAP machine is an important investment. Besides more technical features like app connectivity and remote monitoring, there are three factors you should consider before choosing a CPAP device: cost, features, and mask styles.
CPAP machine cost and payment options
A CPAP machine can cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Devices on our list cost $590–$989. CPAP machines can be purchased with cash or credit card, but other payment options are available.
Health insurance: As with most medical devices, CPAP machine and mask coverage will depend on your insurance plan. Most private health insurance plans will offer some amount of coverage for CPAP machines and CPAP masks.7 In order to maintain coverage, many insurance plans will require proof that you are using the machine nightly as prescribed. This information is typically stored in your machine or on a memory card and, depending on which device you have, that data can be accessed through an online portal, app, directly from the memory card, or supplied by your CPAP equipment supplier.
Out of 600 survey respondents, 29% used Medicare, Medicare Part B, or Medicare Advantage to help pay for their machine, while 28% used private health insurance and 43% didn’t use insurance.
Medicare: Medicare has specific terms for CPAP machine and supply coverage, which typically starts with a three-month trial.8 After that trial period, Medicare will likely require confirmation from your doctor that you have been compliant with treatment. Medicare will want to know if you use the machine nightly as prescribed, and that CPAP therapy is helping your condition. Like oxygen concentrators, Medicare covers the rental of your CPAP machine as opposed to coverage or reimbursement to purchase the machine in full. You will need to get your CPAP device and supplies through a Medicare-enrolled retailer. Medicare will cover most of the cost of renting a CPAP machine for 13 months, after which you will own the device.
Retailer financing: Many retailers offer financing for CPAP machines, typically through third-party financing companies. CPAPSupplies.com and Oxygen Concentrator Store offer financing through Affirm, and CPAP shop offers financing through Bread Pay. These two financing companies offer plans with varying repayment terms and interest rates. You will also need to receive credit approval to use Affirm or Bread Pay. Respshop has in-house financing options and payment plans that do not involve a credit check.
Health savings account (HSA): An HSA is an account you can deposit pre-tax money into that can be used for eligible health expenses.9 The full list of qualifying expenses includes respiratory equipment like CPAP machines.10 HSA funds do not expire and will continue to be available until your funds run out.
Flexible spending account (FSA): An FSA is an account your employer deposits pre-tax money into and can be used to reimburse medical expenses like CPAP machines. FSA funds do expire if you don’t use all the money before the annual expiration date.
CareCredit: CareCredit is a credit card made specifically for health care expenses. CPAP machines are qualifying purchases if you have a CareCredit card, but you’ll need to make sure you purchase through a participating retailer. Eligibility for the card is subject to credit approval.
Features and specifications
Size and weight: Your CPAP machine will need to be the right size to fit on a nightstand or table next to your bed. Make sure that the surface you plan to place it on will have enough space for your CPAP machine, along with the things you typically keep next to you in bed. A crowded nightstand could result in accidentally bumping your CPAP machine, which could alter settings, or things falling onto the floor. Weight is also important if you want to travel with your CPAP. Heavier machines may be more cumbersome to pack up and travel with, so you may want to look at lighter CPAP machines like the Transcend Micro, AirSense 10, or AirSense 11.
Noise level: A CPAP machine will never be completely silent, but many of them are whisper-quiet (30 dBA or less). A low noise level means it is less likely the device will disturb your or a partner’s sleep. In our Reviews Team’s CPAP survey, 56% of respondents shared that their machine’s noise level didn’t affect their sleep at all, while 32% said they sometimes see their sleep affected. About 12% said the noise often or always affects their sleep.
Humidification: CPAP usage can lead to dry airways, which may cause irritation and discomfort, especially in the throat and nasal passages. Some CPAP machines have an integrated humidification system, while others have detachable humidification components. Humidification is either cool or heated. Heated humidification starts in the water chamber, and warmth and humidity are maintained throughout the system with heated tubing.
APAP vs. CPAP: APAP settings are designed to automatically adjust air pressure coming from the machine according to the pressure of your breathing, and adjustments stay within a set of prescribed pressures determined during your sleep study. Breathing pressure typically decreases once you fall asleep, so auto CPAP devices start with lower pressure and increase it once the machine senses that you’re asleep. Standard CPAP machines will increase air pressure as soon as you turn the machine on to start your therapy, and it will keep air pressure consistent throughout the night.
Mask styles and compatibility
CPAP therapy is meant to be used every night while you sleep. Many people have difficulty sleeping for other reasons, and wearing a mask for CPAP use can add to sleep issues. It’s important to find a mask that works for your face shape, sleep style, and comfort preferences. A CPAP device that is compatible with most masks on the market is ideal, especially for new CPAP users because you can try different masks with your CPAP machine to find the best mask for you. CPAP mask styles range from full-face (completely covers your nose and mouth) to nose-only styles.
Of the CPAP users we surveyed, 43% used a full mask and 26% used a nasal mask. Total face masks, nasal cannulas and pillows, hybrid masks, and oral masks were less common.
Below are two examples of different CPAP masks, including the Fisher and Paykel Vitera CPAP full face mask and the Philips Respironics DreamWear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP mask.
How we chose the best CPAP machines
Our Reviews Team consulted with three industry experts and one respiratory therapist to better understand the purpose and function of CPAP therapy and CPAP machines. Based on our expert consultations and research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a CPAP machine:
- Cost
- Noise level
- Weight and size dimensions
- Mask compatibility and comfort
- Humidification
- 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.
CPAP machine news
Sleep apnea can affect anyone. In fact, President Joe Biden uses a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, according to a recent statement from White House officials.11 The White House did not indicate whether the president had undergone a sleep study or provide any other specifics.
Philips Respironics CPAP machine recall
Philips Respironics is a leading name in CPAP therapy, so it is notable that its models are absent from our list. Philips issued a recall of many of its CPAP, bilevel positive airway pressure machines, and ventilator devices that were manufactured between 2009 and April 26, 2021.12 The recalled devices contain a polyester-based foam that reduces noise and vibrations. This foam was found to break down in some units, and those small pieces were released into the breathing system and tubing. It’s a potential health hazard to inhale those particles. The FDA issued a list of affected models and instructions on what to do if you own or use one of the recalled units.13
Other ways to improve sleep
Improving your sleep hygiene can make it easier to fall and stay asleep while using your CPAP machine, and finding the best mattress for your individual sleep style can make a significant impact on sleep quality. The right mattress can balance comfort with appropriate support for your body type and sleep style while addressing personal considerations, like choosing a mattress for back pain or to reduce overheating.
Additionally, sleeping on an adjustable bed can allow you to customize your sleep position and alleviate some of the concerns that come with sleep apnea.
Bottom line
CPAP machines are medical devices prescribed for people diagnosed with sleep apnea. Since people may use both, it’s important to recognize the difference between CPAP machines and portable oxygen concentrators or home oxygen concentrators.
The five CPAP machines reviewed in this article are the best available in terms of features, value, and portability. ResMed AirSense 11 is our Reviews Team’s “Editor’s Pick” for its advanced technology, including an LCD touchscreen and automatic features. The OxyGo Resplus Auto CPAP is the least expensive sleep apnea machine on our list, and it still includes features like standard and automatic CPAP functions. The ResMed AirSense 10 is our Reviews Team’s pick for “Best Screen” due to its LCD screen that automatically adjusts to the light in the room, making it easier to read at night. The React Health Luna G3 is small enough to fit on your bedside table and features a pre-heat humidifier function that warms the water used to humidify your CPAP’s air. The Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP is an excellent travel CPAP machine, as it is about the size of a baseball. With the recall of Philips Respironics devices and an ongoing global shortage, there are fewer machines available for consideration.
Finding a CPAP machine that meets your needs is essential for improving your sleep, which may improve your overall health and well-being.
Frequently asked questions
The best CPAP machine for you will depend on your individual needs. Consider how frequently you travel, if you want heated humidification, and if you want a more basic unit or one with more technology. The ResMed AirSense 11 was chosen by our Reviews Team as “Editor’s Pick.”
Yes, but you will need to have a confirmed diagnosis of sleep apnea and supply proof of a prescription from your doctor.
Discomfort is one downside of CPAP therapy. Sleeping with a mask over your nose, mouth, or both can be uncomfortable at first or until you find the mask that best fits your face. In order to minimize discomfort, it’s a good idea to purchase a CPAP machine that is compatible with different mask types.
A CPAP machine sends mild air pressure into your airways through a mask, which keeps them open and regulates your breathing as you sleep. As a result, CPAP therapy can reduce snoring, increase oxygen intake, reduce fatigue, and provide other health benefits.
The cost of a CPAP machine varies by brand and model, but they can cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars. The models we mention in this review range in price from $649–$2,253.
Generally, a sleep apnea machine will last between three and five years before replacement becomes necessary. Depending on construction quality and component durability, some machines may perform longer or shorter than the average lifespan. Keep in mind that certain components, such as hoses, will likely need to be replaced before the end of the sleep apnea machine’s service life. Following manufacturer guidelines for care, maintenance, and use can help your sleep apnea machine last longer.
There are several alternatives to CPAP machines for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), including BiPAP machines, auto-adjusting positive airway pressure (APAP) machines, and expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) therapy, which is a device that uses valves to create pressure when you exhale. There is also an emerging therapy called hypoglossal nerve stimulation, commonly referred to as the Inspire system.15 This method involves the insertion of three different sensors under the skin of a patient’s neck and chest to monitor your breathing and mildly stimulate the nerves controlling your tongue to help keep the airway open during sleep.
Since CPAP machines push air through your mouth, nose, or both throughout the night, they can dry out your airways, causing a sore throat, a dry or runny nose, or even nosebleeds. This is why many units include a humidification feature to add moisture to the air you breathe in at night. Most units also allow you to change the level of moisture to find a humidity level that’s most comfortable for you.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
Sources
- Sara Berg. What doctors wish patients knew about sleep apnea. American Medical Association. April 1, 2022. Found on the internet at https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-sleep-apnea
- Mayo Clinic. Sleep apnea — Symptoms and causes. Found on the internet at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631
- Cleveland Clinic. CPAP Machine: What It Is, How It Works, Pros & Cons. Found on the internet at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22043-cpap-machine
- Hardavella, G., Karampinis, I., Frille, A., et al. Oxygen devices and delivery systems. Breathe. 2019. Found on the internet at https://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/15/3/e108
- 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
- Federal Register. Medical Devices; Anesthesiology Devices; Classification of the Positive Airway Pressure Delivery System. A Rule by the Food and Drug Administration. Oct. 19, 2018. Found on the internet at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/10/19/2018-22840/medical-devices-anesthesiology-devices-classification-of-the-positive-airway-pressure-delivery
- 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/
- Medicare. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, accessories, & therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/continuous-positive-airway-pressure-devices
- Healthcare.gov. Health Savings Account (HSA). Found on the internet at https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/health-savings-account-hsa/
- Internal Revenue Service. 2021 Publication 502. Found on the internet at https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf
- New York Times. Biden Uses a CPAP Machine for Sleep Apnea. Found on the internet at https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/28/us/politics/biden-cpap-sleep-apnea.html
- Philips. Voluntary Recall Information. Found on the internet at https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. UPDATE: Certain Philips Respironics Ventilators, BiPAP Machines, and CPAP Machines Recalled Due to Potential Health Risks: FDA Safety Communication. Nov. 12, 2021. Updated Feb. 9, 2023. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/update-certain-philips-respironics-ventilators-bipap-machines-and-cpap-machines-recalled-due
- New York Times. How the Supply Chain Upheaval Became a Life-or-Death Threat. Dec. 29, 2021. Found on the internet at https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/09/business/supply-chain-medical-device-shortages.html.
- Duke Health. New Sleep Apnea Treatment Offers CPAP Alternative – Inspire. Oct. 3, 2022. Found on the internet at https://www.dukehealth.org/blog/new-sleep-apnea-treatment-offers-cpap-alternative
- CPAP Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched July 25, 2023.