CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

A side-by-side comparison of Canada's two most popular CPAP machines. Learn how the ResMed AirSense 11 compares to the Philips Respironics DreamStation 2 in comfort, design, and features.

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor has likely recommended a CPAP machine to help you breathe better at night. Two of the most trusted CPAP brands in Canada are ResMed and Philips Respironics - but which one is right for you?

In this post, we’ll provide a detailed comparison to help you find the best fit for your sleep apnea treatment.

If you're a CPAP user, you know how important it is to find the right mask for a restful night’s sleep. After all, when you’re using a machine to help with sleep apnea, comfort and fit are key. That’s why we’re excited to share our initial thoughts on the ResMed AirTouch N30i CPAP Mask, the latest addition to the AirFit and AirTouch series! We’ve been testing it, and here’s what we think.

What Makes the AirTouch N30i Stand Out?

The ResMed AirTouch N30i is designed for comfort and convenience, offering an upgraded experience compared to its predecessors. It’s part of the AirTouch series, known for using memory foam cushions, but this particular model is uniquely designed to combine the best of both worlds with a more streamlined, user-friendly design and enhanced comfort.

Key Features of the AirTouch N30i:

• Memory Foam Cushion: Like the AirTouch series, the N30i comes with a soft, breathable memory foam cushion that provides a snug fit while also minimizing pressure points. The foam material molds to your face, making it feel as though it’s custom-fitted. No more sore spots or uncomfortable pressure from traditional silicone cushions!

• Top-of-the-Head Tube Design: One of the standout features of the AirTouch N30i is the top-of-the-head tubing design, which means no more tubing hanging from the front. This provides greater freedom of movement, which is ideal if you tend to toss and turn at night. It also helps reduce the risk of mask leaks, giving you a more secure and comfortable fit while you sleep.

• Quiet Operation: The mask is engineered for quieter operation, so you won’t have to worry about loud CPAP machine noises keeping you or your partner awake.

• Easy to Clean: Like other AirTouch masks, the N30i is easy to maintain. The memory foam cushion is designed for quick cleaning and can be wiped down easily, while the frame can be washed regularly.

How Does It Differ from the AirFit N30i and AirTouch Series?

You might be wondering how the AirTouch N30i stacks up against the AirFit N30i or the other AirTouch masks. Let’s break it down.

AirFit N30i vs. AirTouch N30i:

• Cushion Material: The AirFit N30i uses a silicone cushion, while the AirTouch N30i uses a memory foam cushion. The memory foam offers a softer, more personalized fit that contours to your face, providing better comfort, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to leaks. The AirFit N30i might be a better option for those who prefer a firmer feel.

• Fit & Comfort: Both masks offer a top-of-the-head tube design, but the memory foam of the AirTouch N30i offers a more adaptive fit, while the silicone cushion of the AirFit N30i provides a slightly firmer seal. The memory foam is often seen as the winner for ultimate comfort.

AirTouch N30i vs. Other AirTouch Masks:

• The AirTouch N30i is more compact, and sleeker compared to other models in the AirTouch range. It’s designed to be lighter and less bulky, making it a great option for users who want the comfort of the AirTouch series with a more minimalist design.

• The AirTouch N30i also features a top-of-the-head tubing system which is unique compared to other AirTouch models. This offers greater freedom of movement and reduces the possibility of mask displacement during sleep.

Pros and Cons of the AirTouch N30i

Like any product, the AirTouch N30i has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick rundown:

Pros:

• Unmatched Comfort: The memory foam cushion creates a soft, personalized fit that helps reduce irritation and pressure points.

• Top-of-the-Head Tube: This feature allows for more movement during the night without compromising the fit of the mask.

• Quieter Than Other Masks: You and your partner will enjoy a quieter sleep without the loud noise of traditional CPAP masks.

• Easy to Clean: The mask's design makes cleaning easy and fast, keeping maintenance low-effort.

• Versatility: Works well for both back and side sleepers, providing great stability and comfort no matter your sleep position.

Cons:

• Memory Foam Cushion Needs Replacing: While the memory foam provides comfort, it does need to be replaced more frequently (every 1-2 months) than compared to silicone cushions, so be prepared for ongoing maintenance.

• Slightly Higher Price: The AirTouch N30i comes at a premium compared to regular silicone masks, but many users feel the comfort and features justify the cost.

• Fit Might Not Work for Everyone: While the mask is designed to be one-size-fits-most, people with different face shapes or sizes may experience some discomfort or leakage.

What to Expect with the AirTouch N30i

If you decide to give the AirTouch N30i a try, here’s what you can expect:

1. Better Comfort: The memory foam will likely feel like a breath of fresh air compared to your old silicone mask. It will mold to your face, creating a gentle seal without any of the painful pressure.

2. A Quieter Sleep: Thanks to its design and materials, you’ll notice less noise. Both you and your sleep partner will benefit from a more peaceful night.

3. Improved Flexibility: The top-of-the-head tubing design allows you to move around freely without worrying about the mask shifting or leaks. If you’re a side sleeper, this could be a game-changer.

4. Easy Maintenance: Cleaning the mask will be hassle-free, though remember to replace the memory foam cushion regularly to maintain optimal comfort and function.

Final Thoughts

The ResMed AirTouch N30i is an exciting addition to the CPAP market, blending innovative comfort with practical design. If you're tired of dealing with discomfort or mask leaks, this could be the solution you’ve been looking for. 

Would we recommend it? Absolutely - if you're looking for comfort, quiet operation, and freedom of movement, the AirTouch N30i might be worth trying.

When it comes to managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy, the right mask plays a crucial role in your comfort and overall treatment success. But what happens when it’s time to switch from an older generation mask to a newer modern model? Can a new-generation CPAP mask improve your therapy experience? A recent study looked at the impact of exactly that and found some surprising and positive results.

The Old vs. New CPAP Masks

If you’ve been using a traditional and dated CPAP mask for a while, you might be familiar with older models like the Fisher & Paykel HC431, Philips' ComfortGel Full or ResMed Mirage Quattro. These masks have been reliable for decades, but as technology advances, so do the design and comfort features of newer, modern CPAP masks. The feature study explored the latest models like the AirFit F30i and AirFit N30i—both of which are designed to improve comfort, fit, and seal and thus overall therapy. 

The old generation masks, while effective, can sometimes feel bulky, heavy or cause discomfort over time. They may also be more prone to leaks or require more adjustments throughout the night. Newer masks, on the other hand, aim to address these issues with improved designs, lighter materials, and features that make them easier to use, even for people who struggle with mask fit.

What the Study Found: Remote Mask Switching Success

In the study, 215 participants switched from older CPAP masks to newer-generation ones, such as the AirFit F30i and AirFit N30i, via video consultations with their healthcare providers. The results were quite promising, with patients reporting improvements in comfort, usability, and overall satisfaction.

1. Comfort and Fit: Patients found the newer masks significantly more comfortable. This is crucial since comfort is one of the top reasons people abandon CPAP therapy. If a mask isn’t comfortable, it can lead to leaks, poor seal, or just an overall unpleasant experience. With newer masks like the AirFit F30i, which features an under-the-nose design, users often experience less discomfort and more stability throughout the night.

2. Better Sleep Quality: Over a period of 30 to 90 days, participants who switched masks reported better sleep quality. Although there was a slight increase in residual apnea-hypopnea index (a measure of sleep interruptions), the change was so small that it wasn’t clinically significant. What was more noteworthy was the improvement in how long participants used their CPAP machine each night. On average, daily usage increased by 0.2 hours a day 30, suggesting that the new masks contributed to more consistent therapy usage.

3. Improved Sleep-Related Quality of Life: The Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ-10) score, which measures how sleep impacts quality of life, showed a significant improvement after 90 days. This means that, despite small changes in sleep disruptions, participants felt more rested and less impacted by sleep apnea after switching to a new mask.

4. Better Mask Features: One of the standout findings was that participants rated the comfort, seal, and usability of the new masks higher than expected. This highlights the continuous improvements in mask design, making them more adaptable to individual needs. Users reported that the AirFit F30i, for example, provided a better seal with fewer leaks, and the AirFit N30i offered a quieter, more discreet experience.

Why Switching Masks Can Make a Big Difference

Switching from an older mask to a newer-generation one isn’t just about getting a “nicer” look or feeling—it's about improving the overall experience of your CPAP therapy. When patients feel more comfortable, have fewer issues with leaks, and use their CPAP machines longer, the results are clear: better sleep and a higher quality of life.

Plus, thanks to remote care support, you don’t even have to leave your home to switch to a better mask. Healthcare providers can help you find the best fit via video consultations, saving you time and hassle while ensuring you get the support you need.

Final Thoughts: Should You Consider Switching?

If you’re currently using an older CPAP mask and experiencing discomfort or difficulty with mask fit, it might be worth considering a switch to a newer model. New-generation masks like the AirFit F30i and AirFit N30i offer improved comfort, a better seal, and easier use, all of which can make a huge difference in your therapy success.

Remember, everyone’s experience with CPAP therapy is unique, so it’s important to choose a mask that works for you. If you’re unsure, reach out to your healthcare provider for advice and ask about remote consultation options that make the mask-switching process easier than ever.

Happy sleeping!

For more details, you can check out the original study here.