Portable Oxygen Concentrator vs Tank: Prices, Differences & Uses Compared

Key Takeaways

• Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) provide unlimited oxygen without refills, making them far more convenient and travel-friendly than traditional oxygen tanks.

• Tanks are heavier, require constant refills, and limit mobility, while modern POCs weigh as little as 2.9 pounds and support an active lifestyle.

• Long-term costs favor POCs, as tank rentals and refill fees add up quickly and often surpass the cost of owning a concentrator within a few years.

• POCs are FAA-approved and ideal for users who want the freedom to fly, take road trips, run errands, and engage in daily activities.

• Main Clinic Supply is an Authorized Inogen Reseller and Authorized Inogen Service Center, offering same-day repairs, overnight replacements, expert guidance, and competitive pricing on FDA-cleared POCs that eliminate tank refills and deliveries.

The Choice That Shapes Your Daily Life

When your doctor prescribes supplemental oxygen, choosing between a modern POC and a traditional oxygen tank shapes your daily routine, travel freedom, long-term costs, and quality of life. Understanding the fundamental differences between these options will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

Traditional oxygen tanks have been around for decades. POCs represent newer technology that has revolutionized oxygen therapy. Let's explore both options so you can choose the solution that truly supports your health while preserving your independence.

Understanding Portable Oxygen Concentrators

POCs draw in ambient air, which contains about 21% oxygen and 78% nitrogen. They then filter out nitrogen and other gases to deliver approximately 90% ± 3% medical-grade oxygen for Inogen models. This process continues as long as the concentrator is powered by a wall outlet, car charger, or rechargeable battery, providing an unlimited oxygen supply.

Types of Oxygen Delivery

Pulse dose detects when you inhale and delivers a measured oxygen dose at the beginning of each breath. Technologies like Inogen's Intelligent Oxygen Delivery optimize delivery by releasing the bolus when absorption is most effective. Continuous flow provides a steady stream at a set flow rate in liters per minute (LPM). Some users require continuous flow for nighttime use.

Weight & Portability

Modern POCs achieve remarkable portability. The Inogen Rove 4 weighs 2.9 pounds, the Inogen Rove 6 weighs 4.8 pounds, and the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort weighs 5 pounds. These weights include the battery, making them genuinely wearable devices you can carry over your shoulder without physical strain. You can walk through airports, navigate public transportation, and move freely.

No Refills Needed

The most liberating aspect of POCs is the elimination of refills, deliveries, and supplier dependencies. As long as you have power, your POC will continue to generate oxygen indefinitely. You're never waiting for deliveries or running low on oxygen. This independence extends your freedom significantly for spontaneous travel and extended outings.

POCs extract oxygen from air and never need refills. 

Understanding Oxygen Tanks (Cylinders)

Oxygen tanks, also known as compressed gas cylinders, store medical-grade oxygen under pressure at approximately 2,000-3,000 pounds per square inch. A regulator controls the flow rate, delivering oxygen through a nasal cannula at the prescribed rate. The key characteristic is that tanks contain a finite supply that must be refilled or replaced once depleted.

Types of Oxygen Tanks

Compressed gas cylinders are traditional tanks that store oxygen as compressed gas. They come in various sizes, from small, portable "E" tanks to larger, stationary units. Portable versions typically weigh 8 to 15 pounds when full. Liquid oxygen systems store oxygen in liquid form at extremely cold temperatures. While more compact, liquid oxygen constantly evaporates and must be refilled every few weeks, even if not used.

Weight & Portability Challenges

A standard portable "E" cylinder weighs approximately 8 pounds when full and provides only 5–6 hours of oxygen at 2 liters per minute. Larger tanks that provide a longer duration require rolling carts for transport. The physical burden affects your ability to navigate stairs, move through crowded spaces, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Refill Requirements

Oxygen tanks require regular refills or replacements. Depending on your flow rate and tank size, you may need deliveries weekly or more frequently. You must coordinate delivery schedules, ensure someone is home, store backup tanks, and manage exchanges. This dependency creates anxiety about whether your next delivery will arrive on time.

Rental & Refill Costs

Oxygen tank rentals range from $25–$35 per month for portable tanks, with larger concentrator rentals costing $100–$150 per month. Refill fees add approximately $30 per cylinder. Over years of oxygen therapy, these recurring costs accumulate significantly, often exceeding the purchase price of a POC within two to three years.

Oxygen tanks require constant refills and create dependence on delivery schedules. 

Pricing Breakdown: Long-Term Cost Analysis

Oxygen Tank Costs Over Time

Oxygen tank rentals (including tank, regulator, and cart) cost $25 per week or $35 per month, with a $100 deposit required. Refill costs add approximately $30 per cylinder. For users who need frequent refills, monthly costs can accumulate significantly over the years of oxygen therapy without leading to equipment ownership.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator Costs

The initial purchase of a POC from Main Clinic Supply ranges from $1,995–$2,995, with optional replacement batteries costing $300–$500 every few years and minimal maintenance, such as filters, costing under $50 annually. But always check our website for current pricing.

After two to three years, owning a POC becomes more cost-effective than renting tanks. Your POC can last 5 to 8 years with proper maintenance. Through CareCredit, you can spread the cost into manageable monthly payments while building toward ownership rather than paying rent indefinitely.

POC vs Tank Uses

Best for Active Lifestyles & Travel

POCs are clearly superior for anyone who values mobility and independence. If you want to visit family, take vacations, run errands, attend social events, or maintain quality of life, a POC eliminates tank restrictions. FAA approval makes POCs essential for air travel.

Best for 24/7 Oxygen Needs

For users requiring oxygen around the clock, POCs with extended batteries or dual systems provide comprehensive coverage without tank refills. Some users requiring continuous flow may need specific models, such as the O2 Concepts Oxlife Liberty or O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence.

Best for Budget Considerations

While tanks appear cheaper initially, POCs prove more economical over time. If you'll need oxygen therapy for more than two years, purchasing a POC saves money while providing superior portability. Financing makes the upfront cost manageable.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator vs Oxygen Tank: Comparison Table

*Note: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Oxygen concentrators require a prescription and must be used under the oversight of a licensed medical professional. We encourage patients to research their options so they can have informed discussions with their provider.

Why Choose Main Clinic Supply for Your POC

The decision to transition from oxygen tanks to a portable concentrator represents a significant investment in your independence, and the purchase of your POC matters.

Main Clinic Supply is both an Authorized Inogen Reseller and an Authorized Inogen Service Center. This unique dual authorization means we provide complete support for the lifetime of your device. When your POC needs service, we offer same-day repairs and overnight replacements, eliminating weeks of factory waiting.

With thousands of verified five-star reviews, an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and our family-owned operation based in Rochester, Minnesota (home of the Mayo Clinic), we've built our business on caring for people first. Our customers consistently praise our knowledgeable specialists, fast shipping, and responsive service.

Our oxygen specialists take time to understand your specific situation, including your prescription requirements, lifestyle needs, and budget. We'll help you choose the model that best serves your needs.

We offer same-day shipping across the U.S. and Canada. We stand behind our Best Price Guarantee, matching or beating any verified price from another authorized dealer whenever possible. Through CareCredit financing, we make ownership accessible with flexible payment plans.

Get your reliable POC today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I travel on airplanes with oxygen tanks or POCs?

Oxygen tanks are prohibited on commercial flights due to Federal Aviation Administration safety regulations. However, all FDA-cleared POCs, including the Inogen Rove 4, Rove 6, and CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort, are FAA-approved for air travel. 

You can use your POC during the flight, and it's exempt from carry-on baggage restrictions. Make sure to carry enough fully charged batteries to cover your flight duration plus delays. This FAA approval is one of the most significant advantages POCs offer over tanks.

How long does an oxygen tank last compared to a POC battery?

A standard portable "E" oxygen tank weighs approximately 8 pounds and provides 5 to 6 hours at 2 liters per minute before it's empty. 

In contrast, the Inogen Rove 6 provides up to 6 hours and 15 minutes with the standard battery, and up to 12 hours and 45 minutes with the extended battery on setting 1. 

POC batteries are rechargeable and swappable, while oxygen tanks must be physically replaced through your supplier. You can carry multiple POC batteries for an extended time away from outlets.

What are the actual long-term costs of oxygen tanks vs POCs?

Oxygen tank rentals cost $25–$35 per month for portable tanks or $100–$150 per month for stationary tanks, plus approximately $30 per refill. Over five years, this totals $4,500–$10,800 with no ownership. 

At Main Clinic Supply, POCs range from $1,995–$2,995 for ownership (check our website for current pricing). Over five years, including minimal maintenance, total costs are approximately $2,500–$4,000. After two to three years, POC ownership becomes more cost-effective than tank rentals. 

With CareCredit financing, monthly POC payments can be comparable to tank rental fees while building toward ownership.

Why should I purchase my POC from Main Clinic Supply instead of other retailers?

Main Clinic Supply is both an Authorized Inogen Reseller and Authorized Inogen Service Center, providing same-day repairs and overnight replacements instead of weeks of factory waiting. 

With thousands of five-star reviews, an A+ BBB rating, same-day shipping nationwide, CareCredit financing, and our Best Price Guarantee, we offer expert guidance and unmatched support to help you transition from oxygen tanks to POC ownership with confidence.

*Note: Pricing and product availability mentioned in this post are subject to change. Please check the website for current pricing and stock information before making a purchase.