- Price: $119
- Sizes: Small, medium, large
- Pressure range: 4–30 centimeters of water (cmH20)
- Warranty: 90 days
- Standout feature: Mask has high air pressure capacity
Best Nasal CPAP Masks in 2024: Reviewed by Our Experts
Sep 30, 2024
Fact Checked
We've reviewed several of the best nasal CPAP masks for comfort, cost, and convenience. Read our review to learn more and decide which one works for you.
Key Takeaways
- The ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask Complete System is our pick for the “Best for High Pressure” because it stays firmly in place despite the high pressure levels.
- The CPAP mask systems we included in this review range from $109–$129.
- Our top choices for nasal CPAP masks are those that stay in place and don’t have a lot of leakage.
- Sleeping positions and frequency of getting out of bed at night can play a large part in which CPAP mask will work best for you.
You’ve completed your sleep study, learned you have sleep apnea, and are now shopping for a CPAP machine with the ramp time you need and the all-important mask. Whether it’s a full-face, nasal, or a nasal pillow mask, choosing the right type of CPAP mask is an important part of getting a good night’s sleep.
The American Thoracic Society recommends trying a nasal CPAP mask as a good place to start. The best nasal CPAP masks help you to breathe easier without covering your face.
When we surveyed 600 CPAP users, 24% said they use nasal masks, and about 9% said they use nasal pillows. For this review, we outline the top features of our picks for the best four nasal masks. We looked at comfort and support while wearing the mask, convenience if you need to get out of bed at night, and ease of adjusting your CPAP mask.
Read our insights below to determine which mask may be right for you, and see some of our other CPAP mask reviews, including the Best CPAP Masks of 2024 and the Best CPAP Masks for Beards and Facial Hair.
Best nasal CPAP masks in 2024
- ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask Complete System: Best for High Pressure
- ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask Complete System: Best for Combination Sleepers
- Philips Respironics Dreamwear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask With Headgear: Best for Side Sleepers
- Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Mask: Best for New CPAP Users
ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask Complete System: Best for High Pressure
ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask Complete System
Best for High Pressure
✓
The ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask Complete System has one of the highest capacities for CPAP air pressure of the masks we reviewed, at 4–30 cmH20. The Philips Respironics Dreamwear Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask has a similarly high air pressure capacity, but our testing found that the AirFit N20’s silicone cushion stayed in place even with high airflow, while the Dreamwear’s lightweight cushion made it prone to air leakage.
The ResMed AirFit N20 is a good pick for someone who knows they need a high air pressure level to sleep well at night.
Our Top Pick
Our expert take
The AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask is comfortable, with a soft, gentle feel that makes it easy to wear at night. Our Reviews Team likes that you can simply detach the mask from its tube without removing it from your face when you need to get out of bed. We also like that its silicone materials make it easier to clean so it’s less likely to develop bacteria or mold.
The magnets on the headgear make it easy to snap the mask into place. Just be aware that they can cause problems with certain metal implants or medical devices. A lot of air blows out of the mask while in use, which can be uncomfortable for a partner.
The ability to use higher pressure settings, easy removal, and secure fit makes the ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask our top pick.
Our CPAP mask expert’s take
Who may love it
- Side sleepers
- People who need high pressure from their CPAP machine
- People who get up a lot in the middle of the night
Who may want to avoid it
- People who change sleeping positions a lot
- People who sleep with a partner who is disturbed by air blowing from the mask
- People with certain metal implants or medical devices
Customer reviews
People like the comfort and ease of using the AirFit N20 CPAP mask.
“This is WAY more comfortable than I thought it would be.”
Jaccob H, verified buyer on Aug. 10, 2024
“This mask is so much more comfortable than some of the others I have used. I like the magnetic fasteners for easy on, easy off. No facial lines.”
– Deborah C, verified buyer on July 27, 2024
ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask Complete System: Best for Combination Sleepers
ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask Complete System
Best for Combination Sleepers
✓
We chose the ResMed AirFit™ N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask Complete System as the “Best Nasal CPAP Mask for Combination Sleepers” because the tubing system’s placement at the top of the head is designed to stay out of the way while you’re sleeping and less likely to interfere when you change sleeping positions.
Our expert take
The ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask is a good option for people who need a mask that will not get tangled at night. The mask fits under the nose, unlike some nasal masks that cover the entire nose. Our Reviews Team likes the softness and comfort of the silicone mask cushion and the placement of the air tube at the top of the head, since this allows for better freedom of movement.
Some people who need high air pressure may find it doesn’t stay in place as well as it should.
While the mask itself is quiet, the seal on the lightweight cushion doesn’t always stay in place and can lead to air leaking from the sides and blowing past your ears.
Still, because it doesn’t restrict your movements while sleeping, we like the ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask for combination sleepers.
Our CPAP mask expert’s take
Who may love it
- Combination sleepers
- People who wear glasses in bed
- Stomach sleepers
Who may want to avoid it
- People who sleep with their mouth open
- People who want full nose coverage
- Those who feel like an under-the-nose cushion isn’t sturdy enough
Customer reviews
Sleepers like the fit and comfort of the AirFit N30i CPAP mask.
“This is by far the most comfortable, well-fitting mask system. Wish I had found it sooner as I was about to quit CPAP therapy. My doctor uses [it] and recommended it.” –
– James H, verified buyer on March 10, 2024
“This design eliminates the issue of getting wrapped up with the hose. It is lightweight and comfortable. And although I fully expected to hear the air flowing through the tubes on the side of my head, I hear nothing at all!”
– Alicia A, verified buyer on March 7, 2024
Philips Respironics Dreamwear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear: Best for Side Sleepers
Philips Respironics Dreamwear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask With Headgear
Best for Side Sleepers
✓
We chose the Philips Respironics Dreamwear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask With Headgear as the “Best for Side Sleepers” because, similar to the ResMed AirFir N30i, the tubing attaches at the top of the mask, making it less likely to get in the way as you lie on your side. The lightweight cushion fits under your nose and is more likely to stay in place while you’re sleeping on your side.
Our expert take
As with other masks with this design, our Reviews Team likes the way the Philips Respironics Dreamwear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask top-of-head connection allows sleepers to move around more freely. We also like the softness of the nasal cushion and that the straps adjust at the back of the head, eliminating the cords and tubes that often leave lines on the face after sleeping with them pressing into the skin all night.
The downside we found with the Dreamwear Nasal Pillow mask’s strap placement is that it may make it harder for some users to keep the mask tightly in place without the ability to adjust the nasal area. But the ability to switch sleeping positions or get out of bed without being disturbed by tubes still makes this mask a good option, in our view.
If you’re also researching full coverage CPAP masks, check out our review of the “5 Best CPAP Masks for Side Sleepers.”
Our CPAP mask expert’s take
Who may love it
- Side sleepers
- Sleepers who switch positions frequently
- People who get out of bed a lot during the night
Who may want to avoid it
- People who need a high-pressure air setting
- Sleepers who like to have their entire nose covered
- People worried that the under-the-nose cushion won’t stay in place
Customer reviews
For many sleepers, the top-of-head tube connection is a plus for this mask, but the strap placement may be an issue.
“I have been using this mask for years now. The hose is up and back off the top of your head the way it should be. Doesn’t bother you with the hose going down your chin and stomach.”
– Dean M, verified buyer on Feb. 26, 2024
“I love the pillow part of the mask that doesn’t go into your nose. I hate the silicone that connects the adjustable strap on the back of your head. I am a side-sleeper and it gives me a headache.”
– Laurie, verified buyer on April 6, 2021
Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Mask: Best for New CPAP Users
Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Mask
Best for New CPAP Users
✓
We chose the Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Mask as the “Best Mask for New CPAP Users” because of its intuitive design and ease of use. Fisher & Paykel touts its mask as “the world’s first AutoFit mask” since it only takes one touch to adjust the mask to your comfort. This may be especially beneficial for new users by calming worries that they may make the mask too tight or not tight enough.
Our expert take
We like that the Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Mask takes the guesswork out of adjusting your CPAP mask. Placing your mask over your nose and fitting it properly is a simple process with easy-to-follow instructions.
There is still the possibility that you’ll have to do a little adjusting if the mask isn’t snug enough. And if you need to get up in the middle of the night, you’ll have to take the mask off to disconnect it, unlike the ResMed AirFit N20, which allows you to disconnect the tube without removing the mask.
Still, being able to lock your mask into place without the need for adjusting any additional straps makes this a good option, especially for people who are new to using a CPAP machine, and people who have dexterity issues that could make mask adjustments a challenge.
Our CPAP mask expert’s take
Who may love it
- New CPAP users
- Back and side sleepers
- People with finger dexterity issues
- Users who don’t like self-adjusting their masks
Who may want to avoid it
- Combination sleepers
- People who move a lot while sleeping at night
- Sleepers looking for high pressure
- Someone who wants more control adjusting their mask
Customer reviews
Mask users like having a mask that adjusts for them.
“Solo Mask is absolutely wonderful! I haven’t been able to enjoy a nasal cushion mask because I’m a side sleeper and I move a lot so normally experience a lot of leaks but not with [these] masks. … [With] their new technology it stays right in place.”
– Angela W, verified buyer on June 4, 2024
“I started using this mask and I love how it feels. … I also love how the head strap automatically adjusts to fit your head with the appropriate tension to create a nice feel. It would be hard to go back to the old mask after using this one.”
– Floyd D, verified buyer on June 4, 2024
How we test CPAP products
Our team has spent more than 250 hours reviewing and researching CPAP mask systems. Our approach to CPAP nasal masks, and their impact, is informed by experts in the medical field. We continually read and review academic research to understand the benefits and details of CPAP therapy, how the devices work, and the importance of using the right type of mask. We also surveyed 600 real CPAP users to learn more about their experiences using the machines and what matters most to them. We test CPAP masks for comfort and convenience, reviewing them for factors that matter to you.
We have researched more than 45 CPAP models and masks from several manufacturers and compared each one on a set of key specifications and features. We rate CPAP masks on the following factors:
- Cost
- Air pressure
- Comfort
- Tubing attachments
- Mask size options
Read our CPAP review methodology to learn more about our process.
How to purchase a nasal CPAP mask
To purchase a CPAP machine along with the nasal mask, you’ll need a prescription. You can then search online or take your prescription to a CPAP equipment provider, who can show the various options for CPAP masks. Your doctor may also be able to give you recommendations.
The cost of the machine and the mask will vary, depending on which retailer you purchase them from. If you’re paying with insurance, your out-of-pocket costs will depend on the details of your insurance plan. You may have a small copay, or you may have to pay a percentage of the total cost. Your insurance company may also require that you purchase from a specific retailer in order to qualify for coverage.
It’s best to contact your insurance provider before you decide where to purchase your CPAP machine and mask so you can confirm whether they require a specific retailer and what portion of the cost you will be responsible for.
CPAP nasal masks vs. full face masks
We talked to Satyanarayan Hegde, MD, a pediatric pulmonologist and chief medical officer at Access Pediatric in Gainesville, Florida, about how CPAP masks work.
“CPAP nasal masks provide pressure through the nasal openings, while full-face masks do the same through mouth and nose (oral and nasal openings),” said Dr. Hegde. “Generally, nasal masks are preferred over full-face masks since they are better tolerated and provide better efficacy in the majority of subjects with obstructive sleep apnea,”
For people who tend to keep their mouth open while sleeping, a full-face mask is usually recommended by the doctor and preferred by the patient, Dr. Hegde added.
Table 1, Compare the best CPAP nasal masks as of 2024
| Price | $119 | $129 | $109 | $119 |
| Sizes | Small, medium, large | Small and standard | Small, medium, and large frames; small, medium, medium-wide, and large nasal pillows | Small, medium, large, and wide |
| Pressure range in centimeters of water (cmH20) | 4–30 | 4–25 | 4–30 | 4–20 |
| Warranty | 90-day | 90-day | 90-day | 90-day manufacturer warranty |
Bottom line
Finding the best nasal CPAP mask for you depends on several factors. Each of the CPAP nasal masks we chose for this review were based on physical comfort and users’ sleep patterns. We like the ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Cushion CPAP Mask Complete System for its soft InfinitySeal cushion and easy disconnect for people who tend to get up and leave the bed at night. It is also available at a reasonable price.
The ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask Complete System and Philips Respironics Dreamwear Silicone Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask both have the air tube placement at the top of the mask instead of over the nose, making them good options for people who sleep on their sides or frequently change positions while they sleep. And the Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Mask, with its AutoLock technology, makes it a good mask to consider for people who are new to using CPAP masks or who have dexterity issues that could get in the way of adjusting mask straps properly.
Frequently asked questions
If you breathe through your mouth, a full-face mask may be better for you than a nasal CPAP mask. Talk to your doctor about which type of mask will help you to breathe best at night.
The nasal CPAP mask systems we included in this review, including the headgear, range in cost from $109 to $129.
If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, using a CPAP machine with the right mask can help you breathe easier while you sleep and may decrease the risks of related health issues like heart attacks and strokes.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
Sources
- Genta P, et al. The Importance of Mask Selection on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Outcomes for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. Oct. 17, 2020. Found on the internet at https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/AnnalsATS.202007-864ST
- ResMed. Urgent Field Safety Notice ResMed Masks with Magnets – Potential Magnetic Interference with Certain Medical Devices. Nov. 20, 2023. Found on the internet at https://document.resmed.com/documents/products/serviceandsupport/mask-magnet-support/Physician_Letter_English_UK.pdf
- NCOA Adviser. CPAP Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched July 25, 2023.