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.

When we were first introduced to the Dreamwear mask, we weren’t so sure what to think.  Our initial reaction: "this thing looks odd."  But, if you break down the components, the design of the Dreamwear mask is actually quite brilliant and functional. Today, we'll take a deep dive into the Dreamwear CPAP mask and offer our own take on this unique mask by Philips Respironics.

This mask was designed for comfort; streamlined to maximize sightlines (ever tried watching TV in bed while wearing a CPAP mask?), and by the looks (and feel) of it, they succeeded.

The exhalation ports in the front of the mask dissipate air well, without sounding like a leaky balloon.  Most users we spoke to say their partners didn't notice much noise either, or compared to a lot of other CPAP masks, the Dreamwear kept its promise of being quiet through the night.

The Dreamwear has a soft and simple back head-strap to keep the mask securely in place while asleep. We found that the nasal cushion sits comfortably under the nostrils and creates a non-invasive seal.  The soft silicone frame runs across the cheeks and over the temples to the tube attachment on the top of the crown. The placement of this connection to the long tubing will ensure it will be out of the way during sleep. The soft material means fewer "mask seams" on your face in the morning, so you'll spend less time trying to fluff out those awkward scars some tighter-fitting masks may create.

The airflow from the therapy flows evenly through the frame.  If you sleep on your side, you might end up cutting off the airflow from one side of the mask.  No problem: the other side will compensate but it might cause some increased airflow noise.  Some Dreamwear users we spoke to say the sound of the airflow is actually soothing and others found it a bit too noisy.  

The Dreamwear packaging comes standard in a medium frame and with 3 cushion sizes. Users can purchase separately a small or large size frame if the medium size does not fit. 

With the success of the Dreamwear, Respironics has expanded the Dreamwear family to include a gel cushion and a low-profile, full face style. 

One last thing: make sure to take the time to be fitted for the Dreamwear mask.  Sure, its main goal is functionality, but this mask was built for comfort.  And it delivers .... for most people.  Be sure to visit your local CPAP vendor and ask to try the mask on for size to see if the Dreamwear series is a right fit for you.