Fact Checked
Our team spent over 1,000 hours researching each oxygen concentrator, surveyed 600 oxygen users, consulted experts, and mystery-shopped dozens of brands to find the best portable oxygen concentrator.
Our Reviews Team recommends products and services we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. Weve spent more than 1,000 hours carrying out in-depth research on each oxygen concentrator to give you the most accurate review. To make our selections, we:
Our methodology was informed by published research and interviews with medical experts. We consulted geriatric and respiratory care professionals, such as Betty Lyda, RRT, Amber Snow, MSN, and Jenny Sanford, PCNP, who also medically reviewed our content.Read more about our oxygen machine review methodology.
If your doctor has prescribed supplemental oxygen, you may choose a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) or a home oxygen concentrator (HOC), depending on your doctors recommendation. A POC, also called a portable oxygen machine, provides safe, effective delivery of oxygen to people with low oxygen levels while they are away from home, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). You may use a POC while running errands, traveling, or doing other activities outside the house.
Finding the best portable oxygen concentrator for your needs can be confusingespecially if youre buying one for the first time. Our Reviews Team researched the best POCs on the market to help you choose. We dug into information on pricing, features, battery life, and more to help you find the best model for you.
1
Most Discreet
Inogen Rove 6
Lightweight device with long battery lifeLightweight device with long battery life
Can be worn with a shoulder strap for easy carryingCan be worn with a shoulder strap for easy carrying
Call Now
800-421-
Check PriceBest Overall
2
Best Battery Life
CAIRE Freestyle Comfort
Lasts up to 16 hours with extended batteryLasts up to 16 hours with extended battery
Curved design for comfortable wearingCurved design for comfortable wearing
Call Now
877-428-
Check Price3
Best Continuous and Pulse Flow
Oxlife Liberty2
Largest pulse dose compared to other wearable POCsLargest pulse dose compared to other wearable POCs
Lightweight model that can be charged while in useLightweight model that can be charged while in use
Call Now
800-780-
Check Price4
Most Portable
Inogen One G4
Simple to carry, weighing under 3 pounds with a single batterySimple to carry, weighing under 3 pounds with a single battery
Can control with your smartCan control with your smart
Call Now
800-926-
Check PriceInogen Rove 6
Most Discreet
Price: $3,295Price: $3,295
Weight: 4.8 pounds (single battery)Weight: 4.8 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: Up to 12 hours of battery life (with extended battery)Battery life: Up to 12 hours of battery life (with extended battery)
Maximum oxygen output: 1.26 liters per minute (LPM)Maximum oxygen output: 1.26 liters per minute (LPM)
Check Price 800-421-Why we chose this machine
The Inogen Rove 6 is a small, lightweight device with a long battery life. This machine can be worn with a shoulder strap as you walk to and from your flight and is easily stored underneath your seat or by your side on the plane. It is also approved for use on planes by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as is every POC we reviewed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Battery life can range from 6 to 13 hours on the lowest setting
The noise level is quiet
Cons
The double battery adds 12 ounces of weight
Only a three-year warranty
Additional details: lightweight with long battery life
Generally, the lower the oxygen output and the longer the battery life, the better the POC is for air travel. If you use a double battery for your Rove 6, youll have up to 13 hours of power on Setting 1 and nine hours on Setting 2. The Rove 6 also has a maximum oxygen output of 1.26 liters per minute (LPM) and six different flow settings to suit your oxygen needs.
The free Inogen Connect app is a bonus feature to connect the Rove 6 to your smartphone. You can check the battery life and change your concentrator settings on the app instead of pressing buttons on the machine itself.
A customer review on the Oxygen Concentrator Store said, Ive used it one day so far, and all is well with the G5. I chose it because of the longer battery life it has. I was tired of feeling like a prisoner in my home. I wasnt able to be out for more than 2 hours without carrying extra tanks with me. Now I can do more things with the Rove 6.
Inogen has an additional brand called OxyGo, selling the same machines under a different name. The Inogen Rove 6 is the same machine as the OxyGo Next. The cost is the same; the only difference is the OxyGo Next comes with a five-year warranty, and the Rove 6 comes with a three-year warranty.
Earlier this year, Inogen rebranded the One G5 to the Rove 6 to comply with European regulations. While the product is the same, the name has changed. You can still rent the One G5, but only the Rove 6 is available for purchase.
Read our full Inogen review.
The Inogen Rove 6 is available for purchase from medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Stores customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Teams experience with the customer service department.
Best Overall
CAIRE Freestyle Comfort
Best Battery Life
Price: $2,995Price: $2,995
Weight: 5 pounds (single battery)Weight: 5 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: 8 to 16 hours (on Setting 1)Battery life: 8 to 16 hours (on Setting 1)
Maximum oxygen output: 1.05 LPMMaximum oxygen output: 1.05 LPM
Check Price 877-428-Why we chose this machine
The CAIRE Freestyle Comfort delivers oxygen for up to 16 hours between charges (with an extended battery), surpassing most other models on the market. This is why our Reviews Team named it Best Battery Life. If you enjoy long outings, this unit may be a great fit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
The longest battery life of any POC we reviewed
Curved design for easy carrying
Comfort Zone service program will send a replacement if yours malfunctions
Cons
The warranty is only for three years
Extended battery costs $589 extra
Additional details: leading technology and customer support
Extended batteries add an additional cost to your purchase, but offer longer battery life. With the Freestyle Comfort, it costs an additional $589 for the 16-cell battery. If you purchase the machine and the extended battery, the total cost adds up to $3,584.
A feature making the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort unique is its leading technology. It has ultra-sensitive breath detection, automatically changing the flow to match your breathing rate.
CAIREs Comfort Zone service program also sets the brand apart. Comfort Zone includes the following features:
The last point is unique among portable oxygen concentrator companies; no other brand weve reviewed provides this type of warranty or service. The replacement device will become your new unit, and the warranty from your older device will transfer over. Comfort Zone is included with the purchase of a CAIRE Freestyle Comfort unit at no extra cost.
The CAIRE Freestyle Comfort can also be purchased as the ARYA Portable Oxygen Concentrator. The machines are the same but sold under different brand names and prices. The Arya POC costs $3,495, while the Freestyle Comfort costs $2,995.
A customer review on the Oxygen Concentrator Store page said, After spending two days researching for a concentrator replacement with the right balance between weight and battery run time, choosing the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort was easy. And it was a pleasant experience talking to the representative. I now have a smaller unit that easily fits into my walkers seat compartment and has five output flow levels. Very pleased.
The Freestyle Comfort is a good device if you dont want to worry about changing batteries every few hours while out and about. Explore more in our full CAIRE review.
The CAIRE Freestyle Comfort is available for purchase from medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Stores customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Teams experience with the customer service department.
Best Continuous and Pulse Flow
Price: $3,594Price: $3,594
Weight: 6 poundsWeight: 6 pounds
Battery life: 4.5 hoursBattery life: 4.5 hours
Maximum oxygen output: 2 LPMMaximum oxygen output: 2 LPM
Check Price 800-780-Why we chose this machine
Oxygen needs can change, and you may want a device to accommodate those changes. The Oxlife Liberty2 offers both up to 2 LPM oxygen in the continuous flow setting as well as nine pulse settings. This portable oxygen concentrator boasts the highest pulse dose compared to all other POCs. This range gives users flexibility in their oxygen flow if their doctor recommends a change in dose.
Pros & Cons
Pros
9 pulse settings
Pulse dose and continuous flow
Maximum oxygen output is 2 LPM
Lightweight at 6.36 pounds
Cons
Highest priced option on this list
Warranty must be purchased at additional cost
Additional details: versatile settings and features
The Oxlife Liberty2 is a portable oxygen concentrator that offers both pulse-delivered and continuous flow. It comes with nine pulse settings and a high maximum oxygen output of 2 LPM on continuous flow. This is a lightweight device that weighs just over 6 pounds and comes with a carry case.
The Oxlife Liberty2 is great for someone who needs continuous flow oxygen while they sleep, as this model has a rechargeable battery that can be charged while in use on every setting.
The Oxlife Liberty2 is the highest portable oxygen concentrator at $3,594, but it is regularly discounted by 17 percent. One downside of this model is that a warranty isnt included with purchase, but must be added at an additional cost.
The Oxlife Liberty2 is available for purchase on the Apria Direct website, which requires a valid prescription from a doctor. The customer service department is open daily from 8am to 10pm eastern time. You can contact customer service by at 800-780-.
Inogen One G4
Most Portable
Price: $2,744Price: $2,744
Weight: 2.8 pounds (single battery)Weight: 2.8 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: 1.2 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours (on Setting 1)Battery life: 1.2 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours (on Setting 1)
Maximum oxygen output: 0.63 LPMMaximum oxygen output: 0.63 LPM
Check Price 800-926-Why we chose this machine
The Inogen One G4 (also sold as the OxyGo Fit) is smaller and lighter than almost every other POC on the market, making it our Reviews Teams pick for the Most Portable Oxygen Concentrator. If youre often on the go and need something easy to carry, this model may be an ideal option.
Pros & Cons
Pros
The lightest and smallest concentrator we reviewed
Can connect to your smartphone
Cons
Battery life is shorter than other machines
Only three pulse settings to choose from
Additional details: one of the smallest, lightest POCs
Because its so small, the G4 is less powerful than other models, with a maximum oxygen output of only 0.63 LPM. The other Inogen model on this list, the Inogen One G5, has an output of 1.26 LPM.
The G4 single battery lasts only about 2 hours and 40 minutes, depending on the setting. If youre heading out for more than a quick errand, youll want to have the double battery or bring an extra one for backup. You also have the option to charge your machine in the car between errands.
You can connect the G4 to your smartphone using the free Inogen Connect app. The app allows you to use your to check the battery status and change device settings.
Some customer reviews from the Oxygen Concentrator Store and Trustpilot reported the device can overheat. When our Reviews Team asked a representative at the Oxygen Concentrator Store about this, they said POCs can be susceptible to overheating when the vent is covered up, which can happen if the machine is placed in the carry bag incorrectly or placed too close to another object for a long time. Overheating prevents it from functioning properly, and it may damage the machine. When you place the machine down or in the carry bag, ensure the vent isnt covered.
Our Reviews Team found most customer reviews from the Oxygen Concentrator Store and Trustpilot on this product were positive. Reviewers praised the devices light weight, which allows them to run errands with ease. One reviewer from the Oxygen Concentrator Store said, Within 24 hours, I had the unit in hand, and I was just so excited. I had my freedom again! It has kept my oxygen consistent. I am already looking to get a smaller battery for extra time while Im out. Being a small person, I dont think I could carry a much heavier machine.
Read more about this oxygen concentrator in our detailed Inogen review.
The Inogen One G4 is available for purchase from local medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on the Oxygen Concentrator Stores customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Teams experience with the customer service department.
CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
Highest Oxygen Output
Price: $3,200Price: $3,200
Weight: 18.4 pounds (single battery)Weight: 18.4 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: 3.7 hours on continuous, 5.4 hours on pulse (on Setting 1)Battery life: 3.7 hours on continuous, 5.4 hours on pulse (on Setting 1)
Maximum oxygen output: 3 LPM (continuous), 1.92 LPM (pulse)Maximum oxygen output: 3 LPM (continuous), 1.92 LPM (pulse)
Check PriceWhy we chose this machine
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Benyuan.
The CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 has the highest oxygen output of all the portable oxygen concentrators we reviewed. The oxygen output on this machine can go up to 1.92 LPM on pulse flow and 3 LPM on continuous flow, so it can be used while sleeping. It also has nine different settings for pulse flow, allowing users to adjust to their specific dosage.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Maximum oxygen output is 3 LPM
Comes with a wheeled cart for easy transport
Continuous and pulse flow
Cons
Heaviest portable machine we reviewed
Customer reviews reported it might be slightly louder than expected
Most expensive POC we reviewed
Additional details: high output with nine pulse settings
Since this concentrator has a high oxygen output, it is bigger and heavier than other devices and cannot be carried in a bag. The SeQual Eclipse 5 is 19.3 inches tall, 12.3 inches wide, 7.1 inches deep, and weighs 18.4 pounds. The device comes with a wheeled cart to make it easier to move around. Some customer reviews on the Oxygen Concentrator Store reported they prefer this machine as they can roll it around on a cart instead of one carried in a shoulder bag.
Customer reviews vary when it comes to the machines noisiness: some reported the machine is louder than expected, while others reported it is quieter than other machines theyve used. The noise level of the SeQual Eclipse 5 varies based on its setting. At 3 LPM on continuous flow, the noise level is 48 decibelscomparable to the noise level of the average office. At the pulse dose setting of 3, the noise level is 40 decibelscomparable to background noise in a library.
A customer reviewer on the Oxygen Concentrator Store wrote, I had another high oxygen unit that did not work for me, and I returned it. The other high-flow oxygen machine was extremely noisy, but this one is quiet. When I take it shopping, I put it in the cart. It is heavy to lift, but I can still do it. I like this machine, and this is much easier after using big oxygen tanks to go out. The [SeQual Eclipse 5] has allowed me the freedom to go on trips again.
The CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 is available for purchase from local medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Stores customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Teams experience with the customer service department.
Precision Medical EasyPulse 5-Liter
Most Affordable
Price: $2,081.52 to $2,333.52Price: $2,081.52 to $2,333.52
Weight: 6.6 pounds (single battery)Weight: 6.6 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: 4.7 hours (on Setting 1)Battery life: 4.7 hours (on Setting 1)
Maximum oxygen output: 0.78 LPMMaximum oxygen output: 0.78 LPM
Check PriceWhy we chose this machine
When purchasing an oxygen concentrator, you want a reliable machine able to work for years to come. Even though theres no way to know for sure how long a device will last, you can ensure the POC you purchase has a warranty covering any damage or issues. The Precision Medical EasyPulse comes with a five-year warranty (the other POCs we reviewed come with three-year warranties). The EasyPulse is a great choice for those looking for extra protection to cover their POC.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Most low-cost POC we reviewed
Five pulse settings
Five-year warranty
Cons
The heaviest pulse dose machine on our list
Oxygen output isnt as high as other POCs
Additional details: low price, long warranty
The EasyPulse has a user-friendly design with large, easy-to-read buttons and a top handle to move it from place to place when not in its carrying case. The maximum oxygen output is 0.78 LPM, which is lower than other machines on this list.
This machine is the heaviest pulse dose machine in our review, weighing 6.6 pounds. If you are looking for a smaller device, the EasyPulse is available in a 3-liter option weighing 4.9 pounds and ranges in cost from $975 to $1,118. The cost varies with either machine depending on if you purchase a backpack or an external battery.
The 3-liter machine has three pulse settings, while the 5-liter machine has five settings. The 5-liter machine is quieter than the 3-liter machine (40.6 decibels compared to 42 decibels). On Setting 1, the 3-liter device has a battery life of 5.5 hours, and the 5-liter machine has 4.7 hours.
The EasyPulse POC is available for purchase online through the Precision Medical website. Precision Medical doesnt have any reviews on Trustpilot or BBB. Our Reviews Team found it very difficult to reach customer service. When we contacted them through the contact form, we never received a reply.
You can contact Precision Medical customer service using the following methods:
Invacare Platinum Mobile
Most Durable
Price: $2,495Price: $2,495
Weight: 4.8 pounds (single battery)Weight: 4.8 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: 4 to 8 hours (on Setting 1)Battery life: 4 to 8 hours (on Setting 1)
Maximum oxygen output: 1 LPMMaximum oxygen output: 1 LPM
Check Price 877-428-Why we chose this machine
Our Reviews Team chose the Invacare Platinum Mobile as our Most Durable POC because this solid machine can resist impact and endure accidental falls. The Platinum Mobile is encased in shock-resistant foam with reinforced bumpers for added protection. In addition to being water resistant, the machine can tolerate temperatures from 41 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and altitudes up to 10,000 feet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Water resistant and can withstand up to 10 minutes of rain
Carrying case converts to a backpack and purse-style bag
Cons
Only four pulse settings
A single battery only provides four hours of use
Additional details: durable and water resistant
One of the benefits of the Invacare Platinum Mobile is the carrying bag, which can convert into a backpack, messenger bag, or purse. The machine is also lightweight, weighing 4.8 pounds.
The battery compartment is located at the top of the device, making it easy to access on the go without having to remove it from the carrying case. The Invacare Platinum Mobile comes with a single battery, providing up to four hours of charge. If you anticipate being out of the house for longer than four hours, you can purchase an additional battery, giving you eight hours of running time on Setting 1.
A customer review on the Oxygen Concentrator Store stated, I travel a lot internationally, and a year ago, I realized I had been suffering from high-altitude pulmonary edema for years. Now, with my oxygen concentrator, I get off a long flight feeling great and ready to go. No more international doctor visits. Its never overheated, and some airlines let me plug in. Its been awesome.
The Invacare Platinum Mobile is available for purchase from local medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Stores customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Teams experience with the customer service department.
Precision Medical Live Active Five
Easiest to Carry
Price: $2,310$2,562Price: $2,310$2,562
Weight: 5 pounds (single battery)Weight: 5 pounds (single battery)
Battery life: 6.5 hours (on Setting 1)Battery life: 6.5 hours (on Setting 1)
Maximum oxygen output: 1 LPMMaximum oxygen output: 1 LPM
Check PriceWhy we chose this machine
The Precision Medical Live Active Five has a unique curved design, separating it from other POCs we reviewed. Some POCs are designed with a curve to fit around your body in the carry bag. But the Live Active Five is curved on both sides of the machine, so you can carry it on either side of your body. The device is lightweight, but if it does become too heavy for one shoulder, you can switch it over to the other.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Five pulse settings
Double-curved design for added comfort
Easy-to-read screen
Cons
No customer reviews on the product
No backpack option available
Additional details: comfortable and affordable
In addition to the curved features, the Live Active Five has a simple design with few buttons and an easily read LCD screen featuring large text. You can access the battery from the top of the device, so you do not need to take it out of the carrying case when changing the batteries.
As a bonus feature, you can also connect the machine to a computer or smartphone through Bluetooth to troubleshoot the unit if you encounter any problems. The Live Active Five has audible and visual alarms if there are problems like:
If the machine doesnt detect your breath, it will automatically deliver a pulse of oxygen. The Live Active Five also has five pulse settings and a maximum oxygen output of 1 LPM.
The Precision Medical Live Active Five is sold through the Precision Medical website and online distributors like Vitality Medical.
Vitality Medical has a good score on Trustpilot4.4 out of 5 stars based on over 35,000 reviews. On BBB, Vitality Medical has an A+ rating and 1.4 out of 5 stars based on 46 customer reviews. Reviewers reported the buying experience was quick and easy, and customer service representatives were prompt, professional, and friendly.
You can contact Vitality Medical through one of the following methods:
You can pay for your machine with a credit card (American Express, Visa, Mastercard, or Discover), Diners Club International, PayPal, or Google Pay.
Some of the oxygen concentrators in this review are available through the online retailer Oxygen Concentrator Store. Pricing estimates are subject to change. You can contact the customer service department in the following ways:
The Oxygen Concentrator Store website also has a detailed product support page with information on cleaning, maintenance, and use of portable oxygen concentrators.
A member of our Reviews Team called the Oxygen Concentrator Store to learn more about the brands and models in this list. It took less than 30 seconds to get a representative on the line. He was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about every model we asked about.
He informed us all portable oxygen machines sold through the Oxygen Concentrator Store come with a free seven-day trial period. If you find the unit youve purchased has mechanical problems, is hard to use, or just isnt a good fit for you, simply call the store to receive a shipping label. Then, you can send the unit back (at your own cost) and exchange it for a different one.
Shipping takes about three to five business days, but Oxygen Concentrator Store also offers two-day and overnight shipping for an additional cost.
After sharing details of the various models over the , the representative offered to us the information and gave us his direct number for any future questions. He also said even if we didnt buy a unit from the Oxygen Concentrator Store, he would be happy to answer questions and provide help in the future. We were very pleased with the customer service experience; it felt like we were learning about portable oxygen concentrators rather than enduring a high-pressure sales call.
People with lung issues, such as sleep apnea, COPD, and cystic fibrosis, may use a portable oxygen concentrator as a means of inhaling supplementary oxygen when they are away from home. These machines are typically lightweight and small, making them easy to transport.
Portable oxygen concentrators provide supplemental oxygen by removing oxygen from the air, compressing it, and removing the nitrogen. After that, the oxygen is stored in a tank where it can be delivered through a tube for breathing.
Oxygen concentrators take in air from the environment, filter out nitrogen, and deliver oxygen to the person using the device. The oxygen is usually delivered through a cannula sitting beneath the nose. These devices are different from oxygen tanks because oxygen concentrators use electrical pumps to concentrate oxygen from outside, according to an article in the journal Breathe. In contrast, oxygen tanks have a set amount of oxygen stored inside the container requiring the tanks to be replaced with another filled container when empty.
For more information on POCs, the American Lung Association has a webpage with helpful videos showing how to use your device.
Portable oxygen concentrators deliver either a continuous flow of oxygen, measured in liters per minute, or a pulse flow (also called intermittent flow). Pulse flow delivery systems give a puff of oxygen every time you breathe.
Some concentrators can deliver oxygen by both pulse or continuous flow, depending on the setting your doctor prescribes. Other devices only provide one type of flow. Most portable concentrators offer only pulse flow settings.
When buying a portable oxygen machine, its important to know which type of flow you need and the amount of oxygen (in LPM) youre prescribed. If youre unsure of these details, check with your health care provider.
If you need supplemental oxygenalso known as oxygen therapyyoure not alone. The American Thoracic Society estimates 1.5 million adults in the United States use oxygen therapy.
People with a variety of conditions may benefit from supplemental oxygen. According to the American Lung Association, these conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and sleep apnea.
If you need extra oxygen, you may enjoy the freedom a portable unit can give you. Being able to go out with friends and family, travel, and enjoy activities outside of the house are all possible with POCs.
Staying active and connecting with people is important for our health and well-being. According to a study published in the Journal of Gerontology, socially active older adults have better physical health and emotional well-being. A portable oxygen concentrator can help you keep in touch with friends and family by allowing you to leave the house and socialize.
POCs may not suit every persons oxygen needs. Before you purchase an oxygen machine, talk to your health care provider. They will tell you what type of machine you need and what to look for.
Before you purchase a POC, you should consider different factors to decide which model is the best for your needs.
If you see over-the-counter oxygen concentrators in your search, the American Lung Association warns these machines may not meet your oxygen needs. They are not FDA-approved, dont require a prescription, and may not fit your specific prescription. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure if the oxygen machine is right for you.
In this review, the portable oxygen concentrators range in cost from $2,125$3,200. This is about the average price range you can expect when purchasing a new POC.
Online retailers, like the Oxygen Concentrator Store, may have financing and buy now, pay later options through services like CareCredit, PayPal, or Affirm, allowing you to pay off your purchase over time. Oxygen Concentrator Store pricing estimates shared in this article are subject to change.
You can also reduce the cost by purchasing a used oxygen machine through the Oxygen Concentrator Store. Speak with a customer service representative to find out what used machines are available.
Some private insurance companies will pay for part or all of the costs of oxygen concentrators, but plans vary quite a bit. Contact your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers.
Oxygen equipment, including portable oxygen concentrators, is also eligible for reimbursement if you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA).
Oxygen concentrators are considered durable medical equipment (DME) Durable medical equipment (DME): Medical equipment expected to last at least three years, prescribed for in-home use for a medical reason. , and a rental device may be partially covered under Medicare Part B. Medicare will cover part of the cost of renting in-home oxygen equipment and accessories if you have a prescription from a doctor, a diagnosis of low blood oxygen levels, and other measures to raise your blood oxygen levels were unsuccessful.
If you do purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, Medicare will help pay for certain oxygen-related supplies and services such as tubing, masks, nasal cannulas, maintenance, and repairs. See Medicare.gov for more information.
Portable oxygen concentrators are used to treat medical conditions, so its a purchase you should make with a reputable medical supply retailer, not on Amazon. Amazon sellers cannot sell medical-grade oxygen concentrators, both portable and for at-home use, because they cant sell items requiring a prescription. Doctors stress that its unsafe to make this kind of purchase on Amazon. If youre looking for a portable oxygen concentrator on Amazon to save money, consider a certified pre-owned unit from a reputable retailer instead.
Traveling with an oxygen machine requires careful preparation for your health and safety. Below are some tips to keep in mind before you go.
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Inogen Rove 6
Check PriceCAIRE Freestyle Comfort
Check PriceOxlife Liberty2
Check PriceInogen One G4
Check PriceCAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
Check PriceCAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
Check PricePrecision Medical EasyPulse 5-Liter
Check PriceInvacare Platinum Mobile
Check PricePrecision Medical Live Active Five
Check Price Best For Most Discreet Best Battery Life Best Continuous and Pulse Flow Most Portable Highest Oxygen Output Highest Oxygen Output Most Affordable Most Durable Easiest to Carry Cost* $3,295 $2,995 $3,594 $2,744 $3,200 $3,200 $2,081.52$2,333.52 $2,495 $2,310$2,562 Max oxygen output ml/min mL/min of oxygen 2 LPM 0. ml/minute ml/min ml/min 0.8 ml/min 1.0 Battery Life Up to 12 hours 8.016.0 Up to 4.5 hours 1.2 5 1.3-5.4 1.3-5.4 4.7 4.08.0 6.5 Weight 4.8 5 6.36 2.8 18.4 18.4 6.6 4.8 5*Last updated August
**Can vary depending on flow setting and use of single- or double-battery
Our Reviews Team consulted with geriatric care experts to learn more about portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) and how they can enhance users quality of life. Based on our expert consultations, user survey, and own research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a POC unit:
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.
Supplemental oxygen is sometimes necessary to relieve respiratory or cardiac disease symptoms and improve a persons quality of life. If you need oxygen therapy, it doesnt mean your normal activities have to end. A portable oxygen concentrator can allow you to move freely around your house, visit friends and family, travel, run errands, or do any other activity you normally do.
If you love traveling and need a device with decent battery life, you may opt for the Inogen Rove 6 or the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort.
POCs can go a long way in helping you continue to enjoy outings with your family and friends. Ultimately, the best portable oxygen concentrator for you depends on your preferences, price point, and specific oxygen needs.
According to the Oxygen Concentrator Store, most portable oxygen concentrators last four to seven years before needing to be replaced. The better you maintain your machine, the longer it will last.
Yes, you need a prescription from your doctor to use and purchase a portable oxygen concentrator. You should not use an oxygen machine if you havent received a prescription from your doctor because it may cause serious health effects.
A new portable oxygen concentrator may range from $2,000 to $4,000. The portable oxygen concentrators in this review range from $2,081.52 to $3,200. The cost may be lower if you decide to purchase a used machine.
The most reliable portable oxygen concentrator is the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort because we found it to have the best battery life. Depending on the battery used and the setting chosen, this model lasts between 8 and 16 hours.
A portable oxygen concentrator and a portable oxygen machine are one and the same. Both names describe a device providing oxygen therapy through a concentrated flow of oxygen.
We have found that less expensive oxygen concentrators have fewer features than more expensive options. In general, cheaper machines are also less powerful. Recently, concerns have been raised about machines sold online costing only a few hundred dollars, with the COPD Foundation warning that many of the claims being made by over-the-counter machines were not evaluated by the FDA.
The best portable oxygen concentrator for you depends on your preferences, tolerability, and oxygen needs. Talk to your health care provider about which type of machine to look for.
Portable oxygen concentrators are considered durable medical equipment. If youre renting a device and you have a prescription from a doctor, a diagnosis of low blood oxygen levels, and other measures to raise your blood oxygen levels werent successful, it may be partially covered under Medicare Part B.
If you purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, Medicare will help pay for specific supplies and services, including tubing, masks, nasal cannulas, maintenance, and repairs. Visit Medicare.gov to learn more.
POCs may be available to purchase on Amazon, but doctors advise against it. Amazon sellers cant sell medical-grade oxygen concentrators, both portable and for at-home use, because they cant sell items requiring a prescription. If youre looking for a portable oxygen concentrator on Amazon to save money, consider a certified pre-owned unit from a reputable retailer instead.
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Riding with the Perseverance rover, the instrument has proved to be a viable technology for astronauts on Mars to produce oxygen for fuel and breathing.
MOXIE (Mars Oxygen In-situ Resource Utilization Experiment) is lowered into the chassis of NASAs Perseverance in . During the mission, MOXIE extracted oxygen from the Martian atmosphere 16 times, testing a way that future astronauts could make rocket propellant that would launch them back to Earth.
Credits: NASA/JPL-Caltech
Riding with the Perseverance rover, the instrument has proved to be a viable technology for astronauts on Mars to produce oxygen for fuel and breathing.
When the first astronauts land on Mars, they may have the descendants of a microwave-oven-size device to thank for the air they breathe and the rocket propellant that gets them home. That device, called MOXIE (Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment), has generated oxygen for the 16th and final time aboard NASAs Perseverance rover. After the instrument proved far more successful than its creators at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) expected, its operations are concluding.
MOXIEs impressive performance shows that it is feasible to extract oxygen from Mars atmosphere oxygen that could help supply breathable air or rocket propellant to future astronauts, said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. Developing technologies that let us use resources on the Moon and Mars is critical to build a long-term lunar presence, create a robust lunar economy, and allow us to support an initial human exploration campaign to Mars.
Since Perseverance landed on Mars in , MOXIE has generated a total of 122 grams of oxygen about what a small dog breathes in 10 hours. At its most efficient, MOXIE was able to produce 12 grams of oxygen an hour twice as much as NASAs original goals for the instrument at 98% purity or better. On its 16th run, on Aug. 7, the instrument made 9.8 grams of oxygen. MOXIE successfully completed all of its technical requirements and was operated at a variety of conditions throughout a full Mars year, allowing the instruments developers to learn a great deal about the technology.
Were proud to have supported a breakthrough technology like MOXIE that could turn local resources into useful products for future exploration missions, said Trudy Kortes, director of technology demonstrations, Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) at NASA Headquarters in Washington, which funds the MOXIE demonstration. By proving this technology in real-world conditions, weve come one step closer to a future in which astronauts live off the land on the Red Planet.
MOXIE produces molecular oxygen through an electrochemical process that separates one oxygen atom from each molecule of carbon dioxide pumped in from Mars thin atmosphere. As these gases flow through the system, theyre analyzed to check the purity and quantity of the oxygen produced.
While many of Perseverances experiments are addressing the missions primary science goals, MOXIE was focused on future human exploration. MOXIE served as the first-ever demonstration of technology that humans could use to survive on, and leave, the Red Planet. An oxygen-producing system could help future missions in various ways, but the most important of them would be as a source of rocket propellant, which would be required in industrial quantities to launch rockets with astronauts for their return trip home.
Rather than bringing large quantities of oxygen with them to Mars, future astronauts could live off the land, using materials they find on the planets surface to survive. This concept called in-situ resource utilization, or ISRU has evolved into a growing area of research.
MOXIE has clearly served as inspiration to the ISRU community, said the instruments principal investigator, Michael Hecht of MIT. It showed NASA is willing to invest in these kinds of future technologies. And it has been a flagship that has influenced the exciting industry of space resources.
The next step wouldnt be building MOXIE 2.0 although Hecht and his team have learned a lot about how to design a more efficient version of the instrument. Rather, it would be to create a full-scale system that includes an oxygen generator like MOXIE and a way to liquefy and store that oxygen.
But more than anything, Hecht would like to see other technologies get their turn on Mars. We have to make decisions about which things need to be validated on Mars, Hecht said. I think there are many technologies on that list; Im very pleased MOXIE was first.
A key objective for Perseverances mission on Mars is astrobiology, including the search for signs of ancient microbial life. The rover will characterize the planets geology and past climate, pave the way for human exploration of the Red Planet, and be the first mission to collect and cache Martian rock and regolith (broken rock and dust).
Subsequent NASA missions, in cooperation with ESA (European Space Agency), would send spacecraft to Mars to collect these sealed samples from the surface and return them to Earth for in-depth analysis.
The Mars Perseverance mission is part of NASAs Moon to Mars exploration approach, which includes Artemis missions to the Moon that will help prepare for human exploration of the Red Planet.
NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which is managed for the agency by Caltech in Pasadena, California, built and manages operations of the Perseverance rover.
JPL manages the MOXIE project for the Technology Demonstration Missions program within STMD. MOXIE was also supported by NASAs Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate and the Science Mission Directorate.
For more about Perseverance:
mars.nasa.gov/mars/
Andrew Good
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.
818-393-
Karen Fox / Alana Johnson
NASA Headquarters, Washington
301-286- / 202-358-
/
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