Best CPAP Masks of 2023: Reviewed by Experts

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 a comfortable fit. That’s particularly important, because a CPAP mask plays a key role in effective oxygen therapy. The right CPAP mask creates a comfortable and secure seal around the nose and/or mouth to deliver pressurized air while you sleep. A mask that doesn’t fit properly isn’t only uncomfortable, it can result in pressure leaks that negatively affect your therapy experience and effectiveness.

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. To receive a sleep apnea diagnosis, a sleep study must be completed. It’s important to find the best machine for your needs, which may include a travel CPAP for greater portability and convenience.

• Best for New Users: Fisher & Paykel Vitera full face CPAP mask
• Best CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathers: ResMed AirFit F30i full face CPAP mask
• Best CPAP Mask 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

• Price: $134
• 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 $134. 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. The slimmer frame design of the Vitera also maximizes line of sight, so it’s easier and more comfortable to wear glasses, read, or watch television.

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.

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 21 customer reviews. Many of the reviews are from new CPAP users who mention the Vitera is comfortable and has a tight seal.

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)

• 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 CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathers.” Since this model is a full face mask, it supports airflow to both the nose and mouth. Sleepers with allergies, chronic stuffy noses, or nasal obstruction may find it helpful for easier mouth breathing.

This model also 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 can make it more comfortable than other full face masks. It also means there are no restrictions to your line of sight.

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.

ResMed customer reviews

ResMed Corp has a 4.4 out of 5 star customer review rating from more than 800 reviews on TrustPilot. The company has an B- rating and 1.33 out of 5 star customer review average on the BBB website, but this is based on 15 customer reviews.

Customer service

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/)

• Price: $109
• 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 CPAP Mask 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.

This Philips Respironics 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] Philips. Voluntary recall information. Found on the internet at https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update

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 from 28 reviews. 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 of Philips CPAP, BiPAP, an ventilator devices due to a potential health hazard from the foam used in these products. Many complaints 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 device recall. Additionally, we have reviewed multiple Philips oxygen concentrators, making us experts on the brand.

Customer service

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)

• Price: $74.50
• Pressure range: 4–25 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 (like a beard or mustache) 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, as shown in the photo, 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. Your choice of anchor can also open up your field of vision if you want to relax in bed with a book or the television before going to sleep.

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.

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)

• Price: A mask is required for CPAP therapy, but CPAP machines do not include a mask. Mask 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, which gives you time to 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.
• Warranty: A manufacturer’s warranty on a CPAP mask protects you in case of material or craftsmanship defects, which can offer peace of mind about your purchase. Warranties may vary in terms and length from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it’s important to read the warranty carefully to be clear on what exactly is covered and for how long.
• Comfort while sleeping: CPAP therapy must be done consistently to be effective, which makes mask comfort a vital consideration. Finding a mask that accommodates your preferred sleep position and fits your face comfortably and securely can take time, so be prepared to test out different options.
• Adjustability: Mask fit is important for both comfort and function. Masks that include a variety of mask, frame, or nasal pillow size options, as well a those with a variety of adjustment points, can help you find the best fit for your face.
• Tube connection:  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.
• Seals: A tight seal ensures that air doesn’t leak around the edges of your CPAP mask. The mask’s fit and style will affect how well it seals to your face, making adjustability an important feature in a CPAP mask. Try on different masks to ensure you get one with the right seal.
• Line of vision: Some types of CPAP masks, such as full-face and nasal masks or those with oversized forehead straps, can impede your line of vision when you’re reading or watching television. If line of sight is important for you to consider when shopping for a CPAP mask, look for low-profile models or those with a nasal pillow.
• Ramp time: Most CPAP machines, though not all, are equipped with a ramp feature that makes the onset of oxygen therapy more comfortable. Ramp features moderate the air-flow pressure at the start of oxygen therapy and increase it to the prescribed treatment level over time.
• Replacing masks: The general recommendation is to replace CPAP masks and other equipment as frequently as your insurance will allow, which is typically between three and six months. While the mask itself should ideally be replaced every three months, the cushion or nasal pillows should be replaced more frequently, usually once or twice per month.
• Cleaning masks: Cleaning your CPAP mask regularly helps ensure good hygiene and optimal function. Remember to wash your face before using your mask, and avoid using facial products immediately before going to bed. In the morning, wipe the cushion of your mask with a damp cloth to remove facial oil that may have accumulated in the night.

Learn more about the proper way to clean a CPAP machine in our guide.

The best CPAP mask type is 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. You may need to try two or three masks before you find one that is most comfortable. Your respiratory therapist should have masks for you to try before you purchase one.

There are three main CPAP mask types: full face masks, nasal masks, and nasal pillow masks. ^[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 The two less common types are oral masks and total face masks.

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.

Full face masks deliver air to the mouth in addition to the nostrils, so they’re also a good option for people who tend to breathe through their mouths naturally. This type of mask isn’t a good fit for people with beards, since facial hair can create leaks in the seal. Because of its size, it’s not well suited to active or stomach sleepers, either.

• Benefits of a full face mask: Air delivery to both the mouth and the nostrils means maximum efficacy, even if you’re prone to congestion; stable and secure
• Best for: Back sleepers

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. The airflow isn’t as direct as it is with a nasal pillow mask, which may feel more comfortable to some users. 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. Because they don’t provide a mouth seal, they aren’t suitable if you breathe through your mouth or tend to experience nasal congestion. Mustache hair may affect the seal.

• Benefits of a nasal mask: Smaller size may be more comfortable to some users, design works well with a wide range of faces
• Best for: Side, stomach, and combination sleepers

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, like a beard or mustache, because the seal is created against the nostrils, instead of anywhere around the face. This type of mask isn’t well suited to people with deviated septums or chronic congestion, or those who breathe through their mouths. The design may not accommodate high-pressure settings well, either.

• Benefits of a nasal pillow mask: Lightweight and unobtrusive, accommodates active sleepers and facial hair
• Best for: Combination and stomach sleepers

Oral masks: Oral masks only cover and deliver air to your mouth. This type of  mask is less common than the three main types (full face masks, nasal masks, and nasal pillows) and is ideal if you have consistent nasal blockage and are unable to breathe through your nose on a regular basis. Otherwise, the air that’s going into your mouth would just escape through your nose while you’re sleeping.

Total face masks: Total face masks cover your entire face and go over your nose, mouth, and eyes. This is considered a specialized mask that’s best if you sleep on your back and need even air pressure to your nose and mouth. Similar to a full face mask, it creates a seal around your face to ensure air doesn’t escape when being delivered to your nose and mouth.

Nasal prong masks: Like nasal pillow CPAP masks, nasal prong masks are designed for the nostrils. Instead of sealing the opening of the nostrils, this type of mask uses nasal prongs to create a seal against the walls of the nostrils. It can be a good option for people who find it difficult to get a good seal with other types of masks, including active sleepers or those with facial hair.

Hybrid masks: Hybrid masks combine elements from full face masks and nasal pillow masks. This type of mask is designed to seal beneath your nose and over your mouth so that it can deliver air to both airways. That makes it a good option if you alternate between breathing out of your nose and your mouth. Hybrid masks also tend to be smaller than full face masks, so they may be a little easier for some people to tolerate. They aren’t a good fit for people with facial hair.

CPAP masks include various components, with each serving a specific purpose. Here are the most common components:

• Mask headgear: The headgear ensures the mask stays in place on your head. Magnetic clips and Velcro fasteners are often used to allow for a precise fit and easy detachment.
• Mask frame: The mask frame offers structure and includes connection points for the mask’s other components. Generally, mask frames are made with silicone or plastic for flexibility, durability, and ease of cleaning.
• Mask cushion: Cushions and pillows are dual-purpose features that protect the face and create the tight seal necessary to prevent air from leaking out of the mask. Silicone, gel, and foam are often used for comfort.
• Mask hosing/mask hose: The hose is what delivers pressurized air from the CPAP machine to the mask. It’s a flexible component that’s designed to move comfortably as you sleep. Connections points vary depending on the manufacturer and may attach to the front of the mask or the top of the head.

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 mask for 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] 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/ 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 medically prescribed CPAP masks in its CPAP coverage terms because a mask is a necessary component for CPAP therapy. ^[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 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] Healthcare.gov. Health Savings Account (HSA). Found on the internet at https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/health-savings-account-hsa/ An FSA is an employer-maintained account that also acts as a pre-tax savings account for reimbursement of certain health-related expenses. ^[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/ 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.

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 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 to 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 CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers.” We chose the ResMed AirFit F30i as the “Best CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathers.” The Fisher & Paykel Opus 360 is our choice for “Best for Facial Hair” thanks to its above-the-mouth nasal pillow design, which works well for beards. 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/