Have you been looking for the best small CPAP machine? If so, this guide will help you find the device that will improve your sleep and help you travel with ease. All the CPAPs we talk about below are small, lightweight, have advanced features, and are excellent for everyone on the go. Before you start scrolling among the tens of products online, check out these reviews and read about the advantages of portable CPAP machines.
What Is a Small CPAP Machine?
Everyone who’s been struggling with obstructive sleep apnea knows how important it is to have a compact, portable CPAP machine. These continuous positive airway pressure devices improve sleep quality and allow you to avoid the unwanted symptoms of sleep apnea.
Small CPAP machines are ideal for traveling since most people need these medical devices during the night, even when they’re on the go. Manufacturers heard the wishes of the many who found it impossible to travel with regular CPAPs, so they decided to create smaller kits that are lightweight, cost less, and compact. Small CPAP machines use air pressure via a mask to keep your airways open so that you can breathe at night and act as a sleep therapy for people who struggle with breathing.
These machines come with similar features as the large version; however, they might have a few additional features that make traveling simpler. For example, you can charge them in your car’s power outlet while driving, and you’ll never run out of battery. Many of them also come with an extra battery you can use while the other is charging. In addition, most of the models are approved by the FAA for carrying on your flight and are TSA-friendly.
Do many people want to know whether insurance coverage applies to these small machines? It primarily depends on your insurance plans; however, most plans cover a part of the cost of the machine and its parts.
Top Small CPAP Machines
We took an in-depth look at many small CPAP machines and can finally share the top five contenders. Below you can read more about their features, pros, and cons. We have to add that before you choose any of the machines on the list, you have to consult your healthcare provider and discuss the best alternative.
1. Philips Respironics DreamStation 2 Advanced Auto CPAP Machine
This popular Philips CPAP machine is excellent for everyone who needs top-notch technology packed in a small device.
Pros
- Color touchscreen
- You can adjust the pressure during the ramp period
- Comes with a built-in humidifier
Cons
- It’s costly
The Philips Dream Station 2 has a Ramp Plus feature that lets you control the ramp pressure. It’s ideal for people who have trouble falling asleep when the pressure is high, so you can set it to your needs.
2. ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet w/ HumidAir and ClimateLineAir Tube
The ResMed Air Sense 10 set is one of the quietest small machines you’ll find on the market. The device comes with an LCD monitor that’s straightforward to use. In addition, you’ll also get a heated humidifier to help your breathing even more.
Pros
- Built-in comfort settings that adjust the pressure to your breathing patterns
- It comes with a 2-year warranty
- Has a heated humidifier feature
Cons
- You’ll need to refill the humidifier often
This is a lightweight machine you can take anywhere with you. It can also note whether a person struggles with CSA or OSA and adjust the settings according to the needs.
3. HDM Z2 Fixed Pressure Travel CPAP Machine Kit
The HDM Z2 small CPAP machine is more affordable than the other picks on the list, but that doesn’t make it any less worthy or amazing. One of its most significant pros is that you can use it with any mask you have, saving you money.
Pros
- Very small and lightweight
- Includes waterless humidification
- Doesn’t require a special mask
Cons
- Hose is a bit stiff
This CPAP machine is quiet and is as big as most people’s palms. You can take it everywhere with you and purchase an integrated battery for when you don’t have access to a power source.
4. Z1 Travel CPAP with PowerShell and Overnight Battery
The Z1 Travel CPAP machine is one of the smallest and lightest machines on the market. It features a quiet but powerful motor, and you can also use it with a battery for an entire night.
Pros
- Very quiet
- Works with all CPAP/BiPAP masks
- You can get an integrated battery and use it when you can’t plug it into an outlet
Cons
- The software needs a few tweaks
The device comes with an algorithm that follows your breathing pattern and adjusts its work according to your needs. The FFA also approves it for all commercial flights within the USA and international flights that depart from the USA.
5. ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP
This ResMed travel CPAP is one of the smallest machines on the market, ideal for frequent travelers and people who need a quiet device. It offers an adjustable expiratory pressure relief thanks to its advanced settings.
Pros
- It’s very quiet and convenient
- Offers waterless humidification
- Advanced pressure settings, which means the pressure adapts to your breathing
Cons
- It’s costly
The humidifier prevents your nose and mouth from getting dry, and what’s even better is that it doesn’t need any water. The machine also tracks your breathing while sleeping and stores the data for up to a month.
Advantages of Portable CPAP Machines
Why are these machines so beneficial? Below, you can read more about their advantages and how they can improve your life.
You Can Take It Anywhere
A small CPAP means a portable CPAP. These mini machines are suitable for travel, making your trips more convenient. In addition, they’re lightweight and smaller compared to regular CPAPs so that they won’t take too much space in your luggage. These machines are ideal for people who are often on the go. If you need even more support for your breathing, you can also find a portable BiPAP machine for travel.
Simple to Charge
Most portable small machines come with two batteries, one inside the machine and an extra one as a spare. In other words, you can add the second battery while you’re charging the first. Even if your new device comes with a single battery, it will be very easy to charge it, and it won’t take too much time.
Quiet and Straightforward to Use
The smaller machines are much quieter compared to the large versions. You’ll only see a few buttons, meaning that these devices are straightforward for people of all ages. Since many are bothered by the sound of a machine right next to their bed, these quiet devices are perfect for everyone who wants a calm environment.
Conclusion
Finding an excellent small CPAP machine shouldn’t be a problem now, as you’ve read about these five products. These travel-friendly devices will make your life much easier since they’re lightweight, quiet, straightforward to use, and more affordable than larger versions. If you’re suffering from central sleep apnea or any neurological or heart disorders that require the assistance of a device, you can also find many small BiPAP machines to travel with.