CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

Okay, CPAP mask-shoppers, we get it!  Shopping for a mask isn't easy. Not only are there a ton of options out there, but it's also hard to tell some of them apart.  

Take the two top-of-the-line masks out there:  The Dreamwear CPAP mask and the AirFit N30i.  Philips Respironics makes the much-loved Dreamwear mask, which has been on the market for over a year now, while ResMed released the AirFit N30i in the spring of 2019.  At first glance, both these masks look almost identical. So just how different are they? Not much.

AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear: The Similarities

Let's start with the similarities that you will notice most between these two CPAP masks. Here is our list of the features that you’ll find on both masks:

• Both feature a hollow frame for even distribution of air.
• Both offer a removable top hose connection, something most masks don't have.
• Both have soft sleeve frame inserts that make the mask more comfortable and reduce those pesky lines on your face in the morning.
• Both have adjustable velcro headgear, though it's important to mention the Dreamwear has some sticky texture on the headgear to better grip fine hair or bald users while the N30i does not.
• Both offer 'fit packs' with different size cushions to better fit your face.
• Both have air vents in the front of the cushion to remove expired air while the N30i also has expired air vents by the swivel top connector.
• Both offer some versatility allowing you to switch out the cradle style cushion to use nasal pillows. 

So far, they're both pretty similar, right?  Not so fast. Let's break down some of the major differences between both masks.

Main Differences Between These CPAP Mask Models

Connection Port

Though both masks have a removable connector port, they operate quite differently. For the Dreamwear, the plastic port detaches from the rubber frame by pulling the two pieces apart. You can then reconnect them by simply snapping them back together. 

The port on the AirFit N30i, however, swivels and has more of a ‘pinch & remove’ quick release system.   

Both are simple enough and let you detach from your CPAP when nature calls, but the 'pinch & remove' version may be a little easier to use.

Frame Design 

When it comes to frame design, the Dreamwear offers a smooth jelly hollow frame that is available in small, medium and large sizes. So, adaptable to all shapes and sizes. On the other hand, the ResMed N30i frame is only available in a size small and medium but has a stretchy, accordion-like SpringFit portion for flexibility, comfort and ease of sizing. 

Cushion Material

Cushion material is an important aspect of CPAP masks to consider especially when it comes to comfort. Between the N30i and the Dreamwear, we noticed the following differences between cushion material: 

• The exterior of the Dreamwear cushions is jelly-like, soft, malleable and flexible. This material is excellent for side sleepers and it won't press the mask against your face or the pillow because of the softness of the cushion.
• The exterior cushion of the N30i is made of hard plastic. If you tap the cushion, you feel and hear the hardness of the shell. This rigid exterior of the cushion may cause issues for users in certain side positions which can cause the mask to dig into your face while you sleep. 

Cushion Sizing 

Finally, the last difference we found between the Dreamwear CPAP mask and the ResMed AirFit N30i was cushion sizing. Both Dreamwear and N30i offers 4 size cushions.

• The Dreamwear mask comes with 4 cushions included: small, medium, medium-wide and large
• The N30i comes with small, small-wide and medium-size cushions in the package. The N30i wide cushion is sold separately. 

As you can see, tons of similarities, but also many differences.

AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear Review: The Verdict 

So, which mask is superior, the Dreamwear or the N30i?  There is no simple answer. It truly comes down to personal experience and what features are most important to you as the user.  After our comparison, the Dreamwear wins for comfort with its soft exterior and it's grippy texture on the headgear to keep it in place. However, the N30i gets top marks for the swivel connector and bonus points for the SpringFit frame.  

I guess that makes it a tie?  In our book, each one wins in different categories.  It all comes down to what's important to you.

We hope our comparison review and breakdown helps you make an informed CPAP mask selection.  If you've tried both masks, feel free to chime in and let us know which you prefer.

The folks at Resmed have been busy!  Since late 2018, they've released several new, innovative CPAP masks but one, in particular, has a lot of CPAP users talking.

It's the AirFit™ P30i nasal pillow CPAP mask.  The updated cousin of the  Resmed favourite P10 mask.

Starting at the very top, this mask offers a top-of-the-head hose connector that swivels 360 degrees, ideal if you like to sleep in different positions. This feature allows you the freedom to move in all directions without getting your tubing tangled. The swivel is equipped with expire air vents to remove carbon dioxide and a quick release function minimizes fumbling at night.  Need a midnight bathroom run?  No sweat!   Just pinch to release the mask from the tubing when nature calls.  No need to take off the mask.     

Next, the frame features an accordion-like SpringFit™ frame that's hollow for even distribution of air. The SpringFit™ frame allows the mask to contour to your head while preventing over-tightening.  The technology allows for flexibility, reduces red marks and creates an open line of vision - great if you wear glasses or tend to feel a little claustrophobic in full-face masks.

The mask has fleece wraps to increase comfort and minimizes pesky mask lines. The headgear is plush cloth and is adjusted with Velcro straps on either side. 

• Standard frame - with small, medium and large size pillow cushions
• Small frame - with small and medium-size pillow cushions 

The front of the pillow cushions is equipped with QuietAir vent technology which disperses C02 evenly and quietly. 

The P30i offers some interchangeability. The AirFit™ N30i nasal cushion will fit this mask frame and headgear. Carefully pull the frame and nasal cushion apart, align arrows of cradle cushion and snap in to reconnect (the same way you'd change cushion sizes). 

One thing to remember:   The P30i is NOT compatible with the AirMini.  It does work with all other CPAP, APAP and BiPAP machines, but if you use an AirMini portable machine, you're out of luck when it comes to this mask.

There you have it folks - everything you need to know about the new AirFit P30i nasal pillow CPAP mask.  This mask is already a best seller on cpapmachines.ca.  Pick one up for yourself and let us know what you think in our review section.