Choosing the Best Oxygen Concentrator

by Courtney Sornberger May 16, 2023

Traditionally people who needed supplementary oxygen relied on large, heavy oxygen tanks that were difficult to move.

If you need supplemental oxygen therapy, a lightweight oxygen concentrator may deliver the oxygen you need while offering you the freedom to move around.

Based on our knowledge, home oxygen concentrators or portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) can significantly improve the quality of life for people with breathing difficulties. But deciding which to buy can feel confusing with a wide choice of machines.

Choosing the best oxygen concentrator depends on several factors, including your medical needs, lifestyle, and budget.

If you are wondering how to choose an oxygen concentrator, read on. This article looks at the different types of oxygen concentrators for home and portable use.

What this article covers:

First, what is an Oxygen Concentrator?
Best Oxygen Concentrators
Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Benefits of Using a Home Oxygen Concentrator

First, what is an Oxygen Concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that separates oxygen from the air and concentrates it for use in oxygen therapy. Oxygen concentrators are used to treat various medical conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and heart failure.

Oxygen concentrators work by taking in air from the surrounding environment and using a series of filters to remove nitrogen and other gases. The remaining oxygen is then concentrated and delivered to the patient through a nasal cannula or face mask.

Oxygen concentrators are available in a variety of sizes and styles, including portable and stationary models. Portable oxygen concentrators are smaller and lighter than stationary models, making them easier to transport. Stationary oxygen concentrators are typically larger and more powerful than portable models, making them better suited for people who need a higher level of oxygen therapy.

The cost of an oxygen concentrator varies depending on the size, style, and features of the model. Portable oxygen concentrators typically cost more than stationary models.

Here are some of the benefits of using an oxygen concentrator:

Oxygen concentrators are a convenient way to receive oxygen therapy.
Oxygen concentrators do not need to be refilled like tanks and bottled oxygen.
Portable oxygen concentrators provide portable oxygen “On The Go.”
Oxygen concentrators are relatively affordable.
Oxygen concentrators are safe and effective for most people.

Best Oxygen Concentrators

Invacare Platinum 10

The Invacare Platinum 10 with SensO2 Oxygen Purity System is a user-friendly, easy-to-operate home oxygen concentrator.

The unit can be powered by electricity from a standard wall outlet or an optional battery pack for convenience.

The React Health Platinum 10 is a high-performance concentrator suitable for people with various respiratory conditions. It provides continuous flow oxygen delivery of up to 10 liters per minute (LPM), making it ideal for severe respiratory disease and high oxygen requirements.

The SensO2 Oxygen Purity System ensures oxygen purity levels of 87% to 95.6% to prevent the risk of reduced oxygen purity. The oxygen sensor provides a precise gauge of the oxygen concentrations being delivered. Accuracy is crucial if you have high oxygen requirements. With the oxygen sensor, you will know that you are receiving the prescribed oxygen rate.

The quiet operation of the concentrator makes it ideal for home use.

The concentrator requires minimal maintenance, with a filter change every two years and a sieve bed replacement every five years.

Why It's Great

High oxygen output
Continuous oxygen dose
Three separate filters assure oxygen purity
Battery-free power loss alarm
Neutral color to help blend into any home environment
Easy maintenance access

Who It’s Right for

Suitable for people who require high oxygen flow rates of up to 10 liters per minute (LPM)
People with severe respiratory disease
People who require oxygen therapy during sleep or for extended periods

Philips Respironics Millennium M10

The Philips Respironics Millennium M10 is a stationary oxygen concentrator. It provides medical-grade oxygen at a maximum output of ten liters per minute, making it suitable for home and clinical use.

The flow rate is the main difference between a 5-liter and 10-liter oxygen concentrator. A 10-liter oxygen concentrator can produce a higher oxygen flow rate. Still, it may also be larger, heavier, and more expensive than a 5-liter oxygen concentrator.

The Millennium M10, designed to be the highest-performing 10-liter machine available, is relatively compact and lightweight, weighing approximately 53 pounds. It is engineered to reduce the cost of providing high oxygen levels and is designed to withstand robust use.

The device has an integrated handle and highly durable caster wheels, making moving from room to room easy. An integrated sieve canister reduces tubing connections and enhances the machine's lifespan.

The user-friendly interface and controls on the Millennium M10 make it easy for you to operate.

The unit's oxygen sensor continuously monitors the oxygen purity level. It ensures that the device delivers a consistent flow of high-quality oxygen. An optional oxygen percentage indicator can be included to ultrasonically measures the oxygen output.

Air is drawn into the concentrator through an air intake filter, then passes through a compressor that increases the pressure and sends it to the first stage of the molecular sieve.

The molecular sieve comprises thousands of tiny beads that absorb nitrogen and other gases in the air. The oxygen-enriched air is then sent to a second stage of the molecular sieve, where any more impurities are removed. The end result is air that is 90% or more pure oxygen.

The result is medical-grade oxygen delivered through a nasal cannula or mask. The Philips Respironics Millennium M10 is designed to provide a continuous oxygen flow. You can adjust the flow rate based on your needs.

The Millennium M10 also features an alarm system that alerts the user during a power failure or low oxygen purity level.

Why It's Great

The electronic wires and tubing are neatly guarded by protective tubing to protect against electric shock.
SMCT "sure cycle" valve is maintenance-free
The higher stroke of the Twin Head Compressor delivers more airflow through the sieve beds.
The OPI (Oxygen Percentage Indicator) ultrasonically measures oxygen output as a purity indication.

Who It’s Right for

A good option for people who require a continuous flow of up to 10 LPM
People who require oxygen while they sleep
People who live at altitudes lower than 1368 ft

Philips Respironics EverFlo

The Philips Respironics EverFlo with OPI (Oxygen Percentage Indicator) is a stationary oxygen concentrator designed for home use. The lightweight unit is 31 lbs, and the ergonomic design makes it easy to move around and store. The EverFlo is also one of the quietest home machines available.

The EverFlo with OPI uses a molecular sieve to extract oxygen from the air, compress it, and deliver it through a nasal cannula or mask. The device can provide oxygen at flow rates of up to 5 LPM. The OPI feature continuously monitors the oxygen concentration in the output, ensuring it remains within the 87% to 96% range.

The device has a simple user interface with easy-to-read LED indicators and a humidifier bottle holder for added patient comfort. It also has an integrated alarm system that alerts the user in case of low oxygen concentration, power failure, or other malfunctions.

Our experience has shown that the EverFlo with OPI is a reliable and cost-effective solution for patients who require oxygen therapy at home. It is also energy-efficient, using less power than other stationary oxygen concentrators.

The EverFlo is designed for low maintenance. The machine comprises fewer moving parts than other concentrators, and you have no filter to maintain. A durable metal oxygen outlet lends itself to a trouble-free operation.

However, it is essential to note that the device is not designed to be used in a portable setting, as it requires a continuous power source.

Why It's Great

Lightweight for easy transport
Easy to Clean Cabinet
Compact design looks less like a medical machine
Low maintenance reduces service costs.
Lower power consumption
Recessed flow meter reduces accidental breakage

Who It’s Right for

People who require an oxygen flow rate of 0.5 to 5 LPM
People who require quiet device operation.

Inogen GS-100 At-Home Oxygen Concentrator

The Inogen GS-100 is designed for home use and is a stationary device that plugs into an electrical outlet. It is one of the market's most lightweight and compact continuous-flow oxygen concentrators. While this is not a portable model, it is light enough to be moved from place to place if you want to travel.

what is the best home oxygen concentrator

Weighing only 18 lbs, the Inogen At Home can quickly move from room to room if necessary. It also features an easy-to-read LCD screen that displays information such as the oxygen flow rate and remaining battery life.

The control panel buttons are oversized, making it easy for vision-impaired people to read the controls and operate the oxygen concentrator.

While our Inogen GS-100 review highlights several positive features, the oxygen flow rate is limited to 5 LPM. While a low oxygen output is sufficient for many people, it may not be enough for you if you require higher flow rates.

Why It's Great

Low noise level of 40 dBA
Operates at elevations up to 8000 feet
The lightest home concentrator, only 18 pounds

Low energy use
Large, easy-to-read buttons
GS-100 is easy to transport with an optional travel case, available only at Main Clinic Supply

Who It’s Right for

People who require an unobtrusive oxygen concentrator
People who need up to 5 liters of oxygen per minute

Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Inogen One G5

What is a portable oxygen concentrator? Like stationary oxygen concentrators, portable models use advanced technology to concentrate oxygen by removing the surrounding air and delivering it to the user.

However, they are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal if you need oxygen therapy on the go.

The Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator is a small, lightweight POC for full-time use. You can plug the AC power supply into any standard outlet at home. In portable mode, a single rechargeable battery lasts up to six hours, while the optional double battery can last thirteen hours on a single charge.

what is the best oxygen concentrator for home use

The Inogen G5 is capable of 24/7 pulse flow oxygen delivery with Inogen’s standard Intelligent Delivery Technology®. Pulse flow mode is a method of oxygen delivery in which oxygen is delivered only when you inhale rather than continuously.

In pulse flow mode, a sensor in the oxygen delivery device detects your breathing. It triggers the release of a pulse of oxygen at the beginning of each inhalation. This allows for more efficient use of oxygen, as you only receive oxygen when needed.

Pulse flow mode is typically used for people who require oxygen therapy but do not need a constant flow of oxygen, such as those with mild to moderate respiratory distress.

One of the unique features of the Inogen One G5 POC is its Intelligent Delivery Technology, which uses advanced algorithms and sensors to adjust and optimize oxygen delivery automatically. Sensors monitor your oxygen saturation levels and adjust the oxygen delivery accordingly.

The Inogen G5 features audible alerts in case of a power outage, no-breath detected alarms and oxygen purity checks.

In the US, a prescription is required for oxygen concentrators. Portable oxygen concentrators are considered medical devices and are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The prescription is necessary to ensure your oxygen needs are correctly assessed, and the appropriate device is recommended.

Why It's Great

Weighs just 4.7lbs
Up to 9 hours of battery life (16-cell battery)
Pulse Flow Device
FAA Approved for Air Travel
Simple control functions and easy-to-read LCD

Who It’s Right for

The unobtrusive design of the carrying case makes traveling with your medical device easy and inconspicuous.

Inogen One G4

The Inogen One G4 portable oxygen concentrator is one of the smallest, lightest and quietest portable oxygen concentrators available today.

The Inogen One G4 is a lightweight and compact POC that can be easily carried and used on the go. According to our clients, it is an excellent option if you want to maintain an active and independent lifestyle.

The Inogen One G4 can provide pulse flow oxygen, meaning it delivers oxygen only when the user takes a breath. This feature helps conserve the device's battery life and allows longer use. It has a range of flow settings, allowing users to customize their oxygen therapy to their specific needs.

One of the main benefits of the Inogen One G4 is its portability. It weighs only 2.8 lbs and comes with a carrying case that you can wear over the shoulder or carry like a backpack. Plus, it can fit in most airline overhead compartments. The device is also approved for use on airplanes, which makes it an excellent option if you want to travel.

The Inogen One G4 has a long battery life, with a single battery lasting up to 2.7 hours on the highest setting. The device comes with a rechargeable battery that you can charge using a standard electrical outlet or a car charger. Additionally, you can purchase extra batteries to extend the usage time.

Why It's Great

Very lightweight and easy to carry
DC charge capabilities for people on the move

Who It’s Right for

Mobile people who require supplementary oxygen
People who have trouble carrying weight on their shoulders.
People who want to go about daily activities without limiting their freedom.

Inogen G4 and G5 are portable oxygen concentrators (POC) designed to help individuals with respiratory issues breathe easier. The main difference between Inogen G4 and G5 is their performance. The Inogen G5 has an increased oxygen flow rate of up to 1,260 LPM, while the G4 delivers up to 0,630 LPM.

SimplyGo Mini

The Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini is small and lightweight, weighing just 5 lbs and measuring 9.4 inches in length, 8.3 inches in width, and 3.6 inches in height.

The SimplyGo Mini POC also comes with a carrying case and shoulder strap. Based on feedback from our customers, its compact size makes it a convenient choice if you need oxygen therapy on the go, whether running errands or traveling long distances.

The device has a user-friendly touchscreen interface, which allows you to adjust settings and view information about your oxygen therapy.

The machine cannot support continuous flow oxygen, but it has 5 pulse flow settings, reaching a maximum oxygen output of 1LMP.

The SimplyGo Mini has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can provide up to five hours of use on a single charge. It can also be used while plugged into a power outlet or a car's DC power port. This can be particularly useful if you're away from a power outlet for an extended period.

The Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini portable oxygen concentrator is reliable and effective. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to store and transport, whether traveling by car, plane, or train.

Why It's Great

Extended battery increases operation to nine hours
Compact and lightweight
DC charge capabilities for people on the move

Who It’s Right for

People who travel - the unit is fully FAA approved

OxLife Independence

The O2 Concepts OxLife Independence Portable Oxygen Concentrator is lightweight and compact. As a small portable oxygen concentrator, it’s easy to carry and use if you require oxygen therapy while on the go.

which home oxygen concentrator is the best

The OxLife Independence is designed to deliver continuous oxygen flow, producing oxygen constantly while in use. The device uses a molecular sieve to filter out nitrogen and other gases from the air. You can control the amount of oxygen delivered using the controls on the device.

The constant oxygen flow rate ranges from 0.5 to 3 LPM. You can easily adjust the flow rate based on your oxygen needs and medical condition. On-demand flow rate ranges from settings of 1 to 6.

The OxLife Independence has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 4.5 hours on a single charge. This makes it ideal for use while traveling, during outdoor activities, or when access to electrical outlets may be limited. The battery can be fully recharged in 2-4 hours using the included AC or DC power adapter.

Patented EnergySmart technology helps to extend the device's battery life and overall lifespan. Oxygen output is adjusted based on your breathing rate and oxygen demand. The appliance will use less battery power when you breathe slowly or do not use as much oxygen.

The device features an intuitive interface with easy-to-read icons and a backlit display. The controls are easy to use and allow you to adjust the oxygen concentration level, flow rate, and other settings as needed.

The OxLife Independence Portable Oxygen Concentrator has several safety features to ensure patient safety and device reliability. These include audible and visual alarms for low battery, low oxygen concentration, and other issues.

The device also has a built-in system for detecting and preventing oxygen depletion, which can occur if the device malfunctions or there is a blockage in the oxygen tubing.

Why It's Great

Airline FAA Approved - fits under the airline seat

Who It’s Right for

People who require 3l flow rate or less
People who participate in outdoor activity
Travelers who require a portable oxygen concentrator

Benefits Of Using A Home Oxygen Concentrator

Improved Quality of Life

If you have a respiratory disease such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or cystic fibrosis, you may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness due to the reduced oxygen levels in your blood. Using a home oxygen concentrator can help increase the oxygen levels in your blood, improving your breathing, reducing fatigue, and improving your ability to perform daily activities. As a result, you can enjoy a better quality of life.

Convenience

A home oxygen concentrator eliminates frequent trips to the hospital or clinic to get oxygen. You can receive a continuous oxygen supply from the comfort of your home. This is especially helpful if you have mobility issues or live far from a medical facility.

Cost-effective

Although the initial cost of purchasing a home oxygen concentrator may be higher than renting oxygen tanks, it is a more cost-effective option in the long run. Oxygen concentrators do not require refilling or replacement like oxygen tanks. The electricity cost is minimal for running the machine. Additionally, you may have to pay extra fees for oxygen tank delivery and pickup.

Improved Safety

Home oxygen concentrators are designed to provide a constant flow of oxygen, which reduces the risk of oxygen depletion or other breathing-related complications. Home oxygen concentrators are safer than oxygen tanks as they do not pose a fire hazard.

Improved Longevity

If you have a chronic respiratory disease such as COPD, using a home oxygenator may improve your longevity.

Proper oxygenation can help keep vital organs such as the heart and brain healthy, reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other related complications.

Conclusion

Investing in a home oxygen concentrator or a portable oxygen concentrator can be a cost-effective and effective way to improve your quality of life and better your overall health.

There are many factors to consider when buying an oxygen concentrator to ensure it meets your needs. You must consider oxygen flow rate, power consumption, noise level, and machine maintenance. Of course, you’re likely to have a budget too.

Deciding where to buy an oxygen concentrator is important for putting your mind at ease and choosing the right device.

At Main Clinic Supply our product knowledge and customer care will help you feel confident in your choice of oxygen concentrator.

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Choosing the Best Oxygen Concentrator

First, what is an Oxygen Concentrator?