Sleep apnea is no joke. Apart from poor sleep quality, sleep apnea can also raise the risk of health issues. Sleep apnea causes the patient to lose sleep, which results in many different health problems and mental issues. There are more negative effects that can be experienced when sleep apnea is not treated.
This is why thousands of sleep specialists have prescribed the use of CPAP machines or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines. To get the most out of your therapy, it is best to purchase the best CPAP machine for your use. To look at some of the best choices, here are our Top 5 CPAP Machine Reviews for 2020.
CPAP Machine Review #1: DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine
This Dreamstation CPAP Machine is as good as it gets. With several features that help CPAP patients, the Dreamstation Auto CPAP Machine comes in handy for patients that are looking for a machine that tracks and records sleep data. The advanced features on the DreamStation Auto provides its users with the best value for the money.
Why should I choose the DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine?
SmartRamp - The Smart Ramp feature is an option that allows users to gradually increase the pressure setting on the CPAP device when the patient is asleep. This would allow the patient to adjust more comfortably to the settings since the increase of the air pressure is gradual.
Check Mask Fit - This CPAP Machine helps the patient maximize their therapy by making sure that the mask doesn’t leak. The Check Mask Fit feature enables the patient to check the fit of the mask before stating the therapy by delivering a test pressure for 40 seconds.
DreamMapper App - Like most DreamStation Machines, the DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine can be used with the DreamMapper App. It records the sleep data of the patient, along with data on mask fit and therapy hours. It also tracks the progress of the client and sends the report to the care team of the patient.
CPAP Machine Review #2: Philips Respironics DreamStation Go CPAP Machine
The DreamStation Go CPAP Machine for Travel is extremely portable. It is easy to bring around since it is smaller in size and it complies with FAA requirements, which makes it even more ideal for traveling. In terms of measurements, the DreamStation Go CPAP weighs less than 2 pounds and it measures 15 cm length x 15 cm width x 5.8 cm height. However, the humidifier is still separate from the aforementioned measurements.
Why should I choose the Philips Respironics DreamStation Go Travel CPAP Machine?
DreamMapper Technology – The DreamStation Go CPAP puts your sleep data on record in the integrated DreamMapper Technology. You can also opt to use DreamMapper Technology on your mobile phone.
This device will show the Apnea-Hypopnea Index details, the Usage, and the Mask Fit. The Apnea-Hypopnea Index shows the AHI per night per hour on average. On the other hand, the Usage section shows the hours of use on a particular day. It will show the min and max pressure setting, the time use, the starting setting, and if the ramp mode was turned on. Lastly, the Mask Fit will indicate how well the mask fits the user and the number of disconnects, along with the leak details.
Quiet Machine – The reason why most patients agree to CPAP Therapy is that their sleeping partners couldn’t stand their snoring. However, CPAP patients also complain that most machines are noisy. This is why the DreamStation Go CPAP machine was designed to produce quiet operation that emits 30 decibels at most. Other times, it has been able to produce 27.9 decibels.
Flex Option – This CPAP machine offers automatic pressure adjustments, but one of its main benefits is that it provides relief during exhalation. You can opt for less or more pressure when you exhale so you can match your normal breathing pattern. The Flex Pressure Relief setting ranges from 1 to 3 with 1 being the lowest and 3 being the highest.
Premiere Sleep Coach Service – In order to maximize the use of your Philips Respironics DreamStation Go Travel CPAP Machine, you will be getting 2 calls from their representative to assist you with any issues that you may have with your machine. These discussions will include machine setup, menu applications, the function of your CPAP machine and how your mask works for you, and the DreamMapper technology app.
CPAP Machine Review #3: ResMed AirSense 10 Elite CPAP Machine
When it comes to unique features, the ResMed AirSense 10 is king. While it certainly isn’t as lightweight as the previous model, this machine can still hold up to its quality since it is powered with features that are almost unheard of in the industry. Despite this, it is still a great travel CPAP machine since it is FAA compliant and it comes with the necessary accessories for travel like the travel bag. Easy to set up and adjust, this CPAP machine is a joy to use CPAP beginners.
Why should I choose the ResMed AirSense 10 Elite CPAP Machine?
SmartStart Function and Intuitive Interface – The ResMed Airsense 10 Elite works in a way that when the user wears the mask, the therapy begins. On the other hand, the device will halt its operation when the mask has been taken off. This CPAP machine is also user-friendly with its intuitive interface that allows for a quick setup. It also comes with a Start & Go button, which means that the patient can easily navigate through the menu with minimal burden.
Expiratory Pressure Relief and Easy-Breathe Technology – The quiet operation of the motor provides a more restful sleep for the patient. Moreover, the expiratory pressure relief allows the patient to maximize the treatment by adjusting the pressure during inhalation and exhalation.
Advanced Apnea Detection – One feature of the ResMed Airsense 10 Elite CPAP Machine that is it can compare and contrast obstructive and central apneas. It also detects Cheyne-Stokes respiration and records all these events in the database. This helps sleep specialists determine the right therapy to be used for the patient.
ResMed AirSense 10 Pressure Settings Adjustment – This CPAP machine comes with the AutoRamp technology that provides a starting pressure that is recommended by the sleep specialist. When the user is deeply asleep, the machine starts increasing the pressure by the minute until the full prescribed pressure has been reached.
CPAP Machine Review #4: ResMed AirMini CPAP Machine
ResMed has also created its travel CPAP Machine that is compact enough for extremely handy and portable. It is the smallest travel CPAP machine in the ResMed line, which makes it the most ideal for patients that are always on the go. It also employs a waterless humidification system that helps its functionality and allows it to be more portable. This Travel Machine is compatible with the following masks: AirFit™ P10 for AirMini, AirFit N20, AirFit F20, AirTouch™ F20, and AirFit F30. The dealer of this CPAP machine will be the one that can help you set up the mask with the machine.
Why should I choose the ResMed AirMini CPAP Machine?
HumidX is the reason why ResMed AirMini CPAP Machine could employ a waterless humidification system. This system could be recommended for places with normal or humid climates. The humidifier works by getting the moisture from your breath and using it as the humidifier during the therapy.
In order for this to work, you can twist the connector to open it and have the colored side downwards. Afterward, you can now plug in the humidifier system and push it to the connector until you hear a clicking sound. However, this machine is a little noisier when compared to other CPAP Machines.
Bluetooth Connection – The ResMed AirMini CPAP machine can track your sleep records, but you can access these data through the AirMini app. “You can pair/connect your AirMini device with the AirMini App by ResMed. The application can be downloaded from the App Store (IOS platforms) or Google Play (Android platforms). Make sure you get the latest version of the app on your device. Once you connect your device with your smart device through the ArMini App, you can easily perform changes in comfort setting, start/stop your therapy or view therapeutic data on your mobile device. In order to fully protect your privacy, all data will be sent encrypted through BlueTooth.”
Portable – In this category, the ResMed AirMini is the king as it is the lightest and smallest travel CPAP machine on the market today. At only 300 grams, this CPAP Machine is light enough to take on plane rides because it is FAA Compliant and it can handle air pressure that ranges from 1013 hPa to 738 hPa. Moreover, its size is truly compact as it can be held in the palm of your hands. The dimension of the AirMini machine is at 5.4 inches in width, 3.3 inches in depth, and 2.1 inches in height.
CPAP Machine Review #5: DeVilbiss IntelliPAP 2 AutoAdjust CPAP Machine
The DeVilbiss IntelliPAP 2 AutoAdjust CPAP Machine is another exemplary CPAP Machine that is available on the market today. As its name suggests, this CPAP machine banks on the fact that it comes with multiple adjustment features that help the users optimize their machine. On top of that, this machine is also travel friendly so users can bring it anywhere.
Why should I choose the DeVilbiss IntelliPAP 2 AutoAdjust CPAP Machine?
PureView AutoAdjust Algorithm - This feature provides a forecast on advanced apnea events, which includes periodic breathing and flow limitation. As a result, it automatically adjusts the pressure on the CPAP machine.
SmartFlex and Adjustable Rounding - The DeVilbiss IntelliPAP 2 AutoAdjust CPAP machine comes with 5 level settings. With the SmartFlex option, users can choose to lower pressure settings when exhaling so that the user can be more comfortable. Moreover, the adjustable rounding helps easier transition between exhalation to inhalation since the patient can be the one to choose their level setting.
SmartCode Adherence Score - CPAP machine users are notorious for not complying with their treatment since CPAP therapies are uncomfortable. The SmartCode Adherence Score is a rating given to the user after 30 days of treatment and it acts as a grading system for the users compliance with the CPAP therapy.
CPAP Machine Review: Buying Guide
Here are some factors to consider when buying a CPAP Machine:
Noise – The main purpose of a CPAP machine is to reduce one’s snoring as this can cause your sleep partner to be awakened during the night. However, if your CPAP Machine produces too much noise, it defeats the purpose of your CPAP therapy.
Portability – A portable travel CPAP machine should be considered by CPAP Patients. There may be instances where they have to leave the comforts of their bed and a huge CPAP machine is not ideal for users that are always on the go.
Pressure Relief – When buying a CPAP machine, it is important to consider a machine that allows for a different pressure setting when one exhales and when one inhales. A consistent pressure setting may cause difficulty in breathing for the user. However, if the exhalation setting is lower than the inhalation pressure, it is easier for the patient to breathe easily.
Ramp Setting – Another feature that can help the patient adjust better to their CPAP Therapy is using the ramp feature. If your CPAP therapy requires high pressure, you may need to begin the setting at a lower pressure. With the ramp setting, the pressure will be increased at set intervals.
Data Recording – Recording the data related to your sleep may be able to help the patient improve one’s sleep quality. You might be able to predict your sleep pattern if you are given in-depth information about your sleeping patterns. Moreover, you may be able to understand details related to your sleep apnea events, pressure changes, snoring details, and other related data.
Easy to Clean - “Learning how to clean a CPAP machine isn’t complicated, nor does it require a lot of time. However, like many other small and simple things in life, it can be easy to forget these essential tasks if you’re not careful.
Whether you need to set a reminder alarm in your phone or leave a note on your nightstand, going the extra mile to ensure you don’t forget to clean your device will make all the difference in helping it provide quality results in the years ahead.”